Porec: Private full-day boat tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Croatia’s Istrian coast from the water, this private full-day boat tour from Porec might just be your ticket. Designed for groups of up to five people, it offers a flexible, personalized way to discover some of the most beautiful islands and scenic spots along the Adriatic. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day of swimming, exploring islands, or simply enjoying the stunning views, this trip promises a memorable experience.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility and intimacy – it’s tailor-made to your wishes. Plus, the chance to visit 20 islands and experience the Lim Fjord adds a sense of adventure and discovery. The one possible drawback is that it’s a full-day outing, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a longer boat trip. If you’re looking for a private, customizable day on the water that maximizes your time exploring, this tour is ideal, especially for small groups who value privacy and flexibility.

This experience made our article of Which Porec Full-Day Tours To Choose? Our Best 2 Picks.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: The tour is tailored to your preferences, with an English-speaking skipper ready to adjust stops and activities.
• Stunning island hopping: Visit 20 islands, including the Red Islands, and enjoy scenic water views of Rovinj.
• Swimming and relaxation: Go swimming at your leisure, with the option to request drinks or snacks onboard.
• All-inclusive simplicity: The price includes the boat, skipper, and fuel, making it straightforward to budget.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Meet at Marina Parentium: Convenient starting and ending point with easy access in Porec.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This private boat tour offers a rare chance to see Istria from a different angle—on the water, away from crowded tourist spots and with the ease of a personal skipper. The trip begins and ends at Marina Parentium in Porec, a well-equipped harbor that provides a comfortable launching point. From there, your journey unfolds across a landscape of islands and coastal sights that are often overlooked by day-trippers.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour emphasizes flexibility, but the core experience involves exploring the 20 most beautiful islands off Porec, including the notable Red Islands and the scenic waters around Rovinj. The boat is your private vessel, ensuring a relaxed pace and the ability to stop whenever you wish. The skipper, who speaks English (as well as Croatian and German), is there to help craft the perfect day.

Swimming is a major component. The waters around Istria are clear and inviting, and you’ll have opportunities to hop into the sea at points chosen for their calm, picturesque settings. “We loved the way the skipper was happy to make special stops,” one reviewer notes, highlighting the personalized feel of the tour.

Visiting Rovinj from the Water

Rovinj, often called the jewel of Istria, gets a fresh perspective from the sea. This tour allows you to view the colorful old town and its iconic church from a distance, and perhaps even anchor nearby for a quick visit ashore if you’d like. The water-based view offers a different appreciation for Rovinj’s charm—less crowded and more intimate.

The Red Islands and Other Stops

The Red Islands are a highlight, with striking red cliffs and tranquil coves perfect for swimming or photo ops. The skipper can guide you to less touristy spots that offer peaceful moments amid stunning scenery. You might find the boat’s flexibility particularly valuable here—want to linger longer or skip a stop? Just ask.

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Comfort and Convenience

Your package includes the boat, skipper, and fuel, which simplifies planning and budgeting. Drinks, if requested, can be arranged onboard—something many travelers appreciate after a swim or during a sunny day on the water. The boat itself is suitable for small groups, offering a cozy, private environment.

Why It’s Worth the Cost

At $588 for up to five people, the per-person cost can be quite reasonable compared to some group tours, especially given the privacy and customization. When you consider the inclusiveness of the boat, skipper, and fuel, plus the chance to escape to islands and swim in pristine waters, this experience offers good value for a special day out.

Authenticity and Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views and the personalized service as key pluses. One noted, “The skipper was friendly and happy to adjust stops, making it feel like a trip with friends rather than a tour.” Others appreciated the flexibility, with one saying, “We loved being able to customize our stops and spend as much time swimming as we wanted.” These comments underscore the appeal of an intimate, flexible adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for small groups or couples who want a private, tailored day on the water. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate sightseeing from a boat, enjoy swimming, and prefer a relaxed, customized itinerary over a large, crowded tour bus. It also suits those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about exploring islands and coastal scenery at their own pace.

Practical Tips

• Book early: The tour is popular, and the flexible booking policy makes it easy to reserve in advance.
• Bring essentials: Swimsuits, sunscreen, and possibly a hat for sun protection.
• Request drinks ahead: If you’d like beverages onboard, notify the skipper in advance.
• Be prepared for a full day: Pack light but comfortably, as you’ll be on the water for several hours.
• Communicate your preferences: The skipper is happy to customize stops, so share your interests upfront.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour from Porec offers a fantastic way to experience the Istrian coast away from crowded spots. The combination of flexibility, privacy, and stunning scenery makes it a standout choice for small groups looking for an authentic, memorable day on the water. Whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear waters, admiring Rovinj from afar, or exploring hidden islands, you’ll leave with plenty of beautiful memories.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the personalized nature of the trip, along with the included essentials, provides excellent value. It’s perfect for travelers who seek a mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty—an experience that truly captures the essence of Istria’s coastal charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is tailored for small groups, children who enjoy boat trips and swimming will likely enjoy the experience. It’s best to discuss specific needs with the provider to ensure safety and comfort.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the boat, skipper, and fuel, making it straightforward to understand the total cost. Drinks can be arranged on request, at an additional cost.

Can I choose where to stop or swim?
Yes. The skipper is happy to accommodate special stops or swimming requests, making the experience highly customizable.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Marina Parentium in Porec, a convenient harbor with easy access.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, allowing ample time to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

What languages does the staff speak?
The skipper and staff speak English, Croatian, and German, ensuring good communication.

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

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
No, it’s designed for groups up to five people, ideal for small parties seeking privacy and customization.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, hats, and perhaps a towel. If you want drinks onboard, arrange this in advance with the operator.

This private boat tour from Porec offers a genuine slice of Istrian coastal life—beautiful islands, crystal waters, and a sense of freedom that larger tours rarely provide. Whether you’re after a relaxing day or an active exploration, it’s a flexible, scenic choice that’s well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: