Full day boat-trip Medulin, blue Cave, Cres + dolphin search

Exploring the Full Day Boat Trip from Medulin: Blue Cave, Cres, and Dolphin Search

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and looking for a way to experience the Adriatic’s beauty without too much fuss, this full-day boat trip from Medulin offers a compelling option. With a mix of scenic cruising, underwater adventures, charming island visits, and delicious local food, it’s designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coastal charm.

What really draws people to this tour are the opportunities to visit the Blue Cave, wander around Cres, and keep an eye out for dolphins — things that make for memorable stories long after the trip ends. On the flip side, some travelers note that the boat can get crowded and that the Blue Cave’s lighting isn’t always as spectacular as expected. Overall, if you love a combination of exploration, good food, and coastal scenery, this trip could fit quite well into your Croatian itinerary.

This experience is especially suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, are interested in snorkeling and marine life, and want the convenience of an organized tour. It’s also worth considering if you appreciate local cuisine or want a mix of sightseeing and leisure without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic cruising: The boat ride offers stunning views of Croatia’s rocky cliffs and lighthouse, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Blue Cave experience: A highlight with a one-hour stop for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the caves, though the lighting may vary.
• Island Cres stop: Two hours to wander, relax, or enjoy some beach time in this charming town.
• Inclusive lunch: A tasty meal with options for fish, tuna steak, meat, or vegetarian dishes, plus drinks onboard.
• Wildlife chance: The trip offers a good shot at spotting dolphins, adding an element of wildlife excitement.
• Family and social vibe: The tour promotes making new connections and capturing memorable photos, ideal for groups and couples alike.

The Journey in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point and the First Moments

The day kicks off early at Medulin Harbour, with check-in at least 30 minutes beforehand. You’ll be greeted with a welcome drink or a small aperitif, which is a nice touch to settle in and get excited. The boat, called Aska, is comfortable enough for a full-day adventure and provides space to relax as you set out into the Adriatic.

Exploring the Blue Cave

By around 10:15 AM, you’ll reach the Blue Cave, the biggest in this part of Croatia. Here, the main draw is the chance to swim and snorkel in the cave’s clear waters—an activity that many find magical. The usual expectation is about an hour at this stop, giving you plenty of time to explore marine life and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

However, some reviews have pointed out that the lighting in the cave can be subdued—the famous ‘blue’ glow may not always be as vibrant as in photos. One traveler even mentioned that the cave was quite dark, requiring the guide to turn on a cell phone flashlight. Plus, the rocks inside can be sharp, so wearing appropriate footwear is advisable for snorkeling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cruising to Cres

Around 11:15 AM, the boat departs for Cres, sailing past spectacular rocky cliffs and the historic Hrid Zaglav Lighthouse. The views are generally breathtaking, and this stretch allows you to relax and take in Croatia’s rugged coastline.

Lunch with a View

At noon, it’s time for a well-deserved meal onboard. The menu features fresh fish, tuna steak, or options for meat and vegetarian dishes, paired with a refreshing cabbage salad. Drinks are included—think white and red wine, beer, sodas, and water—making it easy to unwind and enjoy the scenery while dining.

While most find the food satisfying, some reviews suggest that the vegetarian options could be a bit more exciting — one traveler mentioned that the vegetarian meal was “rather boring,” with coleslaw and oily vegetables. Still, the overall consensus is that the meal is pleasant and adds value, especially considering the price point.

Exploring Cres Town

At around 1:00 PM, the boat anchors at Cres Town, giving you two hours to explore. Whether you want to stroll through quaint streets, browse local shops, or relax on a pebble beach, this stop is flexible and gives you a taste of local life. Cres is praised for its charming atmosphere and beautiful beaches, making it a great escape from the boat when you want to stretch your legs.

Dolphins and the Return Journey

Starting around 3:00 PM, the boat begins its return to Medulin. During this leg, there’s a chance to see dolphins, which is often a highlight for many. While sightings are never guaranteed, the area is known for its playful dolphin population, adding an element of surprise and delight.

Some travelers, however, noted that their dolphin sightings were hit or miss, and one reviewer expressed disappointment over not seeing any dolphins, despite the hopes. Still, the possibility of encountering these intelligent creatures adds a fun, unpredictable element to the trip.

What Makes This Tour a Good Deal

At $88 per person, the tour offers a lot for the price. You’re getting a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on a boat, with lunch and drinks included. When you consider the cost of separate boat rentals, meals, and transportation in Croatia, this package is quite reasonable for the experience it delivers.

The crew and animation are generally praised for their friendliness and professionalism. The reviews mention the crew being very nice and attentive, which helps make the day smooth and enjoyable.

Things to Keep in Mind

While this tour has many strengths, there are some practical considerations. The boat can sometimes be crowded, especially during peak season, which might make certain areas like the deck a bit less comfortable if you’re sensitive to noise or close quarters. Also, the Blue Cave’s lighting may not always be picture-perfect, so don’t set your heart on seeing a vivid blue glow—be open to the experience as it is.

If you’re planning to snorkel, pack some beach shoes—some rocks can be sharp, and having comfortable footwear will make your underwater exploration safer.

Finally, if weather conditions turn poor, the tour might be rescheduled or canceled. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and have flexible plans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially those interested in coastal scenery, marine life, and local culture. It’s also a good pick for groups or couples wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, note that kids might not get all the nuances of the trip, but overall, it’s a relaxed outing suitable for most ages.

Those who love good food and are curious about Croatian seafood will appreciate the included lunch, while anyone eager for the chance to see dolphins will find this trip offers that hope, even if sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave worth visiting?
Most travelers find the Blue Cave a highlight, especially for swimming and snorkeling. Keep in mind, the lighting may vary, and it might not be as bright as in photos, but the experience is still pretty special.

How long do we stay at Cres?
You’ll have about two hours to explore Cres Town, which is enough for a leisurely walk, some shopping, or relaxing on the beach.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, during the boat ride, you’ll have access to wine, beer, sodas, and water as part of the included drinks.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options are offered, though some reviews have mentioned they’re simple. You can usually choose from fish, tuna steak, or vegetarian dishes.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
There’s always a chance, but sightings aren’t guaranteed. The area is known for dolphins, so keep your eyes peeled during the return trip.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash for optional purchases or extra snacks. A pullover is also handy if it gets windy.

Wrapping It Up

This full-day boat trip from Medulin offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, marine adventures, and leisurely exploration. The combination of visiting the Blue Cave, exploring Cres, and enjoying a good meal onboard makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to experience Croatia’s coast in a relaxed yet engaging way. The chance to see dolphins adds a touch of excitement, even if it’s not a certainty.

While there are minor downsides, like the cave lighting and occasional crowding, the overall experience provides excellent value. The friendly crew, scenic views, and tasty food make it a trip worth considering, especially if you’re after an authentic taste of Croatia’s beautiful coastline.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour promises a day filled with memorable moments and stunning visuals — a perfect way to spend a Croatian day out on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: