If you’re looking to explore Croatia’s northern coast by sea, this full-day boat tour from Novalja offers a blend of natural beauty, charming old towns, and relaxing beach time. It’s a trip designed for travelers who want to see more than just the beaches — instead, you get to experience some of the most photogenic spots, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and savor local flavors.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with authentic Croatian history and culture. The boat glides past cliffs and caves that make you feel like you’re on a silent, moving postcard, while the visit to Rab’s medieval old town offers a glimpse into the island’s rich past. Plus, the included lunch and the chance to take a swim in clear waters make it a well-rounded, value-packed experience.
Of course, no trip is perfect, and a possible consideration is the shorter stop in Zavratnica Bay — some might wish for more time to explore or photograph this natural wonder. Weather conditions can also influence the itinerary, so flexibility is key. Still, if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural discovery, this tour is likely to suit those who enjoy relaxed, scenic days on the water.
This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate stunning views, historical towns, and a comfortable boat trip. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers looking to see Croatia from a different perspective without the fuss of planning each detail.
Key Points
- Stunning coastal scenery: From cliffs and caves to Zavratnica Bay’s sunken warship remains.
- Historic charm: Explore Rab’s old town with its ancient walls and bell towers.
- Relaxing beach stop: Swim or relax on Pudarica Beach’s pebbled sands.
- Excellent value: Includes transportation, a delicious onboard lunch, and sightseeing.
- Flexible options: Multiple pickup points and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Weather-dependent: Itinerary may change depending on weather conditions.
The Experience in Detail
This boat tour offers an inviting window into Croatia’s coast, blending natural beauty, history, and leisure. Starting from Lun’s Tovarnele port, the journey begins with a scenic sail along the northern side of Pag Island. We loved the way the boat cruises past cliffs and caves along Cape Lun, giving a feeling of floating through a rugged landscape carved by nature over millennia. The views are mesmerizing, especially when the sunlight hits the cliffs and the water sparkles.
The first significant stop is Zavratnica Bay, part of the Velebit Nature Park. This inlet is a highlight, offering dramatic scenery and an interesting historical touch — at the bottom of the bay, you can spot remains of a sunken WWII warship. It’s worth bringing your camera for the picturesque views and perhaps a quick photo stop on deck to capture this serene setting. The bay’s calm waters make it an ideal spot for a brief pause, but some reviews suggest the stop could be longer — it’s just an hour, which flies by quickly.
Next, the boat heads toward Pudarica Beach on Rab Island. Here, you’ll find a pebbled beach with clear, inviting waters — perfect for swimming or simply lounging on the deck with a cold drink. The time spent here, around 45 minutes, is enough to take a dip or snap some photos of the shoreline. This break is a favorite for many, especially those who love relaxing by the water. The included lunch is served onboard — with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian meals — and is generally regarded as satisfying, though some reviews mention that beverages are extra and bottles cost around 3 euros.
After lunch, the tour continues to Rab’s old town, renowned for its medieval walls and four bell towers. This is a brief stop, giving you about 30 minutes to wander the narrow streets and soak in the atmosphere of this historic town. We loved the authentic feel of Rab’s architecture, and it’s an excellent chance for a quick stroll, photos, or a coffee at a local café.
The final part of the trip involves a swim in Mata Bay, near Lun, before heading back to the starting point. It’s a relaxed way to end the day, with calm waters perfect for a last dip.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rab.
Practical Details That Matter
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with start times varying depending on the booking. It’s important to arrive on time, especially since the boat departs from Tovarnele port, which is accessible via transfer from Novalja (depending on your booking option). The organized transfers help streamline logistics, but it’s wise to confirm your pick-up location and time.
Group sizes tend to be moderate, providing a friendly, intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded. The trip is narrated in Croatian and English, making it accessible for international visitors. The tour includes tickets for Zavratnica, boat ride, and lunch, offering good value, though drinks on board are charged separately.
Weather can influence the schedule — if clouds or wind pick up, the captain may alter the itinerary. That’s typical for outdoor excursions, and the crew’s flexibility is a plus. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen, as you’ll spend significant time outdoors.
What Travelers Say
Reviewers generally rate this tour highly — with an average of 4.7 out of 5 based on 108 reviews. Many praise the stunning views and the knowledgeable crew, mentioning that the trip feels both relaxing and scenic. Silvia’s glowing review highlights the “amazing crew” and fun swimming opportunities.
However, some travelers noted that the first stop in Zavratnica was “too short”, wishing for more time to explore or photograph this beautiful inlet. Others mentioned that the second stop in Pudarica was enjoyable, but the lunch was average, and some found the drinks on board to be a bit pricey — bottles at 3 euros.
A less favorable review pointed out that “the captain is not very kind,” which reminds us that the experience can vary depending on the crew. The feedback emphasizes that the stunning scenery and the knowledgeable guides are the tour’s main assets.
Is This Tour Worth It?
If you’re after a scenic, relaxed day on the water with opportunities to swim, explore historic sites, and enjoy Croatian cuisine, this tour offers strong value. It’s especially good if you want a guided experience that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or boat rentals yourself.
The price includes transportation, boat trip, and lunch, making it a convenient package for travelers who prefer not to plan each detail. Keep in mind that additional beverages cost extra, so if you want cold drinks during the day, budget accordingly.
While some may wish for longer stops at Zavratnica or more time in Rab’s old town, the concise schedule allows for a well-rounded taste of the region. The moderate group size and bilingual narration contribute to a more personal, engaging experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Would Love This Tour?
This boat trip is perfect for those who enjoy scenery, history, and a leisurely pace. It’s well-suited for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to see Croatia from a different perspective. The trip provides ample opportunities for photography and relaxation, making it ideal for anyone wanting a break from busy sightseeing.
It’s also a good fit for travelers with a moderate budget, given that the main costs are covered upfront — though keep in mind the extra for beverages. Those with mobility issues should check with the provider regarding accessibility, but the stops are generally on accessible beaches and towns.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with departure and return from the specified meeting points, depending on your booking.
Where does the tour start?
You can choose between the Market Rumarin or SUNTURIST Tourist Agency as your pickup location, both in Novalja.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes tickets for Zavratnica, the boat trip, and a hot lunch (meat, fish, or vegetarian). Transfers from Novalja to Lun are also included depending on your option.
Are drinks included?
No, additional beverages like water or soda are charged separately on board, with bottles costing around 3 euros.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen — you’ll be exposed to the sun for much of the trip.
Is the itinerary fixed?
The schedule may change based on weather conditions, so some stops or timing could vary.
Is there free time at Rab?
Yes, there’s about 30 minutes to explore the old town, which is enough to walk around, take photos, or grab a quick coffee.
What’s the best part of the tour?
Most travelers love the stunning views of Zavratnica Bay and the historic charm of Rab, along with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.
Final Thoughts
This boat tour from Novalja offers a well-choreographed glimpse into Croatia’s coast, blending natural beauty with historic sights and leisure. The spectacular cliffs, caves, and Zavratnica Bay provide stunning photo opportunities, while Rab’s old town adds a layer of cultural charm. The included lunch and manageable schedule make it a convenient day trip for many travelers.
While some might wish for longer stops in certain locations, the curated stops ensure you experience a good mix of scenery, history, and relaxation. Its moderate price point, combined with the scenic highlights and friendly guides, makes it a solid choice for those wanting a taste of Croatia’s coastal magic without the hassle of organizing multiple activities.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic landscapes, historical exploration, and a leisurely pace. It’s especially appealing for families, couples, or solo adventurers eager for an accessible, well-organized day on the water.
In all, this boat trip to Zavratnica and Rab offers a memorable slice of Croatia’s coast, capturing the essence of its rugged beauty and timeless charm.
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