A Relaxed Day on the Water: Boat Trip to Rovinj and Vrsar from Porec with Lunch
If you’re looking to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline without the effort and expense of renting your own boat, this boat trip from Porec offers a pretty appealing option. It’s a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of local charm, all wrapped up in about 8 hours of easygoing fun. The experience is typically praised for its beautiful scenery and good value, but it’s worth knowing the full story before you book.
What we especially like about this trip are the convenient pickup service right from select Porec hotels, which makes starting the day hassle-free, and the inclusion of a barbecue lunch and a drink—a nice touch that keeps things simple and relaxed. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the boat can get crowded and that the meal might be a bit basic, but overall, it’s a good way to enjoy the coast without a lot of fuss.
This trip works best if you’re after a full-day experience that combines sightseeing with some leisure time. If you’re traveling with friends, want to enjoy the Croatian coast from the water, or simply need a straightforward way to see Rovinj and Vrsar, it’s worth considering. Just keep in mind that some reviews have noted issues like waiting times or boat capacity, so it’s not perfect for everyone—but still, it’s a solid choice for many.
<- Easy booking and pickup make it a convenient option for travelers staying in Porec.
- Includes lunch and a drink, so no need to worry about extra costs during the day.
- Opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing at scenic bays along the way.
- Stops in Rovinj and Vrsar give you a taste of charming seaside towns, with some free time to explore.
- Potential crowdedness on the boat and the basic nature of the meal are worth noting.
- This experience is suited for those who want a relaxed, full-day trip without the hassle of planning.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point & Timing
The tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 9:00 am from select hotels in Porec. The group then departs at 10:00 am from Port Porec, which gives you plenty of time to settle in and get comfortable. The small group size (up to 40 travelers) helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable.
Traveling Along Croatia’s Coast
You’ll love the way the water looks from the boat—crystal-clear, shimmering, and perfect for photos. The journey itself is an enjoyable part of the experience, cruising along the coast and taking in views of Croatia’s rugged shoreline and quaint towns. The boat’s capacity is around 200 people, so it can feel a bit crowded at times, especially during peak booking periods, but most reviews note the crew manages the space well.
Stop in Rovinj
The highlight for many is the stop in Rovinj, often called “little Venice” because of its tall townhouses and narrow, cobblestone streets. You get about two hours here, which is enough to wander around, grab a coffee, or do some quick shopping. The free time allows you to soak up the town’s atmosphere, take photos, or just enjoy the vibe of this picturesque port.
Lunch on Board
At around 1:00 pm, everyone gathers for a barbecue lunch on the boat. The meal is straightforward—think grilled meat or fish, bread, and a couple of drinks. Some reviews say the meal is simple, but most agree that it’s decent and more than enough to keep you fueled for the day. A few note that the meal can be basic, but the included drink (often wine or Fanta) adds a nice touch.
Cruise to Vrsar & Lim Bay
After lunch, the boat heads toward Vrsar, another charming seaside town with a long tradition. You’ll have about an hour and a half to explore or relax. The scenery along the way, especially around Lim Bay, is beautiful—expect calm waters, lush green hills, and small islands dotting the landscape.
Vrsar & Final Stop
Vrsar offers a mix of cultural sights and leisure options. Some travelers mention that the town’s charm makes it worth the visit, even if the break might feel a little rushed. The tour concludes with the return trip around 4:00 pm, heading back to Porec.
Planning more time in Porec? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What the Reviews Say
Several reviews highlight the friendly crew and the overall value of the trip. One traveler raved, “Loved this trip! The crew on the boat were extremely friendly, and we were all given a free shot of grappa,” which adds a fun local touch. Others appreciated the scenic stops and the chance to swim or sunbathe at bays along the route.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Some mention that the boat can get quite crowded, with one reviewer noting, “The boat carries 200 people, and you are packed on,” which might not suit travelers seeking a more intimate experience. There were also comments about logistical issues like waiting for pickup or feeling the meal was too basic.
A guest who refused to board due to the boat being a diesel-powered vessel shared their disappointment, but this is something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to boat noise or fumes. Also, some found the two-hour free time in Rovinj a bit tight, especially if you want to explore in depth.
Practical Details & Considerations
Price & Value
At around $59.95 per person, this trip offers a decent value when you consider the included lunch, drinks, and transportation. For a full day of sightseeing and leisure, the cost is reasonable—particularly if you factor in the time saved on planning and logistics.
Duration & Group Size
The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, which makes it a substantial part of your day but not overly long. The group size caps at around 40 people, balancing social atmosphere with manageable logistics. The early start might be a downside if you’re not a morning person, but it ensures you beat some of the crowds and have a full day.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for walking around towns, sun protection, a hat, and swimwear are smart to pack. The boat ride is mostly outdoors, so dress appropriately. Also, bring a bit of cash if you want to buy souvenirs or additional drinks.
Weather & Cancellation Policy
The trip is weather-dependent; if the weather turns poor, the experience can be canceled or rescheduled. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand, which is helpful if your plans are uncertain.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see some of Croatia’s most charming coastal towns from the water. It’s suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, moderate sightseeing, and social ambiance. If you’re after a luxurious or intimate boat experience, this might feel a bit crowded, but if you’re happy with a friendly, straightforward tour, it delivers.
You’ll love the views, the chance to swim, and the simplicity of the day. It’s especially suitable if you’re staying in Porec and want a straightforward way to explore Rovinj and Vrsar without planning multiple activities or transportation.
Boat trip to Rovinj and Vrsar from Pore with lunch
“On the day (20 Jun) we originally booked the trip we waited at the pickup point for 45 minutes with another couple (who had booked with TUI) and we…”
FAQ
Is pickup offered from hotels?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from select Porec hotels, making it easy to start the day, especially if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing stops, and free time.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, a barbecue lunch, and a drink. No additional costs are necessarily required during the day.
Can I swim or snorkel?
Yes, the boat stops at bays where you can swim, snorkel, or sunbathe, giving you some leisure time in scenic spots.
Is the boat crowded?
Some reviews mention that the boat can carry up to 200 people, so it might feel crowded during peak times. However, the group size on your trip is limited to 40.
What towns do we visit?
The main stops are Rovinj, with its historic charm, and Vrsar, known for its traditions. There’s also a scenic cruise through Lim Bay with a chance to see local landscapes.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
In the end, this boat trip offers a straightforward way to enjoy Croatia’s coast with minimal fuss. It’s best for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with some downtime, appreciate scenic views, and enjoy a simple meal without the need for elaborate planning. While it’s not perfect for everyone—crowd levels and meal quality are points to consider—it’s a solid, relaxing day out that captures the essence of Croatia’s stunning seaside charm.
