Introduction
This sightseeing cruise to the Little Blue Cave in Istria, Croatia, offers a chance to escape the crowds and discover a hidden gem along the Adriatic coast. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, it’s a popular choice for travelers looking for a laid-back, authentic maritime experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of fun.
What makes this trip appealing are its simple yet charming stops — especially the cave itself, which is renowned for its stunning colors and acoustic properties. We also appreciate that it includes drinks on board, making it perfect for relaxing or socializing as you take in the scenery.
One thing to keep in mind: this tour is relatively short, just about three hours, and it’s mainly focused on the cave and a nearby beach. If you’re eager to explore more of Istria or prefer longer excursions, this might feel a bit light. Still, it’s ideal for those who want a quick, memorable outing that highlights the area’s natural beauty. It suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, some swimming, and a touch of local flavor without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Short and sweet: A three-hour cruise perfect for a quick taste of Istrian coastal charm.
- Unique stop: The Little Blue Cave with its rainbow reflections and acoustic magic.
- Swim and explore: Time allocated for swimming and exploring the cave during a break.
- Drinks included: A selection of bottled water, sodas, and local wines and spirits on board.
- No meals served: Guests should bring their own snacks if desired; no food is provided.
- Free cancellation: Offers flexibility if plans change due to weather or other reasons.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Istria
The Itinerary in Detail
The Little Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder
The star of the tour is, of course, the Little Blue Cave. This tiny, enchanting spot is known for its vivid blue hues, especially when sunlight hits the water at just the right angle — usually in the early afternoon. When the sun aligns perfectly, you can see a rainbow of colors reflected inside the cave, making it a perfect photo opportunity.
The cave also has an interesting acoustic property — it’s fun to sing or shout inside and hear your voice echo back. This adds a playful element to the visit, and many travelers find it charming and slightly hilarious.
The cave’s accessibility is straightforward, as the boat anchors nearby for a comfortable swim and exploration. You’ll get a chance to duck inside, swim around, or just marvel at the natural shades of blue and green that play on the water’s surface.
Uvala sa mikro-ljunanom plaom: The Beach Stop
After the cave, the tour makes a second stop at Uvala sa mikro-ljunanom plaom, a small bay with a micro-lagoon and a beach. This is a peaceful spot where you can relax on the sand or take a quick dip in the calm waters. It’s an ideal place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
While not a major highlight, this beach stop offers a tranquil setting away from busier tourist beaches, making it perfect for those seeking a quiet moment with nature.
What to Expect on the Boat
The vessel used for this tour is equipped with essentials like restrooms and a selection of beverages, including still and sparkling water, sodas like Coca-Cola, Fanta, apple, and orange juices. For those who enjoy a drink, the boat also offers red and white wine, as well as schnapps — ideal for enhancing the relaxed vibe.
You’ll be on a mobile ticket basis, which makes it easy to join the experience with minimal fuss. The boat is near public transportation, so getting there should be manageable, and most travelers can participate unless prone to seasickness, which is worth considering since it’s a boat trip.
The group size isn’t specified, but typically, these small tours tend to be intimate enough to allow for personal interaction and a more relaxed experience. It’s also worth noting that service animals are allowed, which is considerate for pet owners.
The Value and Practical Considerations
At $58 per person, this tour provides good value for what’s included. The price covers roughly three hours of cruising, access to two scenic stops, and a variety of drinks. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, it offers flexibility if weather or other factors threaten the experience.
A key point for many travelers is that meals are not included, so bringing snacks or a light picnic might enhance your trip. This keeps costs down and lets you tailor your experience.
Since the tour is not recommended for those prone to seasickness, it’s sensible to consider your comfort level on open water. The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
While there aren’t official reviews posted yet, the emphasis on the wine and drinks suggests a leisurely, convivial atmosphere — perfect for couples or friends wanting to unwind. The highlight of singing in the cave and witnessing the rainbow of colors is often mentioned as a memorable moment in similar experiences, which indicates the natural beauty and acoustics are genuinely special.
The simplicity of the itinerary and the focus on the natural environment mean you’re likely to enjoy an authentic, unpretentious outing — not a crowded tourist trap, but a peaceful escape.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?
This cruise to the Little Blue Cave is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a short, scenic, and relaxed outing in Istria. It’s great for those who enjoy water activities like swimming and exploring caves, as well as anyone interested in local drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.
If you’re a family with kids who enjoy a quick boat trip or a couple looking for a romantic, easygoing adventure, this tour fits the bill. It’s also well-suited for those with limited time or budgets but still eager to see a unique natural sight.
However, if you prefer longer excursions, more extensive sightseeing, or are particularly sensitive to boat motion, you might want to consider other options. Likewise, bringing your own snacks or planning to spend less time on board can maximize your enjoyment.
This experience offers a charming blend of natural beauty, local flavor, and tranquility — perfect for those who want a taste of Istrian coast without fuss or frills.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, children who are comfortable in boats and enjoy swimming will likely find it enjoyable. There’s no specific age restriction mentioned, but always consider your child’s comfort with water and boat trips.
How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about three hours, including stops for swimming and exploring the cave.
Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, bottled water, sodas, and local alcoholic beverages like wine and schnapps are included on board.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, there are no meals served on the boat, so you can bring snacks or a small picnic if you wish.
Is this tour affected by weather?
Yes, bad weather can lead to cancellations. If it happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
It’s near public transit, making it convenient to reach the departure point.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, swimwear, and a towel are recommended.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, which is considerate for travelers with special needs.
This cruise to the Little Blue Cave offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, light adventure, and relaxed socializing — ideal for anyone wanting a memorable slice of Croatia’s coast without overcomplicating things.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Istria
More Tour Reviews in Istria
More Istria experiences we've covered
- 12 Best Tours & Experiences In Istria (With Prices)
- 2 Best Lunch Experiences In Istria
- 4 Most Highly Rated Wine Tours In Istria
- We Rank The 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Istria
- Istria’s 2 Top Dolphin Watching Tours (With Prices)
- The 2 Most Popular Cooking Classes In Istria
- Discover 3 Great Canoe & Kayak Experiences In Istria
- Swim, Snorkel and Explore Istrian Coast by Private Boat from Pula
- Dolphin Safari in Faana
- Umag Colours of Istria Private Self-Guided E-Bike Tour
- Private Transfer from Rovinj to Rijeka
- From Opatija/Lovran: Swimming on secluded beaches of island Cres