Porec: Boat Cruise with Barbecue Lunch

A Practical Review of the Porec: Boat Cruise with Barbecue Lunch

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the beauty of Croatia’s Istrian coast from the water, this boat cruise from Porec offers just that—and more. With a focus on stunning scenery, tasty local food, and relaxed stops at charming towns and islets, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a taste of seaside Croatia without too much fuss.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip are the opportunity to see the coast from a different perspective (the boat offers fantastic views of rugged cliffs and cozy coves) and the chance to enjoy a simple, authentic barbecue lunch on board. However, a few travelers might find the experience a bit uneven—some stops and meals don’t quite match expectations. This tour suits travelers who enjoy laid-back days, scenic cruising, and are flexible about timing and meal quality.

If you enjoy beautiful water views, exploring seaside towns, and don’t mind a more casual pace, this cruise could be just right. Those looking for a perfectly polished luxury experience may want to consider other options, but for authentic charm and coastal highlights, it’s a decent choice.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views from the water highlight Croatia’s rugged coastline perfectly.
• Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters offer refreshing breaks.
• Visits to Rovinj and Vrsar provide charming town experiences with narrow streets and picturesque settings.
• Inclusion of a barbecue lunch adds local flavor to the day, but quality can vary.
• Group size and timings are typically flexible, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Mixed reviews suggest that while the scenery and guides are excellent, the meals and some stops may disappoint certain travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This boat cruise is designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s scenic coastline from the water, combined with some time on land in charming towns. The journey begins in Porec, with a boat that departs for a full-day adventure along the Istrian coast.

Start with a scenic cruise: As the boat slips away from Porec, you’ll pass rugged cliffs and sandy coves. The views are what make this trip worthwhile. Expect to see a coastline dotted with rocky inlets, lush greenery, and small islands that seem to float in the calm waters. It’s a picture-perfect scene that often amazes first-time visitors.

Stop for a swim and snorkel: At some point, the boat anchors in a beautiful bay, allowing you to jump into the water. Crystal-clear and inviting, these spots are ideal for cooling off or exploring underwater life. Just be prepared for some stops that might be crowded or less secluded than expected—one reviewer noted that the swimming stop was “directly in the harbor of Vrsar, mega full and far from idyllic.”

Lunch in Rovinj: The highlight for many is the stop in Rovinj, one of Croatia’s most photogenic towns. With its tall, colorful townhouses and narrow cobblestone streets, it resembles Venice in miniature. Here, you’ll have about two hours to wander, enjoy a drink, and soak in the atmosphere. The included lunch offers a simple, hearty meal—either fish or meat, often served with bread and a side of chopped cabbage. Some reviews praise the food as tasty and generous, while others find it overly simple or not quite as described. One traveler noted that the meal was “a grilled mackerel, not a full fish grill,” so expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

Cruise around the Vrsar islets and Lim Bay: The water route then takes you around the islets off Vrsar, offering views of wooded bays and hidden coves. Lim Bay is a particular highlight, where freshwater springs flow into the sea—a unique feature that adds a touch of natural wonder to the trip.

What It’s Like Onboard

The boat itself is equipped for a relaxed day at sea, with plenty of deck space to enjoy the sun and views. The tour includes a guide who explains what you’re seeing in multiple languages, although some reviews mention difficulty hearing due to sound equipment issues. The experience is guided and organized, with a tour escort on board to help things run smoothly.

Meals and drinks: The barbecue lunch is included, along with a drink—up to the point that beverages are served only during the meal, with water, soft drinks, and white wine available. Beer is notably absent, which can be a letdown for some. Extra drinks cost extra, so if you’re a beer lover, plan accordingly.

Transfers: Transportation to and from the departure point is included, adding value and convenience. The timing of pickups is generally punctual, although some travelers experienced slight delays.

Group size: The tour tends to be in a group setting, with reviews indicating that large groups can make the sound system and commentary harder to follow. If you prefer smaller groups, you might want to ask about options.

The Value of the Experience

At $59 per person, this tour is fairly priced given the inclusion of boat transportation, a guided commentary, a barbecue meal, and stops in two beautiful towns. It appeals particularly to travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities for swimming and exploring.

However, some reviews point out that the lunch and stops don’t always live up to expectations. One guest remarked, “The lunch was very, very simple and not really good,” and others felt that certain stops—like the swimming in Vrsar—were less idyllic than hoped, especially when crowded or lacking privacy.

The tour’s strength lies in the scenery and the chance to see multiple spots in a single day without the hassle of organizing transport or navigation. It’s ideal for those who prioritize views and a leisurely pace over gourmet meals or exclusive beaches.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes for wandering in Rovinj, sunglasses, and a sun hat to stay protected during the cruise. If swimming is your goal, pack a towel and some sunscreen. Be aware that meal quality can vary—some reviews mention simple, straightforward dishes, so temper expectations if you’re looking for a gourmet experience.

For the best experience, arrive with an open mind about the stops and meals. The scenery and the chance to relax on deck are often the main highlights. If you’re a light sleeper or sensitive to sound, you might find the onboard commentary challenging when large groups are involved.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who love scenic water views, exploring seaside towns, and swimming in clear waters. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed, no-hassle day with friendly guides and a simple meal.

If you’re traveling with family, couples, or friends who enjoy a laid-back vibe and are flexible with meal quality and timing, this will suit you well. Conversely, if you seek a luxury experience with gourmet food or intimate stops, you may want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes bus transfers to and from the departure point, making it convenient to join the cruise.

What language is the tour conducted in? The tour is available in English and German, with guides speaking both languages.

Can I cancel the tour? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring onboard? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended to stay comfortable during the day.

Are drinks included? Drinks are served only during the meal; additional beverages, including beer, are available for purchase.

How long is the cruise? The total experience typically lasts a full day, with stops in Rovinj and Vrsar lasting around two hours each.

Is the lunch buffet like a barbecue? Not exactly. The lunch often features a grilled fish or meat dish with simple sides, not a traditional barbecue with multiple grilled items.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise from Porec offers a straightforward way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline, charming towns, and inviting waters. The highlights—beautiful views, swimming opportunities, and a taste of local cuisine—make it a good option for those looking to relax and see the coast without fuss.

While some aspects, like meals and stops, have received mixed reviews, the overall experience remains a solid choice for travelers wanting an affordable, scenic day out at sea. It’s particularly suited for visitors who don’t mind a casual pace and are happy to go with the flow.

If scenic water views, a laid-back atmosphere, and simple, authentic experiences appeal to you, this cruise is worth considering. Just remember to keep expectations in check regarding the meal and some of the stops. With an open mind and a sense of adventure, you’re likely to enjoy a memorable day along Croatia’s beautiful coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: