Medulin: Private Boat Tour with Drinks and Snacks

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet exciting way to see Istria’s stunning coastline, a private boat tour from Medulin might just be your best bet. Offering comfort, personalized routes, and a chance to swim in some of the clearest waters Croatia has to offer, this experience is a sweet spot between adventure and leisure. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, this tour promises to deliver both scenic beauty and genuine relaxation.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customizable itinerary means you get to explore the secret bays and islands that big group trips often miss. Second, the complimentary drinks and snacks on board elevate the experience, turning it into a carefree day at sea. Just one point to consider—weather conditions can influence the route, especially for sunset rides, so flexibility is key. This tour is well-suited for those craving a tailored, scenic, and refreshingly casual escape into Croatia’s coastline.

This experience made our article of Medulin’s 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Your own boat, skipper, and route tailored to your group’s preferences.
• Stunning scenery: Views of Cape Kamenjak, Porer Lighthouse, and hidden bays.
• Active and relaxing: Swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves, plus sunbathing or relaxing on the boat.
• Inclusive refreshments: Free drinks and snacks enhance the leisurely vibe.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children with appropriate safety measures and gear.
• Weather-dependent: Route may shift depending on weather for safety and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Setup

Your adventure begins at the Medulin marina—easy to find, especially if you walk along the main promenade near Panorama Bar. The boat is moored right in front, making check-in straightforward. Once aboard, your friendly skipper will give a quick safety briefing and answer any questions. The boat accommodates up to 12 guests, ensuring a comfortable, intimate experience free from the hustle of large tours.

Cruising Along Cape Kamenjak

Your journey kicks off by sailing along the coast of Cape Kamenjak, a protected nature park famous for its rugged cliffs, untouched nature, and wild charm. This stretch offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Istria, with towering rocks and clear waters that immediately make you feel like you’re in a postcard. We loved the way the boat glides smoothly past these landscapes, giving everyone a chance to soak in the views.

Visiting Hidden Bays and Islands

The real magic happens when the boat drops anchor at some of the lesser-known spots—Bodula, Ceja, Levan, and Trumbuja. These islands and bays are often missed on bigger, scheduled tours, making them a highlight for those seeking tranquility and pristine nature.

Each stop is carefully selected for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing. “The water is incredibly clear,” a reviewer notes, with “snorkeling gear provided making it easy to explore underwater life.” Expect turquoise waters and rocky beaches perfect for sunbathing or exploring the shoreline.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Kolumbarica Sea Cave

One of the main attractions is the Kolumbarica Sea Cave—a natural wonder you can swim into. The cave’s interior offers a fascinating experience; sunlight filters through small openings, illuminating the water in a glow that’s hard to describe. Be aware that swimming ability is necessary if you want to explore inside, but just observing from outside is equally rewarding.

Swimming and Snorkeling

With 23 stops planned across the tour, there’s plenty of time to jump into the water. The snorkeling gear is complimentary, so you’ll be ready to see the underwater world—think colorful fish and interesting rock formations. Guests often mention that the waters are just as beautiful as the photos suggest.

Sunset and Scenic Rides

If you opt for the evening sunset tour, the experience becomes even more special. As the sun dips below the horizon, the boat cruises along the western coast of Kamenjak, offering breathtaking views of Porer Lighthouse against a sky painted in shades of orange and pink. Many reviews rave about the “stunning sunset views” and how perfect the setting is for memorable photos.

Flexibility and Personalization

The skipper will adapt the route based on weather conditions and your preferences, emphasizing the experience’s personalized nature. Some guests mention that “the route was flexible, and the skipper was happy to modify it to ensure we had the best experience possible.” This flexibility guarantees a day tailored to your group’s mood—whether that’s more swimming, sightseeing, or just relaxing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• The private boat (up to 12 people) with a professional skipper
• Snorkeling gear to explore underwater
• Complimentary drinks (lemonade, iced tea, wine, beer)
• A snack box for energy during your sea adventure

Not Included

• Lunch or dinner (though optional catering can be arranged for an extra fee)
• Towels and swimwear—bring your own so you can comfortably change after swimming or snorkeling

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point and Access

The boat is located right at the Medulin waterfront, in front of Panorama Bar. It’s easy to spot, with the bar’s large terrace facing the marina. If you arrive by car, parking is nearby. Just walk along the main promenade, and you’ll see the boat moored just a few meters away.

What to Bring

For a seamless experience, pack sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes. Since swimming is involved, swimwear is also recommended. The tour provider suggests bringing these essentials to maximize comfort and safety.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 3 to 4 hours, which feels like enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed. The maximum group size of 12 ensures everyone gets personal attention and space to relax.

Weather Considerations

The route may change depending on weather conditions, especially for the sunset ride. This flexibility is crucial for safety and ensures that the experience remains enjoyable regardless of minor weather shifts.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

Many reviews echo how well this tour balances active exploration with leisure. Travelers appreciate the personalized approach, highlighting the friendly skipper who makes everyone feel at home. The stunning coastal views earn frequent praise, with many noting that the Sunset ride is a highlight, providing a perfect backdrop for photos and peaceful moments.

The snorkeling gear is a thoughtful addition, as it allows even novice swimmers to explore underwater. The complimentary drinks and snacks help keep energy levels high, especially after swimming or lounging in the sun.

While the price of around $506 for a group of up to 12 might seem high at first glance, many see it as a good value considering the private setting, personalized route, and all-inclusive drinks. For those wanting a tailored, scenic experience without the crowds, this is a compelling option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends seeking a relaxed but scenic day at sea. It’s ideal for those who value customization and want to explore Istria’s coastline at their own pace. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also suited for those wanting a romantic sunset cruise or a fun day with kids—just keep in mind the importance of safety and swimming ability for cave exploration.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour from Medulin offers a well-rounded experience blending natural beauty, personalized service, and relaxation. You get to explore hidden bays, snorkel in crystal waters, and enjoy the stunning scenery of Cape Kamenjak, all while having drinks and snacks at your fingertips. The flexibility of the route and the intimate setting make it a strong choice for travelers who want more than just a generic cruise.

The scenic stops, especially the caves and sunset views, promise unforgettable moments. While weather can influence the route, the skipper’s adaptability ensures you’ll have a good time no matter what. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The private boat tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy multiple stops and relax on the water.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 12 guests, making it ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, professional skipper, snorkeling gear, complimentary drinks (lemonade, iced tea, wine, beer), and a snack box.

Can I book lunch or dinner?
Lunch and dinner are not included but can be arranged for an extra charge if you wish to have a meal during your trip.

Where do we meet the boat?
The boat is moored right in front of Panorama Bar on the Medulin waterfront, near the main promenade. Parking is available nearby.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, change of clothes, and any personal essentials you might need.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome; just ensure they have the necessary swim skills for cave exploration and swimming stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The route can change depending on weather conditions for safety. The skipper will adapt the plan to ensure comfort and safety.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this private boat tour offers a flexible, scenic, and refreshing way to experience Istria’s coastline. Whether it’s the thrill of snorkeling, the tranquility of hidden bays, or the breathtaking sunset, it’s an experience suited for those who want to combine adventure with relaxation at a great value.

You can check availability for your dates here: