Rovinj Islands Boat Tour with Swimming

Exploring Rovinj’s Islands by Boat: A Guide to This Popular Croatian Excursion

If you’re looking for a peaceful yet engaging way to experience the coastal beauty of Istria, Croatia, the Rovinj Islands Boat Tour with Swimming offers a compelling option. This tour promises a blend of scenic views, underwater adventures, and charming island stops—all aboard a traditional wooden boat that adds a touch of maritime charm. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out for us are two things: first, the unique opportunity to see Rovinj from the water, offering perspectives you simply can’t get from land; second, the chance to enjoy swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters that look tempting enough to jump right in. On the flip side, one consideration is that this trip isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or seasickness-prone individuals. Still, for anyone able to hop on a boat, this experience seems well worth the price—around $41 per person—especially given the included snacks, drinks, and the small-group atmosphere.

This tour is ideal for those who love being on the water, appreciate authentic local scenery, and want a relaxed day with plenty of chances to swim. Families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a combination of sightseeing and active leisure will find plenty to enjoy here. Now, let’s look more closely at what this adventure involves and how it can fit into your Croatian itinerary.

Key Points

• Beautiful Views: The tour offers spectacular vistas of Rovinj’s Old Town from the sea, perfect for memorable photos.
• Island Exploration: Stops at Sv. Ivan and Dvije Sestrice islands provide opportunities for swimming, diving, and cliff jumping.
• Underwater Fun: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the waves.
• Gourmet Touch: Tasty canapés, fresh fruit, and drinks are served during the trip, adding a light culinary highlight.
• Small Group Feel: A limited number of passengers ensures personalized attention and unobstructed views.
• Photo Opportunities: Beyond the islands, you’ll see the Red Island with its historic castle and Zlatni Rt’s scenic coast during the return journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Day on the Water with Rovinj’s Best

The tour kicks off from the northern port of Rovinj, where you’ll meet your guide and board a charming wooden boat—more rustic charm than a giant cruise ship, which is part of what makes this experience appealing. From there, the journey begins with a scenic cruise along Rovinj’s coastline, offering a window into the town’s colorful architecture and lively harbor. Expect plenty of chances for photographs of the vibrant Old Town, with its red-tiled roofs and narrow streets, viewed from an entirely different angle.

First Stop: Sv. Ivan Island

Within moments, the boat pulls up at Sv. Ivan, a small, picturesque island that’s perfect for a relaxed visit. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore, swim, or just soak up the sun. The island offers ample opportunities for swimming, diving, and cliff jumping—an activity that seems to thrill many travelers, according to reviews. One guest even noted how “we liked the stops for swimming and snorkeling,” highlighting the appeal of this laid-back island retreat.

The views from Sv. Ivan are equally impressive: the lighthouse stands sentinel, and the natural surroundings feel pristine and untouched. If you’re into underwater exploration, bringing your snorkeling gear is a smart choice, as the underwater landscape is described as “amazing” and perfect for discovering marine life close up.

Light Lunch and Refreshments

After working up an appetite, you’ll be treated to delicious canapés and drinks, making for an enjoyable, casual lunch on deck. The snacks seem to be a highlight for many, with one reviewer noting, “The guide occasionally shared some info about the islands and brought around tasty snacks and drinks. Definitely recommended!” This light fare offers a perfect break from the active swimming and exploring.

Second Stop: Dvije Sestrice (“Two Sisters”) Islands

Next, the boat anchors between these two small islands, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim in the turquoise waters. The landscape here is described as sandy, making it ideal for relaxing in the water or snorkeling. Travelers who love exploring marine environments will find this stop especially rewarding, with one mentioning they “brought their snorkeling gear” to enjoy the underwater scenery.

During this leg of the trip, you might also enjoy the surrounding scenery, which includes distant views of the lighthouse and lush nature. After the swim, the crew serves fresh fruit—a refreshing treat after your aquatic adventures.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Return Journey: Scenic Coastline

On the way back to Rovinj, you’ll pass by notable sights, including Red Island with its historic castle and the Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape) nature park. These sights add a scenic touch to the return trip, giving you a broader sense of the area’s natural and historical landscape.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: At around $41, this tour offers a lot—guided boat ride, island stops, swimming opportunities, snacks, drinks, and a small-group environment. Travelers consistently praise the “great value” and “delicious snacks,” which elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride.

Authentic Experience: The small group size (implied by reviews) makes the journey feel intimate and personal. The guides seem knowledgeable, sharing tidbits about the islands and local sights without overwhelming.

Versatile Activity Options: Whether you prefer lounging on a sandy beach, jumping off cliffs, snorkeling, or just gazing at scenic views, this tour caters well. Plus, the clear waters invite plenty of underwater exploration, especially with snorkeling gear.

Ideal for Relaxed Days: If your idea of a perfect day involves gentle cruising, dips in turquoise waters, and leisurely sightseeing, this trip hits all those notes. It’s not a rigorous excursion but rather a peaceful, enjoyable experience.

Limitations and Considerations: Keep in mind, this trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or non-swimmers. Seasickness could be a concern for some, and the trip runs only in good weather. Also, it’s a 4.5-hour tour, so be prepared for a slightly longer day on the water.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

What to Bring: Essentials include sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes, and snorkeling gear—if you wish to explore underwater. Packing these will make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Timing & Duration: The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, starting from the northern port of Rovinj. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours on Sv. Ivan, 30 minutes at Dvije Sestrice, plus travel time and the return scenic drive.

Group Size & Language: The experience is offered in English, Italian, and Croatian, accommodating diverse travelers. While not explicitly stated, reviews hint at a small group setting, which enhances the overall atmosphere.

Booking & Flexibility: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, providing flexibility if your plans change. Cancellations are refundable if done more than 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Multiple reviews corroborate the high quality of this tour. Nadine found it “really nice, with snacks and drinks,” emphasizing the swimming and snorkeling as highlights, especially for kids. Max appreciated the close-up views of the islands and the informative guide, calling the experience “really cool” and recommending it highly.

Nicole enjoyed the “small group” and “tasty snacks,” while Angelique highlighted the “fantastic surroundings” and “great care” provided. Petya simply called it a “great trip” and recommended it wholeheartedly. These consistent positive comments hint at a well-organized, enjoyable outing.

The Sum Up

The Rovinj Islands Boat Tour with Swimming offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, active fun, and relaxing leisure. Its value lies not only in the reasonable price but also in the authentic, intimate experience it provides—everything from stunning island vistas to the chance to cool off in clear waters. With knowledgeable guides, tasty snacks, and the chance to explore local islands, this tour stands out as a memorable way to spend a half-day in Istria.

It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with active water-based fun and don’t mind a modest group setting. If you’re traveling with family, a partner, or on your own looking for a peaceful yet engaging escape, this trip is a smart choice. Just remember to bring your snorkeling gear and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids enjoying the swimming and cliff jumping. The tour is generally family-friendly, especially if children are comfortable around water.

What should I bring with me?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes, and snorkeling gear are recommended to make the most of the experience.

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 4.5 hours, including stops and travel.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the experience is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The tour includes light snacks and drinks, but specific dietary accommodations are not mentioned. It’s best to bring your own if you have special needs.

Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

In all, if you’re after a well-priced, authentic, and scenic boat trip with plenty of opportunities to swim in Croatia’s beautiful waters, this Rovinj Islands tour should definitely be on your list. Its blend of stunning scenery, engaging stops, and friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile addition to any Croatian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: