Full-Day Boat Trip, Cave Swim, lunch & Drinks – Medulin/Ceja

Planning a day on Croatia’s stunning coast? This full-day boat trip from Medulin promises an adventure packed with scenic views, underwater exploration, and tasty local food. It’s an excellent way to see some of Istria’s most famed spots without the hassle of organizing your own itinerary.

What’s especially appealing? You get to cruise past Kamenjak National Park and the Premantura peninsula, swim in a sea cave, and relax on a private island—all while enjoying unlimited drinks and a fresh tuna lunch. But as with any boat experience, it’s worth knowing what to expect so you can make the most of your day.

One potential consideration: this tour might be crowded during peak season, and weather conditions can impact the cave swim or cave visibility. Still, if you love outdoor adventures, good food, and scenic cruising, this trip offers great value suited for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends eager for a relaxing yet active day at sea.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Medulin’s archipelago and coastline
• Unique Experience: Swimming in a magical underwater cave
• Gourmet Lunch: Delicious grilled options including tuna, fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes
• Unlimited Drinks: Wine, beer, sodas, water, and schnaps throughout the day
• Relaxing Stop: Several hours of sunbathing and swimming on Ceja Island
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew ensuring safety and a friendly atmosphere

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your day begins at the Medulin harbor, where the vibrant red and yellow boat named Sandra is easy to spot (look for No. 32/33). The local team, including guides who speak Croatian, English, and German, will be waiting under a red umbrella, ready to set sail. From the start, the crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude set the tone, making it clear this is a well-organized experience.

Cruising Past Kamenjak and Premantura

Once onboard, you’ll be treated to a 1-hour cruise along Medulin’s coast, with incredible views of the Kamenjak National Park and the Premantura peninsula. These areas are renowned for their dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and wildlife. The panoramic outlook is a highlight, especially when you see the rugged coastline stretch out in the distance.

Cape Kamenjak: The Southernmost Point of Istria

Your boat will reach the Cape Kamenjak Nature Park, the southern tip of Istria, famous for its striking cliffs and diverse ecosystems. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel or simply enjoy the scenery. A special highlight is the chance to swim into an underwater cave, a must-do for water lovers. According to a reviewer, “the cave swimming was beautiful and a highlight,” though some mention it’s a brief experience, so don’t expect hours underwater. A crew member will accompany you to ensure safety, making this an accessible adventure even for less experienced swimmers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Porer Lighthouse and Coastal Views

Next, you’ll pass by the Porer Lighthouse, built in 1846 during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, perched on a small rocky island. The sight of this historic lighthouse adds a sense of stepping back in time. The crew often slow down here, giving you a chance to snap photos of the lighthouse against the sea.

Lunch on Board: Fresh and Flavourful

Midway through the trip, it’s time to relax and fuel up. The boat offers a delicious BBQ-style lunch, with options including tuna steak, fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes. It comes with a fresh cabbage salad and crusty ciabatta bread, making it a satisfying meal after the morning’s activities. Reviewers praise the quality: “The food was awesome, and the wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks are included in the price.”

Ceja Island: Sun, Swim, and Chill

After lunch, the boat heads to Ceja Island, where you’ll spend approximately 2-3 hours. Here, you can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the deck, or visit the island’s small restaurant and café bar for additional snacks or drinks. The island isn’t just a pretty backdrop; it offers a peaceful retreat where you can truly unwind. Several travelers mention the beautiful setting and relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for afternoon leisure.

Return Journey and Final Views

As the day winds down, you’ll cruise back to Medulin, with the chance to enjoy the last glimpses of the coast and perhaps a final sip of wine or schnaps. The return journey is often described as calm and scenic, providing a fitting end to this memorable experience.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: The crew’s attentiveness and multilingual skills ensure everyone feels comfortable and informed, even if they’re not experienced swimmers or boaters. Reviewers highlight guides like Ilia and Najwa for creating a fun, friendly atmosphere.

Spectacular Scenery: The combination of cliffs, lighthouses, and archipelago views makes every moment visually rewarding. The boat’s vantage point offers a perspective that’s hard to match from land.

Excellent Food & Drinks: The onboard lunch and unlimited beverages, including wine and beer, elevate the experience, especially considering the fair price of $53 per person. Many emphasize the quality of the tuna and the variety of drinks available.

Authentic Experience: Visiting places like Cape Kamenjak and Ceja Island provides a sense of unspoiled Croatia, far from crowded tourist spots. The small group atmosphere adds to the sense of adventure.

Considerations and Tips

Weather Dependency: Bad weather or strong winds can lead to trip cancellations or rescheduling. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Crowd Levels: During peak season, the boat may feel crowded, especially on the deck. Arriving early helps you secure a good spot and avoid the rush.

Duration of Cave Swim: Some reviewers felt the cave swim was too short, so if underwater exploration is a priority, manage your expectations accordingly.

Island Facilities: Ceja Island has a restaurant and café bar, but cash only. Be sure to bring some cash if you plan to buy additional snacks or drinks there.

What to Bring: Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps snorkeling gear. The boat offers plenty of opportunities to cool off, but you’ll want your essentials handy.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip offers a lovely mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxation, making it ideal for families, couples, or friends wanting a balanced day at sea. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling but don’t mind a bit of crowd or a structured schedule. Food lovers will appreciate the quality onboard lunch, and wine enthusiasts will enjoy the unlimited drinks.

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced way to explore Istria’s coastline while experiencing some of its hidden gems — including a cave swim and a visit to Ceja Island — this trip delivers genuine value. Just be prepared for a full day with plenty of outdoor fun and scenic vistas, and you’ll leave with plenty of memories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the Medulin harbor, and transportation to the meeting point is not included. Arriving 30-45 minutes early is recommended.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak Croatian, English, and German, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly snorkeling gear. Don’t forget cash for on-island purchases, as Ceja Island only accepts cash.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the trip can be canceled or rescheduled due to bad weather or strong winds. It’s best to check the forecast and book with a flexible policy.

How long is the stop at Ceja Island?
Expect about two to three hours on Ceja Island, giving you plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or relax at the café.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those with children comfortable around water. The crew’s safety measures make it accessible for all ages.

This full-day boat trip from Medulin offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coast, blending adventure with relaxation, good food, and stunning views. Whether you’re into underwater exploration, scenic cruising, or just soaking up the sun, it’s a trip likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: