Podstrana: Full-Day Boat Trip to Bra and olta Islands

Planning the perfect day on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast? This full-day boat trip from Podstrana offers a wonderful mix of scenic cruising, charming villages, and relaxing swim stops. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to experience Croatia’s island beauty without the hassle of arranging transport or guides on their own. From exploring Sutivan to swimming in crystal-clear waters, this tour promises a balanced day of sightseeing, relaxation, and good food.

What we particularly like about this trip is how it combines comfort with authenticity. The boat is spacious enough to avoid feeling crowded—many reviews mention how the crew keeps things relaxed and friendly. Plus, the inclusion of a freshly grilled BBQ lunch, free Wi-Fi, and snorkel gear makes for a practical, well-rounded experience. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves several swim stops, so if you’re not comfortable jumping into the water or climbing ladders, it might require a bit of planning.

This tour is especially suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and exploring small Croatian towns at their own pace. Those looking for a value-packed day with good food and friendly guides will find this trip a real highlight of their Dalmatian adventure.

Key Points

• Comfortable and spacious boat that accommodates groups without feeling overcrowded
• Includes a delicious BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks like wine, water, and juice
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops in crystal-clear waters with provided gear
• Leisure time in Sutivan offers a chance to explore a charming village at your own pace
• Beautiful scenic cruising along the coast with knowledgeable guides
• Flexible options for pickup locations, with convenient parking and transport info

A Well-Organized Itinerary with Several Highlights

This tour covers around 8 hours of authentic Dalmatian scenery, with multiple stops designed to maximize your experience of Croatia’s coast and islands. Starting from three pick-up points—Gooshter Beach Club, Cafe Porat, or Cafe Biser—you’ll be whisked away on a comfortable boat that feels spacious and well-equipped.

Departure and First Stops

Depending on your chosen time slot, you’ll depart from Podstrana or Jesenice, with the boat setting sail around 8:30 or 9:15 in the morning. The first part of the journey involves enjoying some welcome refreshments—schnapps, a chocolate donut, and juice—setting a friendly tone for the day. The crew, praised for their attentiveness and friendliness, helps create a relaxed atmosphere.

Exploring Sutivan on Bra Island

The first real stop is the charming town of Sutivan on Bra Island, where you get about 75 minutes of free time. Reviewers mention that this offers a perfect chance to wander, take photos, or perhaps hunt down local olive oils or crafts. The guides don’t rush this part, giving you a chance to soak in the town’s laid-back vibe and enjoy some quiet moments by the sea.

Hidden Bay and Swimming on Bra

Next, the boat heads to a secluded bay—ideal for swimming or snorkeling. The provided gear, such as snorkels and floaties, makes it easy to get in the water and observe marine life. Many reviews highlight how clear the water is, making these swimming stops especially memorable. The chef on board begins preparing the BBQ lunch while guests enjoy the water. With ladders on the side of the boat, jumping in or climbing back aboard is straightforward, but keep in mind that during swim stops, you need to be comfortable jumping from the boat.

Lunch and Continued Sailing

Midday features a hearty BBQ with your choice of mackerel fish, chicken, or vegetarian burger, served with salads and fresh bread. Unlimited red wine, water, and orange juice flow freely during this time, which many reviewers find adds to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Several mention how the food is freshly prepared and generous—nothing feels rushed, and the quality is consistently praised.

Olta Island and Maslinica Bay

The afternoon takes you to Olta Island, where the boat anchors in the scenic bay of Maslinica. Here, you’ll find more swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with the added bonus of witnessing some stunning coastal views. Reviewers appreciate the diversity of stops, with many noting how the crystal-clear waters make for great photo moments and memorable swims.

Return Journey and Final Relaxation

On the way back, the crew offers cold watermelon—a nice touch on the return trip—along with more opportunities to relax and take in the scenery. The cruise back to Podstrana lasts about 110 minutes, giving plenty of time to unwind and reflect on a full day of island hopping.

What to Expect: Practical Tips and Insights

This tour is designed for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic cruising. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, which is a plus for those who prefer not to be cramped. The schedule is flexible enough to allow leisurely exploration and swimming, but it’s good to be aware that the stops are timed to fit into an 8-hour window.

Transport and meeting points:
Pick-up options include Krilo Jesenice, Podstrana Sv. Martin, or nearby hotels like Le Meridien Lav, with convenient parking available. Some reviewers mention using public transport to reach the meeting points, which can be helpful if you’re staying in the area.

Timing:
You’ll generally depart around 8:30-9:15 AM and return around 5 PM, depending on your selected time slot. This makes it a full-day commitment but one packed with memorable moments.

Group size and atmosphere:
With reviews emphasizing the friendliness and attentiveness of the crew, you can expect a warm, welcoming environment. The general group size seems manageable, avoiding the overcrowded feeling of larger tourist boats.

What to bring:
Pack essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Remember that during swim stops, you will need to jump from the boat and climb ladders, so wear suitable footwear and be comfortable with water activities.

Accessibility and suitability:
This tour isn’t ideal for wheelchair users or non-swimmers, given the nature of swim stops and ladder access. It’s also not recommended for those prone to seasickness.

The Authentic Experience: What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews mention how friendly and helpful the staff are, often highlighting the guides’ local knowledge and attentiveness. One reviewer from Italy called the boat “very comfortable,” noting that the crew timed everything perfectly and provided enough space for everyone. A traveler from Austria appreciated the “delicious freshly grilled fish,” while others praised the “crystal-clear water” for swimming.

Several mention how relaxed and well-paced the day was—one reviewer said it “felt like a day out with friends,” thanks to the crew’s engaging manner. The quality of food, especially the BBQ, was a common highlight, with many emphasizing the generous portions and tasty fare.

The Value in Perspective

At $65 per person, this tour offers excellent value when you consider the inclusions—lunch, snorkel gear, free Wi-Fi, insurance, and fuel. Many reviewers agree that the experience surpasses expectations for the price, especially given the scenic stops, friendly crew, and well-organized schedule. It’s a comprehensive way to see some of Croatia’s most photogenic islands without the hassle of organizing multiple transport or tour guides yourself.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring coastal villages at a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a fun, social day out that combines scenic cruising, good food, and seaside adventures. Those who appreciate a well-organized, friendly atmosphere paired with authentic Croatian charm will find this trip delightful.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat trip from Podstrana to Bra and Olta islands offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The spacious boat, friendly staff, and thoughtful inclusions like a BBQ lunch and snorkeling gear make it a dependable choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free day on the water. It captures the essence of Croatia’s coast—beautiful views, charming villages, and refreshing sea breezes—all at a very reasonable price.

While it’s not suited for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, for anyone comfortable with water activities and looking to experience Croatia’s stunning islands intimately, this trip delivers real value and authentic fun. Expect a relaxed pace, plenty of scenic photo ops, and a day that leaves you with great memories of Dalmatia.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, there are pick-up options at Krilo Jesenice, Podstrana Sv. Martin, and some hotels like Le Meridien Lav, with parking available at some locations.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. It’s important to wear suitable footwear for jumping in and climbing back onto the boat.

Are meals included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch with your choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian burger is included, along with unlimited red wine, water, and juice during lunch.

Can I buy snacks or drinks on board?
Snacks and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but they are not included in the tour price.

How long is the boat cruise?
The whole trip lasts about 8 hours, with the return cruise taking approximately 110 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention family-friendly experiences, but children should be comfortable with water activities and boat travel.

What level of swimming ability do I need?
You should be comfortable jumping into the water from the boat and climbing ladders, as swim stops are on anchorage and involve water access.

Is there a dress code?
Wear comfortable beach clothing, swimwear, and plenty of sunscreen. A hat and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection.

What is the group size like?
The boat is described as spacious, and reviews suggest it’s not overcrowded, making for a relaxed atmosphere.

This trip is a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s best islands with ease, comfort, and a good dash of fun. Whether you’re into snorkeling, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the sun, there’s plenty here to keep you happy.