Boat trip to Rovinj and Vrsar from Pore with lunch

Taking a boat trip along the Croatian coast from Porec to Rovinj and Vrsar offers a wonderful way to see this beautiful region from a different perspective. The experience combines a scenic water journey with stops in charming towns, topped off with a casual onboard barbecue lunch. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions tell a compelling story of both the highlights and some considerations to think about before booking.

What I find particularly appealing about this cruise are two things: First, the opportunity to see Croatia’s stunning coastline from the water—a vantage point that isn’t accessible from land without renting a boat yourself. Second, the included barbecue lunch and drinks make it a handy, no-hassle way to enjoy local flavors without adding extra cost or planning. That said, one potential downside is the crowd size, with the boat capable of carrying around 200 people, which means you’ll probably be sharing space with quite a few others—something to keep in mind if you prefer intimacy or a quieter experience.

This tour offers a practical, fun way to visit multiple seaside spots in a single day, especially if you’re short on time or prefer not to navigate your own boat. Just keep in mind that some reviews describe the experience as feeling like a “ferry,” with limited time at each stop, so if you’re after a leisurely exploration or more authentic, less touristy vibes, you might want to consider other options.

Key points / Takeaways

• Great water views of Croatia’s rugged coastline and picturesque towns like Rovinj and Vrsar.
• All-in-one experience with hotel pickup, boat cruise, lunch, and free time to explore.
• Crowded but lively atmosphere — ideal for social travelers or those happy with a bustling day.
• Limited time in towns — about two hours in Rovinj and 1.5 hours in Vrsar, perfect for a quick visit but not deep exploration.
• Authentic seaside charm in Rovinj, often called “little Venice,” with cobblestone streets and colorful townhouses.
• Value for money — at around $58, you get a full day out including lunch, transportation, and sightseeing.

Exploring the Croatian Coast from Porec: A Detailed Review

An Overview of the Experience

This boat trip from Porec is designed as a full-day adventure that combines scenic cruising with stops in Rovinj and Vrsar, two of Istria’s most scenic seaside towns. It’s organized by Gulliver Travel and features a roughly 8-hour itinerary, including hotel pickup, a boat cruise, free time for wandering or swimming, and a laid-back onboard barbecue lunch. The experience is well-suited for travelers wanting to enjoy Croatia’s coastline without the hassle of boat ownership or complicated planning.

What appeals most is the spectacular water-based perspective of Croatia’s rugged coastline, dotted with tiny islands and charming villages. You’ll get to see a different side of the region that’s often missed in land-based explorations. Plus, with lunch included, you won’t need to worry about finding a place to eat mid-day—a real plus for those who prefer a more relaxed, all-in-one experience.

What I Like About This Trip

Two aspects stand out as particularly enjoyable. First, the boat ride itself offers lovely views and the chance to breathe in the salty sea air. The reviews praise the friendly crew and mention that the vessel is a lively, social space, which can be fun if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers. Second, the visits to Rovinj and Vrsar are highlights. Rovinj, often called the “little Venice,” is renowned for its scenic old town with narrow streets and colorful buildings—perfect for a couple of hours of wandering and photos.

Plus, the lunch served on board has been appreciated for its simplicity and good value. One reviewer even mentions a “great day,” adding that the day started well and included time for a swim, making the whole outing feel balanced.

One Possible Drawback to Consider

A common theme in reviews is the crowd size. The boat can carry up to 200 people, which means the experience can feel busy and somewhat rushed, especially at the stops. If you’re seeking a quiet, intimate day or a deep dive into local culture, this might not be your best choice. Smaller, more dedicated tours or independent explorations could suit those looking for tranquility better.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Gulliver Travel’s pickup point around 9:00 am, with a bus transfer to port Porec for the 10:00 am departure. The boat ride itself lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views of the coastline. The first stop is Rovinj, where you’ll have roughly two hours to explore. This tiny, picturesque fishing port, often called “little Venice,” features tall townhouses, cobblestone streets, and a lively harbor scene—perfect for photos or a quick wander.

The crew’s warmth and friendliness get good reviews, with one traveler mentioning they received a “free shot of grappa,” a tough but memorable local tradition. After Rovinj, the boat departs around 1:20 pm for a scenic cruise towards Vrsar and Lim Bay. At Vrsar, you have about 1.5 hours, enough time to walk around, enjoy the waterfront, or take a swim in the sea. The entire day wraps up with a return to Porec by 5:00 pm.

What You’ll Experience Onboard

The lunch is a simple barbecue served on deck, with options that include fish, chicken, or hot dogs, accompanied by bread, and drinks like Fanta or wine. While some reviews mention the meal isn’t gourmet, it’s ample and fits the price point. The experience of eating outdoors with sea views enhances the relaxed atmosphere.

Snorkeling and swimming are encouraged during stops, and the calm bays make for safe, refreshing dips. Some reviews mention that the “bathing stop in Vrsar was a bit disappointing,” as it lacked a proper beach or scenic spot, but overall, the chance to cool off is appreciated.

Group Size, Timing, and Practical Tips

This tour usually attracts around 40 travelers, making it a lively, social environment. The timing is well-paced, with plenty of time in each town and for onboard meals. Since the pickup is included at select Porec hotels, it’s convenient, but note that for pickup from Lanterna or Novigrad, a minimum of six travelers is needed, or alternative arrangements are offered.

Travelers should bring flat shoes, sun protection, and hats—Croatia’s summer sun can be fierce. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but check the physical demands if you plan to wander extensively in the towns.

Is It Good Value?

At around $58 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and a meal. The reviews indicate it’s a good value, especially for those wanting a relaxing, social day out with scenic views. Keep in mind that some may find the experience a bit crowded and rushed, but most agree that the combination of water views, charming towns, and the onboard lunch makes it worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want an easy, fun day with a mix of sightseeing and relaxing by the sea. It’s suitable for groups, families, or solo travelers comfortable with a lively atmosphere. If you enjoy meeting others, taking photos, and don’t mind crowds, you’ll enjoy the friendly vibe and scenic stops. However, if your priority is a quiet, in-depth exploration of Rovinj or Vrsar, or a less-touristy experience, this trip might feel a bit too busy.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Porec to Rovinj and Vrsar offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, charming town visits, and casual onboard dining. Its greatest strengths are the spectacular water views and the authentic seaside ambiance, especially in Rovinj. The lunch included is straightforward but convenient and good value, making the entire experience feel like a hassle-free way to enjoy the Croatian coast.

While it’s a lively, crowded trip, the friendly crew, the chance to snorkel or swim, and the short yet sweet visits to two lovely towns make it an appealing choice for many travelers. It’s perfect if you’re after a fun, social, and scenic day with minimal planning.

If you’re someone who loves a good snapshot of Croatia’s coast with the convenience of organized logistics, this trip delivers. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere and a bit of a schedule, and you’ll likely walk away with plenty of happy memories and stunning photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from select Porec hotels is offered. For Lanterna or Novigrad pickups, a minimum of six travelers is required, or alternative arrangements will be provided.

What is the duration of the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from around 9:00 am pickup to returning to Porec around 5:00 pm.

How much time do I have in Rovinj?
You’ll have about 2 hours here, enough to walk around the historic town and take photos, but not for an in-depth visit.

What’s included in the lunch?
A simple barbecue with options of fish, chicken, or hot dogs, along with bread and drinks like Fanta or wine.

Is snorkeling or swimming possible?
Yes, during the stops in bays, you can swim or snorkel, although some reviews mention the bathing spots aren’t always scenic.

What is the boat like?
It can carry up to 200 people, so expect a lively, social atmosphere. The crew is described as friendly, and the boat is suitable for a casual day out.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, with full refunds.

Who would this tour suit best?
Travelers looking for a fun, scenic, and social day with basic amenities and quick town visits—ideal for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere over quiet solitude.

In brief, this boat trip from Porec offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Croatia’s most charming seaside spots without the fuss of independent travel. It’s a good pick for travelers seeking a lively, scenic day out with plenty of photo opportunities and simple pleasures.