Introduction: A Day on the Water from Novalja to Zavratnica and Rab
This boat tour offers a full eight hours of scenic sailing along Croatia’s northern Pag coast, starting from the village of Lun. As someone who appreciates a good mix of nature, history, and relaxing seaside breaks, I find this cruise packs a lot into a single day — yet still leaves room for genuine moments of awe. What makes this experience stand out is the chance to see Zavratnica Bay’s dramatic cliffs and the historic streets of Rab’s old town, all from the comfort of a well-organized boat trip.
Two things I particularly like about this tour are the stunning views of Zavratnica’s cliffs and caves — which are truly picture-worthy — and the informative guides who navigate the trip with approachable knowledge. The boat’s route, set along the northern Cape Lun, feels like a journey through both Croatia’s natural beauty and its maritime history. That said, a possible consideration for travelers is that the itinerary can change depending on weather conditions, which might mean some stops are shorter or less in-depth than planned.
Overall, if you’re craving a day out on the water that combines scenic vistas, a touch of history, and time for swimming and relaxation, this cruise offers solid value and a memorable experience. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your sun protection!
Key points / Takeaways
- Stunning scenery of Zavratnica Bay with its caves, cliffs, and WWII sunken ship remains
- Authentic local experience with knowledgeable guides and relaxed pace
- Multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying Croatian beaches
- Flexible itinerary that depends on weather, adding an element of unpredictability
- Quality lunch onboard with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian
- Efficient logistics with pick-up and drop-off points in Novalja and Lun
Exploring Croatia’s North Coast: The Zavratnica and Rab Boat Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rab.
Starting from Lun: Access and Arrivals
Your day begins at the port of Tovarnele in the village of Lun, a charming spot on Pag island. The tour provider, Sunturist d.o.o., offers flexible meeting options, either at the Market Rumarin or Sunturist Tourist Agency. It’s wise to double-check your pickup location, as it might vary based on your booking. Transfers from Novalja to Lun are included if you opt for that service, which simplifies logistics and keeps the focus on the scenery ahead.
What to Expect: A Carefully Choreographed Day on the Water
The boat trip kicks off with a cruise towards Zavratnica Bay, renowned not just for its stunning landscapes but also as part of the Velebit Nature Park. Expect to sail along cliffs and caves carved by nature over thousands of years. The highlight? The 900-meter-long bay, where you can glimpse the remains of a WWII sunken warship resting quietly at the bottom — a haunting yet fascinating sight.
The boat will stop briefly for photos and to let you take in the views. One reviewer mentioned that this first stop is “very beautiful but too short,” which is a common sentiment. That’s a reminder to be ready with your camera and to savor the moment, even if it’s brief.
The Next Stop: Pudarica Beach on Rab Island
After Zavratnica, the boat heads toward Pudarica Beach, on Rab Island. Here, you’ll find inviting, clear waters perfect for swimming, plus the chance to relax on pebbled beaches. The tour includes about 45 minutes for swimming, photos, and soaking up the sun — enough time to unwind but not so long that you miss the next part of the trip.
Lunch is served onboard, with a menu that caters to different tastes: meat, fish, or vegetarian options. The quality of the meal can vary (a reviewer noted that the food was “average”), but it’s generally considered a decent addition to the value of the trip, especially given that it’s included.
Rab’s Old Town: History and Charm
The final major stop is Rab’s historic old town, famous for its ancient walls and four bell towers. You’ll get roughly 30 minutes to walk and soak in the timeless ambiance. Some travelers like Silvia praised the trip, saying, “The whole trip was fantastic! The boat trip, swimming, sightseeing, and above all, the crew were amazing.” That’s a good sign of the overall positive vibe — though a less enthusiastic review pointed out that the second stop was “very long” and the captain’s attitude was “not very friendly.”
Wrap-up and Return: A Refreshing End to Your Day
The trip concludes with a swim in Mata Bay near Lun, close to your departure point. It’s a nice way to end the day, especially if you’re still feeling energetic. Then, the boat heads back, and you’ll be transported to either Novalja or Lun, depending on your booking.
Details and Practicalities That Matter
Duration and Timing
At 8 hours, this tour is a full day, perfect if you want an immersive experience without rushing. Check the availability for specific start times, as they can vary, and plan your day accordingly.
Group Size and Comfort
While the exact number of travelers isn’t specified, tours like this typically have small to medium groups, ensuring you’re not just a face in the crowd. The boat’s amenities are designed for comfort, with shade and space to relax.
Pricing and Value
The tour includes boat tickets, lunch, and transfers, which makes it good value for the experience offered. Be aware that beverages other than water are charged separately, so consider bringing your own drinks or purchasing on board.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re interested in combining scenic sailing with opportunities to swim and explore historic towns, this trip is ideal. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate nature, history, and a relaxed pace. However, if you prefer shorter tours or are sensitive to weather disruptions, you might want to factor in the possibility of schedule changes.
Unique Details from Reviews
One reviewer appreciated the “knowledgeable guides,” which highlights the importance of friendly, informed commentary. Others noted that some stops, like the first, are “too short,” so bring your camera and be ready to move quickly. The crew’s attitude was mixed, with some mentioning that the captain wasn’t very friendly, so a friendly crew can make a difference in how much you enjoy the day.
Price, Logistics, and Best Tips
While the trip isn’t the cheapest activity in the area, the inclusion of transport, lunch, and the boat ride makes it worthwhile. To maximize your experience, arrive early, bring sun protection, and wear comfortable clothes for swimming and walking around Rab. Remember, weather can influence the itinerary, so stay flexible on the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
Travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, light adventure, and cultural sights will find this outing rewarding. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a full-day experience that combines lounging, sightseeing, and a touch of Croatia’s maritime history. It’s also a good choice for family groups or couples seeking a relaxed yet engaging day.
FAQs
What is the starting point for the tour? The tour departs from the village of Lun, either from the Market Rumarin or Sunturist Tourist Agency, depending on your booking.
How long is the boat trip? The full tour lasts about 8 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch.
Are transfers included? Yes, if you choose the transfer option, you’ll be taken from Novalja to Lun before the trip begins.
What should I bring? Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and possibly your own drinks if you want more options than water.
Is the itinerary fixed? No, it can change based on weather conditions, which might affect the length or order of stops.
Are there vegetarian options for lunch? Yes, vegetarian menus are available alongside meat and fish options.
How many people typically participate? While not specified, such tours usually have small to medium groups, ensuring a more intimate experience.
To sum it up, this Croatian boat trip from Novalja offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sights, and relaxing seaside moments. It’s best suited for travelers who want to enjoy a comprehensive day on the water with opportunities for swimming, photo-taking, and exploring charming towns. With knowledgeable guides and scenic stops, it provides good value — especially if you’re keen to see Zavratnica Bay and Rab Island without the hassle of organizing separate excursions. Just be prepared for possible weather-related adjustments, and remember to bring your sun gear. For those wanting a memorable day on Croatia’s stunning coast, this tour is worth considering.