Full-Day Boat Tour of the Medulin Archipelago from Medulin

This full-day boat trip around the Medulin Archipelago promises scenic views, refreshing swims, and a laid-back vibe perfect for those wanting to enjoy Croatia’s coastal beauty. Rated a solid 5.0 out of 5 based on over 1,400 reviews, this excursion is highly praised for its stunning landscapes, friendly crew, and excellent value. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, this tour offers a relaxed way to soak up the best of the Istrian coast from the water.

What we really love about this experience is how comfortably it balances sightseeing with leisure. The stops at Kamenjak National Park and Levan Island give you a chance to stretch your legs, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy a tasty Croatian meal without feeling rushed. That said, one consideration is the potential for large groups, which can sometimes make the island stops feel crowded—something to keep in mind if you’re seeking quiet solitude.

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a scenic, all-in-one day out that combines natural beauty, food, and fun. It suits families, couples, or groups who want to relax, explore, and enjoy the sea without the hassle of planning their own boat trips. Be prepared for a lively, social atmosphere, especially during peak season, and a good dose of Croatian charm from the crew.

Key Points

• Scenic cruise with views of Kamenjak National Park and Cape Kamenjak
• Swim stops at impressive caves and coves, with some reviewers describing the experience as “magical”
• Inclusive lunch and drinks provide great value, with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian
• Flexible departure times allow you to choose morning or afternoon trips
• Two-hour beach stop on Levan Island for sunbathing, relaxing, or grabbing a cocktail
• Friendly guides and attentive staff help create a welcoming atmosphere
• Large group capacity may mean some stops get crowded, especially at the island

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Kamenjak National Park: The First Stop

Our journey begins with a cruise around the famed Kamenjak National Park, a highlight for many. The boat slows as you approach, giving everyone a perfect chance to marvel at the cliffs and rugged coastline. The highlight here is the opportunity to dive under the cliffs and explore the caves, with some reviews mentioning the experience as “beautiful” and “fantastic.” The admission ticket is included, making it a hassle-free experience.

This stop is more than just sightseeing; it’s an active part of the tour. You’re encouraged to swim, and the water here is described as clear and inviting. The guide often points out interesting features of the coastline, blending informative commentary with stunning views. One reviewer, Holly, appreciated the attentive staff and the effort to accommodate guests, especially when weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Porer Lighthouse: A Historic Landmark

After the Kamenjak stop, the boat heads toward the Porer lighthouse, built in 1846. It sits on an 80-meter-high islet, offering a postcard-worthy backdrop. The lighthouse is a fascinating piece of maritime history, and you might find yourself snapping plenty of photos. The islet itself is rocky, adding to the dramatic scenery.

While you don’t typically land here, viewing from the boat or near the lighthouse lends an authentic maritime feel to your day. Multiple reviews mention the “impressive” nature of the lighthouse and the beautiful coastline seen from the water—perfect for photography or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Levan Island: The Main Beach Break

Next, the boat sails towards Levan Island, the highlight for many guests. This is where you’ll have plenty of time—up to two hours—to relax on the beach, swim, or explore. You can choose to lounge on the sand, take a walk, or enjoy a drink from one of the beach bars (own expense).

The included Croatian lunch is served on board as the boat cruises slowly along other islands like Bodula, Ceja, and Finera. This is a real highlight for many travelers, with reviews praising the delicious food—options include meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes—and draft drinks like water, soda, wine, and beer. Several reviewers, including Carolyn, called the lunch “simple but delicious,” emphasizing that the meal hits the right spot after a morning of sightseeing and swimming.

Swimming and Cave Exploration

The tour is packed with opportunities to swim in secluded coves or underwater caves. Many guests, like Ivy, found swimming into caves to be “magical,” describing the experience as memorable. The guide often points out the best spots for snorkeling and swimming, which means you’ll need your swimsuit, towel, and possibly a mask for cave exploration.

One reviewer, Dianne, noted how the trip includes swimming in stunning locations and that the staff are helpful and attentive during these moments. Be aware, though, that seagulls can be quite aggressive during the lunch break, as Amy experienced—an odd but memorable detail.

What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Service

The tour runs for about 5 to 6 hours, which includes cruising, swimming, and relaxing time ashore. With a maximum group size of 65 travelers, the atmosphere can be lively and social. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and helpful guides, especially highlighting crew members like Tini, who made the experience enjoyable.

The lunch is a major value addition, including meat, fish, or vegetarian options. Many reviews mention it as simple but tasty, with drinks flowing freely—beer, wine, or soft drinks—making it a good deal for the price.

Most travelers find the boats comfortable, with plenty of space on the deck for sunbathing and enjoying the scenery. The crew’s attentive service helps ensure everyone feels looked after, even during busy periods.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Book in advance, especially during peak summer months, as this tour is popular (booked over 10 times last week alone!).
• Bring sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel—the water is refreshing, and you’ll want to maximize your time swimming and lounging.
• If you want to snorkel or explore caves closely, consider bringing a mask and fins.
• The lunch includes drinks, but if you want additional cocktails or special beverages, they are available at the beach bars (own expense).
• Arrive at the meeting point early to avoid last-minute stress. The start point is in Medulin, at the Tajana & Zlatni Rat Excursions office.
• Keep in mind that large groups can sometimes feel crowded, especially when ashore on Levan Island.

How the Tour Compares to Others

This trip is considered excellent value, especially considering the included lunch and drinks. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and relaxing. The reviews consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery—things that make the experience memorable.

Compared to other boat tours in the area, this one stands out for its authentic, unpretentious vibe and the diversity of stops. The opportunity to swim into caves and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere makes it a versatile choice.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water, this full-day boat tour of the Medulin Archipelago offers excellent value and authentic Croatian charm. The stunning views, friendly crew, and delicious lunch combine to create a memorable experience that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. While it can get lively and popular, the structured stops, knowledgeable guides, and relaxed pace make it a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s coastline.

If you’re after a tour that offers good value, plenty of swimming, and gorgeous scenery, this trip is a clear winner. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure with leisure, all while enjoying the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers the boat cruise, a Croatian lunch with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian, and all draft drinks such as soda, water, wine, and beer.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers a choice of morning or afternoon departures to best fit your schedule.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including cruising, swimming stops, and the beach break on Levan Island.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum number of travelers is 65, which creates a lively atmosphere but can also mean some stops feel busier.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and possibly a snorkel mask if you want to explore underwater caves more closely.

What about the weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for families, but always check specific restrictions if traveling with very young children.

All in all, this boat tour offers a well-rounded day out on Croatia’s coast, blending scenic views with fun swimming and a hearty Croatian meal. Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy sights or a relaxing day in the sun, it’s hard to go wrong with this reputable, highly-reviewed adventure.