Snorkeling in Istria: Private Boat with Dolphin Watching

Dolphins show up on most departures along the Vrsar coast.

A private snorkeling boat departing from Marina Funtana in Istria lets you shape the day around what you want (swimming in hidden bays, watching dolphins in their habitat, or fishing the Adriatic) with a professional skipper, full snorkeling kit and restroom on board. The boat accommodates families, couples and small groups. Duration ranges from two to six hours depending on your preferences and sea conditions.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private boat tour along Istrian coast

• Depart from Marina Funtana
• Sail along Vrsar coastline
• Enjoy panoramic views of old town
• Search for dolphins at sea
• Swim in secluded bays
• Try fishing in the Adriatic
• Use snorkeling equipment
• Relax with welcome drink

The experience

You arrive at Marina Funtana and board a private boat with a professional skipper who speaks English, Italian or Croatian. The skipper tailors the route based on what appeals to you: some days lean toward dolphin watching along the Vrsar coastline, where the boat sails close enough to spot them in open water. Other days prioritize secluded swimming stops in bays only reachable by boat, or time spent fishing if that's your focus. The boat carries snorkeling equipment for everyone, bottled water, and a welcome drink to start the day.

As you sail along the coast, you pass panoramic views of Vrsar's old town and the surrounding archipelago. The skipper knows the waters and adjusts course based on what you spot: dolphins, calm anchorages, or fishing grounds. You can swim in the bays, use the snorkeling gear to explore underwater, or simply stay on deck and watch the coastline. The boat has a restroom on board, which matters on longer outings. Infants can travel in a pram or stroller, and service animals are welcome.

The total time on the water ranges from two to six hours. You and the skipper agree on the length and the route before departure. This flexibility is what makes the day yours rather than a fixed itinerary. You're not following a schedule built for strangers, but one built around your group.

What’s included

• Professional skipper fluent in English, Italian or Croatian.
• snorkeling equipment for all passengers.
• bottled water.
• welcome drink.
• restroom on board.
• fuel surcharge included in the price.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 15:00

Book up to1d before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Italian and Croatian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 15 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Andromeda Boat Seaexperience Funtana

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English, Italian or Croatian, so book this if your group is comfortable in one of those languages. The private boat means you set the pace and the focus (whether that's a long day of dolphin watching, a short afternoon of swimming, or a mix of both) rather than following a group schedule.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Italian and Croatian.

Can I snorkel if I've never done it before?

Yes. The boat includes snorkeling equipment for all passengers, and the skipper can show you how to use it. The bays where you stop are calm and shallow enough for beginners to feel comfortable in the water.

What is the Vrsar coastline like when we sail past it?

Vrsar is a small coastal town with an old town perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, surrounded by islands and smaller rocky outcrops. The skipper sails close enough to see the architecture and the surrounding archipelago as you move along the water.

How often do you actually see dolphins on these trips?

Dolphins are common in this part of the Adriatic and appear on most departures, though sightings are never guaranteed. They are wild animals and their presence depends on the day and the season. The skipper knows where they are most likely to be and will head in that direction if that's what your group wants to do.

What's included in the price, and what costs extra?

The price includes the boat, professional skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, a welcome drink and use of the restroom on board. Fishing, if you choose it, is included in the experience. Any food beyond the welcome drink is not.

Can we bring young children or infants?

Yes. Infants can travel in a pram or stroller, and infants too small to sit independently must sit on an adult's lap. The boat is suitable for all fitness levels, and the skipper can adjust the day to keep children comfortable.