Lovran/Opatija: Swimming on Cres Island with Lunch

Exploring Cres Island with a Boat Trip from Opatija or Lovran

This boat tour offers a refreshing way to see a less-traveled corner of Croatia’s stunning coastline. Designed for those who love the water, great scenery, and a taste of local flavor, it’s a full-day adventure that balances activity with relaxed enjoyment. We’re reviewing a trip that combines swimming in crystal-clear waters, a delicious BBQ lunch, and visits to small, charming beaches and caves.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to escape busy beaches and find quiet pockets of natural beauty. The two standout features are the secluded beaches on Cres Island and the fresh, flavorful BBQ lunch served right on the boat. However, with a full schedule packed into 8 hours, you do want to be prepared for a fairly active day of swimming, sightseeing, and boat rides. This tour suits travelers who enjoy being on the water, appreciate scenic views, and are OK with some boat travel—note, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, those prone to seasickness, or very young children.

Key Points:

• Beautiful, secluded beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing
• Scenic boat ride across Kvarner Bay with stunning views
• Delicious BBQ lunch served onboard, with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian
• Small group size offers a personal experience and more interaction
• Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance
• Includes drinks and seasonal fruit for a well-rounded day

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day Out on Cres Island

This tour provides a fantastic blend of sightseeing, swimming, and culinary treats, all framed by Croatia’s beautiful coastline. Starting from either Lovran or Opatija, the boat departs early in the morning—8:20 AM from Opatija, or 9:00 AM from Lovran—setting the tone for a day that feels relaxed yet packed with memorable moments. The two-hour cruise across Kvarner Bay is an easy, scenic ride that often gets rave reviews for its peacefulness and the open water views.

The First Stop: Smrdea Beach

The journey’s highlight is the stop at Smrdea Beach, positioned on Cres’s northwestern coast. Known for its crystal-clear waters and untouched natural beauty, it’s the perfect spot for a couple of hours of swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. Guests report that the water is impressively clean, which makes for a refreshing swim after a boat ride. One reviewer appreciated the clear waters and natural surroundings, calling it “the best trip,” noting the overall quality of the guide and service.

Lunch on Board: A Barbecue Feast

After working up an appetite, the boat’s captain fires up the grill for a delicious BBQ lunch—a highlight for many travelers. The meal includes meat, fish, or vegetarian options, complemented by salads and bread. Fresh seasonal fruit is served later in the afternoon, adding a sweet, cooling touch to the day. The value of this lunch is high, given that it’s prepared on the boat, removing the need to seek out a restaurant on Cres itself.

Second Stop: Badnjev Beach

Following lunch, the boat anchors at Badnjev Beach for another hour of swimming and relaxing. This quieter spot offers another chance to enjoy the water and natural scenery away from the crowds. The reviews indicate that the stops are well timed—long enough to swim and unwind but not so long that you feel hurried.

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Exploring the Blue Cave and Coastal Views

After a bit of sightseeing along Cres’s coast, the boat heads toward the town of Brse, with its towering 60-meter cliffs providing a dramatic backdrop. The last stop is the Little Blue Cave, where visitors can swim, snorkel, and explore the small, enchanting cave with a distinctive blue hue. This feature is particularly popular among travelers, who find it adding a magical touch to the day.

Return Journey and Coastal Scenery

The return trip offers views of charming coastal towns like Moenika Draga, Medveja, Lovran, Ika, and others, as the boat makes its way back to the starting point. The entire journey, including all stops and activities, totals around 8 hours, ending back in Opatija or Lovran around 5:00 PM.

What to Expect: Practical Details & Tips

The tour involves a lot of sitting on a boat, swimming, and some walking around small beaches and caves. The itinerary is quite detailed, with specific stops and durations—each offering unique scenery and experiences. For example, the Water Taxi segment (about 1.5 hours) allows guests to relax or take in the views, while the secret stop provides free time to explore or swim at a less crowded spot.

The boat is equipped with passenger insurance and drinks—sparkling and still water, soda, and wine—making the experience enjoyable without feeling commercialized. The small group limit of 15 people ensures a more intimate atmosphere and chances to chat with the guide, who is knowledgeable and multilingual (Croatian, English, German).

Considerations

While the experience is well-organized, travelers should be aware that bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds provided. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, very young children under 1 year, or people with seasickness. Bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, towel, and snorkeling gear if you wish to explore underwater.

The Real Value: Is It Worth it?

At around $131 per person, the price reflects a full-day experience with transport, guide, lunch, drinks, and insurance included. For those who love being on the water, the value is clear: multiple swimming stops in pristine settings, combined with a tasty meal and scenic views. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to experience Cres’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing boat rentals or navigating unfamiliar waters.

Reviewers consistently praise the expertise of the guides and the quality of the food and drinks. One guest called Captain Tomy’s explanations “very informative,” sharing that the experience felt both relaxed and well-managed. The delicious BBQ and excellent service are often highlighted as the trip’s standout features.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This experience is perfect for water lovers, scenic seekers, and those who enjoy small-group adventures. It’s ideal for travelers looking to combine a bit of adventure with relaxation and good food. If you’re not comfortable on boats or prone to seasickness, you might want to consider other options. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, this tour’s physical demands and restrictions might be a concern.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This boat trip on Cres Island offers an authentic taste of Croatia’s coastline, away from the crowded beaches and tourist traps. The secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters provide genuine moments of tranquility and beauty. The lunch onboard adds a satisfying culinary element, making it a well-rounded day.

For travelers craving a relaxed yet active day on the water, with the chance to explore caves, swim in pristine waters, and enjoy local flavors, this tour hits the mark. The small group format ensures a friendly, personalized experience, and the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

If you’re looking for a scenic, water-based adventure that balances fun, discovery, and relaxation without overthinking logistics, this Cres Island boat tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those who value natural beauty, good company, and a taste of Croatia’s lesser-known spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:20 AM from Opatija or 9:00 AM from Lovran, with check-in roughly 15 minutes before departure.

How long is the boat ride across Kvarner Bay?
The crossing takes about two hours, offering plenty of scenic water views and a relaxing start to the day.

What does the BBQ lunch include?
Guests choose from meat, fish, or vegetarian options, served with salads and bread. Seasonal fruit is also provided later in the afternoon.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a variety of beverages, including sparkling and still water, sodas, and wine.

Is swimming allowed at all stops?
Absolutely. The stops at Smrdea Beach, Badnjev Beach, and the Blue Cave are all designed for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, making for a more personal and engaging experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, a towel, camera, and snorkeling gear if desired. Comfortable clothes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This Cres Island boat tour combines natural beauty, local flavors, and a relaxed pace—ideal for travelers eager to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline without the crowds. Whether you’re swimming in clear waters, exploring caves, or just soaking in the scenery, it promises a memorable day on the Adriatic.

You can check availability for your dates here: