Medulin: Full-Day Boat Tour of the Archipelago w/ Lunch

Exploring Croatia’s Istrian coast often means savoring its history, food, or stunning landscapes, but if you’re after a day that combines all three with a splash of fun, this Full-Day Boat Tour of the Archipelago from Medulin might just be your best bet. This five-hour cruise offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic sights, like the Cape Kamenjak cliffs and the historic Porer lighthouse, all while enjoying a relaxed pace, unlimited drinks, and a hearty lunch onboard.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the combination of stunning vistas and the opportunity to swim and sunbathe on the sandy shores of Levan Island — the only sandy island in the Medulin archipelago. Plus, exploring the Golumbera cave feels exclusive enough to make you feel like you’re in a secret world. The boat itself offers a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, and the crew, especially the skipper, keeps things lively while respecting the natural beauty surrounding you.

However, as with any trip, there are a few considerations. For example, the boat isn’t accessible for wheelchairs, and if you’re prone to seasickness or have heart issues, it might not be the best fit. Also, the vegetarian lunch options, while appreciated, seem to be somewhat limited, as one reviewer noted the only vegetarian alternative was a few slices of grilled vegetables. Still, for those who love a scenic cruise with good amenities, these are minor points next to the overall value.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking panoramas of the coast, islets, and the iconic Porer lighthouse, making for great photo opportunities.
• Exploring Kamenjak: The Golumbera cave’s seclusion and the cliffs around Cape Kamenjak create a dramatic setting for swimming and sightseeing.
• Levan Island: Unique for its sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing onshore.
• Onboard Experience: Unlimited beers, a welcome drink, and a delicious BBQ lunch cater to comfort and enjoyment during the trip.
• Flexible & Local: The tour offers a laid-back experience with a friendly crew and guides speaking Croatian, English, and German.
• Weather-Dependent: The trip may be altered or canceled in bad weather, so flexibility could be necessary.

Entering the Medulin Archipelago

From the moment you step aboard in Medulin Harbour, the overall vibe is relaxed but organized. You’ll check in about 30 minutes early, which gives you time to get your bearings and maybe snap a few photos of the boat with its dark blue parasol. The crew, including friendly guides and the skipper, are helpful and eager to share their knowledge about the area. The boat itself is suitable for small to medium groups, making the experience feel more intimate than a giant cruise.

As the boat departs, you’ll quickly notice the beautiful coastline of the Rt Kamenjak Nature Park. It’s a landscape that appears almost untouched, with rugged cliffs contrasting against the shimmering sea. This is where your adventure begins, with the promise of uncovering some hidden gems of Croatia’s coast.

Cape Kamenjak and the Golumbera Cave

The first major stop is at Cape Kamenjak, a rugged promontory famed for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes for sightseeing, swimming, and exploring. The highlight is the Golumbera cave, a secluded sea cave that feels like a secret hideaway. One reviewer mentioned the chance to swim under supervision at the cave — a rare opportunity to experience a touch of adventure in a protected environment.

The captain and crew often give tips on the best spots for swimming or taking photos, and the cave’s location on the cliffs offers striking photo ops. The scenery here is impressive, with craggy limestone cliffs and lush greenery that contrast sharply with the blue waters.

Passing the Porer Lighthouse

Cruising past the Porer lighthouse is a highlight of the trip. Built in the 19th century during the Austro-Hungarian era, this lighthouse stands proudly on a small island, casting a timeless silhouette against the sky. The guides usually point out its history and significance, making the view both scenic and educational. It’s truly a photograph-worthy moment, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch it with a sunset or calm sea.

Levan Island: The Sandy Gem

The stop at Levan Island is the most relaxed part of the day. This small sandy island offers a two-hour window for sunbathing, swimming, or a casual walk along the shoreline. You might find it quieter than the busy beaches on the mainland, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

One reviewer called it the “only sandy island in the archipelago,” which makes it somewhat special. You can rent sun loungers, buy cocktails, or visit a small restaurant, so it’s a good chance to recharge before heading back. The water here is crystal clear, ideal for a quick swim or just floating around with a drink in hand.

The Lunch Experience

A standout feature of this tour is the lunch onboard. Expect a BBQ-style meal with options for vegetarian, fish, and meat dishes. The food is generally described as simple but tasty, with many passengers praising the deliciousness of the lunch. One review pointed out that the vegetarian offering was limited — mainly grilled vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers — so if you’re vegetarian, consider bringing extra snacks just in case.

The onboard atmosphere is convivial, with unlimited beers and a welcome drink to toast the day. This casual approach to dining means you’re encouraged to relax, enjoy the scenery, and chat with fellow travelers.

Practical Details & Logistics

This tour departs from Medulin Harbour, with check-in about 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. It runs roughly five hours, including stops, and is suitable for most travelers except those with heart problems, wheelchairs, or seasickness. The boat isn’t accessible for wheelchairs, which is an important consideration for mobility-impaired travelers.

The price point offers good value, considering the inclusions of lunch, drinks, and guided sightseeing. If you compare the cost to the number of stops, the quality of scenery, and the relaxed pace, it’s a reasonable way to see a variety of sites without the hassle of multiple bookings or transfers.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for anyone who appreciates scenic boat rides with easy access to swimming and sunbathing. It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups, or families wanting a relaxed day on the water. If you love photography, the views of the lighthouse, cliffs, and islets provide plenty of postcard moments.

People who enjoy a casual, social atmosphere with good amenities — like unlimited drinks and a hearty lunch — will find this tour hits the right notes. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer a structured yet flexible day, with enough free time to explore and relax.

Price and Logistics

Pricing is reasonable given the inclusions, especially with unlimited beers, a welcome drink, and a hearty lunch. The tour’s five-hour duration balances sightseeing with leisure without feeling rushed. It’s worth noting the transportation to the meeting point isn’t included**, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or walk if you’re staying nearby.

The tour operates in Croatian, English, and German, ensuring clear communication for most international travelers. Weather can influence the schedule, with the captain able to change plans in bad conditions, but overall, the experience is well-organized.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a delightful mix of stunning scenery, casual fun, and comfortable amenities. It’s a good value for those wanting to see Croatia’s coast from a different perspective, without complicated logistics or long drives. The stops at Kamenjak, Levan, and the iconic lighthouse create a well-rounded day that balances adventure, relaxation, and photo opportunities.

If your ideal day involves soaking up the sun, exploring small islands, and enjoying good food and drinks, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and don’t mind sharing the boat with a small group of like-minded explorers.

FAQ

Is transportation to the boat included?
No, you need to arrange your own way to Medulin Harbour, but the meeting point is straightforward and well-marked.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, including all stops and free time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children who enjoy swimming and water activities will like it, but check the age restrictions and consider seasickness.

Can I stay longer on Levan Island?
The tour includes about two hours on Levan, but extending your stay would require separate arrangements.

Is there a dress code?
Casual beachwear, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, but as reviews note, the vegetarian lunch mainly features grilled vegetables. If you have specific dietary needs, consider bringing snacks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The skipper may change or cancel the trip, offering a refund or an alternative date, so keep an eye on the forecast.

This full-day boat tour from Medulin combines the scenic beauty of Croatia’s coast with relaxed, friendly service. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the sea’s healing qualities, spectacular views, and a laid-back vibe.