Full day boat-trip Medulin, blue Cave, Cres + dolphin search

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenery during your Croatian holiday, this full-day boat trip from Medulin offers exactly that. It promises a well-balanced blend of exploring hidden gems like the Blue Cave, wandering through charming Cres, and possibly catching a glimpse of playful dolphins—all wrapped up with a tasty onboard lunch.

What makes this trip particularly appealing are its diverse stops and activities, the inclusive meal and drinks, and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. However, it’s worth noting that the experience depends on weather conditions and certain unpredictable sightings, so flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a combination of water-based fun, scenic exploration, and local flavor. If you’re comfortable on a boat for a full day and enjoy discovering Croatia’s coastal beauty, this trip could be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Scenic Highlights: Explore the Blue Cave and Cres with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing
• Inclusive Meals: Enjoy a hearty, freshly prepared lunch and drinks on board
• Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to see dolphins during the return cruise, although sightings are not guaranteed
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Carefully planned stops with a good balance of activities and free time
• Comfort & Accessibility: Suitable for most travelers, including those with wheelchairs, with English-speaking guides
• Value for Money: For $85, you get a full day of adventure, food, and scenic beauty—excellent value considering the included meals and multiple stops

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed to give travelers an authentic taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline, with a dash of adventure and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Starting from Medulin Harbour, the trip begins early (around 8:30 AM), giving you a full 9 hours of exploration, swimming, and sightseeing.

The journey is hosted by Medulin Excursions Obrt, a reputable local operator known for knowledgeable guides and friendly service. The boat used, called Aska, is comfortable and equipped for a full day at sea, with ample space for relaxing or enjoying the views.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start in Medulin and Cruise to the Blue Cave

The day kicks off with a welcoming drink and a cozy vibe as you board the boat. The first major highlight is the Blue Cave, where you’ll spend about an hour swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. This is truly one of those moments where the scenery and marine life combine to create a magical experience. Reviews mention that the Blue Cave is the largest in the area, offering plenty of space to explore and enjoy the vibrant underwater world.

While swimming in the Blue Cave, you’ll be able to appreciate the stunning marine environment and perhaps spot some small fish or other marine creatures. The cave’s natural light, bouncing off the water, makes for some fantastic photos, so don’t forget your waterproof camera or phone.

Cruising Past Cres’s Cliffs and Lighthouse

After your underwater adventure, the boat heads towards Cres, offering spectacular views of rocky cliffs and the historic Hrid Zaglav Lighthouse. This scenic cruise segment lasts about 45 minutes and provides plenty of opportunities for photos of rugged coastline and open sea.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch with a View

Around noon, the crew will serve a freshly prepared onboard lunch, featuring options like fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a selection of drinks, including wine, beer, sodas, and water. Guests have consistently praised the quality of the meals and the friendly service, making this a relaxing and flavorful interlude. The inclusive drinks add great value, especially for those who enjoy local wine or a cold beer while soaking up the sun.

Exploring Cres Town

Then, it’s time to visit Cres, one of Croatia’s most charming islands. You’ll have about two hours to explore the town—perfect for wandering the quaint streets, browsing local shops, or relaxing on a nearby beach. Reviewers mention that Cres has a lovely, laid-back vibe, ideal for those wanting to experience local life. Some even recommend taking a short walk to the lighthouse or enjoying a gelato by the harbor.

Dolphin Search and Return Journey

As the boat heads back towards Medulin, there’s always a chance to spot dolphins, though sightings cannot be guaranteed. Many reviews note that the area is known for playful dolphin populations, so the return trip can be quite exciting if luck is on your side.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This full-day adventure offers a nice mix of scenic beauty, wildlife watching, and cultural exploration. The well-paced itinerary allows you to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, while the onboard amenities ensure comfort and good food throughout the day.

The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew add a personal touch, making sure you get the most out of each moment. Plus, the flexibility of booking with the option to cancel or pay later adds peace of mind.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Duration & Starting Time: About 9 hours, starting around 8:30 AM (check availability for exact times)
• Cost & Value: At $85, this includes boat rides, lunch, drinks, and guided commentary—pretty good value for a full day of coastal exploration
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, beachwear, cash for optional purchases, and a light pullover for windier moments
• Weather & Cancellation: If weather is bad or minimum numbers aren’t reached, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Boat ride with crew and animation
• Lunch with a variety of options
• Drinks (wine, beer, sodas, water)

Not included:

• Transfers to the check-in point (though arrangements can be made if contacted in advance)
• Extra drinks like coffee or snacks beyond what’s offered onboard
• Personal purchases on the islands or additional meals

The Experience You Can Expect

From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the friendly atmosphere fostered by the crew, who are often praised for their professionalism and knowledge. The boat itself is comfortable, with plenty of space to relax and take in the views.

The Blue Cave stop is a definite highlight, especially for snorkelers and swimmers, who can marvel at the clear waters and marine life close-up. The Cres stop offers a mellow chance to stretch your legs and soak in local life, perfect for those wanting a taste of island charm.

The dolphin search is an unpredictable yet exciting finale—many guests found the possibility of seeing these intelligent creatures to be a memorable part of the trip.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat trip from Medulin is a compelling choice for travelers seeking a balanced experience. You’ll enjoy the spectacular Blue Cave, explore the idyllic streets of Cres, and perhaps even share a playful moment with dolphins. The inclusive lunch and drinks elevate the experience, making it feel like a true treat rather than just a tour.

It’s especially ideal for those who love nature, scenic cruising, and cultural exploration without feeling rushed. The moderate price point, combined with the variety of stops and activities, offers excellent value for a full day of Croatian coastal adventure.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging day on Croatia’s coast, this trip covers all the essentials. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of underwater fun, scenic views, and local culture. Those with a keen eye for wildlife will appreciate the dolphin search, while food lovers will enjoy the onboard meal.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized tours with flexible options will find this a dependable choice. It’s also suitable for those with mobility considerations, thanks to its wheelchair accessibility.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The full day lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 8:30 AM. Exact departure times can be checked when booking.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat ride, an onboard lunch, drinks (wine, beer, sodas, water), crew, and entertainment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing schedules.

Is there an option for transfers to the meeting point?
Transfers are not included but can be arranged if contacted at least one day before the trip.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, beachwear, cash for optional extras, and a pullover for windier conditions.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?
Yes, the onboard lunch includes vegetarian options, and special dietary requests can likely be accommodated with advance notice.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip may be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are poor or minimum numbers are not reached, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours beforehand.

In essence, this full-day boat trip from Medulin combines scenic beauty, exciting stops, and tasty food, making it a worthwhile addition to your Croatian adventure. Whether you’re chasing the elusive dolphins, exploring Cres’s charming streets, or marveling at the Blue Cave, it promises a memorable day on Croatia’s stunning coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: