Planning a day on the water in Croatia? This full-day boat trip from Podstrana to the islands of Bra and Šolta offers a relaxing blend of scenic cruising, charming towns, swimming, and delicious food. While it’s not a low-cost adventure, many travelers find it provides great value—and an opportunity to experience Croatia’s beautiful coastline with knowledgeable guides.
What we love about this trip is how it balances spectacular views with authentic, laid-back experiences. You’ll get to explore the picturesque town of Sutivan, snorkel around a shipwreck, and enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ lunch—all on a well-organized tour that caters to a variety of tastes. On the downside, the day’s itinerary involves several stops, which might feel rushed for some. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive maritime adventure in Croatia, this tour is likely to hit the spot.
This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy beautiful scenery, swimming, and good company. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of self-guided exploration and guided comfort, and for families or small groups looking for a memorable day at sea. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, non-swimmers, or need wheelchair accessibility, you might want to consider your options more carefully.
Key Points
- Authentic Croatian experience with swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming island towns
- Flexible schedule with multiple stops, including a shipwreck and local village
- Delicious BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks included in the price
- Knowledgeable guides and crew that prioritize friendly, engaging service
- Comfortable boat with amenities like Wi-Fi, snorkels, floaties, and water polo balls
- Good value for money considering the full day of activities, scenery, and food
A Detailed Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Necujam.
Starting Points and Logistics
The tour begins in the morning, departing from three convenient locations: Croatia Boat Charters near Krilo Jesenice, the Hotel Krilo, or the Gooshter Beach Club. The departure times vary—most start around 8:30 to 9:30 AM—so it’s best to check the schedule and choose a time that fits your plans. The round-trip journey lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
The tour is designed with ease in mind: your group travels on a comfortable boat equipped with Wi-Fi, fuel surcharge, insurance, and plenty of space for relaxing or taking photos. The crew is friendly and informative, and they go out of their way to create a welcoming atmosphere.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $79 per person, you receive quite a lot: the boat trip, lunch, snorkels, floaties, water polo balls, and beverages—including unlimited red wine, water, and orange juice during lunch. You’ll also benefit from insurance and fuel costs included in the price. Be aware that snacks and additional alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, so if you’re craving something specific, bring a little extra cash.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The day’s itinerary is well-structured to maximize your experience:
- First stop: the charming town of Sutivan on Bra Island. You’ll have about 75 minutes to wander its streets, browse local shops, or simply sit by the harbor and soak up the views. Travelers note that Sutivan is particularly beautiful, with some discovering local producers selling high-quality olive oils—a delightful bonus if you’re into local flavors.
- Second stop: a hidden bay on Bra for swimming and snorkeling. The waters here are crystal-clear, and your provided snorkel gear makes it easy to explore the marine life. Some reviews mention how relaxing and fun this part is, especially with floats and lilos available for lounging.
- Third stop: the shipwreck of Kontesa at Neujam. This wreck is a popular snorkel spot and a favorite for photography. The marine environment around the wreck is vibrant, and it offers the chance to see interesting sea life. One reviewer shared, “Swimming is fun—snorkels, floats, even a couple of lilos, very relaxing.” The shipwreck adds an extra layer of adventure to the day.
- Lunch: a freshly grilled BBQ served on board, featuring your choice of mackerel, chicken, or vegetarian pasta. The meal is complemented by unlimited drinks, making it a true highlight. The reviews praise the quality and the friendly service, with one traveler remarking, “Good food, good swimming spots, and excellent value for money.”
- Final stop: the waters around Šolta provide another opportunity to swim and enjoy the sea before heading back to Podstrana, with the boat cruise taking about 110 minutes in total.
What Travelers Say
Several reviews echo the positive aspects of this trip. One traveler commented, “Really great day and good value for money,” citing the full-day format, nice guides, and beautiful scenery as the main highlights. Others appreciate the friendly crew and the well-organized schedule, noting that it’s suitable even for small children. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and floats makes time in the water accessible and fun.
Some mention the timing—the stops are spaced to give enough free time for exploration and relaxation, but for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the multiple stops might feel a bit rushed. Still, most agree that the overall experience is worth the price.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, and camera to make the most of your day.
- Consider your swimming ability—while snorkeling is provided, non-swimmers might want to stay on the boat.
- Book your lunch preference (fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta) in advance by emailing the crew after booking.
- Be prepared for some jumping into the sea at swim stops, as the boat anchors in open water.
- The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people with severe seasickness, so plan accordingly.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This boat trip fits travelers craving a full-day, active yet relaxed adventure. If you enjoy discovering small seaside towns like Sutivan, and love swimming, snorkeling, and good food, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The inclusion of local flavors and marine life viewing adds genuine authenticity to the experience. It’s especially good value if you’re looking to cover multiple stops in one day—each with its own unique charm.
However, if your idea of a perfect day involves more personal space or a slower pace, or if you’re traveling with someone with mobility issues or seasickness, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
For those seeking an engaging way to see some of Croatia’s most scenic spots, this full-day boat trip from Podstrana to Bra and Šolta delivers stunning views, fun swimming, and delicious food at a reasonable price. The expertly led itinerary balances guided moments with free time, allowing you to enjoy the islands’ charm at your own pace.
The friendly crew, well-organized schedule, and quality snorkeling gear help make this a memorable day, especially if you value authentic experiences with plenty of opportunities to relax and explore. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a small group, this tour offers a taste of Dalmatian coastal life that’s hard to beat.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is included, non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat rides and exploring the towns. However, swimming stops may not be ideal if you’re uncomfortable in the water.
How long is the total trip?
The entire adventure lasts around 8 to 9 hours, including transfers, stops, and the boat cruise.
What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and camera. It’s also a good idea to pack some cash for purchases or extra snacks.
Are drinks included?
Yes, during lunch, unlimited red wine, water, and orange juice are served. Snacks and additional alcohol are available for purchase.
Can I choose my lunch?
Yes, after booking, email the crew your preference—fish, chicken, or vegetarian pasta—to ensure your meal is ready.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention it’s friendly for small kids, provided they’re comfortable with swimming and boat rides.
In summary, this sightseeing boat trip offers a well-rounded day of scenic cruising, island exploration, marine activities, and local food. It’s perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time on Croatia’s coast without feeling hurried. Just remember to book in advance and prepare for a day full of memorable moments on the water.
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