If you’re looking for a way to see the stunning Croatian coast without the crowds, this speedboat tour from Rovinj is worth considering. It promises a full day of exploring hidden coves, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying local seafood, all aboard a private boat with a skilled skipper.
What we like most about this experience is its personalized nature—the route is flexible, and the skipper can stop wherever you want, creating a truly tailored adventure. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins and snorkel in secluded spots adds an authentic touch that many organized tours lack.
On the flip side, this tour depends heavily on weather conditions, so if wind or storms roll in, some stops may be limited or postponed. Also, the tour is quite long—eight hours—so it suits those comfortable with a full day at sea, rather than a quick afternoon jaunt.
This experience is perfect for travelers who crave a more intimate, adventurous way to discover Istria’s coast, especially if you’re keen on swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local cuisine. If you’re after a scenic, flexible, and authentic day on the water, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Flexible itinerary: Stops are customizable, allowing you to explore according to your interests.
- Authentic experiences: Snorkeling, cliff jumping, tubing, and dolphin spotting make it engaging.
- All-inclusive drinks: Water, soft drinks, and beer are provided, keeping you refreshed.
- Great for seafood lovers: Optional lunch at top seafood restaurants adds a culinary highlight.
- Ideal for private groups: The tour is designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized adventure.
- Weather-dependent: The experience’s success relies on good sea conditions.
An In-Depth Look at the Rovinj Islands and Lim Fjord Speedboat Tour
This eight-hour journey promises a comprehensive exploration of Rovinj’s coast, from the historic old town to some of the most beautiful islands and fjords in the area. It’s operated by Andana Sea Tours, a trusted provider known for personalized service and flexible routes.
Transportation & Group Size: The tour uses a private speedboat, which generally means a smaller, more intimate group—ideal for travelers seeking privacy and flexibility. Pickup locations are varied, from city center spots like the Boat Fueling Station in Rovinj’s old town to hotels and nearby islands, making it easy to join regardless of where you’re staying.
Duration & Timing: Spanning around eight hours, the tour offers ample time for multiple stops and activities. Starting times are flexible, but you’ll want to check availability in advance. Expect to spend most of your day on the water, with plenty of chances to take breaks and relax.
Cost & Value: The price reflects the all-day private experience—complete with a professional skipper, onboard drinks, snorkeling gear, insurance, and fuel. While it’s more expensive than group tours, the level of customization and exclusivity means you’re paying for a more personal, stress-free adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rovinj.
The Itinerary: What You Will See and Do
The tour’s itinerary is packed with diverse highlights, each offering different views and activities that showcase Istria’s coastal beauty. Since the route is customizable, you may find your skipper tailoring stops based on your interests, but here’s a typical journey:
Start: Rovinj Old Town & Church of Saint Euphemia
The adventure begins with a quick cruise past Rovinj’s iconic Church of Saint Euphemia, giving you a perfect photo opportunity of Croatia’s most photographed city. It’s a gentle introduction to the area, setting the tone for the day ahead.
Lim Fjord & Pirate Cave
Next, you’ll cruise through the impressive Lim Fjord, known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic views. Here, a stop at the Pirate Cave offers a chance for a drink with panoramic vistas—probably the most Instagram-worthy moment of the day. Expect to relax in the secluded coves and maybe enjoy a cold beer or tea as you soak in the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyRed Island & Snorkeling
One of the tour’s highlights is docking at Red Island, Croatia’s smallest harbor, where you can explore ruins, try cliff jumping, or simply enjoy the peaceful beach. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the rocky seabed is ideal for underwater exploration. The waters here are some of the clearest you’ll find, making it a true delight for underwater photography.
Katarina Island & Cliff Jumping
On Katarina Island, visitors can indulge in cliff jumping—a favorite activity for adrenaline seekers. The small castle and mausoleum add a historical flair, but most travelers are here for the fun in the sun.
Vrsar & More Secluded Bays
The route may include a stop in Vrsar for a quick walk around the picturesque harbor town, offering a change of scene from the islands. Afterward, the boat heads to secluded bays, where fewer boats and travelers are likely to be waiting, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Two Sisters & Sveti Andrija
The Two Sisters Islands are known for their beautiful beaches—great for a swim. Sveti Andrija offers scenic views and a peaceful walk, rounding out the exploration with tranquil vistas.
Final Stops & Return
As the day winds down, the boat might stop at Golden Cape for a last scenic cruise, and finally, an optional visit to Sveti Ivan, a site for snorkeling and taking in the sunset views. The tour concludes with a return to your original pickup point, often around early evening.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips
Swimming & Snorkeling: The tour emphasizes natural beauty, with numerous opportunities to swim in pristine waters. Snorkeling gear is included, and the clear, rocky-bottomed waters are perfect for underwater photography.
Cliff Jumping & Tubing: These optional activities deliver adrenaline and fun, especially at Red Island and Katarina Island. Remember, cliff jumping is an optional activity, so you can skip it if you prefer relaxing in the boat.
Food & Drinks: Onboard, you’ll find complimentary water, soft drinks, and beer, which is a nice touch after several hours on the water. The optional lunch in a top seafood restaurant is highly recommended if you want to indulge in fresh local cuisine—consider it a culinary highlight that adds excellent value for a full-day tour.
Dolphin Spotting: While dolphins are not guaranteed, the possibility of seeing them adds an extra layer of excitement to the trip—many guests hope to catch a glimpse of these playful creatures.
Weather & Safety: Since the tour depends on sea conditions, bad weather could affect your experience. The boat doesn’t have onboard toilets, but there are scheduled stops for breaks and facilities.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour suits travelers who crave a personalized, adventure-filled day rather than a crowded group experience. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and outdoor activities like cliff jumping, you’ll find plenty to love here. It also appeals to those who want to combine sightseeing with the opportunity to enjoy Croatia’s freshest seafood in a relaxed setting.
It’s ideal for those comfortable with a full day at sea and who want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations at their own pace. Families with older children, friends traveling together, or couples looking for a romantic escape will all find this a rewarding experience.
The Sum Up
This speedboat tour from Rovinj offers a well-rounded, flexible way to discover Istria’s coastline, islands, and fjords. The ability to customize stops, combined with the chance to snorkel, cliff jump, and relax in secluded bays, makes for an authentic, memorable day on the water. The inclusion of drinks, optional seafood lunch, and professional skipper ensures comfort and safety.
While weather can influence certain aspects, the overall experience is a great value for those wanting a private, adventure-focused day in Croatia. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, active fun, and authentic local flavors, away from the crowds.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing plenty of time for multiple stops and activities.
Are drinks included?
Yes, onboard drinks like water, soft drinks, and beer are included, keeping you refreshed throughout the day.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the route is 100% customizable, and stops can be made wherever you want along the coast.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, so you can explore the underwater world when stopping at different coves and islands.
Are cliff jumping and tubing activities?
Yes, these are optional activities available at certain stops, such as Katarina Island and Red Island.
What about food?
Snacks and drinks are available on the boat, but you may also opt for an excellent seafood lunch at a local restaurant, which is highly recommended.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera for underwater photos.
Where do I meet the skipper?
Pick-up locations vary, including Rovinj’s old town, hotels, and other nearby spots. The skipper will come to the specified pick-up point at the scheduled time.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for those comfortable with a full day at sea. Pregnant women, people with mobility issues, children under 1 year, and those over 75 are not suitable.
This Rovinj Islands and Lim Fjord speedboat tour offers a chance to enjoy Croatia’s coast in a private, flexible, and active way. Perfect for adventurous travelers looking for authentic, scenic, and fun experiences on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Rovinj
- Rovinj Islands: 4-Hour Guided Kayak Tour with drinks
- Rovinj: Dolphin Watching Sunset Speedboat Tour with Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 3-Hour Tour with Swimming and Snorkeling
- Rovinj: Dolphins at Sunset & Island Swimming Speedboat Tour
- Rovinj: Shared Dolphin and Sunset Tour with Drinks
- Rovinj or Vrsar: Rovinj Islands and Lim Fjord Speedboat Tour
More Tour Reviews in Rovinj
- From Zagreb to Istria: Private Day Trip to Pula and Rovinj
- Novigrad: Lim Fjord & Rovinj Boat Trip with Lunch and Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 4-Hour Guided Kayak Tour with drinks
- Rovinj: Luxury Old Town Night Cruise with Drinks
- Rovinj: Fish picnic with sunset and dolphin watching
- Rovinj Islands, LImski Fjord & Shellfish Tasting (Optional)
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Rovinj we have reviewed
- From Zagreb to Istria: Private Day Trip to Pula and Rovinj
- Novigrad: Lim Fjord & Rovinj Boat Trip with Lunch and Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 4-Hour Guided Kayak Tour with drinks
- Rovinj: Fish picnic with sunset and dolphin watching
- Rovinj Islands, LImski Fjord & Shellfish Tasting (Optional)
- Rovinj: Fish picnic in Lim fjord and Red Island
- Rovinj: Dolphin Watching Sunset Speedboat Tour with Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 3-Hour Tour with Swimming and Snorkeling
- Rovinj: Dolphins at Sunset & Island Swimming Speedboat Tour
- Rovinj: Shared Dolphin and Sunset Tour with Drinks
- Rovinj or Vrsar: Rovinj Islands and Lim Fjord Speedboat Tour
- Private Boat tour Istria