RIVIERA TOUR FROM IBENIK, ZLARIN, PRVI AND TIJAT

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Šibenik and spend a day cruising along Croatia’s stunning coastlines, this Riviera tour offers an inviting blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and cultural touches. It’s a well-rounded way to see the islands of Zlarin, Prvi, and Tijat, especially if you enjoy swimming in bays, soaking up the sun, and discovering small local sights.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and leisure. The speedboat ride is quick and fun, giving you a real sense of the coastline’s contours without feeling rushed. Plus, the visit to Zlarin’s coral museum and the chance to buy authentic jewelry makes the day both memorable and tangible. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that some islands might be less exciting for travelers seeking extensive sightseeing—one review even mentioned the islands weren’t very interesting. Still, if you’re craving a day of sun, sea, and charming beaches, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an authentic, active day on the water without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a touch of local culture, like coral jewelry, and aren’t bothered by a busy schedule that includes several island stops.

Key Points

• Comfortable speedboat transportation ensures quick, scenic transfers between islands.
• Visit to Zlarin’s coral museum offers cultural insight and the chance to purchase unique souvenirs.
• Lunch on Prvi Island provides a local dining experience with beautiful beach views.
• Ideal for a sun-soaked day, swimming, and exploring bays without feeling overwhelmed.
• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose whether to explore or relax at each stop.
• Tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for different weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Our journey begins at the meeting point in Šibenik’s Riva, where your guide, dressed in a white outfit, will be ready to introduce you to your skipper. From there, it’s a short ride on a fast speedboat, which makes the whole experience feel lively and efficient. The ride itself sets the tone for a day of adventure and relaxation, with refreshing breezes and stunning views of the Dalmatian coast.

First Stop: Zlarin Island – The Coral Gem

Our first island destination is Zlarin, often called the “coral island,” thanks to its long-standing tradition of red coral harvesting. When we arrive, you have the option of hiring a local guide—a wonderful way to hear stories about the island’s medieval past and coral industry. We loved the way the guide added a personal touch, making the experience more meaningful.

You can explore at your own pace—maybe stroll through the narrow streets, visit the museum of red corals, or shop for handmade coral jewelry. Several reviews highlight this as a memorable part of the day, with one traveler mentioning, “The coral museum was a bit disappointing with no corals at all,” but still enjoyed the experience overall. Swimming in the clear waters, sunbathing, or just relaxing in a seaside café are also popular options.

Second Stop: Prvi Island – Lunch and Beaches

Next, we head to Prvi Island, home to two small villages: Prvi Luka and Prvi Epurine. Here, the highlight is the lunch included in the tour—a great opportunity to sample fresh seafood or local Dalmatian dishes while enjoying views of the bay. You can choose to stay on the boat or head ashore; most folks opt for a walk to explore or relax on the beach.

Prvi Luka’s beaches are praised for their natural beauty, with one reviewer calling Prvi Epurine’s beaches “some of the most beautiful on the island.” You might find yourself in a quiet paradise, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

Final Destination: Tijat Island – Uninhabited and Charming

The last stop is Tijat, an uninhabited island popular among boaters. It’s perfect for wandering along nature trails, exploring bays, or just unwinding by the water. The island has several charming bays where boats tend to anchor, offering fantastic spots for swimming and relaxing.

Many visitors enjoy the beach bar on Tijat, where you can grab a drink and reflect on the day. It’s a peaceful way to unwind after a busy morning and afternoon of sightseeing.

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Return to Šibenik

After Tijat, your skipper will take you back to Šibenik, completing a day filled with scenic views, cultural touches, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

What Sets This Tour Apart

While some reviews suggest the islands may not be bursting with sights, the value lies in the overall experience—the speedboat ride, the chance to swim in secluded bays, and the authentic feel of the islands. The inclusion of lunch and the coral museum visit adds cultural depth without feeling like a pushy commercial stop.

The guides and skippers are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One review highlights “Dragan as the best captain and guide,” emphasizing how much a good skipper can elevate the experience.

In terms of value, at $141 per person, the price covers transportation, meals, museum visits, and time to relax. For travelers who prefer a hassle-free way to discover multiple islands and enjoy the coast’s natural beauty, this tour offers a good deal.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits active travelers who want a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and local culture. It’s especially good for those who appreciate authentic experiences like coral jewelry shopping and are comfortable with a busy schedule. Families with children who enjoy boat rides and beach visits will also find it appealing.

However, it might not be ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems, or mobility issues, as the tour involves boat travel and some walking or exploring on uneven ground.

The Sum Up

This Riviera tour from Šibenik offers a thoughtfully curated day of exploring the Dalmatian islands with a focus on authentic experiences, natural beauty, and cultural highlights. The scenic speedboat rides and opportunities to swim and relax make it a memorable outing for anyone wanting to enjoy Croatia’s coast without the fuss of planning each detail.

The visit to Zlarin’s coral museum, the included lunch, and the tranquil bays of Tijat truly add value. The tour’s flexibility and friendly guides make it accessible and enjoyable, especially for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

For travelers looking for a day filled with scenic views, local charm, and some refreshing dips in the sea, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember to come prepared for weather changes and bring your swim gear—the Dalmatian sun can be quite generous.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour is designed to last a full day, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, with multiple island stops along the way.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages at the islands or the beach bar.

Can I hire a guide on Zlarin?
Yes, it’s possible to arrange a local guide to accompany you on Zlarin, which can enrich your understanding of the island’s history and coral industry.

Is the lunch at the tour included?
Yes, lunch on Prvi Island is included in the price, offering a chance to enjoy local cuisine with scenic views.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s active elements and boat ride are generally suitable for children, but check if your kids are comfortable with boat trips and walking.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a towel if you plan to swim. A camera is also recommended for capturing the stunning scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for different conditions. Sometimes, the experience can still be enjoyable with cloud cover or light rain, but check the weather forecast beforehand for comfort.

This tour offers a wonderful chance to experience Croatia’s Dalmatian islands in a relaxed, authentic way—perfect for those who want a taste of island life without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: