Podstrana and Jesenice Full-Day Island Adventure Boat Trip

Taking a look at the Podstrana and Jesenice Full-Day Island Adventure Boat Trip offers a compelling glimpse into what a well-organized, scenic day on the Croatian coast can deliver. With a solid 4.5-star rating based on 7 reviews, this tour promises a day filled with swimming, snorkeling, local bites, and picturesque island stops. Offering value at $75.17 per person and leaving travelers with plenty of positive impressions, it’s clear why this trip is popular—especially if you’re looking for a relaxed day with a touch of adventure and authentic scenery.

Two specific highlights that stand out are the delicious freshly prepared BBQ lunch, which many reviewers praised for its quality, and the friendly, attentive crew that makes every guest feel well cared for. The boat itself seems to be comfortable and nicely maintained, and the fact that Wi-Fi is included means you can share those breathtaking views in real time. However, one thing to consider is the timing logistics, especially if you prefer to explore each stop at your own pace. Some guests noted the schedule can be tight, so arriving early is advisable.

While the trip offers a lot, a possible drawback is that it’s limited to 42 travelers, which might feel crowded during peak season. Also, the food options are pre-selected, so if you have specific dietary needs, confirming your meal preference beforehand is essential. Still, the overall balance of swimming, scenic views, and good food make this a compelling way to explore Croatia’s islands without the hassle of independent boat charters.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Croatian Experience: A blend of island exploration, swimming, and local cuisine offers a genuine taste of Dalmatia.
• Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary efficiently covers multiple stops, from Sutivan to shipwrecks, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.
• Quality Food and Drinks: A freshly cooked BBQ with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta, plus unlimited drinks including wine, water, and juice, make lunch a highlight.
• Comfortable, Modern Boat: The vessel appears clean and well-equipped, with snorkeling gear and floaties provided.
• Friendly Crew & Guides: Many reviews highlight the staff’s attentiveness and helpfulness, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: This trip suits those who want a balance of activity and downtime, with opportunities for independent exploration.

A Closer Look at This Croatian Island Adventure

An Introduction to the Experience

From the moment I reviewed the details of this tour, I was struck by its promise of a laid-back yet scenic day on the water. It’s designed for those who want to see a few key islands in Dalmatia without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The route from Podstrana and Jesenice takes travelers on a journey through beautiful islands, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck.

What appeals most is its blend of activities and comfort. You get to hop off at Sutivan for a quick exploration, then spend time swimming in crystal-clear waters, all while enjoying good Croatian food and local wine. The reviews reinforce this, with Andrea praising the “lovely stop at village on Brac with loads of nice restaurants,” and Nataliia calling the experience “magnificent” with excellent food and thoughtful planning.

Why This Tour Stands Out

First, the scenic variety is impressive. You’ll see the island of Brač, with its charming village of Sutivan, and then move onto the shipwreck of Kontesa—an intriguing relic to snorkel around. The second highlight is the quality of the meal. Many reviewers mentioned the BBQ prepared by Chef Ivan, with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta, served with salads and bread, plus unlimited local wine and fresh juices. That kind of dining on a boat trip is hard to beat.

Second, the friendly crew seems to make the difference. Several comments mention how attentive and accommodating they are—helping with snorkel gear, giving out maps, or just sharing friendly banter. That personal touch elevates what could be a simple boat ride into a memorable experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start with Pickup and Boarding:
Your day begins early with several pick-up points—Krilo Jesenice at 8:30, Podstrana Sv. Martin at 9:00, and Le Meridien Lav marina at 9:30. This organized pickup system means you don’t need to worry about transportation, but arriving on time is key to sticking to the schedule. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a welcome shot, coffee, and a chocolate donut—an energizing start.

Sailing to Sutivan and Exploring:
Within about 50 minutes, you’ll reach Sutivan, on Brač Island, with time to explore on your own. It’s a small Roman settlement with a relaxed vibe, and the crew provides maps to help you find your way. Many guests have enjoyed wandering the picturesque streets and sampling local eateries.

Swimming and Snorkeling Stops:
The first swim stop is around 12:10 at Brač, where the captain drops anchor, and you’re free to jump into clear waters with snorkels and floaties. Many reviews mention how accessible and fun this time is, with some even praising the “ladder access or jumping” as part of the adventure. The second swim at shipwreck Kontesa is a real highlight, offering a chance to explore a sunken vessel and snorkel around its structure.

Lunch with a View:
Around 13:10, lunch is served on board, with spectacular island views as a backdrop. Many reviewers, like Andrea and Nataliia, point out the delicious food and good wine as a standout feature. The menu caters to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike, with the crew asking for your preference beforehand—an example of thoughtful organization.

Other Notable Stops:
The visit to Solta Island’s Necujam bay provides yet another swimming opportunity, and you’re likely to see Hvar, Mrduja, and Split from the deck. Around 16:15, the crew hands out fresh watermelon, a simple but refreshing gesture after a busy day in the sun.

Return Journey:
You’ll head back to the starting points by late afternoon, arriving back at Le Meridien Lav marina around 5:00 PM. Many guests comment on how smoothly everything ran, and the relaxed pace allowed plenty of time for photos and reflection.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy a mix of gentle sightseeing, swimming, and good food, this trip hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, with enough free time to explore on your own, rather than being rushed. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a scenic day with a focus on comfort and local flavor will find this trip appealing.

It’s also a good pick if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing your own boat or island transport, as everything is arranged for you—pickup, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided stops.

Price and Overall Value

At around $75, the tour offers solid value considering the included lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple island stops. The reviews underscore the quality of the food and the friendly staff as significant benefits, which adds to the overall experience. Compared to independent boat rentals or multiple narrow excursions, this bundled trip provides convenience and a sense of security, especially if you’re new to the area.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—this tour is popular, with an average booking window of about 9 days.
• Specify your meal preference when booking—fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta—to ensure your lunch suits your diet.
• Arrive early for pickup to stay on schedule.
• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer, though they do provide equipment.
• Prepare for a full day—wear sunscreen, bring a hat, and stay hydrated.
• Be ready for some walking in Sutivan; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Check the weather forecast—the tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible in poor conditions.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers boat transportation, all harbor fees, VAT, insurance for passengers, crew, and boat, as well as a freshly cooked BBQ lunch with drinks, snorkeling gear, floaties, and Wi-Fi.

Are drinks during lunch included?
Yes, during lunch you can enjoy unlimited red wine, water, and orange juice. Other drinks, including alcoholic beverages outside lunch hours, are paid separately at the bar.

How many people are on the boat?
The tour accommodates up to 42 travelers, which means it’s not overly crowded, but during peak season, it can feel busy, especially on popular stops.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, you get about an hour to explore Sutivan on your own, and swimming stops typically last around 25-65 minutes, giving plenty of time for a dip and snorkel.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, and swimming gear. Photos are encouraged, especially around the shipwreck and during swimming stops.

Can I choose my departure point?
Yes, you need to select your preferred departure time when booking based on your location: Krilo Jesenice (8:30), Podstrana Sv. Martin (9:00), or Le Meridien Lav marina (9:30).

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the boat’s schedule and swimming stops—kids should be comfortable in water and supervised.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, from pick-up times to return, making it a full and satisfying day on the water.

In sum, this boat trip offers a well-rounded Croatian island experience: scenic views, swimming, good food, and friendly service. It’s best for those who want a relaxing, authentic taste of Dalmatia without the stress of planning each detail. With reasonable pricing and a focus on comfort and genuine experiences, it’s a memorable way to see some of Croatia’s best-loved islands.