Private Half-Day Boat Excursion in Pula

If you’re visiting Pula and looking for a way to soak up the sun, enjoy some crystal-clear waters, and see some of Croatia’s best sights from a different angle, this private boat excursion might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a relaxing, well-organized trip that balances sightseeing with leisure.

What really stands out about this experience are the personalized nature of the tour—it’s private, so you won’t be stuck with strangers—and the chance to explore iconic spots like Brijuni National Park while also sneaking away for some secluded swimming and snorkeling. A second highlight is the friendly and knowledgeable crew, who seem committed to making sure guests have a smooth, enjoyable time.

That said, a consideration worth keeping in mind is the price, which at around $959 for a group of up to 10, might seem steep if you’re not planning to share the experience with others. However, for families or groups wanting a private, tailored day on the water, this can translate into excellent value. This tour kind of suits travelers who prioritize comfort, good company, and scenic downtime over a packed itinerary.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed and tailored experience.
• Ideal for Relaxation and Scenic Views: Plenty of sunbathing and swimming opportunities in stunning waters.
• Flexible and Informative: The crew shares insights about Pula’s historic port and shipyard, adding context to the sightseeing.
• Includes Snacks and Drinks: A range of beverages, including alcohol, plus snacks, keep you refreshed without extra charge.
• Family-Friendly: The tour is stroller-friendly, and service animals are welcome, making it accessible to more travelers.
• Excellent Reviews: Travelers consistently praise the hosts and the calm, picturesque stops.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Riva 10 in Pula around 10:00 am, giving you a gentle start to the day. From the moment you step aboard, you’re welcomed warmly, and the boat itself offers enough space for lounging, with ample room for sunbathers and those who want to change comfortably. The crew, notably hosts like Captain Ivan and Sonya, earn praise for their hospitality and knowledge—something that makes a difference in creating a smooth, personalized atmosphere.

Cruising Through Pula’s Historic Heart

Once underway, the boat gently glides past Pula’s famous port, offering a rare chance to appreciate the city’s maritime vibe. The crew shares tidbits about the area’s history, including the Uljanik shipyard and stories tied to the Second World War. This blend of scenic cruising and local insight helps you appreciate the area’s past while enjoying the views.

Brijuni National Park: First Swim Spot

The first major stop is Brijuni National Park, a highlight for many. With roughly 45 minutes allocated, this stop is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, giving you a chance to cool off in the clear waters. The experience here is relaxed, with the freedom to explore the underwater world or soak up the sun. Reviewers like Irina mention that even with less-than-ideal weather, the captain suggested calmer spots, which kept the experience enjoyable.

Exploring the Islands and the Second Swim

After a leisurely swim, the boat moves around to the other side of the Brijuni Islands for another 45-minute stop—this time to snorkel around a sunken ship. This additional adventure adds a bit of excitement and variety, especially for those interested in underwater exploration. The calm waters and clear visibility seem to make snorkeling here particularly appealing, with no extra charge for snorkeling gear.

Returning to Pula

The trip wraps up with a gentle sail back to the marina, where you’ll disembark around 4 hours after departure. Many reviews highlight how the crew’s attentiveness and suggestions—like where to eat lunch—made the journey even better, turning a simple boat trip into a personalized, memorable experience.

What We Love About This Tour

The personalized, private nature of this excursion really sets it apart. Unlike large group tours, you get to customize the experience, whether it’s choosing where to swim, relax, or get some great photos. The stunning scenery around Brijuni and the chance to snorkel around sunken ships make for memorable moments.

Plus, the food and drinks included—from snacks to alcoholic beverages—mean you won’t have to worry about bringing your own or hunting down refreshments. The crew’s friendly attitude and insider tips can turn an ordinary day into something special, especially if you like a relaxed pace and scenic downtime.

The Value of the Experience

While the price might seem on the higher side, it reflects the private, bespoke feel of the tour. For groups or families wanting a day free of crowds, with the flexibility to stop where they like, it offers a good balance of comfort, exclusivity, and scenic beauty. We’ve seen reviews praising the crew’s knowledge and hospitality—elements that elevate the experience beyond just cruising around.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic escape rather than a packed sightseeing day. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service, want the flexibility to swim and snorkel at their own pace, and appreciate stunning views and calm waters. Families with children who are comfortable with boat trips will find this accessible, especially since the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.

If you’re traveling with a small group or just want an intimate way to see parts of Pula’s coast and islands, this private excursion provides both privacy and flexibility. It’s also a good option if you’d rather skip crowded group tours and prefer a more tailored experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own snacks and drinks?
No, snacks and beverages, including alcohol and soft drinks, are included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the experience is stroller-friendly and welcoming to service animals, making it accessible for families with young kids or travelers with specific needs.

What is the duration of the trip?
The total experience lasts about 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning around 4:00 pm.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is WiFi available on board?
No, WiFi is not included, so plan accordingly if you need internet access.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Riva 10 in Pula, Croatia.

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How many people can join?
Up to 10 people per group, providing an intimate experience.

Can I get recommendations for lunch?
The crew is happy to suggest lunch spots during the trip, making it convenient to plan your meal afterward.

What kind of boat is used?
While the specific model isn’t provided, the boat is described as nice with enough space for sunbathing and changing.

This private boat tour in Pula offers a balanced blend of scenic cruising, relaxing swimming spots, and friendly, knowledgeable hosts. It’s a good pick if you’re after a more personalized experience, enjoy being on the water, and want to explore some of Croatia’s beautiful coastlines comfortably. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear adds value, especially for those who want a hassle-free day.

While the cost might be a consideration, the private atmosphere, flexibility, and stunning views make it a worthwhile splurge for travelers wanting a memorable, scenic escape without the crowds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxing day on the water, this trip has the potential to deliver just that—laid-back, scenic, and tailored to your pace.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this Pula boat excursion offers a welcoming way to see the coast, enjoy some underwater fun, and soak up the sun in one of Croatia’s most charming seaside towns.