If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands, this full-day boat trip from Podstrana offers a chance to see some of the top highlights without breaking the bank. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, fun-filled day that balances sightseeing, swimming, and good food.
What we love about this trip is its manageable group size, providing a comfy atmosphere without feeling crowded. The carefully curated stops—like the charming town of Sutivan and the bays of Bra and Olt—offer authentic encounters with local life and nature’s beauty. Plus, the value for money is impressive, especially considering the included BBQ, snorkeling gear, and Wi-Fi. The main caveat? As with any boat excursion, it’s important to be comfortable with water activities and to plan for possible seasickness if you’re prone.
This tour appeals to travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise with plenty of poolside fun and local flavor. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of Croatia’s coast with minimal fuss.
- Stunning Stops: Explore Sutivan on Bra and bays of Olt for swimming and sightseeing.
- Inclusive Food & Drink: BBQ lunch, unlimited drinks, and snacks like chocolates and fresh fruit.
- Comfort & Space: A spacious boat with enough room for everyone, making for a relaxing day on the water.
- Authentic Experiences: Chance to wander Sutivan and enjoy local scenery and culture.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to jump into crystal-clear waters with gear provided.
- Flexible Booking: Keep plans adaptable with options to reserve and pay later.
An Overview of the Experience
This full-day boat trip offers a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s islands without the hassle of arranging your own transport. Departing from Podstrana or Jesenice, the journey starts early, with pick-up times around 8:30-9:00 AM. The tour, operated by Centar svita, keeps the experience intimate and relaxed, with a boat capacity that prevents overcrowding — a factor many reviews appreciated.
Once onboard, you’re greeted with a welcome shot of schnapps, a chocolate donut, and some juice — little touches that set a friendly, hospitable tone for the day. The crew, including knowledgeable guides and a dedicated captain, seem genuinely interested in making sure everyone has a good time. The reviews speak volumes about the staff’s friendliness and helpfulness, making even first-timers feel at ease.
You can check availability for your dates here:Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
Looking for more options in Necujam? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Departure and First Stop: Sutivan on Bra
After setting sail, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise along Croatia’s stunning coastline. Many guests mention the boat’s comfort and the ample space onboard, which creates a relaxed vibe. The first major stop is the charming town of Sutivan on Bra. Here, you’re free to explore at your own pace; some visitors mention wandering through quaint streets, discovering local shops, or simply soaking up the seaside ambiance. The relaxed pace allows for a genuine feel of local life, rather than just a quick photo-op.
Hidden Bay and BBQ Lunch
Next, the boat anchors at a hidden bay on Bra, away from the crowds, perfect for swimming and relaxing in the sun. Swimmers can jump off the boat into the clear waters, with ladders available for easy access back on board. The highlight here is a delicious BBQ lunch, prepared fresh on deck. Guests have the choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian burger, with salads and bread on the side. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, noting the freshly grilled fish and generous portions.
Snorkeling & Water Activities
While at the bay, snorkels, floaties, and even water polo balls are provided, making the swimming stops lively and fun. Many reviews mention the crystal-clear water and the joy of jumping in with gear provided—perfect for families or anyone looking to cool off and enjoy the marine scenery. The crew is attentive, offering assistance and encouragement, which adds to the relaxed environment.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Island of Olt and Maslinica Bay
Later in the day, the boat heads to Olt for the afternoon’s highlight: anchoring in Maslinica Bay. This peaceful spot is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling. The water’s clarity gets special mention from reviewers who say it’s perfect for exploring underwater life. During the return trip, a cold watermelon provides a refreshing end to the day, which many find to be the ideal, natural snack after a full day of activity.
Food and Drinks: A Real Value Add
One of the standout features of this trip is the all-inclusive lunch service. The BBQ is prepared fresh on the boat, with meat or vegetarian options, along with salads and bread. Reviewers like Valeriya rave about the delicious grilled fish and the good portion sizes, which makes the experience feel premium without the hefty price tag.
In addition, during lunch, unlimited red wine, water, and orange juice are served, adding a festive feel to the day. The availability of these drinks contributes to the social atmosphere, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an experience to enjoy with friends or family.
Additional Considerations
While snacks and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the included drinks cover most needs. Guests are advised to bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, and a camera — and to remember that at swim stops, you’ll need to jump from the boat and climb back via ladders, which could be tricky if you’re not comfortable in the water.
Traveler Reviews: Authentic Insights
The reviews echo the positive impressions with consistent praise for the friendly crew and stunning scenery. Mayssa mentions, “The boat was very comfortable and there was space for everyone without being overcrowded,” highlighting the importance of comfort on a full-day trip.
Valeriya appreciated the plenty of swimming opportunities and the deliciously fresh grilled fish. Others like Karen and Melanie highlight the value for money, with Melanie describing it as a “good day, good food, good swimming spots,” emphasizing how well the trip balances cost and experience.
Many reviews also mention the knowledgeable guides and attentive staff—notably, the crew’s friendliness and willingness to chat, which enhances the overall day. Interestingly, Kristina shares that her family, including a 9-year-old, loved it, calling it “the best day of the whole week.”
What Travelers Value Most
- Comfortable, spacious boat that avoids overcrowding.
- Beautiful, authentic stops like Sutivan and Maslinica Bay.
- Quality, freshly prepared food and unlimited drinks.
- Friendly, helpful crew who make the day relaxing and fun.
- Excellent swimming and snorkeling spots.
- Good value considering everything included.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Book your preferred time slot early, especially if you plan to depart from Le Meridien Lav, which runs only twice weekly.
- Choose your lunch option (fish, chicken, vegetarian) in advance by emailing the provider after booking.
- Bring essentials such as sunscreen, towels, hats, and waterproof cameras.
- Be prepared to jump from the boat at swim stops and climb back up via ladders—good mobility helps here.
- The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly.
- While pets and alcohol are not allowed on board, snacks and additional drinks are available for purchase.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming, good food, and friendly company. It suits families, couples, and groups looking for an authentic experience away from the crowds. If you appreciate a well-organized tour with a focus on comfort and local charm, this is a great choice.
It’s also perfect if you’re after value for money, since the all-inclusive meal and drinks are included in the price, and reviews consistently mention the good portions and quality. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer land-based excursions, this might not be the best fit.
FAQs
How long is the trip?
The trip is a full day, with departure around 8:30-9:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon, providing plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a camera. Since you’ll be jumping into the water, waterproof accessories are recommended.
Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention a spacious, comfortable boat with enough room for all guests, making the journey enjoyable rather than cramped.
Can I choose my lunch option?
Absolutely. After booking, you should email the provider with your preference—fish, chicken, or vegetarian burger—to ensure your meal is prepared.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for families and children, but not recommended for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
This full-day boat trip from Podstrana to the islands of Bra and Olt offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll get to see charming towns, swim in crystal waters, and enjoy a delicious BBQ, all in a comfortable setting with friendly staff. The value for money, especially considering all meals and gear provided, makes it a smart choice for travelers craving a blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a peaceful escape with stunning scenery, this tour ticks many boxes.
If you’re after an authentic taste of Croatia’s islands combined with good food, friendly service, and beautiful views, this trip is definitely worth considering. Just remember to book early, choose your preferred lunch, and prepare for a day full of sun, sea, and smiles.
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