Travelers seeking a day on the water in Croatia, especially those interested in scenic bays and historical sites, might find this boat tour from Rab appealing. The experience promises crystal-clear seas, a hearty lunch, and visits to historically significant islands. With a relaxed atmosphere and the chance to swim in beautiful spots, it’s a great way to explore Croatia’s coast without the hassle of planning a complex trip.
What really draws people in are the breathtaking views of Zavratnica bay, the fascinating remnants of WWII at Goli Otok, and the chance to feed deer at Sveti Grgur. The included lunch of fresh fish or meat adds good value, and the prospect of spotting dolphins keeps the excitement alive. However, one drawback that several travelers note is the lack of detailed commentary or guidance during stops, which can leave some feeling a bit disengaged and uninformed.
This tour is best suited for those who prioritize scenic vistas, swimming opportunities, and a relaxed day on the water. If you’re someone who enjoys exploring islands with a touch of history but doesn’t need constant narration, this could be a solid choice. It’s also ideal if you want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of Croatia’s lesser-known coastal gems.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery at Zavratnica bay and Velebit Channel
- Inclusion of a delicious local lunch (fish or meat)
- Visit to significant islands Goli Otok and Sveti Grgur, with opportunities for feeding deer and swimming
- Limited guidance or commentary, which might impact those seeking in-depth historical or cultural insights
- Affordable price point at $59 per person for a full day of sightseeing and swimming
- Potential for dolphin sightings adds a magical touch to the day
An Honest Look at the Itinerary
The tour begins in the bustling port of Rab, where you’ll board the Vojka boat—typically a friendly, relaxed crew welcomes you aboard. From here, the first stop is Zavratnica, often hailed as one of the most beautiful bays in the Adriatic. Stretching about 900 meters, this narrow inlet is part of the Velebit Nature Park and features crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. It’s also notable for the remains of a sunken WWII ship, clearly visible beneath the water, making it a subtle reminder of Croatia’s past.
One reviewer, Andrea, expressed disappointment that there was no detailed explanation about each stop after the initial briefing. While the crew may briefly outline the itinerary at the start, there isn’t much ongoing commentary, so you’ll want to come prepared with your own curiosity or a guidebook if you’re interested in the history. Still, the water here is inviting, and many guests find just floating or snorkeling to be a highlight.
Next, the boat heads toward Goli Otok, a tiny island with a dark history as a former Yugoslavian prison for men. The island’s stark, rugged landscape contrasts sharply with the lush greenery of Sveti Grgur, an island that was once a women’s prison. While the tour doesn’t include guided tours of these sites, the opportunity to see the abandoned prison structures and ponder their stories adds depth to the experience. Some guests, like Andrea, noted that more commentary would enhance the visit, but the visual clues and history are quite evocative on their own.
Lunch is served on Goli Otok, with options for fish or meat accompanied by Dalmatian salad. The reviewer found the food fresh and tasty, offering good value considering the price. Since drinks are not included, you might want to bring your own or purchase beverages on board, as suggested by other travelers.
The third stop is Sveti Grgur, another historically significant island that once held female prisoners. Today, visitors can see deer that roam freely, and many choose to feed them or simply enjoy a swim. The atmosphere here is relaxed, with plenty of space for sunbathing and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, often described as a highlight.
Finally, the boat visits Valsika Bay, a more secluded and tranquil spot with excellent swimming and jumping opportunities. If luck is on your side, you might even spot dolphins—a rare but memorable bonus. This part of the tour is perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing, with the added thrill of possibly encountering marine life.
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Practical Details and What You Should Know
Duration and Group Size: The tour lasts about six hours—long enough to explore multiple sites without feeling rushed. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for a relaxed experience, although exact numbers aren’t specified.
Price and Value: At $59 per person, this tour is a budget-friendly way to see multiple islands and enjoy swimming in stunning locations. The lunch is included, which adds to the value, but drinks are extra, so plan accordingly.
Transport and Comfort: The boat Vojka is described as friendly and comfortable enough for a day trip. Expect a casual setting where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Languages: The crew speaks Croatian, English, German, and Italian, making communication accessible for travelers from different backgrounds.
Booking and Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change.
Authentic Experiences and honest insights from reviews
One traveler, identified as a GetYourGuide user, rated the experience quite poorly at just 1 out of 5, citing no guidance or information during stops and a lack of drinks included. This highlights the importance of managing expectations—if you’re looking for a tour with detailed commentary, this might not be the right fit. However, others appreciate the beautiful scenery and swimming opportunities, considering it a relaxing day out.
Andrea’s feedback is insightful: she enjoyed the fresh food and the scenic views, but found the lack of narration disappointing, especially for traveling with children. This indicates that the tour is best suited for those who are comfortable exploring on their own or with minimal guidance.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This boat trip is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who prioritize nature, swimming, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a good option if you want to see the coast’s highlights without a heavy itinerary or extensive guided commentary. If part of your joy comes from the scenery and the experience of floating in clear waters, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
However, if you’re a history buff craving detailed stories or expert guidance, you might find the experience a little lacking. Similarly, if you prefer a more luxurious or guided experience with included drinks and ongoing narration, this tour might not meet those expectations.
This boat tour around Rab offers a solid blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and swimming fun at a reasonable price. The stops at Zavratnica, Goli Otok, and Sveti Grgur provide an interesting mix of natural and man-made sights, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to explore Croatia’s coastal islands without the fuss of self-organizing.
You’ll love the stunning vistas and serene waters, and the lunch of fresh Dalmatian specialties is a definite bonus. The opportunity to spot dolphins and feed local deer adds a touch of magic that keeps the day memorable. Just be aware that the tour does not focus heavily on commentary, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy exploring independently or with light guidance.
This trip is a good value for travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water, especially if your priority is beautiful scenery and swimming rather than detailed historical stories.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
Is the lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour price of $59 includes a lunch with options for fish or meat, along with Dalmatian salad.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price, but you can purchase them on the boat if you wish.
How long does the tour last?
The entire tour lasts about six hours, giving plenty of time to visit each stop, swim, and enjoy the scenery.
Is there guidance or commentary during the stops?
The initial briefing provides some basic information, but after that, there’s little commentary. You might need to explore on your own or bring your curiosity.
Can I see dolphins during the trip?
There’s a chance to see dolphins, especially near Valsika Bay, but sightings are not guaranteed.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, families with children can enjoy the day, especially the swimming and feeding deer, but be prepared for limited guided activities or explanations.
To sum it up, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day in Croatia with opportunities to swim and enjoy beautiful islands without a lot of fuss, this boat tour from Rab offers good value. It’s perfect for those who love stunning vistas and a laid-back vibe, but if detailed history or guided narration is essential, you might want to explore other options.
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