Lovran/Opatija: Swimming on Cres Island with Lunch

Exploring Croatia’s coast often means crowded beaches and touristy spots, but this Swimming on Cres Island with Lunch tour offers a much more relaxed, authentic experience. This day-long boat trip takes you away from the crowds, heading to secluded beaches and pristine waters around Cres Island, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and a tasty BBQ lunch on board. From the moment I read the reviews, I was intrigued by how many travelers praised their guides—especially Captain Tomy—for making the day informative and fun.

What I really like about this experience is how it balances adventure and relaxation. The two-hour scenic ride across Kvarner Bay sets an ideal tone—being on the water, feeling the breeze, and taking in those views before even reaching the beaches. Then, the stops at Smrdea Beach and Badnjev Beach are perfect for swimming in clear waters away from the crowds. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the visit to the Little Blue Cave near Brse, which many travelers seem to find magical.

A possible consideration to keep in mind is the weather dependency—bad weather could mean a cancellation or rescheduling, so it’s wise to check the forecast before booking. Also, if you’re easily seasick or traveling with young children, this boat trip might require some extra thought, as the ride lasts around 8 hours and includes some longer stretches at sea. But for anyone who loves a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and a memorable Croatian meal, this tour offers remarkable value and authentic touches.

Key points / Takeaways

• Secluded beaches on Cres Island offer untouched beauty and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• The guides, especially Captain Tomy, receive praise for their knowledge and friendly service, adding a personal touch.
• The lunch on board, featuring grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian options, is well-rated for its flavor and generous portions.
• The itinerary includes multiple stops—each tailored to provide swimming, relaxation, and sightseeing opportunities.
• The scenic ride across Kvarner Bay is a highlight, giving you stunning views of coastal towns and cliffs.
• The tour is best suited for those comfortable on boats and looking for a full day of adventure in natural beauty.

Discovering Cres Island’s Hidden Beaches and Clear Waters

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast often steals the limelight, but the Kvarner Bay area offers equally stunning landscapes—and fewer crowds. This tour from Opatija or Lovran is a great way to experience this unspoiled corner of Croatia, with stops on Cres Island renowned for their natural beauty. It’s a full-day journey that combines scenic cruising, swimming in the Adriatic, and a delicious onboard meal, making it perfect for travelers craving a more authentic and relaxing day away.

The departure details are straightforward: either from Lovranski mul or Restaurant Molo, with the boat leaving at around 8:20 or 9:00 AM. The two-hour cruise across the bay feels just right—long enough to enjoy the scenery without it dragging. As the boat approaches Cres, you start to notice the cliffs and small villages, setting a peaceful tone for the day.

First Stop: Smrdea Beach – A Natural Paradise

Your first stop, Smrdea Beach, is located on the northwest side of Cres Island. This spot is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and untouched natural environment—a true Robinson Crusoe feel. With a swim break of about two hours, you’ll have plenty of time to paddle, snorkel, or just relax under the sun. The reviews highlight how the calm waters and scenic surroundings make this a favorite for guests. One traveler even mentioned that Captain Tomy “explained a lot,” making the experience educational as well as fun.

Lunch: Grilled Goodness on Board

After working up an appetite, the boat’s crew prepares a delicious BBQ lunch. Options include meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, accompanied by fresh salad and bread—filling enough to satisfy even hearty appetites. The inclusion of seasonal fruit and drinks—sparkling and still water, sodas, wine—adds to the overall value. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food and how it complements the day’s relaxed pace.

Second Swimming Stop: Badnjev Beach

Post-lunch, the boat moves on to Badnjev Beach, another beautiful spot for swimming and unwinding. With about an hour here, travelers can snorkel or simply enjoy the calm waters. The variety of stops means you get multiple chances to swim in different settings—each offering unique views and experiences.

Exploring Brse and the Blue Cave

The trip then heads towards the town of Brse, where you can admire spectacular 60-meter cliffs rising from the sea. The highlight for many is the Little Blue Cave, which, according to reviews, lives up to its name with its enchanting blue waters and small, intimate space. You’ll spend an hour here, swimming and snorkeling, often praising the beautiful scenery and tranquility.

Scenic Return & Coastal Towns

On the way back, the boat cruises past charming coastal towns like Moenika Draga, Medveja, Lovran, Ika, and others. These views add context to your day—seeing how locals live along the coast and appreciating the dramatic cliffs and coves. The entire journey wraps up around 5:00 PM, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights and experiences.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

The tour’s itinerary is carefully designed for a mix of activity and relaxation. Starting at either Lovran or Opatija, you’ll enjoy a scenic water taxi ride that sets a peaceful tone for the day. The two main beaches, Smrdea and Badnjev, are both known for their clean, clear waters—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews repeatedly mention how quiet and natural these beaches are, providing a welcome escape from tourist-heavy spots.

The lunch is a big part of the appeal. Many travelers highlight the quality, flavor, and generous portions of the BBQ. It’s served directly on the boat, which means you get to enjoy your meal with a view. The inclusion of seasonal fruit and drinks adds to the value, making it a full, satisfying meal that fuels the rest of your adventure.

The visit to the Little Blue Cave offers an almost surreal experience, with its striking shade of blue water and small size making it feel private and special. Many reviewers note how Captain Tomy’s explanations added a layer of understanding and enjoyment, making the day both informative and fun.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour is limited to 15 participants, meaning it feels personal and well-managed. The small group setting allows for more interaction and flexibility. The price of $131 per person is reasonable considering the length of the trip, the included meals, drinks, and insurance. For travelers seeking a value-packed day with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and authentic Croatian flavors, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

It’s perfect for adventurers who love being on the water, families with children comfortable on boats, or couples seeking a relaxing day away from busy tourist traps. If you’re someone who enjoys authentic local spots and isn’t bothered by a full day on a boat, you’ll find this trip rewarding. However, those prone to seasickness or traveling with very young children might want to consider the longer duration and boat ride.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $131, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—scenic cruising, multiple swimming stops, a quality BBQ lunch, and local sightseeing—all packed into 8 hours. When you consider the transportation, guide’s knowledge, and food, it’s a solid value. The inclusion of passenger insurance and the option to reserve and pay later adds peace of mind.

For those wondering about timing, the start times are flexible depending on your pickup point, but expect a full day outdoors. Remember, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather, so always check the forecast beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Sign Up?

This boat tour from Lovran or Opatija suits travelers who want more than just a view—they want authentic beaches, good food, and a real taste of Croatian coastal life. It’s ideal for active sorts who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and for those looking to escape crowded tourist areas for peaceful, natural spots.

The knowledgeable guides, especially Captain Tomy, elevate the experience with friendly service and local insights. The meal alone makes it worthwhile, and the variety of stops keeps the day lively. Expect a mix of scenic beauty, authentic food, and genuine Croatian hospitality.

If you’re after a full-day, value-packed adventure that balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation, this Cres Island boat trip is a worthy choice. Pack your swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with plenty of stories and perhaps a few new favorite beaches.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for the tour?
It’s best to arrive at the designated meeting point a little early, especially if you’re starting from Lovran or Opatija, to ensure a smooth departure.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and snorkeling gear if you have it.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children comfortable on boats and able to enjoy swimming and snorkeling. It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or those prone to seasickness.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions turn rough or stormy, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Guests will receive a full refund if that occurs.

How long are the stops at each beach?
The first stop at Smrdea Beach lasts about two hours, and the second at Badnjev Beach is about one hour. The cave stop is also about one hour, with some additional sightseeing cruises in between.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides a selection of drinks including sparkling and still water, sodas, apple and orange juice, and wine, all included in the price.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for last-minute plans. Just keep in mind that availability might be limited during peak times.

This Cres Island boat tour offers a charming mix of scenic cruising, authentic Croatian flavor, and natural beauty—an adventure well worth your time if you’re after a true escape along Croatia’s coast.