Medulin, a charming seaside town in Istria, Croatia, is a fantastic place for dolphin watching. Its clear waters and proximity to untouched nature parks make it ideal for spotting wild dolphins swimming freely in their natural environment. We particularly enjoy the 3-hour Dolphin Sunset watching with unlimited drinks + dinner (see more here) for its combination of a stunning sunset cruise and a generous all-inclusive experience. Watching dolphins in the glow of sunset, with the chance to learn about local landmarks like the Porer Lighthouse, makes for a memorable outing.
If you’re after a classic dolphin cruise with dinner in the Medulin archipelago, that experience offers a scenic trip with multiple photo stops, dolphin sightings, and traditional Croatian cuisine. For those who prefer an all-day adventure, the Full-day boat trip to Blue Cave and Cres adds snorkeling, island exploration, and a good shot at dolphin sightings during a relaxed day exploring Croatia’s coastline.
1. 3hours Dolphin Sunset watching with unlimited drinks +dinner
At number one, this 3-hour all-inclusive sunset cruise combines the thrill of dolphin spotting with an authentic Croatian dinner and unlimited drinks. Departing from Medulin, the tour takes you around Kamenjak Nature Park, a rugged stretch of untouched coast known for its secluded beaches and clear waters. The highlight is the 85% chance to see wild dolphins, which is quite high for such tours, especially during sunset when the sea is calm and the scenery is breathtaking.
The boat glides past the Porer Lighthouse just as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. As you relax with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, the crew shares insights about the local scenery and wildlife. Guests often rave about the tasty dinner—typically served with fresh, local ingredients—and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers. This trip is best suited for those who want a relaxed, all-in-one experience with a good chance to see dolphins and enjoy a beautiful sunset.
Bottom Line: A top choice if you value comfort, good food, and the likelihood of dolphin sightings in a relaxed setting.
2. Sunset Dolphin Cruise with Dinner – Medulin Archipelago
Second on our list is the Sunset Dolphin Cruise with Dinner exploring the scenic Medulin archipelago. The cruise lasts about 3 hours and departs from Tajana & Zlatni Rat Excursions Medulin. It’s a well-rounded experience, combining dolphin sightings, views of the iconic Porer Lighthouse, and a leisurely sunset with plenty of photo opportunities.
During the trip, you’ll stop at several points along the coast, including Cape Kamenjak, Otočic Porer, and other picturesque spots. The highlight for many travelers is watching dolphins frolicking in the wild, with some guests lucky enough to see multiple pods swimming close to the boat. The included traditional Croatian dinner offers options like fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, served alongside unlimited drinks—wine, beer, water, and juices.
With good reviews praising the well-organized nature and the spectacular dolphin encounters, this trip is ideal for couples, families, or friends who want a blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and a laid-back meal.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a balance of scenic views, dolphin sightings, and local food in a reasonably priced cruise.
3. Full day boat-trip Medulin, Blue Cave, Cres + dolphin search
For travelers eager to combine multiple experiences into one day, the Full-day boat trip offers a comprehensive adventure. Starting from Zagreb County, this tour includes a visit to the Blue Cave—famous for its shimmering blue waters—and a stop on the charming island of Cres. The trip lasts around a full day, making it perfect for those who want to see more than just dolphins.
The boat ride includes a delicious lunch with options like tuna steak, fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, all served with drinks. During the day, you’ll have opportunities to snorkel in the Blue Cave, explore Cres’s quaint streets, and of course, keep an eye out for dolphins swimming in the open waters. The tour’s highlights include a 2-hour stop on Cres and a one-hour swim at the Blue Cave, adding elements of adventure and relaxation.
Although this tour has slightly fewer reviews, its mix of land and sea activities offers excellent value for money, especially as it combines multiple highlights of Croatia’s coast in one trip. Best suited for adventurous travelers who want a full day of exploration, snorkeling, and dolphin spotting.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want a full-day, multi-activity experience that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural sights.
How to Choose the Perfect Dolphin Watching Experience in Medulin
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, available time, and what kind of experience appeals most. If you’re short on time but want a relaxed, scenic evening with good food, the 3-hour Dolphin Sunset watching with dinner is a top pick. For a more classic cruise with dolphin encounters and a traditional Croatian dinner, the Sunset Dolphin Cruise hits the sweet spot.
If you’re after a packed day with multiple sights, including snorkeling at the Blue Cave and exploring Cres, the full-day boat trip offers excellent value. It’s perfect for those who want a full immersion into Croatia’s coastal beauty and wildlife.
Booking early is recommended, especially during the summer months, when tours fill quickly. Check availability and start times beforehand, as options may vary based on weather and season.
Final Thoughts
Medulin offers a variety of dolphin watching tours suited to different interests and schedules. For a relaxed sunset cruise with good food and a high chance of dolphin sightings, the first tour is hard to beat. Families and couples looking for scenic views and wildlife encounters will enjoy the second option, while adventure travelers who want a full-day exploration should consider the Cres and Blue Cave trip.
No matter which experience you choose, these boat trips promise a memorable taste of Croatia’s stunning coast and its playful dolphins. Book early, pack your camera, and get ready for some incredible sea life encounters in Medulin.