Novalja: Day Trip to the Islands of Silba and Olib

Novalja: Day Trip to the Islands of Silba and Olib

Planning a day escape from the lively streets of Novalja? This full-day boat tour to the islands of Silba and Olib promises a relaxing yet engaging experience, ideal for those craving a taste of the Dalmatian archipelago’s quieter side.

What makes this trip stand out? We appreciate the scenic cruise that offers stunning views of the coast, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and the opportunity to explore two islands far from tourist crowds, all for a reasonable price of $59.

One potential downside? Some travelers might find the itinerary’s focus on swimming and sightseeing leaves little time for exploring the islands on foot or enjoying the beaches fully. Still, if you’re after a relaxing, all-in-one day with good food and views, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balance of adventure and leisure, enjoy natural beauty, and are okay with a structured day that includes some guided sightseeing and free time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Scenic Boat Ride: Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise with calming waves and sunshine.
• Authentic Island Experience: Free time on Olib and Silba allows for personal exploration.
• Beautiful Swim Spots: Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Tasty Onboard Lunch: Delicious food served without the hassle of planning.
• Quiet Islands: Far from crowded tourist spots, offering a peaceful escape.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, with full refunds available 24 hours in advance.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Departure from Novalja

Your day begins at 09:30 AM, with the boat leaving from the port in front of Loa hotel. The journey starts with a 1.5-hour cruise along the Dalmatian coastline, a perfect time to soak in the scenery, catch some sun, and settle into the relaxing rhythm of the sea. The boat’s comfortable setting makes for easy chatting or peaceful reflection, and you might spot the occasional local fisherman or a pod of dolphins if luck is on your side.

First Stop: Olib Island

Once docked on Olib, you’re presented with a few hours of free time. According to reviews, the island’s natural beauty shines through in its inviting waters and quiet beaches. However, some travelers note that getting to the beaches on foot isn’t straightforward, with one reviewer mentioning that the first island felt somewhat underwhelming since the beaches are not easily accessible without a vehicle.

During your stay, you might prefer to walk along the shoreline, take a dip in the deep blue waters, or simply soak in the peaceful island atmosphere. The reviews indicate that swimming on Olib is a highlight—the water is deep, clean, and perfect for a refreshing dip.

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Continuing to Silba Island

Next, the boat cruises toward Silba, a place often described as more picturesque and lively than Olib. On the way, a delicious onboard lunch is served, allowing you to enjoy your meal without leaving the boat or disrupting the day’s flow. The menu options include fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes—just be sure to specify your choice in advance.

Once at Silba, you’ll get another few hours of free time. Here, the landscape impresses with beautiful bays and beaches, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet lively. Travelers who visited noted that Silba’s water is stunning, with clear, inviting beaches perfect for swimming and unwinding.

Some reviews mention that the second island’s beaches and clear waters are the main attractions, offering ample space to relax away from crowds. You might also explore the small town, take photos of the charming streets, or simply lounge on the shore.

Return Journey

As the day winds down, you’ll begin your cruise back to Novalja, arriving around late afternoon. The return trip provides another opportunity to enjoy the coastal views and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Lunch, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian preferences.
• The boat cruise itself, with scenic views and relaxing atmosphere.

Not Included:

• Beverages—so bring your own drinks if you want something other than water or included meals.

Extras to consider:

• Bring your own sun protection, comfortable shoes for exploring, and a towel for swimming.
• Let the tour operator know your lunch preference ahead of time for a smooth experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

While most appreciate the trip, reviews highlight some important points. One traveler remarked, “The water was really beautiful, but the beach on the first island was not accessible by foot, which was a bit disappointing.” This suggests that if your goal is to relax on sandy beaches, it’s worth noting that getting to them might require a boat or car.

Another reviewer loved the second island’s bay, describing it as “super clear, great water,” which is perfect for swimming. They also praised the crew’s friendliness and the delicious onboard food, which elevated the overall experience.

However, some found the first island less interesting, with one comment indicating that the beaches are not very accessible or spectacular. Still, the second island’s scenery and waters seem to compensate, creating a more memorable experience.

The Value of This Tour

At $59 per person, this trip offers a good value for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. Considering that the price includes lunch and transportation, it’s a convenient way to explore the quieter side of the Dalmatian islands without the hassle of planning individual transfers or meals.

In terms of what you get: scenic boat rides, free exploration time, quality food, and access to pristine waters. While some might find the beaches less accessible or the islands underwhelming, many travelers find the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty well worth the trip.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is best suited for those seeking a peaceful escape rather than an active, beach-hopping adventure. It’s ideal for relaxing travelers, couples, or small groups who want a snapshot of island life without large crowds.

It also works well for food lovers, given the onboard lunch options, and for nature enthusiasts who appreciate scenic waters and tranquil landscapes. If you’re looking for a full day of laid-back exploration with a good balance of sightseeing and swimming, this trip won’t disappoint.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Silba and Olib offers a refreshingly quiet look at the Dalmatian islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying hearty Croatian cuisine. The boat ride itself is a highlight, with calm waters and scenic views setting the tone for the day. While the beaches on the first island may not be as accessible as some might hope, the second island’s gorgeous waters more than make up for it.

This tour presents a solid value for those wanting to escape the crowds, relax, and soak up the natural beauty of Croatia’s coast. It’s a great pick for travelers who prioritize peaceful scenery, tasty food, and a relaxed pace over extensive beach exploration.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The cruise from Novalja to Olib lasts about 1.5 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy sunshine and sea views.

What are the lunch options?
You can choose between fish, meat, or vegetarian menus. Be sure to specify your choice in advance for a smooth experience.

Are beverages included?
No, beverages are not included, so bring your own drinks if you want something other than water and the provided meal.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are recommended to enjoy the day fully.

Can I explore the islands after the tour?
While free time is provided, the itinerary is structured, so you might have limited time for extensive exploration. The focus is on relaxing and swimming.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it suits families looking for a peaceful day of water activities and scenic views. Just ensure children are comfortable with boat trips.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change depending on weather conditions, but the tour provider allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people typically join this tour?
While not specified, small to medium groups are common, making the experience more intimate and flexible.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The reviews don’t specify accessibility details, but given the focus on beaches that are not easily accessible on foot, it might require some planning.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, with options to pay later and cancel easily if needed.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day on the sea or a scenic escape from busy tourist spots, this island trip from Novalja offers a lovely glimpse into Croatia’s quieter coastlines.

You can check if your dates are available here: