Trogir: Boat tour to Unique underwater museum

Trogir: Boat Tour to Unique Underwater Museum — An Authentic Croatian Day Out

If you’re looking for a blend of cultural intrigue, natural beauty, and a dash of adventure, this boat tour from Trogir to Croatia’s only underwater museum offers plenty to smile about. It’s a quick trip—just a 30-minute boat ride—that whisks you away to Jelinak Bay, where an extraordinary collection of over 50 statues is submerged just enough to make snorkeling both fascinating and fun.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its balanced approach: it’s not just about oohing at pretty underwater art, but also about relaxing in a private beach setting with luxurious sunbeds and a beach bar. The second highlight? The chance to see stunning sculptures, including an 8-meter Jesus and an airplane — perfect for both art lovers and curious explorers.

However, a small point to consider: the tour’s duration is about three hours, which some might find a bit brief when you’re fully immersed in the underwater world or relaxing on the beach. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of both adventure and downtime without it taking over a whole day.

This tour works well for families, couples, or anyone eager to enjoy Croatia’s coastline with a bit of underwater magic. If you’re after an experience that combines unique sights with relaxation, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Unique underwater museum with over 50 statues, including an 8m Jesus sculpture and an airplane.
• Scenic 30-minute boat ride from Trogir with panoramic views of the historic city.
• Snorkeling equipment provided for exploring the submerged sculptures.
• Private beach and resort with free sun loungers, umbrellas, and a beach bar.
• Limited capacity, ensuring a peaceful, uncrowded environment.
• Good value for money at around $47 per person, including transport, museum entry, and beach access.

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of The Top 12 Trogir Cruises And Boat Tours.

Discovering the Underwater Art: What’s Actually there?

The core draw of this tour is the Secret Underwater Museum—a curated collection of statues deliberately placed at depths of up to 10 meters. The sculptures are designed to be both artistic and natural, blending with the marine environment over time. Notably, the inclusion of a towering 8-meter Jesus figure and an airplane makes the site distinctive among underwater attractions worldwide.

From the reviews, we learn that the statues are well-marked and easy to follow with the provided map. One reviewer, Kellie, recommended bringing a GoPro and flippers to maximize the fun, which tells us that the snorkeling here is quite accessible and rewarding even for beginners. The underwater sculptures are vivid and clear, and the calm waters make for a comfortable snorkeling experience.

The fact that there is no guide leading you underwater means that exploration is self-directed. As one traveler pointed out, “no tour guide, no instructions,” so it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand if possible. This setup allows for a relaxed, unhurried experience, perfect for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

The Scenic Boat Ride: Setting the Scene

Starting from Trogir, a charming, historic town, the 30-minute boat ride sets a relaxed tone for the day. We love how the boat offers panoramic views of Trogir’s medieval architecture—a visual treat before heading out to the bay. The ride itself is smooth, with plenty of space for passengers and a friendly crew that makes everyone feel welcome.

The boat includes basic amenities like a toilet, and snorkel equipment is provided, though Fins are not included, so if you want to go all-in, consider bringing your own or renting locally. The ride is short enough to keep everyone engaged, yet long enough to enjoy the sea breeze and coast views. It’s a perfect way to transition from city sightseeing to underwater discovery.

The Underwater Museum: Art, Depth, and Natural Beauty

Once at Jelinak Bay, you’re greeted with a serene, uncrowded environment. The bay is exclusively reserved for tour guests, which means no noisy crowds or rowdy boats. We love that it’s free from houses or residential development, offering a peaceful haven for relaxing and exploring.

The water, often described as clear and calm, provides ideal conditions for snorkeling. Guests report that the statues are easy to spot and follow, thanks to the detailed map and marked buoys. The sculptures, some of which are quite large, are designed to survive underwater and blend naturally over time, creating a surreal landscape that feels like stepping into an art installation.

From reviews, it’s clear that the artistic aspect is highly appreciated. Ana praised the beauty of the museum and the friendly crew, while Rachel highlighted the easy access to the statues and the fun of discovering them with her children. The underwater sculptures aren’t just for divers; they’re accessible to snorkelers of all levels, making this experience family-friendly and inclusive.

Relaxing at the Private Beach & Resort

After your underwater adventure, the tour takes you to a private beach and resort, where you can unwind in comfort. The beach is equipped with complimentary sun loungers and umbrellas, which are a luxury in a busy Croatian coastal setting. The beach bar adds convenience, allowing you to enjoy drinks and snacks without leaving your relaxing spot.

The reviews consistently mention how peaceful and beautiful the beach is. Donna notes that the private beach was great, and Victoria appreciated having plenty of time to snorkel and chill. Unlike public beaches, this private bay ensures a calm environment to soak up the sun, listen to the waves, and reflect on the morning’s underwater discoveries.

The environment is designed to be family-friendly, and the absence of crowds makes it ideal for those seeking tranquility rather than a lively party scene. It’s a perfect spot for some downtime, whether you want to read, nap, or simply enjoy the view.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Value

At $47 per person, including the boat ride, museum entrance, snorkeling gear, and beach access, this tour offers solid value. It’s a relatively short excursion, but given the quality of the experience, many travelers feel it’s well worth the cost. The price also includes return transportation and the use of facilities, reducing additional costs.

The tour lasts about three hours from start to finish, which is enough to enjoy the underwater sculptures, relax on the beach, and take in the scenery without feeling rushed. Some reviews suggest that extending the experience would be welcome, but for most, this timeframe hits the sweet spot.

Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into a busy Croatian itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who love a mixture of light adventure and relaxation. If you’re an art lover, snorkeling enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway with a fascinating twist, this tour delivers.

It’s not ideal for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to the need to snorkel and navigate the boat. Also, if you’re after a very long or extensive exploration, this trip might leave you wanting more—though many reviewers say the three hours are enough to feel satisfied.

Final Thoughts

This Trogir boat tour to the underwater museum is a distinctive way to experience Croatia’s coastal charm. You’ll enjoy a beautiful boat ride, explore intriguing underwater art, and relax in a pristine private setting. It’s a good value for those who appreciate a mix of cultural intrigue and leisure, and it’s especially appealing for families and snorkelers.

The highlight for many is the unusual sculptures that transform the underwater landscape into a kind of open-air gallery — a surprising and memorable experience. The peaceful bay, friendly staff, and well-organized logistics make this a trip worth considering when visiting Dalmatia.

If you’re after something different from the typical beach or boat tour, this combines the best of both worlds: art, sea, and serenity, all in one compact package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids really enjoyed discovering the underwater statues, and the environment is child-friendly and safe.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Fins are not provided, so consider bringing your own if you want to snorkel more comfortably.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Trogir to the bay lasts about 30 minutes each way, offering scenic views of the coastline en route.

Are there restroom facilities?
Yes, the boat is equipped with a toilet for guest convenience.

Is the underwater museum easy to find?
Yes, the statues are marked, and the site is designed for snorkelers of all levels, with buoys to guide your exploration.

Can I extend the experience?
The tour lasts around three hours. Some guests wish it lasted longer, but it’s a good-sized excursion for a day of exploration and relaxation.

What is the capacity of the private beach?
The beach has limited capacity and is reserved exclusively for tour guests, ensuring a peaceful experience.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Snorkeling is part of the experience, so a basic comfort in the water is recommended. It’s not ideal for those who cannot swim or have mobility issues.

This tour offers a rare chance to combine Croatian coastal beauty with a touch of underwater art, all wrapped in a hassle-free package. Perfect for those wanting a memorable, well-organized experience that balances adventure with downtime.

You can check availability for your dates here: