Boat trip to Rovinj and Vrsar from Pore with lunch

Taking a boat trip along Croatia’s beautiful Istrian coast is a popular way to experience the region’s charm without the hassle of renting a boat yourself. This particular tour from Porec offers a full day of scenic views, charming towns, and a relaxing atmosphere—perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back adventure.

What caught our attention is the combination of a scenic cruise, free time for exploration, and a delicious onboard barbecue lunch. It’s a solution for those wanting to see Croatia from the water without the responsibility of piloting a vessel. One thing to consider is that, based on reviews, the experience can vary quite a bit depending on weather conditions and group size, but overall it delivers good value for money. This trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic coastal views, quick cultural stops, and a relaxed itinerary.

Key Points

• Scenic Water Views: You’ll enjoy cruising along Croatia’s rugged coastline, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, or sunbathe at stops.
• Cultural Charm: The visits to Rovinj and Vrsar give you a taste of Istrian history, architecture, and local ambiance.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Lunch, drinks, and even a shot of grappa are included, making it a convenient, stress-free day.
• Accessible and Easy: Pickups from select Porec hotels simplify logistics, especially for those not wanting to navigate public transport.
• Mixed Reviews: While many love the experience, some mention crowded boats and basic meals, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Ideal for Relaxed Days: This tour is perfect if you want a paced, scenic day with free time to explore rather than a packed schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Departure and Transportation

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour begins with pickup from select Porec hotels—an advantage for those staying nearby, saving the hassle of local transportation. The tour provider, Gulliver Travel, states pickup from Lanterna and Novigrad also requires a minimum of six people, which can influence availability if you’re staying outside Porec. The bus ride to the port, departing at 10:00 am, is straightforward, with most travelers appreciating the convenience of door-to-door service.

The Boat and Group Size

The boat departs from Port Porec at 10:00 am. Based on reviews, the vessel can hold around 200 people, resulting in a somewhat crowded experience. Some reviewers mention feeling packed, especially during peak season, which might affect comfort if you prefer a more intimate environment. The maximum group size is around 40 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with manageable numbers.

The Itinerary and Stops

First Stop: Rovinj (around 11:30 am)

Rovinj, often called “little Venice,” is the first major stop. It’s a picturesque town with narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant facades, and a lively harbor. The tour allows for about 2 hours of free time, which most travelers find sufficient to wander, grab a coffee, or snap photos of the iconic skyline.

One reviewer described Rovinj as “definitely worth a visit,” and appreciated the chance to explore at their own pace. Many found this stop the highlight of the trip, drawn by the town’s charm and the opportunity to stroll its scenic alleys, visit local shops, or simply sit by the water with a gelato.

Lunch on Board (around 1:00 pm)

The onboard barbecue lunch is served around 1:00 pm. The menu is described as simple—cabbage, bread, and a choice of hot dog, fish, or chicken, plus Fanta or wine. Several reviews mention the meal as basic but acceptable, especially considering the all-inclusive price. The inclusion of a free shot of grappa caught some off guard but added a local flavor to the experience.

Some noted that the meal’s simplicity left something to be desired, with one review mentioning it as a “plate of cabbage” and plain bread. However, others appreciated the convenience, especially since it allowed more time for exploring Rovinj.

Cruising Towards Vrsar and Lim Bay (around 2:30 pm)

After lunch, the boat heads towards Vrsar, passing through Lim Bay, famous for its scenic beauty. The cruise offers lovely water views along the coast, and many travelers enjoy the relaxing vibe of sailing past rocky cliffs and lush greenery.

Vrsar is a town with a long history and charming harbor, where the group stops for about 1.5 hours. According to reviews, this is enough time to explore, relax, or take a quick dip if the weather permits. Some travelers found Vrsar to be more peaceful than Rovinj, which suits those looking for a quieter experience.

Swimming and Free Time

The tour provides opportunities to swim or snorkel at the bay, with some reviewers mentioning that these stops are a highlight. If you love being in the water, you’ll appreciate the chance to cool off in Croatia’s clear waters.

The Return Journey

Around 4:00 pm, the boat departs Vrsar and heads back towards Porec, arriving roughly at 6:00 pm. The journey back offers sunset views and an opportunity to relax after a full day of sightseeing.

What Reviewers Say

While most reviews are positive overall, feedback points to some areas for potential concern. One reviewer noted “the boat carries 200 people, and you are packed on,” which could impact comfort, especially during peak times. Others praised the friendly crew and the good value for money, with some mentioning the wine selection as a nice touch.

Notably, some travelers experienced logistical issues, such as waiting 45 minutes for pickup, or feeling that the meal was quite plain. A guest described the meal as “a plate of cabbage, plain bread and either a hot dog, fish, or chicken,” which might disappoint those expecting more elaborate cuisine.

On the brighter side, many appreciated the scenic views, the relaxed pace, and the friendly atmosphere—ideal for those wanting a gentle adventure rather than a high-energy tour.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a long but leisurely day.
• The price of roughly $60 per person is reasonable when considering the lunch, drinks, and multiple stops included.
• Bring essentials like flat shoes, sun protection, a hat, and swimwear if you plan to swim.
• Confirm your booking in advance, as it’s often booked 26 days ahead.
• Weather plays a role; bad weather may result in cancellations or altered plans, so check the forecast.
• Be prepared for some crowds on the boat and manage expectations if you’re sensitive to space.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is a good fit for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxed day with a mix of water activities, sightseeing, and local culture. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy casual group outings and don’t mind basic meals and potential crowds. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for an easy way to experience Rovinj and Vrsar without the hassle of organizing transport will find this tour appealing.

Those who prioritize authentic towns over commercialized attractions will love exploring Rovinj’s charming streets. Meanwhile, water lovers can take full advantage of swimming and snorkeling breaks. However, travelers expecting gourmet meals or intimate settings might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Porec offers a pleasant, budget-friendly way to see some of Croatia’s most picturesque coastal towns. Its strengths lie in the scenic cruise, the charming stops, and the inclusive lunch and drinks—all delivered at a reasonable price point. It’s best suited for those who enjoy laid-back exploration, water-based activities, and authentic Croatian townscapes.

While some reviews highlight crowded boats and simple meals, the overall experience remains enjoyable for most. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a straightforward, scenic day without too much planning or expense.

If you’re after a balanced mix of water, towns, and relaxation, this tour provides a solid, dependable option. Just remember to dress for the weather, stay hydrated, and go with an open mind—Croatia’s coast always has something special to offer.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from select Porec hotels is offered, with the departure at 9:00 am. Additional pickup from Lanterna and Novigrad is available if at least six people are booked.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting from around 9:00 am with pickup, and returning roughly by 6:00 pm.

What is included in the lunch?
The onboard barbecue lunch features a simple menu: cabbage, plain bread, and a choice of hot dog, fish, or chicken, with Fanta or wine. A free shot of grappa is also offered.

Is swimming or snorkeling available?
Yes, the tour stops at a bay where you can swim or snorkel, giving you a relaxing break from sightseeing.

What are the main stops?
The tour visits Rovinj for about 2 hours of free exploration, then Vrsar for about 1.5 hours, with the boat passing through Lim Bay.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This detailed review should help you decide if this Croatian coast cruise aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re after scenic water views, charming towns, or simply a relaxing day on the water, this trip offers a solid introduction to Istria’s beauty.