Novigrad: Sunset Dolphin Watching Boat Tour by Matek
Traveling to Istria and looking for a memorable way to enjoy the incredible coastal scenery? The Sunset Dolphin Watching Boat Tour operated by Matek in Novigrad offers a peaceful yet exciting escape on the water. While not guaranteed, the chance to see wild dolphins in their natural environment makes this experience particularly special.
What we love about this tour are the breathtaking sunset views over Novigrad, the relaxed atmosphere on the boat’s terrace, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who do their best to find dolphins. The option to enjoy a welcome drink while listening to music adds a touch of comfort and fun.
However, a key consideration is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, which might be disappointing if you’re especially eager to spot these playful creatures. This tour tends to suit travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic excursion combined with the hope of wildlife spotting—ideal for nature lovers, sunset chasers, or anyone wanting a gentle cruise along Croatia’s stunning coast.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Scenic Sunset Views: Enjoy the spectacular colors over Novigrad as you cruise along the coast.
- Wildlife Watching: The chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat, though sightings depend on luck.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Lounge on the boat’s terraces with a welcome drink and music in the background.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew who work hard to find dolphins and enhance your experience.
- Value for Money: At $41 per person, it’s an accessible way to experience Croatia’s coast with extras like drinks and music.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later; cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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A Detailed Look at the Experience
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour departs from Novigrad’s port, a charming and accessible spot. However, some reviewers have found the meeting point a bit confusing. One traveler mentioned, “The meeting point doesn’t work at all! We were at the meeting point as per Voucher, but no one was there to pick us up. By asking, we were guided to the boat dock.” Despite this hiccup, once on board, the experience improves significantly. The boat is operated by Matek, and the crew is generally friendly and eager to share their knowledge.
The tour lasts roughly 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves enough time to explore other sights in Istria afterward. The group size tends to be small enough for an intimate experience, but this isn’t explicitly specified.
The Itinerary and what to Expect
You’ll begin your adventure with a warm welcome and a choice of drinks—typically wine, juice, or water. As you set sail, the crew will start searching for dolphins in the surrounding waters—a task that’s as much about patience as luck. Some guests, like Michaela, noted, “We were lucky to see a lot of dolphins.” Yet, others, like a reviewer from September 2025, pointed out that “dolphin sightings are not guaranteed,” which is worth keeping in mind.
While the likelihood of spotting dolphins varies, the journey itself offers stunning views of the Croatian coast. Watching the sunset from the water is the real highlight—colors transforming the sky into a painter’s palette. Many guests mention how the sunset over Novigrad is breathtaking, making the trip worthwhile even without dolphin sightings.
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One of the nice touches is the onboard music, which sets a relaxed tone. Whether you’re chatting with fellow travelers or simply soaking in the scenery, the playlist adds to the fun, casual vibe. This is a good chance to unwind and enjoy the peaceful environment on the boat’s terrace, with plenty of space to stretch out.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
The biggest drawback, as some reviews point out, is that dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed. While guides do their best to locate these creatures, nature can be unpredictable. Plus, one reviewer expressed concern about the number of boats chasing dolphins, saying, “It’s really a dolphin hunt,” due to the crowded waters with more than 15 boats attempting to see the same animals. This raises questions about the impact on the dolphins and the authenticity of wildlife encounters.
Another practical consideration is the meeting point. Multiple reviews mention that the coordinates or directions provided can be confusing, with one traveler suggesting the actual docking area is different from what the map indicates. To avoid missing the start, it’s advisable to double-check arrival instructions and arrive a bit early.
Value and Pricing
At $41 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for a scenic cruise with the possibility of wildlife sightings, sunset views, drinks, and music—all in a compact time frame. For those who love relaxed coastal excursions and hope to catch a glimpse of dolphins, the price feels fair. However, don’t expect a guarantee; the focus is as much on the experience and scenery as on wildlife.
What Travelers Say
A mixture of reviews paints a balanced picture. Many guests praise the friendly guides and the beautiful sunset, with some saying, “The guide was super nice and entertaining, it was a great excursion,” and “So good! Saw many dolphins!” Others were a bit more cautious, noting the confusing meeting point or the crowded waters chasing dolphins.
One traveler expressed disappointment about the donation request after the tour, which might seem odd or overly commercial. It’s worth being aware of this aspect, especially if you’re sensitive to extra solicitations.
Who Will Love This Tour
This experience is best suited for sunset lovers and those seeking a relaxed coastal cruise rather than wildlife enthusiasts solely focused on dolphin sightings. It’s especially enjoyable for travelers who appreciate scenic views, music, and a laid-back atmosphere. Families, couples, or small groups will find this a charming way to end an afternoon in Novigrad.
If you’re hoping for a rare encounter with dolphins, be prepared for some luck, and remember that the main allure is the stunning sunset and serene water. For those interested in a more wildlife-centric adventure, researching alternative tours or private charters might be worthwhile.
FAQs
Is dolphin sighting guaranteed on this tour?
No, sightings depend on the day’s conditions and dolphin behavior. The guides do their best to find them, but it’s not a certainty.
What should I bring with me?
A camera is recommended to capture the sunset and possible dolphin encounters. Sunscreen and a hat might also be helpful if the weather is warm.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity suitable for most travelers.
Is the meeting point easy to find?
Some travelers have reported difficulty with the directions, so arriving a little early and confirming the location can help.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people prone to seasickness, so consider this if you’re sensitive to motion.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Final thoughts
The Sunset Dolphin Watching Boat Tour in Novigrad by Matek offers a lovely combination of scenic beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and the thrill of possibly spotting dolphins in the wild. While it’s not a guaranteed wildlife tour, the stunning sunsets and peaceful cruise make it a worthwhile experience for many travelers.
Perfect for those who love gentle coastal adventures, enjoy a good sunset, and are happy to embrace the unpredictability of nature. Keep your expectations realistic regarding dolphin sightings, but don’t overlook the magic of Croatian coastlines viewed from the water. This trip will leave you with plenty of photos and memories of a relaxing evening under the setting sun.
You can check if your dates are available here: