Taking a day to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat is a tempting idea, and this full-day trip from Podstrana offers a well-rounded experience. With visits to Bra Island, Sutivan, and the shipwreck of Kontesa on Solta, you’ll enjoy a mix of scenic cruising, charming towns, swimming, and a tasty onboard BBQ.
What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, it’s the chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful waters and hidden bays. Second, the friendly guides and well-organized itinerary ensure a relaxed, informative day. Third, the fresh, home-cooked BBQ lunch, paired with unlimited drinks, creates a satisfying midday break.
That said, a potential consideration is the necessity to jump from the boat at swim stops, which isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or seasickness. Still, overall, this tour is best suited to travelers looking for an active, scenic, and culturally interesting day on the water—perfect for those who love swimming, good food, and small group vibes.
Good To Know
- Beautiful scenery and hidden bays await on the islands of Bra and Olta.
- Snorkeling gear and floaties are provided, making water activities accessible for all.
- The lunch menu offers choices—fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta—cooked onboard.
- Friendly guides and a well-structured itinerary enhance the experience.
- The tour has a high rating of 4.8/5 from 32 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction.
- It’s a full-day experience lasting 8 to 9 hours, ideal for an immersive adventure.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary & What You Can Expect
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Starting Point & Departure Logistics
The trip kicks off from three convenient locations: Croatia Boat Charters, Hotel Krilo, or Gooshter Beach Club. The departure times vary depending on the pick-up point, with most starting around 8:30 to 9:30 AM. This flexibility helps travelers choose an option that fits their schedule comfortably.
Once aboard, the crew welcomes you with a shot of schnapps, a chocolate donut, and juice—a lovely way to toast the start of what promises to be a full day. The boat itself is described as punctual, and the guides, known for their clear explanations, are praised for making everyone feel at ease.
First Stop: Bra Island & Sutivan
The journey takes you to the island of Bra, specifically the charming town of Sutivan. Here, you’ll get approximately 75 minutes of free time to explore on your own. Reviewers mention that Sutivan is beautiful and ideal for wandering, with a local family selling delicious olive oil, a small but memorable highlight.
This stop offers a taste of local life—small shops, scenic streets, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. Visitors often enjoy strolling along the waterfront and soaking in the views. The guides are praised for their clear explanations, ensuring you make the most of your time.
Hidden Bays & Water Activities
Back on the boat, you’ll cruise to a hidden bay on Bra, where swimming off the boat is the main activity. The boat features ladders for easy access to the water, making it simple to jump in and out. Many reviewers, like Melanie, appreciated the variety of water toys—snorkels, floats, and even lilos—which add fun and relaxation to the swim.
Expect to spend about 50 minutes swimming and snorkeling, with options to explore marine life or just enjoy floating in crystal-clear waters. The reviewers note that these stops are peaceful and relaxing, with some mentioning the beautiful underwater environment, although specific marine details are not provided.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyIsland of Solta & BBQ Lunch
Next, the boat sets course for Olta on the island of Solta. Here, a delicious onboard BBQ is served—choices include mackerel fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta, prepared fresh by the onboard chef. Unlimited wine, water, and orange juice are included during lunch, making this a good value, especially considering the quality and freshness of the food. Travelers often comment on how tasty and satisfying the meal is, turning a simple lunch into a highlight.
The Shipwreck of Kontesa & Marine Exploration
The afternoon features a visit to the shipwreck of Kontesa, near Neujam. This wreck, now a haven for marine life, is a popular snorkeling spot. Guests can jump into the water with snorkels and floaties to explore the wreck and observe the marine environment around it. The 75-minute snorkeling session allows for plenty of underwater exploration, and the wreck’s history adds a layer of intrigue.
Reviewers appreciate the professional guidance and the opportunity to see marine life up close, making it a memorable highlight of the trip. The wreck’s accessibility from the boat makes it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced snorkelers.
Return & Final Cruise
The boat then heads back towards Podstrana, with a 110-minute cruise filled with views of the islands and coastlines. On the way back, there’s a refreshing stop with cold watermelon, perfect for rehydration after a day in the sun.
The trip concludes at the original meeting points, with most travelers feeling they’ve had a well-rounded experience of Croatia’s waters—combining scenic cruising, swimming, cultural visits, and excellent food.
What Sets This Tour Apart?
Expert Guides & Friendly Crew
Reviews frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, like the captain and staff who are genuinely interested in making the day enjoyable. Their clear explanations and attentiveness help create a relaxed atmosphere, especially for those unfamiliar with boat trips.
Scenic & Versatile Stops
The itinerary balances scenic cruising with active water stops and leisurely exploration. The stop at Sutivan, with its charming streets and local shops, offers a cultural flavor absent from many typical boat tours.
Quality Food & Drinks
The onboard BBQ lunch is not just a filler meal—it’s a highlight, with freshly prepared options and unlimited drinks. Guests often express how much they appreciated the value for money and the tasty, home-cooked feel of the meal.
Water Activities & Marine Life
Provision of snorkels, floaties, and water polo balls ensures everyone can partake in water fun, regardless of experience. The shipwreck snorkeling offers an exciting peek into underwater life and history, making the tour engaging for marine enthusiasts.
Flexibility & Convenience
Multiple departure points and times make it easier to fit this adventure into your Croatia itinerary. With full-day coverage, it’s suitable for those wanting an immersive experience rather than a rushed half-day outing.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Bring sun protection—a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential.
- Swimwear and towels are a must, since you’ll be jumping into the water multiple times.
- Camera: With stunning views and underwater opportunities, you’ll want to capture the moments.
- Arrive early at your chosen meeting point to avoid missing the boat.
- Notify the crew of your lunch preference—fish, chicken, or vegetarian—so they can prepare accordingly.
- Keep in mind that swim stops require jumping from the boat, so if you’re uncomfortable with that or prone to seasickness, consider your suitability.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for water lovers who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, as well as those interested in experiencing Croatia’s scenic islands and local culture in a single day. It’s perfect for small groups or families, thanks to the friendly guides and flexible stops.
Travelers who value good food and unlimited drinks onboard will find this tour offers excellent value compared to other day trips. The itinerary’s balance of relaxation and activity makes it suitable for a broad age range—though non-swimmers or those with mobility issues may find the swim stops challenging.
This tour suits adventurous travelers craving a scenic, water-based adventure with a touch of cultural exploration and excellent hospitality.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families with children, especially since snorkels, floaties, and other water toys are provided, making water activities fun for kids.
What should I bring on the trip?
You should bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. It’s also helpful to wear comfortable clothing and arrive early for the departure.
Can I choose my lunch?
Yes, after booking, you’ll need to email the operator with your lunch preference—fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta—so they can prepare accordingly.
Are drinks included during lunch?
Unlimited red wine, water, and orange juice are served during the BBQ, adding good value to the meal.
What’s the duration of the trip?
The total experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting around 8:30 to 9:30 AM, depending on your pick-up point.
Are there any mobility restrictions?
The stops involve jumping into the water and climbing back via ladders, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is included, so you can stay connected during the trip.
Final Thoughts
This full-day boat trip from Podstrana offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s islands, combining scenic cruising, swimming, snorkeling, and cultural exploration. The friendly guides, delicious onboard BBQ, and stunning views make it a popular choice for those craving an active yet relaxing adventure.
While not suitable for everyone—particularly those afraid of water or with limited mobility—it provides excellent value for money, especially when you consider the included food, drinks, and water activities. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this trip gives you a compact but memorable taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast.
If you’re after a day full of scenic beauty, good food, and water fun, this tour ticks all those boxes—and leaves plenty of room for spontaneous discoveries and relaxation.
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