Pula: Your Custom Private Half-Day Sailing Adventure

Planning a trip to Istria and looking for a way to explore the Croatian coast that’s both relaxing and full of surprises? This private half-day sailing experience from Pula offers a chance to see the coast from a different perspective—on the water, away from crowds, and tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re dreaming of lazy sunbathing, exhilarating snorkeling, or just a peaceful cruise, this trip delivers.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the exclusivity—your boat is reserved just for your group, allowing for a truly personalized adventure. Second, the flexibility to design your itinerary, choosing stops that suit your mood, from quiet coves to lively snorkeling spots. That said, it’s important to note that weather conditions can influence your route, so some activities might change if the sea isn’t cooperating.

This tour is best suited for couples seeking intimacy, families wanting a fun group outing, or friends looking for a special day together. If you value privacy, customized experiences, and a chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful hidden corners, you’ll likely find this sailing trip a highlight of your trip to Pula.

This experience made our article of Pula’s 6 Best Sailing Experiences.

Key Points

• Private & customizable: Your boat, your rules, in a stunning coastal setting.
• Active and relaxing: Snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun.
• Stunning views: Unique vantage point of Brijuni National Park and the Istrian coast.
• Inclusive amenities: Beverages, music, a GoPro to capture memories, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards.
• Weather dependent: Route and activities may change based on sea conditions.
• Ideal for small groups: Up to 8 people, perfect for intimate gatherings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off at Marina Polesana in Pula, where a friendly skipper awaits in a distinctive white Sail Istria shirt. You’ll meet about 15 minutes prior to departure—plenty of time to settle in. The tour lasts roughly four hours, striking a balance between enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

Your Private Watercraft

The boat itself is a key part of the experience—a comfortable, well-equipped sailboat reserved exclusively for your group. Being a private tour, the atmosphere is relaxed and flexible, with the skipper acting more as a guide than a strict captain. This setup means you can influence your route and activities, making for a personalized day on the water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Once onboard, your skipper will chat with you about your preferences, whether that’s snorkeling at a shimmering cove, swimming in secluded waters, or simply lounging on deck. The boat’s amenities—complimentary drinks, a JBL Bluetooth speaker, and a GoPro—are designed to keep the mood light and fun.

The tour explores the waters around the Brijuni archipelago, offering breathtaking views of Brijuni National Park. You’ll have the chance to snorkel with the provided gear, try stand-up paddleboarding, or just float in the calming waters. Many travelers appreciate the chance to capture their moments with the GoPro, or just relax with a drink in hand, listening to music.

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Unique Highlights

• Secluded bays and coves: Accessible only by boat, these spots promise privacy and tranquility—perfect for escaping crowds.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Clear waters invite you to explore underwater life or take a refreshing dip.
• Sunbathing and lounging: Deck space is ample for relaxing, soaking up the sun, or enjoying a quiet moment.
• Spectacular views: From the water, you’ll see the lush greenery of the islands and the shimmering coast—ideal for photos.

What Travelers Love

One guest noted, “The skipper Pavao made our afternoon really special—jumping off cliffs, snorkeling at a wreck, and even sailing ourselves,” highlighting the personalized and interactive nature of the trip. Another reviewer appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the fact they could influence where the boat went, making the experience feel very tailored.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $412 for up to 8 people, which breaks down to about $51 per person—a reasonable price given the exclusivity and inclusiveness of all the amenities. Think of it as a luxury experience that offers great value, especially for small groups or families wanting a memorable day on the water.

Optional transfers from your accommodation can be arranged at extra cost, so if you’re staying outside Pula, ask ahead. The meeting point is at Marina Polesana—easy to reach by car, with a small parking fee payable locally.

Weather and Safety

As with all sea adventures, weather plays a role. The route and activities may be adjusted for safety reasons, and if weather conditions force a cancellation, a full refund or reschedule is offered. Basic swimming skills are recommended to get the most from snorkeling and swimming stops, but even non-swimmers can enjoy simply lounging on deck.

What to Bring

Pack your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen—nothing fancy needed. The boat provides snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and drinks, so your main job is to relax and enjoy the environment. If you want to bring snacks, that’s perfectly fine, but food isn’t included in the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is ideal for those seeking a private, flexible, and scenic way to explore the Croatian coast. It’s perfect for families with children who want a safe, engaging water experience, or couples and friends looking for an intimate day with a touch of adventure. If you’re interested in snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the stunning views from the water, this trip ticks those boxes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This private half-day sailing tour from Pula offers an excellent combination of privacy, customization, and scenic beauty. The ability to tailor your stops makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting a personalized water adventure. The amenities—complimentary drinks, music, and snorkeling gear—add to the relaxed vibe, making it feel more like a day spent with friends than a typical tour.

While weather can influence the route, most travelers find the experience rewarding regardless. The price is quite reasonable considering the exclusivity and quality of the experience, and the reviews consistently praise the skipper’s friendliness and the gorgeous locations visited.

If you’re looking for a way to see Croatia’s coast that balances adventure and relaxation, and want a memorable, private experience on the water, this sailing trip is worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to avoid crowds, enjoy authentic scenery, and have the freedom to shape their day on the sea.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 people can be accommodated, making it ideal for small groups, families, or couples.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the exclusive use of the sailboat for 4 hours, a friendly local skipper, all boat-related costs and fuel, complimentary drinks, WiFi onboard, snorkeling gear, a GoPro camera, paddleboards, and a JBL Bluetooth speaker.

Is transportation to the marina available?
Yes, optional private transfers from your accommodation can be arranged at an extra cost. You’ll need to contact the provider after booking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and any personal snacks or extra drinks you’d like. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and paddleboards.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities and routes are weather-dependent. If safety is a concern, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund or alternative arrangements.

Is this experience suitable for non-swimmers?
While basic swimming skills are recommended for water activities, non-swimmers can still enjoy lounging, sunbathing, and the scenic ride—just let your skipper know your comfort level.

What is the duration of the trip?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, giving plenty of time for multiple stops or just relaxing on deck.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Absolutely. The skipper will chat with you at the start about your preferences, and you can choose stops for snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing in secluded coves.

In summary, this private sailing experience from Pula offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, personalized adventure, and authentic water fun. Whether you’re after peaceful coves, snorkeling fun, or just soaking up Croatia’s stunning coastline in privacy, this tour delivers. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to escape the crowds and create their own memorable day on the Adriatic.

You can check availability for your dates here: