Punat: Grgur, Goli, Rab, and Krk Island Boat Trip with Lunch

Planning a day exploring Croatia’s stunning islands? This boat trip from Punat offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxing beach time. It’s designed for those who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and good food — all at a reasonable price. We’ll unpack what makes this tour special, along with some practical tips to ensure you make the most of it.

What we love about this trip? First, the variety of stops — from historic former prison islands to pristine beaches — keeps the day interesting. Second, the onboard lunch, paired with chilled drinks, adds a comfortable, convivial touch. The only caveat? If you’re a stickler for a tightly scheduled day, the multiple stops mean there’s a fair amount of boat time, which could be a bit long for some.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and beach relaxation, all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, if you’re eager to see several islands in one day and enjoy Croatian hospitality, this trip will likely hit the spot.

This experience made our article of Punat’s 5 Top Cruises And Boat Tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Islands: Visit former prison islands with historical significance and a chance to see local wildlife like deer.
• Relaxing Beaches: Rab’s sandy beaches and Krk’s wild, swim-friendly spots promise a refreshing break.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides provide context, making the history and culture more engaging.
• Culinary Enjoyment: A really good onboard lunch—meat, fish, or vegan—paired with drinks, offers genuine value.
• Scenic Views: Expect stunning turquoise waters, rugged coastlines, and wildlife, making for memorable photo opportunities.
• Flexible Experience: Free time on islands and swimming options allow for a personalized visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point in Punat

The journey begins at the main pier in Punat, Croatia, where you’ll find the boat ‘Lahor’ waiting for you in front of the Erste bank. The boat’s comfortable design ensures you won’t feel cramped, and the crew is known for being friendly and multilingual, speaking Croatian, English, German, Italian, and Spanish. The boat departs in the morning, giving you a full day of island adventures.

Visiting Grgur Island: From History to Deer Encounters

Your first stop is Grgur, a former prison island that’s now uninhabited. The boat anchors here, giving you time to explore. We loved the way the guide explained its history—this island once held political prisoners. But what really surprised many travelers was the opportunity to look for deer that often visit the pier, as noted by some visitors who enjoyed feeding them.

A highlight for many is the chance to stroll around and enjoy the peaceful, slightly eerie atmosphere of the abandoned prison structures, contrasted with the natural beauty of the island. Some reviews mention the calm, almost meditative experience of walking on Grgur’s rugged terrains and spotting local wildlife.

Goli Island: A Guided Walk Through History

Next, the boat heads to Goli, another former prison island with a poignant past. Here, you’ll join a guided walking tour, which many reviews praise for being both informative and engaging. The guide’s ability to explain local history in multiple languages makes this stop accessible to a diverse group.

Goli offers a different vibe — more accessible than Grgur, with easy trails and historical ruins to explore. It’s a chance to reflect on Croatia’s past while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Guests often mention that the guide’s storytelling made this stop truly memorable. You’ll learn about what the island symbolized for locals, adding depth to your understanding of the area.

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Beach Relaxation on Rab Island

After Goli, it’s time for some beach relaxation on Rab, famed for its soft, sandy beaches. You’ll have free time here to sunbathe, swim, or simply soak in the surroundings. Many travelers find Rab’s beaches to be the perfect spot for a break, with some reviewers describing the sand as “between your toes” and the water “crystal clear.” The peaceful environment and the chance to float in the warm sea make this a favorite part of the trip.

Krk Island: Swimming and Wild Beaches

The final island stop is Krk, known for its wilder beaches and excellent swimming spots. The boat anchors near a point where you can jump into the turquoise water directly from the boat — a fun and invigorating way to cool off after a busy morning. Some reviews even mention dolphin sightings, adding a magical element to the experience.

Here, you can opt for more swimming or simply relax on the deck enjoying the spectacular views of the coastline. The landscape around Krk is rugged and scenic, making it an ideal spot for photos or a quiet moment before heading back.

Return Journey and Onboard Lunch

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Punat. One of the trip’s highlights is the lunch onboard, which many reviews rave about. You’ll be served a delicious meal, with options including meat, fish, or vegan dishes, paired with a chilled drink like water or wine.

Guests frequently comment on the quality of the food. The dinner is described as “super delicious,” with generous portions, making it excellent value for the price of $71 per person. The crew’s friendly service and the relaxed atmosphere make the meal a perfect way to wind down.

Practical Details and Tips

• What to bring: Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat — the sun can be strong, and you’ll likely want to take a dip.
• Timing: The tour starts in the morning and returns in the late afternoon, offering plenty of time at each stop but also a full day on the water.
• Group size: While not explicitly mentioned, reviews suggest a friendly, manageable group size, making the experience intimate but lively.
• Pricing and value: At $71, this trip offers a lot, including multiple island visits, guided walks, swimming, and a quality meal. Considering the scenic views and historical insights, it’s quite an affordable way to see several islands in one day.
• Weather considerations: The tour can be canceled in rough seas or bad weather — it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience best suits travelers who enjoy a combination of history, scenic beauty, and relaxation. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights but also want free time to explore and swim. Families with children, couples, and solo adventurers will find plenty to love here.

It’s a great way to see several islands without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or transportation. If you’re someone who values authentic experiences, friendly guides, and good local food, this trip will not disappoint.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The tour covers a full day, typically departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, with plenty of time at each stop.

Are drinks included?
The onboard lunch comes with one drink included, with additional drinks available for purchase during the trip.

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes. The meal options include vegetarian and vegan choices, along with meat and fish options.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay comfortable during the day.

Will I see wildlife?
Yes, some travelers have reported deer on Grgur Island and brief dolphin sightings near Krk, adding a touch of magic to the experience.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The relaxed pace, swimming opportunities, and friendly crew make it family-friendly.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Guides speak multiple languages including Croatian, English, German, Italian, and Spanish.

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

Is there any hotel pickup?
No, guests meet directly at the pier in Punat. Make sure to arrive a little early to find your boat ‘Lahor’ at the main pier.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Punat to the islands of Grgur, Goli, Rab, and Krk offers a well-balanced day of history, nature, and relaxation. The highlights—such as exploring former prison islands, enjoying sandy beaches, and jumping into crystal-clear waters—are well complemented by a tasty onboard meal and friendly guides. Priced at $71, it’s a practical choice for travelers wanting to see multiple islands efficiently and enjoy a taste of Croatian maritime life.

While the day involves some boat time, it’s worth it for the diverse experiences and stunning scenery. If you’re eager to combine historical insights with beach lounging and scenic cruising, this trip will give you a memorable Croatian adventure with good value and authentic highlights.

In summary, this tour is perfect for curious travelers looking for a full, varied day on the water, with enough flexibility to enjoy both guided tours and leisure time. It’s a friendly, well-organized experience that balances fun and education, making it a strong choice in Croatia’s diverse array of island excursions.

You can check availability for your dates here: