Pula Verudela: Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to experience Croatia’s spectacular coastline and vibrant marine life, this Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour in Pula is a solid choice. Designed for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, gentle adventure, and a taste of local charm, this tour offers a memorable day on the water without breaking the bank.

What we especially like about this trip is its combination of panoramic views and interactive experiences — you get to see the sea life up close, feed the fish, and enjoy the stunning scenery all in one. Plus, with a friendly guide and a manageable duration, it feels well-paced and accessible. That said, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. It’s especially suitable for families, first-time visitors to the area, or anyone wanting a light, enjoyable marine adventure.

This experience made our article of Our 12 Favorite Istria County Tours & Experiences.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at $29 per person makes it accessible to most travelers.
• Interactive experiences like feeding fish and swimming in clear waters add a personal touch.
• Beautiful scenic routes along Pula’s coast and islands offer perfect photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with friendly, informative commentary.
• Short duration (around 2 hours) is ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• No hotel pickup means you’ll need to organize your own transport to the meeting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This tour promises an easy-going adventure into Croatia’s coastal waters, primarily aimed at those who want a taste of sea life without strenuous activity or long hours on the boat. From the start, it’s clear that this isn’t about high-energy excursions — it’s about enjoying the beauty of the Adriatic in a relaxed setting.

Two things we love about this experience are the stunning vistas of Croatian shores and islands and the interactive element of feeding the fish and swimming among them. This makes it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an opportunity to connect with the marine environment in a friendly, accessible way.

One consideration to keep in mind is that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point around Port Bunarina on your own. While the meeting point is conveniently close to the Verudela hotels and the parking is free, travelers relying on public transport or taxis should plan accordingly.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy serene boat rides, family outings, or anyone curious about Croatia’s underwater world but not ready for diving or snorkeling in deeper waters. It’s also a good pick for travelers with young children, thanks to the friendly guides and manageable timing.

How the Tour Unfolds

Starting Point and Departure

You’ll meet at the parking area around Port Bunarina, with the meeting spot conveniently located just a couple of minutes walk from the boat. The fact that parking is free all day makes it easy to plan your arrival. The boat itself is described as very clean and comfortable, with a friendly crew ready to set sail.

First Stop: Pjeana Uvala

The tour kicks off with a sail toward Pjeana Uvala, a small bay where the real magic begins. Here, you can observe the seafloor through the glass bottom, spotting shoals of colorful fish and seashells. It’s a gentle introduction to Croatia’s underwater scene, and many reviews mention how captivating the views are.

Between the Islands: Fraker and Frakeri

Next, the boat glides between Fraker and Frakeri islands. This stretch offers an opportunity to see sea-urchins and sea-cucumbers in their natural habitat. The guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable commentary, helping you understand the marine life you’re seeing.

Swimming and Feeding Fish

The highlight for many is the chance to stop the boat and swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. According to reviews, the water is warm and inviting, ideal for a relaxed swim. You’ll also have the opportunity to feed the fish, which kids and adults alike find delightful. It’s an interactive experience that adds a personal touch to the trip.

Verudela Canyon and Cave

The final stop takes you to Verudela Canyon, famous for its impressive rock formations and cave. This spot is popular among local cliff divers, and you might catch sight of some daring souls jumping from the rocks — an exciting visual, even if you don’t join in.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the modest price of $29, you get a boat ride, an Istrian cake, and a drink. The cake is a lovely gesture, giving a taste of local tradition, while the drink can be anything from water to juice, keeping you refreshed.

However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, which is important to note when planning your day. The meeting point is straightforward, but you’ll need to arrange your transport to Port Bunarina.

The Experience’s Practical Aspects

The tour runs in English and Italian, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers. It’s designed to be around two hours long, a perfect duration for those with limited time or for families with young children. Given the small group size and the friendly guides, you’ll likely feel comfortable asking questions and engaging with the crew.

What to bring? Pack your swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some sunscreen. The boat is open and offers plenty of sunshine, so protection is wise.

Cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, giving some peace of mind when booking.

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Authentic Reviews and Real Feedback

Examining the reviews gives us a well-rounded picture of what to expect. Multiple travelers mention the friendly guidance from the crew, emphasizing how knowledgeable and helpful they are. One reviewer praised Mateo as a “great guide,” while others appreciated the cleanliness of the boat and the informative commentary.

The views and marine encounters are often highlighted as the best parts. One traveler said, “the guides were friendly and knowledgeable,” and added, “the trip was great, with everything beautifully organized.” Kids especially seem to enjoy the opportunity to try steering the boat, which adds a fun, memorable element.

Several reviews note the balance of activity and relaxation — it’s not a strenuous excursion but offers plenty of chances to enjoy the water, feed fish, and take photos of the stunning coastline.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is particularly perfect for travelers who want a value-packed marine outing, combining scenic beauty, interactive fun, and casual sightseeing. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Croatia’s sea life without diving gear or long hours.

While it’s not a full-day tour, the two-hour duration ensures you won’t feel exhausted or bored. Instead, you get a well-rounded, enjoyable taste of Croatia’s coastline, marine biodiversity, and friendly local hospitality.

The Sum Up

In summary, this Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour from Pula offers a charming, affordable way to explore Croatia’s coastal waters. You’ll love the beautiful scenery, the chance to interact with marine life, and the friendly guidance. It’s a straightforward, fun experience that balances relaxation with a touch of adventure.

The tour’s emphasis on authentic marine encounters and stunning vistas makes it stand out, especially for those who appreciate natural beauty without the fuss. It’s a perfect fit for families, curious travelers, or anyone seeking a light, well-organized outing.

For travelers who value friendly guides, great views, and a relaxed pace, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a simple, genuine way to enjoy the Croatian coast, and at just $29, it offers very good value.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point at Port Bunarina.

What language is the guide available in?
Guidance is provided in both English and Italian, making it accessible for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately two hours, making it perfect for a quick yet fulfilling marine adventure.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the swim stops and on the open boat.

Can children join?
Yes, the tour is child-friendly, and reviews mention that kids particularly enjoy feeding the fish and trying to steer the boat.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the boat ride, a Croatian cake, and a drink. The boat and crew are described as friendly and helpful.

Is there a maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on small group experiences and a friendly crew suggests an intimate atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when booking.

This tour truly offers a relaxed, scenic, and interactive slice of Croatia’s coastline, perfect for those wanting a gentle introduction to its marine world.

You can check availability for your dates here: