Full day boat-trip Medulin, blue Cave, Cres + dolphin search

Complete Guide to the Full-Day Boat Trip from Medulin to Cres and the Blue Cave

This full-day boat trip offered by Medulin Excursions Obrt costs $88 per person and departs from Medulin Harbor in Croatia. The journey covers several highlights, including a 1-hour stop at the Blue Cave for swimming and snorkeling, a 2-hour exploration of Cres, and a dolphin search on the return trip. The tour features an inclusive lunch with options such as fish, tuna steak, meat, or vegetarian, plus drinks including wine, beer, sodas, and water.

The trip is designed for those who enjoy coastal scenery, marine activities, and charming towns. It offers an exciting mix of adventure and relaxation, though the dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. Based on reviews, the guides are praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge, making this an appealing option for visitors seeking a comprehensive day out on the Croatian coastline.

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Key Points

• Price: $88 per person, with pay later option and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Duration: Full-day experience, starting at 8:30 AM and returning in the late afternoon
• Main Stops: Blue Cave with snorkeling, Island Cres exploration, and dolphin search
• Food & Drinks: Inclusive lunch (fish, tuna, meat, or vegetarian), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Highlights: Spectacular coastal scenery, chance to see dolphins, and a chance to explore Cres at leisure
• Group Size & Logistics: Meeting point at Sandra check-in sign, 30 minutes before departure

Starting the Adventure at Medulin Harbor

The tour begins at 8:30 AM from Medulin Harbour aboard a big red Aska boat. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a drink or aperitif, setting a relaxed tone before setting sail. The boat ride itself is comfortable, and the crew provides animation and friendly service throughout the day, creating a lively, warm atmosphere.

The meeting point is at the Sandra check-in sign, located at Riva 18, Medulin. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early to settle in and be ready for the departure.

Exploring the Blue Cave: Snorkeling and Swimming

The Blue Cave, the largest in this part of Croatia, is the first major stop. The tour allocates one hour for guests to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The cave’s natural beauty makes it a popular photo spot, though some reviews note that the cave appears quite dark and the blue light effect may be less vivid. Guests are advised to wear beach shoes or snorkeling footwear due to sharp rocks on the cave floor.

This stop offers a unique chance to see marine life and enjoy the cool waters. The guided snorkeling enhances the experience, with the crew available to assist and explain what is visible beneath the surface.

Cruising Past Cres’s Rocky Cliffs and Lighthouse

After leaving the Blue Cave, the boat continues towards Cres Island, passing spectacular rocky cliffs and the Hrid Zaglav Lighthouse. This part of the journey allows for great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the rugged coastline of the Croatian Adriatic. The cruise itself is described as breathtaking, with stunning scenery lining the coast.

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Tasting a Freshly Prepared Lunch on Board

At 12:00 PM, the boat anchors near Cres for a delicious onboard lunch. The meal is prepared fresh and served in a casual, relaxed setting. Options include fish, tuna steak, meat, or vegetarian dishes, accompanied by cabbage salad. The drinks menu features red and white wine, beer, sodas, and water, included in the price.

Guests can soak up the sun and enjoy the sea breeze during their meal, making it a perfect pause amid the day’s activities. Some reviews mention that the vegetarian meal can be quite simple, but overall, the lunch is considered good value.

Two Hours to Explore Cres Town

In Cres, the boat stays for two hours, giving ample time to wander the quaint streets or relax on nearby beaches. Cres is known for its charming town atmosphere, with local shops, bistros, and pebble beaches along the coast. Visitors can independently explore at their own pace or simply enjoy the seaside scenery.

The free time on Cres makes this tour particularly flexible for those interested in shopping, sightseeing, or tanning. Some feedback notes that Cres is beautiful and worth exploring.

Dolphin Search and Return Journey

As the boat begins its return to Medulin around 3:00 PM, there is an opportunity to spot dolphins. While sightings are not guaranteed, the area is known for its playful dolphin population, adding an element of excitement to the journey home.

The final leg of the trip allows for relaxed cruising with spectacular coastal views. Guests can enjoy drinks, snacks, or take more pictures of the dramatic cliffs and seascapes.

Practical Tips and What to Expect

This tour is suitable for most ages and requires comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and beachwear. It’s recommended to bring cash for any extra purchases on the islands or additional snacks. For windy days, taking a pullover is wise. The tour is conducted in English, with flexible booking options and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The group size is managed by the crew, and transfer arrangements can be made if booked in advance. Bad weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation for safety reasons.

Highlights and Review Balance

The trip’s strengths are the friendly crew, spectacular scenery, and delicious onboard lunch. The Blue Cave stop, though somewhat dark, offers a memorable snorkeling experience. The free time in Cres is highly valued, giving travelers a chance to discover the town at their own pace.

Some limitations include the uncertain dolphin sightings and the potential for crowded Blue Cave visits, which may affect the snorkeling experience. Plus, some guests found the vegetarian lunch a bit simple and lacked variety.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day boat adventure is perfect for coastal explorers, marine life enthusiasts, and family groups who want a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural discovery. The price offers great value, considering the lunch, drinks, and multiple stops.

While the dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, the scenery, Blue Cave, and Cres itself make this a memorable experience. It’s ideal for those who appreciate relaxed pace and flexible exploration.

Final Words on the Medulin Blue Cave and Cres Boat Trip

This full-day adventure combines adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing in a way that suits many travel styles. The friendly crew, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes make it a worthwhile choice for visitors to Croatia. Do prepare for potential crowds at the Blue Cave, and remember that dolphin sightings depend on chance.

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that highlights Croatia’s stunning coastline and warm hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $88?
The price covers boat ride, lunch with fish, tuna steak, meat, or vegetarian options, drinks including wine, beer, sodas, and water, crew, and animation.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day trip starts at 8:30 AM and returns in the late afternoon, with stops including the Blue Cave, Cres, and the dolphin search.

Is snorkeling at the Blue Cave safe and comfortable?
Yes, but wearing beach shoes is advised due to sharp rocks. The water is clear, and the guided snorkeling allows guests to explore marine life comfortably.

Can I explore Cres independently?
Absolutely, the two-hour stop in Cres gives plenty of free time to walk around, visit shops, or relax on the beaches.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip may be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. It’s best to check weather forecasts and confirm transfer arrangements in advance.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
No, dolphins are wild animals, and sightings depend on their activity during the trip. However, the area is known for dolphin presence, making the chance exciting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby