Pula Verudela: Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour

Imagine gliding smoothly over the turquoise waters of Croatia’s Istrian coast, eyes glued to the clear glass bottom as colorful fish dart beneath you. Now, add opportunities to swim in calm, temperate waters, visit secluded islands, and spot fascinating sea creatures like sea-urchins and sea-cucumbers. That’s the promise of the Pula Verudela Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour, a highly-rated experience that packs a lot of value into just a few hours.

What we love about this tour is its balance of beautiful scenery, engaging aquatic encounters, and friendly guides. It offers a relaxed, family-friendly pace that allows you to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. We also appreciate how accessible it is—great for those on a budget, with an inclusive drink and pastry.

One thing to consider is that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to Port Bunarina. This isn’t a huge hassle, but it’s worth factoring into your day if you’re staying outside the immediate Pula area. Lastly, this tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure with a dash of marine life discovery, especially those who enjoy snorkeling or simply relaxing by the water.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At around $29, this tour offers excellent value for a half-day experience.
• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Croatian islands, coastlines, and sea life.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids, with engaging opportunities to feed fish and explore sea creatures.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Friendly crew and guides, like Mateo, add a personal touch and helpful insights.
• Comfortable & Convenient: The boat is clean, and the tour is well-organized, with light refreshments included.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Port Bunarina, the tour kicks off with a short walk to the boat, which is conveniently located just a couple of minutes from the parking area. The boat itself is described as spotless and comfortable, which sets the tone for a relaxed experience.

The first stop is at Pjeana uvala, where you’ll get the chance to peer through the glass bottom and see vibrant shoals of fish, seashells, and other marine life. This part of the trip offers a real feast for the eyes, especially if you enjoy observing underwater ecosystems without getting wet. Reviewers like Sarah and Phee highlighted how feeding the fish adds a fun, interactive element, and the clear water ensures excellent visibility.

Next, the boat navigates between the two islands, Fraker and Frakeri, where you might spot sea-urchins and sea-cucumbers. These stops are perfect for those interested in discovering small marine creatures and observing them in their natural habitat. The guides are known for their friendly and knowledgeable approach, sharing insights into the local marine life—something that makes the experience especially engaging for children and curious adults alike. Several reviews praise the informational tips and friendly demeanor of guides like Mateo.

The highlight for many is the opportunity to stop and swim in the turquoise waters. Reviewers like Lianne and Jessie mention how crystal-clear waters and warm temperatures make swimming a real pleasure. Many guests appreciated being able to float among fish and feed them directly, creating a memorable, interactive moment. The waters are temperate, making it accessible for most swimmers, even those who are less confident.

The final stops include visiting the impressive Verudela canyon and cave, towering rock formations that attract cliff divers. While you may not get to jump off cliffs yourself, there’s the thrill of witnessing daring swimmers and the natural beauty of the rock formations—another reason why this tour appeals to both nature lovers and adventure-seekers.

Throughout, the tour maintains a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, making it suitable for children, as one reviewer noted. The inclusion of a Croatian pastry and a drink adds a nice touch, giving you a little snack to enjoy as you reflect on the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The scenic views are undeniably a major selling point. From the boat, you’ll see the Croatian coastline, distant islands, and the lively marine life below. Reviewers repeatedly mention how beautiful and peaceful the surroundings are, making this a perfect escape from busy city days.

Knowledgeable, friendly guides elevate the experience. Mateo, in particular, is praised for his engaging storytelling and helpful attitude. Many reviews mention how guides shared interesting facts about the fish, sea-urchins, and local environment—adding an educational layer to the fun.

Comfort and organization are also notable. The boat is described as clean and well-maintained, with a modest but appreciated inclusion of light refreshments. The length of the tour feels just right—long enough to see different sites and enjoy swimming, but not so long that it becomes tiring.

Cost-effectiveness is another strong point. For just $29, you get a well-rounded experience that combines scenic transportation, marine encounters, and light snacks. Compared to other tours that can be multiple times more expensive, this offers excellent value—especially for families or solo travelers wanting a memorable yet affordable activity.

Accessibility is another plus. Since there’s no included hotel transportation, you’ll want to be comfortable walking to the meeting point at Port Bunarina. The area is easy to find, and the meeting counter is conveniently located near the harbor.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for families with kids, thanks to its safe swimming options, friendly guides, and engaging marine life. It’s also ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a memorable Croatian coastal adventure without breaking the bank.

Nature lovers and those who enjoy scenic boat rides and snorkeling will find plenty to appreciate. If you’re looking for a relaxing half-day activity with plenty of opportunities to see marine life and enjoy beautiful views, this tour hits the mark.

Finally, if you prefer a small-group, intimate experience without long travel times or complex logistics, this tour offers a comfortable and straightforward option.

Final Thoughts

This glass-bottom boat tour in Pula offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, marine discovery, and relaxed fun. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting an authentic, family-friendly experience that won’t cost a fortune. The friendly guides, stunning underwater views, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters make it a highlight for many visitors.

While it’s not a long adventure, the carefully curated stops and engaging marine encounters pack a punch, making it an excellent choice for a half-day activity. Just remember to bring swimwear and a towel, and you’re all set for a memorable Croatian sea experience.

For those who want a relaxed, scenic, and engaging introduction to the marine life of Istria, this tour delivers on all fronts—plus, it’s easy to book with flexible cancellation options.

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FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to organize your own way to Port Bunarina, which is easily accessible by car or public transport.

What is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the parking area around Port Bunarina. The tour counter is located at the beginning of the port, close to the Rio Boat Pula, and is just a two-minute walk from the parking lot.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel so you can comfortably swim and dry off afterward. Wearing sunscreen and a hat is also recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children enjoy the trip, especially the opportunity to see and feed fish. The moderate length and friendly guides make it family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, most reviews suggest it’s a half-day experience, providing ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing onboard.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the tour includes one drink and a Croatian pastry, which adds a nice touch to the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

What language are guides available in?
Guides operate in English and Italian, ensuring clear communication for a broad range of travelers.

Is snorkeling included?
While snorkeling isn’t explicitly listed, the tour offers swimming opportunities in the clear waters, making it easy to see underwater life without specialized equipment.

This glass-bottom boat tour in Pula provides an excellent balance of scenic views, marine encounters, and relaxed fun, all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, it’s a chance to enjoy the Croatian coast’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

You can check if your dates are available here: