Medulin is a fantastic base for exploring the Croatian coast by boat. Its prime location near Kamenjak National Park and the many nearby islands makes it perfect for full-day tours that combine scenic beauty, swimming, and delicious food. Whether you’re after a relaxing day lounging on deck, an underwater adventure in caves, or even a dolphin sighting, Medulin offers options tailored to different interests. One thing’s clear: these boat trips are a great way to see Croatia’s coast from a different perspective, with many including stops for swimming, exploring caves, and enjoying fresh local cuisine. We particularly like tours that balance active exploration with time to relax—like the Full-Day Boat Trip, Cave Swim, lunch & Drinks – Medulin/Ceja, which offers a lively day out with unlimited drinks and a fresh fish lunch.
If you’re considering what kind of experience might suit your style, this guide is designed to help you decide. We’ll walk you through each of the top options, highlighting what makes each trip special, how much they cost, and who they’re best suited for. Keep reading to find your perfect Croatian boat adventure.
1. Full-Day Boat Trip, Cave Swim, lunch & Drinks – Medulin/Ceja
This popular full-day cruise from Medulin combines scenic views, underwater exploration, and hearty Croatian food. The boat departs from Medulin and first cruises past Kamenjak National Park, famous for its rugged coastlines, before heading toward Premantura peninsula and the iconic Porer lighthouse. The star of the trip is a visit to the Golumbera cave, where you can snorkel or swim in the clear waters of the southernmost point of Istria. Then there’s a stop at Ceja Island for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
What sets this tour apart is the lively atmosphere, with unlimited beer, wine, sodas, and schnapps included—perfect for those wanting to keep the drinks flowing. The onboard lunch features a fresh tuna steak or other options like fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, served with a side of Croatian hospitality. The combination of panoramic coast views, underwater caves, and a relaxed mood make this a top choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day at sea. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly crew and the excellent value—at only $53 per person, it offers a lot of fun without breaking the bank.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, all-included day out with a focus on swimming, eating well, and enjoying Croatian scenery, this tour hits the right notes.
2. Medulin: Full-Day Boat Tour of the Archipelago w/ Lunch
For a slightly shorter but equally engaging experience, the Medulin: Full-Day Boat Tour of the Archipelago offers around five hours of exploring the local islands and coastlines. This tour also departs from Medulin and includes stops at Cape Kamenjak—a must-see for its dramatic cliffs and coves—plus a pass by the iconic Porer lighthouse. You’ll visit Golumbera cave and Levan Island, where you’ll have free time to sunbathe or swim.
The onboard lunch offers vegetarian, fish, and meat options, making it a flexible choice for different dietary preferences. The highlight is exploring Levan Island, where guests can relax on the beach or swim in the clear waters, with unlimited beer and a welcoming drink to start the day. The tour has received positive reviews, with one reviewer calling it a “wonderful way to spend a warm day,” especially appreciating the swimming and the straightforward, enjoyable experience.
This trip is best suited for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with good food and drinks. It’s a bit shorter than the full-day adventure, making it ideal if you’re tight on time but still want a comprehensive coastal experience.
Bottom line: A great choice for travelers wanting a well-paced, flexible day on the water with tasty food and plenty of swim stops.
3. Full day boat-trip Medulin, Blue Cave, Cres + dolphin search
This tour combines exploring the Blue Cave, visiting Cres Island, and going on a dolphin search — perfect for travelers craving a bit of everything. Starting from Medulin, the trip begins with a 2-hour stop on Cres Island, a charming spot with quiet beaches and small villages. Then, the boat heads to the Blue Cave, where you can snorkel and swim in the shimmering waters during a roughly one-hour stop.
What makes this trip stand out is the chance to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat, adding an element of excitement that appeals to wildlife lovers. The onboard lunch includes tuna steak, fish, meat, or vegetarian choices, along with drinks, making it a satisfying meal after swimming and sightseeing. The crew is attentive, and the trip is well-rated with a 4.7/5 based on six reviews, indicating a mostly satisfied crowd.
This tour is ideal for those who want the thrill of dolphin sightings combined with scenic island visits and underwater adventures. It’s pricier at $88 per person, but the enhanced experience and the chance to see dolphins make it worth considering.
Bottom line: The perfect pick for travelers eager for wildlife encounters mixed with classic Croatian island scenery and a good meal.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Medulin
Choosing the right boat trip depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend on the water. If you’re after a lively day with unlimited drinks and a hearty lunch, the Full-Day Boat Trip, Cave Swim, lunch & Drinks is ideal. For those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed pace with flexible swim stops, the Medulin archipelago tour fits the bill. And if wildlife, snorkeling, and exploring Cres sound appealing, the dolphin-searching Blue Cave and Cres trip offers a more adventurous experience.
Budget also plays a role—a full-day tour with unlimited drinks and a substantial meal offers excellent value, especially at around $53. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or want a special experience, spending more on the Cres and dolphin trip may be justified.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date. Check availability and start times, especially for shorter trips, so you don’t miss out.
Final Thoughts
Medulin offers a variety of full-day boat excursions tailored to different travelers. For a lively, all-inclusive experience with great food and lots of swimming, the Full-Day Boat Trip, Cave Swim, lunch & Drinks is hard to beat. Looking for a balanced day with flexibility? The Archipelago tour covers all the highlights. And wildlife lovers will appreciate the Blue Cave and Cres trip, especially with the chance to see dolphins.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance and planning around the weather will ensure you get the most out of your Croatian coastal adventure. Each offers a different way to enjoy the stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters—so pick one that suits your style, and get ready for a memorable day on the Adriatic.