Boat trip to Rovinj and Vrsar from Pore with lunch

A Practical Guide to the Boat Trip from Porec to Rovinj and Vrsar

Getting a different perspective on Croatia’s stunning coastline is what this boat trip offers—without the hassle of renting your own vessel. Instead, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable cruise from Porec, with stops in charming towns, a tasty onboard lunch, and free time for swimming or wandering. This tour is especially popular among travelers looking for a laid-back day that combines sightseeing, local culture, and a bit of beach fun.

Two things really make this experience stand out: the convenience of hotel pickup and the free lunch and drinks, making the day more about relaxing than logistics. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the crowded boat environment—with capacity for up to 200 travelers, some might find the overall experience a bit busy. But if you enjoy a lively, social atmosphere, this could actually be a plus.

This trip suits those who want to see Croatia’s coast from the water, appreciate good value, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure. It’s great for first-time visitors, small groups, or anyone wanting a straightforward, fun day out without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Scenic water views of Croatia’s coast from a comfortable boat
• Convenient hotel pickup included from select Porec hotels
• Lunch and drinks provided onboard, saving time and fuss
• Two hours of free time in Rovinj, a picturesque town worth exploring
• Swim, snorkel, or relax at a bay stop during the cruise
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 40 participants

This experience made our article of Porec’s 3 Best Lunch Experiences: Which To Choose?.

The Experience: What to Expect on This Croatian Coastal Cruise

This tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, relaxation, and culture. Starting with an early morning pickup, you’ll be transported from your Porec hotel to the port, ready to set sail around 10:00 AM. The boat is described as capable of carrying 200 people, so expect a lively, social environment—some reviews note the boat gets crowded, but most find this adds to the fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Porec and Journey to Rovinj

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a short drive to the departure point at Port Porec. Once aboard, you’ll cruise along Croatia’s coast, where the views of the coastline are a highlight. The boat ride itself is about an hour and a half to Rovinj, a town often called “little Venice” thanks to its tall, colorful townhouses and narrow cobbled streets. This part of the trip is what many travelers enjoy most—gliding over shimmering waters with a drink in hand, soaking in the scenery.

Free Time in Rovinj

Arriving around 11:30 AM, you’ll have approximately two hours to explore Rovinj. The town’s compact size makes it perfect for a quick wander—stroll the cobblestone alleys, admire the historic architecture, or sit at a café overlooking the sea. One review enthusiastically states, “Loved this trip! Rovinj is definitely worth a visit,” and many travelers are charmed by its lively yet relaxed ambiance.

Lunch Onboard and Departure for Vrsar

At 1:00 PM, the crew serves a barbecue lunch, included in the ticket price. The meal features simple, satisfying fare—likely grilled meats or fish, with bread and a drink—similar to what other guests have described as a good value and “easy to enjoy.” The onboard meal means you won’t need to hunt for a restaurant, and the included drinks give you a chance to toast the day.

Vrsar and Lim Bay

Post-lunch, the boat heads toward Vrsar, arriving around 2:30 PM. This quaint coastal town has a long tradition and is a quiet spot for a short break—about an hour and a half—before you head back. Reviewers mention that Vrsar offers a glimpse into genuine Istrian heritage and is a peaceful place to relax or take a quick dip. One guest noted, “The stop at Vrsar was lovely, and we had plenty of time to explore or swim.”

Return to Porec

The cruise back departs Vrsar at 4:00 PM, with a final scenic ride along the coast before returning to Porec around 5:00 PM. Throughout the day, you’ll experience an easy-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing, leisure, and social moments.

The Boat: Comfort and Capacity

The vessel is large and capable of holding up to 200 passengers, making it a lively environment. Some reviews express concern about the crowding, especially during the high season, but others find the communal atmosphere enjoyable. Seating is likely a mix of shaded and open areas, and because the boat is equipped to serve up to 40 travelers at once, it maintains a good balance of intimacy and social buzz.

Onboard Amenities

• Sunshades and open decks for sunbathing
• Restrooms on the boat
• Bar service for drinks beyond the included ones
• Safety equipment complying with regulations

The Included Lunch and Drinks

The onboard barbecue lunch comprises simple, hearty fare—something that most guests find good for the price point. The review mentioning a “plate of cabbage, plain bread, and a hot dog, fish, or chicken” highlights the straightforward nature of the meal, but the inclusion of a drink and the opportunity to enjoy a casual, social setting elevates the value.

Value for Money and Overall Impressions

At $59.95 per person, this tour offers definitely good value—especially considering the included lunch, drinks, transportation, and sightseeing. The cruise provides a relaxed way to see the Istrian coastline without the hassle of organizing your own boat trip or driving. Plus, the stops in Rovinj and Vrsar let you experience the charm of these towns, not just from a distance but on foot.

Of course, crowded boats and simple meals might not appeal to everyone. Some guests have expressed disappointment in the meal or the busy environment, but these are often balanced out by the friendly crew and scenic views. The possibility of a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance adds a layer of flexibility.

Who is this tour best suited for?

• Travelers seeking easy, all-in-one day trips with minimal planning
• Those wanting a taste of Croatian coastlines and charming towns
• Visitors on a budget who value good food and drinks included
• Small groups or first-time visitors looking for a social atmosphere

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Porec to Rovinj and Vrsar offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to explore Croatia’s coastal gems. It combines scenic water views, cultural stops, and a casual onboard meal—all at a reasonable price. The convenience of hotel pickup and the opportunity to swim or sunbathe make it appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, hassle-free experience.

While it’s not a luxury cruise and can get crowded, such lively environments often enhance the social aspect, especially if you’re traveling with others. The stops in Rovinj and Vrsar give you authentic glimpses into local life, making this more than just a boat ride—it’s a well-rounded day out that captures the essence of Istria’s seaside charm.

If you’re after a flexible, value-packed way to see Croatia’s coastline without a lot of fuss, this cruise could be just the ticket. Just bring your sunhat, some comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, this tour offers pickup from select Porec hotels, making your day start smoothly. Note that pickup from Lanterna and Novigrad requires a minimum of 6 people.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers transportation, the onboard barbecue lunch, and a drink. There’s no extra charge for the stops or sightseeing.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, with most of that time spent on the water, sightseeing, and relaxing.

How much free time do I get in Rovinj?
You’ll have about 2 hours to explore Rovinj’s narrow streets, enjoy the views, or grab a quick coffee.

Can I swim or snorkel?
Yes. During the cruise, there’s a bay stop where you can swim, snorkel, or sunbathe—perfect for cooling off in the Croatian sunshine.

What’s the boat capacity?
The boat can hold around 200 passengers, which makes for an energetic, social atmosphere, but some might find it crowded.

How is the food onboard?
The barbecue meal is simple—meat or fish with bread, and a drink. It’s considered good value and convenient.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the boat’s capacity and walking involved in town stops. Bring sun protection and comfortable shoes.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

To sum it up, this Porec boat trip is a solid choice for those wanting a hassle-free way to enjoy Croatia’s coast, charming towns, and a bit of beach time—delivered with good value and a friendly crew. It’s best for travelers who like lively atmospheres, straightforward itineraries, and the freedom to explore towns at their own pace.