Full-Day Boat Trip, Cave Swim, lunch & Drinks – Medulin/Ceja

An Authentic Croatian Sea Adventure: Full-Day Boat Trip from Medulin to Ceja Island

Thinking about exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline? This full-day boat trip from Medulin, offering a blend of scenic cruising, underwater adventures, and relaxing island downtime, might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a well-rounded experience designed to showcase some of Istria’s most picturesque sights, with enough comfort and good food along the way.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Cape Kamenjak’s dramatic cliffs and swim in an underwater cave—a rare treat—plus the laid-back vibe of spending hours on Ceja Island. Another big plus: the all-inclusive drinks and delicious lunch make it feel like a true Croatian feast at sea.

However, a potential consideration is that the trip can be quite busy, especially during peak season, so if you’re after a more tranquil, solitary adventure, this might feel a little lively. Also, the tour is weather-dependent; bad weather might mean a cancellation or rescheduling, which could be disappointing if you’re eager to go.

This tour is ideal for those craving a combination of sightseeing, swimming, good food, and local scenery—perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a day of relaxed adventure. If you enjoy a mix of active and leisurely moments, and want to escape the crowd for a while, this full-day cruise could be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Medulin Bay, the archipelago, and the Premantura peninsula.
• Underwater Cave Experience: Swim and snorkel inside a magical cave at Cape Kamenjak’s southern tip.
• Gourmet Lunch: Savor a freshly grilled meal (tuna steak, fish, meat, or veggie options) with cabbage salad and ciabatta.
• Island Relaxation: Soak up the sun and swim on Ceja Island, with options to visit the restaurant or cafe bar.
• Unlimited Drinks: Stay refreshed with wine, beer, sodas, water, and schnapps throughout the day.
• Educational and Scenic: Learn about the local landmarks like the Porer lighthouse and Cape Kamenjak wildlife.

The Itinerary in Detail

The trip kicks off from Medulin’s harbor, where you’ll spot the bright red and yellow boat, called Sandra, standing out among the vessels. The friendly crew greets you with a welcome drink before setting sail on a journey that’s both scenic and engaging.

Cruising the Coastline and Cape Kamenjak

The hour-long cruise offers a chance to relax and take in the breathtaking views of Medulin’s archipelago, which is dotted with tiny islands and rugged coastlines. As you approach Cape Kamenjak, known for its stunning cliffs and diverse wildlife, the scenery becomes even more dramatic.

Here, the highlight is the underwater cave, where you’ll have the opportunity—guided and supervised—to explore the waters. This is a rare chance to see the southernmost point of Istria from an entirely unique perspective, with some travelers describing the experience as “magical” and “breathtaking.” The cave swim isn’t just fun; it’s a chance to connect with nature in a very real way, without the crowds often seen in more popular spots.

The Porer Lighthouse and Scenic Cruise

Next stop: the Porer Lighthouse, built during the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1846. It’s a picture-perfect spot, and from the boat, you’ll get a good look at its classic design and strategic location. This stop offers a calm moment to appreciate the maritime history and take some photos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch on Board

After the sightseeing, you’ll enjoy a delicious grilled lunch served directly on the boat. The menu offers options like tuna steak, fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, all accompanied by fresh cabbage salad and crusty ciabatta bread. Based on reviews, the food is generally well-liked, with many noting the quality of the tuna and freshness of the ingredients.

Drinks are available throughout, including local white and red wine, beer, sodas, and schnapps. One reviewer praised the excellent wine selection and the friendly staff who kept the drinks flowing without fuss.

Ceja Island: Sunbathing, Swimming, and Relaxing

The highlight for many is the stop at Ceja Island, where you’ll have 2 to 3 hours to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. The island feels private and unspoiled, with a small restaurant and cafe bar for those wanting another snack or a coffee.

Several guests commented on how stunning Ceja is, wishing they had more time to explore. One review noted, “I would like more time on Ceja because it is stunning,” which rings true—this tiny island offers a genuine escape from the crowds.

Returning to Medulin

After your island stay, the cruise continues with another scenic stretch back to Medulin, giving you final glimpses of the coast and perhaps a last sip of wine as the sun starts to lower.

Practical Details and Value

The duration of around 5 hours makes this a manageable day — long enough to see some of Istria’s best sights, but not so long that it wears you out. The price includes the cruise, lunch, and unlimited drinks**, which offers good value considering the quality of the food and the variety of beverages.

One important note: the trip is weather-dependent. If wind or bad weather threaten safety, the crew might cancel or reschedule, so it’s wise to be flexible.

The meeting point is straightforward—at the harbor in Medulin, marked by the bright red and yellow Sandra. No hotel pickup is included, but this is typical for boat trips, and the location is easy to find. If you need assistance, the crew is friendly and available by phone.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. You can reserve in advance with a flexible payment option—pay later if your plans change. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the trip.

Additional Considerations

• Bring essentials like swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.
• A cash-only policy on Ceja Island means you should carry some cash for snacks or drinks on the island.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Based on Review Insights

The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. As Cristian noted, “Marija & Ilia were fantastic, looking after us,” emphasizing the importance of friendly, attentive staff. Many appreciate the excellent food and drinks, especially the wine and tuna, making the trip feel more like a culinary and scenic adventure.

Some travelers wished for more time on Ceja—a sentiment that underscores just how beautiful and inviting the island is. The reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, enjoyable trip that balances activity with relaxation.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for adventurers who enjoy a bit of swimming and exploring, food lovers eager to sample fresh Croatian cuisine, and nature enthusiasts wanting to experience the coast’s rugged beauty. Families, couples, and groups of friends will find plenty to enjoy, especially those comfortable with a lively boat atmosphere.

If you seek a day combining scenic views, underwater fun, and delicious food, this trip offers excellent value. It’s an accessible, well-rounded way to see Istria’s coast from a new perspective—on the water, with good company, and plenty of local flavor.

FAQs

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The boat trip involves swimming and sunbathing, so comfortable clothing and protection from the sun are key.

Is the trip suitable for people with limited mobility?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to contact the provider in advance to ensure your specific needs can be accommodated.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers the boat cruise, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, sodas, water, schnapps), and a freshly prepared lunch featuring tuna, fish, meat, or vegetarian options.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, on Ceja Island, cash is needed if you want to buy snacks or drinks at the restaurant or cafe bar.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather or strong winds, the captain may cancel or reschedule the trip for safety reasons. You’ll be notified and can reschedule or receive a full refund.

How long do I spend on Ceja Island?
Expect about 2 to 3 hours on the island, which many feel is just enough time to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

This full-day boat trip from Medulin to Ceja Island offers an engaging mix of scenic cruising, underwater exploration, and laid-back island time. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Istria’s coast, with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy local flavors, and see some of Croatia’s best coastal sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: