Biograd: Authentic Fishing Tour in Croatia. Kids Love This!

Planning a trip to Croatia and craving something truly local, hands-on, and memorable? This fishing adventure on Vrgada promises just that. We’ve looked into this tour, and it’s clear it offers more than just catching fish — it’s about experiencing Dalmatian island life, supporting a historic cooperative, and creating family memories. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or simply want a taste of authentic Croatian maritime tradition, this trip could be a highlight of your trip.

Two things we love about this experience are the hands-on fishing activities that make everyone feel involved and the opportunity to spot dolphins — a playful bonus that delights kids and adults alike. The fish lunch, freshly prepared from the day’s catch, is another standout, giving you a real taste of local cuisine.

A potential consideration is the lack of fishing licenses included in the tour price, which requires a small additional purchase if you want to fish recreationally. Also, since weather can influence the day’s flow, some excursions might be more relaxed or active depending on the conditions.

This tour is especially suited for families, nature lovers, and those eager for a genuine peek into Croatian island fishing traditions. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and cultural heritage but don’t mind a bit of boat work and outdoor activity.

This experience made our article of 12 Best Tours & Experiences In Croatia (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Authentic fishing experience on a traditional wooden boat with a historic Croatian cooperative
• Family-friendly, with kids thoroughly enjoying catching fish and dolphin spotting
• Includes a fresh fish lunch, prepared from the day’s catch, in true local style
• Hands-on activities, like setting and retrieving the longline, make the trip educational and fun
• Cruise past Vrgada Island and fish farms, with opportunities for swimming and exploring
• Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Glimpse of Croatian Island Fishing Heritage

When you think about Croatia, turquoise waters, stunning islands, and delicious seafood often come to mind. This tour combines all of those elements, but with a focus on local fishing traditions that have been alive since 1909. The fact that it’s led by the oldest cooperative on the Croatian islands lends a genuine, community-driven feel that’s hard to find on commercial tourist traps.

We loved the way the tour begins with a welcome drink and a brief history of the cooperative, giving context to the activity. It’s not just about catching fish — it’s about supporting local livelihoods and keeping cultural traditions alive. The old wooden boat Sveti Andrija, built in 1947, adds a rustic charm and authenticity, making you feel like a real island fisherman for the day.

What to Expect During the Trip

The Beginning: Introduction and Preparation

As your adventure kicks off, you’ll receive a refreshing drink while learning about the cooperative’s history. From there, you’ll help prepare a longline, gaining insight into this traditional fishing method. The crew, experienced and friendly, shares their knowledge openly, making it easy for beginners to get involved.

Cruising to the Fishing Grounds

Once underway, you’ll cruise past the picturesque Vrgada Island and local fish farms. The views are captivating, with plenty of chances to take photos of the rugged coastline and sparkling sea. The scenic journey itself is a highlight, setting the tone for a relaxed and immersive experience.

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Setting and Retrieving the Longline

The core activity involves setting the longline — a centuries-old technique that’s as fascinating to watch as it is to do. Kids especially love the thrill of pulling up the line and seeing what’s on the hooks. Several reviews mention the excitement of the catch and how the crew encourages participation at every step.

Optional Sport Fishing

For those wanting to get more involved, the tour offers sport fishing options with supplied bait and guidance. Beginners and seasoned anglers alike find this a fun addition, with the chance to try their luck at catching bigger fish.

Review of Catches and Free Time

After the fishing, you’ll review the haul with the crew, which often includes a variety of fresh fish. While waiting for the lunch to be prepared, there’s time to swim in the crystal-clear waters or explore Vrgada’s charming fishing village. The kids especially enjoy this part, splashing around and spotting dolphins, which are known to race alongside the boat.

The Fish Lunch

The meal is a true highlight — fish freshly caught that day, served in traditional Croatian style, often with local potatoes. It’s a simple, hearty, and delicious way to end your fishing adventure, giving you a real taste of local cuisine and hospitality.

The Experience on the Boat

The Sveti Andrija boat is a marvel of tradition and eco-friendly design. Its solar panels ensure a sustainable trip, while the full canopy provides shelter from sun or rain, making the experience comfortable regardless of weather. With a toilet onboard, it’s suitable for all-day outings, and the capacity of 20 guests keeps the group intimate and relaxed.

We particularly appreciated the warm, welcoming crew — their enthusiasm and knowledge make all the difference. Several reviews praised the friendly atmosphere, noting how even solo travelers felt included and well cared for.

Why This Tour Offers Value

For around $64 per person, you’re getting an experience that combines cultural authenticity, outdoor activity, and family fun. The inclusion of drinks, gear, and lunch adds to the value, especially considering the quality of the fresh fish and the personalized service.

Compared to other tours in the region, this one emphasizes supporting a historic cooperative and experiencing real island life — not just ticking off a tourist activity. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention, and the overall atmosphere is both relaxed and educational.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for families with children, as it offers interactive fun and dolphin sightings that kids love. It’s also suited for adventure-seeking couples or solo travelers wanting a more genuine connection with local traditions. If you enjoy seafood, scenic boat rides, and cultural insights, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Travelers who appreciate small-group experiences with a focus on authenticity and sustainability will particularly enjoy this trip. It’s less about luxury and more about real connections and local flavor, making it a memorable part of your Croatian holiday.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking and Payment: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexibility.
• Duration: Expect a full day of activity, with the boat trip and free time for swimming and exploring.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 guests, for a more personal experience.
• Weather: Operations are weather-dependent, but safety is always the priority.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, beachwear, and clothes suitable for outdoor activities.
• Additional Cost: A small fee for fishing licenses (7,96 €), if you want to fish recreationally.
• Suitability: Not recommended for babies under 1 year, those with altitude sickness, or over 95 years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior fishing experience needed? No. The tour is designed to be inclusive, with guidance provided for setting and retrieving the longline.

Can kids participate? Absolutely. Kids love the chance to catch fish and spot dolphins, making this a family-friendly outing.

What is included in the price? The tour includes the boat, fishing gear, bait, drinks (water, juices, wine, beer), and a freshly prepared fish lunch.

Are there additional costs? Yes, for recreational fishing licenses, which cost around 7.96 €.

Is swimming available during the trip? Yes, there’s time to swim in the clear waters of Vrgada while waiting for lunch or after fishing.

What if the weather is bad? The tour operates in small groups and safety is a priority — if weather conditions are unsuitable, the trip might be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.

In Summary

This fishing tour on Vrgada offers travelers a rare chance to connect with Croatia’s maritime roots. It’s a balanced experience of activity, culture, and relaxation tailored for families, nature lovers, and curious travelers seeking an authentic taste of island life. The hands-on fishing, dolphin sightings, and delicious fish lunch make it stand out among regional excursions.

If you crave an intimate, meaningful adventure that supports local traditions and delivers genuine fun, this tour deserves a place on your Croatia itinerary. It’s more than just a boat trip — it’s a window into the soul of Dalmatian island fishing culture, wrapped in a friendly, welcoming package.

Whether you’re after fun with the kids, a taste of local life, or simply a memorable day at sea, this tour offers good value and lasting memories. It’s a lively, authentic slice of Croatian coastal charm that will leave you with stories to tell and a new appreciation for the region’s maritime heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: