Istria E-Bike & Boat
Croatia Bike + Boat Tours
The magical landscape of the Istrian peninsula!
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Tour Type
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Skill Level
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Length8 days
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Prices from€2069 Rates
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Overview
The Istrian Peninsula is the largest in Croatia and offers an incredible backdrop for this e-bike and boat tour.
The Romans called this land "Terra Magica", and magical it is! Situated between the Kvarner Bay and the Gulf of Triest, Istria's picture-perfect beaches and fascinating historical harbor towns, such as Pula, Porec, and Rovinj, are delightful.
As you travel inland, you will think you are in Italy! The fertile hinterlands are reminiscent of a Tuscan landscape, characterized by medieval hilltop villages, colorful vineyards, and silver-green olive groves. This is home to the world’s best truffles, olive oil, and wine.
Istria is graced with over 2,300 hours of sun each year, so get ready for a sun-filled vacation.
Highlights
- Medieval villages
- Ancient harbor cities: Pula, Porec, Rovinj...and more
- Impressive Roman amphitheater in Pula
- The beautiful Limski-Canal
- Exploring the coasts AND hinterlands
- Rails to trails cycling on the Parenzana Rail Trails
- Baredine limestone cave
- Deluxe accommodations
Be sure to check out our full list of bike & boat tours in Croatia.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation in Omišalj - Cruise to Cres
Day 2: Cres - Pula, 17 mi. (28 km)
Day 3: Pula - Vrsar - Porec 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Poreč - Novigrad - Rovinj, 36 mi. (59 km)
Day 5: Rovinj, 12 mi. (20 km)
Day 6: Rovinj - Fažana - Rabac, 22 mi. (37 km)
Day 7: Rabac - Njivice - Omišalj, 26 mi. (43 km)
Day 8: Omisalj (Disembarkation)All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, including but not limited to weather or last-minute docking changes.
Day 1: Embarkation in Omišalj - Cruise to Cres
Arrive in Omišalj, a charming pirate’s nest on the island of Krk. Check-in on board begins at 2 pm. After settling into your cabin, the boat will set off for the first crossing to Cres. If the weather is favorable, the boat stops in a beautiful bay where you can take a refreshing swim in the Adriatic Sea. Today's destination is the capital on the Island of Cres. The Venetian-influenced old town of Cres, with its beautiful alleys and churches, entices you to take an extensive evening stroll.
Day 2: Cres - Pula, 17 mi. (28 km)
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast on board as the boat sails towards Pula. In the afternoon, venture out to explore the surrounding areas, beginning with Galižana, known for its traditional winemaking. Continue to Vodnjan, renowned for its ancient olive oil production and well-preserved medieval architecture. The journey then takes you through Fažana, a quaint fishing village with beautiful views of the Brijuni Islands National Park. Return to Pula for a guided city tour, highlighting its historical sites such as the Roman amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus. Enjoy the evening discovering more of Pula’s charming streets and local culture. Overnight stay in Pula.Day 3: Pula - Vrsar - Porec, 25 mi. (40 km)
Start the morning with breakfast on board as the boat cruises to Vrsar, a town with a reputation for its historical charm and connection to Casanova, who is said to have taken refuge here from jealous lovers' husbands. From Vrsar, cycle along the scenic Limski Canal to Kloštar, traveling through the picturesque rural landscape until reaching Poreč. Poreč boasts a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling promenade and lively shopping streets. Don’t miss the Euphrasius Basilica, renowned for its stunning early Christian mosaics. Enjoy the afternoon swimming and relaxing before spending the night in Poreč.Day 4: Poreč - Novigrad - Rovinj, 36 mi. (59 km)
In the morning, we cycle along the "Parenzana," a historic railway route that connects us to Grožnjan, a renowned artists' village nestled in the Istrian countryside. This medieval town, known for its charming streets and vibrant artistic community, features flower-adorned squares and galleries housed in traditional stone buildings. In the afternoon, continue your ride through the scenic Istrian landscape, passing through Buje on the way to Novigrad. Enjoy an evening exploring Novigrad’s coastal beauty and spend the night there.
Day 5: Rovinj, 12 mi. (20 km)
In the morning, as you enjoy breakfast on board, the boat heads to Rovinj, the starting point for today’s biking adventure. Leaving town, you'll follow the old railroad line to the Lim Canal. You can choose to extend the cycle tour and ride past picturesque bays where you can stop for a refreshing swim. After some relaxation at the beach, return to the boat and spend the afternoon discovering Rovinj’s charming streets. In the evening, a guided city tour will uncover the rich history and hidden gems of this captivating town. Spend the night in Rovinj, soaking up the local atmosphere.
Day 6: Rovinj - Fažana - Rabac, 22 mi. (37 km)
The morning's bike ride follows scenic forest paths along the coast to Fažana, a charming village with a quaint harbor and a promenade lined with colorful houses. After boarding the boat, the journey continues with a coastal cruise to Rabac. Situated in a picturesque bay on Istria’s east coast, Rabac is renowned for its stunning white pebble beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful harbor. An evening cocktail at a local bar is a perfect way to end the day.
Day 7: Rabac - Njivice - Omišalj, 26 mi. (43 km)
Early in the morning, cross over to the island of Krk, where the final cycling stage awaits. This route takes you from Njivice to Omišalj on Croatia’s largest island, celebrated for its varied landscapes and the renowned Zlahtina white wine. Take time to experience the therapeutic mineral-rich mud of Soline Bay, known for its rejuvenating properties and as a memorable holiday highlight. Upon returning to the harbor in Omišalj, the boat is ready for a farewell dinner on board, providing an opportunity to celebrate with fellow travelers, the crew, and guides.
Day 8: Omisalj (Disembarkation)
After breakfast disembarkation by 9 am.This tour is also offered onboard the Comfort Class vessel, the Linda. Most of the participants will be using regular touring bikes. If that interests you, please check out our tour Istria.
If you’re looking for something different, check out our full list of bike & boat tours or view all our featured trips, including hiking, multi-adventure, & active cruising.
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Map
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Boats & Bikes
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Andela Lora
Deluxe Class Motor Yacht
We had the exciting opportunity to follow this boat through from construction to launching. The Andela Lora is an elegant boat launched in June of 2012 and is one of the largest of the Croatian fleet at 131 feet long and 28 feet wide. The friendly crew will always make sure that you have the most comfortable and relaxing journey on board! Read More
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Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights with breakfast
- 2 days with lunch AND dinner & 5 days with lunch OR dinner
- High-quality electric bike with pannier
- English-speaking cycling tour guide & 6 guided cycling tours as per itinerary
- Guided tours in Pula and Rovinj
- Overview maps for the daily biking tours (on board)
- A limited number of helmets available, advanced reservation required
- Tourist taxes
What’s Not Included
- Meals not indicated as included
- Drinks on board (tally sheet)
- Meals and drinks ashore
- Helmets - limited number available (reservation required)
- Entrance fees for sights not included
- Bottled water + tourist taxes, payable onboard: €60 for adults & €30 for children up to age 16
- Gratuities for crew & tour guide
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
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Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Questions about dates or pricing? We’re here to help! Call 800-951-4384 to talk to a Tour Specialist now.
Apr 25; May 23; Jun 6, 20; Jul 4, 18; Aug 1, 15, 29; Sep 12, 26; Oct 10, 24, 2025
Season A: Apr 25 | Jul 18 | Aug 1
Season B: May 23 | Aug 15 | Oct 10 | Oct 24
Season C: Jun 6 | Jun 20 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 | Sep 12 | Sep 26- Season A 2025 Apr 25, Jul 18, Aug 1 from € 20692025 departures: Apr 25, Jul 18, Aug 1
2025 April Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 July Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 August Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Twin/double cabin - lower deck € 2069 Twin/double cabin - upper deck € 2319 Single occupancy Price Twin/double cabin - lower deck € 2969 Twin/double cabin - upper deck € 3344 Bike rentals Price Electric bike Included Gravel bike Discount € -45 - Season B 2025 May 23, Aug 15, Oct 10, 24 from € 22692025 departures: May 23, Aug 15, Oct 10, 24
2025 May Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 August Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 October Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Twin/double cabin - lower deck € 2269 Twin/double cabin - upper deck € 2519 Single occupancy Price Twin/double cabin - lower deck € 3269 Twin/double cabin - upper deck € 3644 Bike rentals Price Electric bike Included Gravel bike Discount € -45 - Season C 2025 Jun 6, 20; Jul 4, Aug 29, Sep 12, 26 from € 24692025 departures: Jun 6, 20; Jul 4, Aug 29, Sep 12, 26
2025 June Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 July Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 August Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 September Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Twin/double cabin - lower deck € 2469 Twin/double cabin - upper deck € 2719 Single occupancy Price Twin/double cabin - lower deck € 3569 Twin/double cabin - upper deck € 3944 Bike rentals Price Electric bike Included Gravel bike Discount € -45 - Extra options
Extra options Dietary restrictions Gluten free, dairy free, or vegan€ 70 Discount amount Price Triple room discount Discount € -200 Quad cabin discount Discount € -400 Children 16yo or underDiscount € -200 Transfers Price Group transfers to/from Zagreb and Omisalj on arrival and departure days only€ 65
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
- Season A 2025 Apr 25, Jul 18, Aug 1 from € 2069
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Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy–Moderate
This tour is designed as an electric bike tour and could be easy, moderate, or difficult, depending on the level of assistance you utilize! For those who will be riding gravel or road bikes, you will work harder to keep up with the group on electric bikes who will set the pace. You will most likely find this tour moderate depending on your fitness level. Do note for every participant, this tour assumes that you are an experienced cyclist. The itinerary will feature cycling up to an elevation gain of between 200-1000m and an average daily distance between 12 - 38 miles (20 - 60 km) (.
Please take note that around 30% of the tour takes place on natural paths and gravel roads. The described tours are primarily designed as fully guided e-bike tours. If you wish to cycle alone, please talk with your tour guide on-site about the options available.Airport Info
The closest airport to your embarkation/disembarkation harbor in Kvarner Bay is the Rijeka Airport (RJK). Because it is a small airport, you may find flying to Zagreb (ZAG) more practical. The distance to the harbor from Zagreb airport is approximately 2 hrs by car. Please keep in mind that your ship will leave port at 3 pm for its first navigation so please plan your flights accordingly.
Local Travel
There is a collective transfer available from/to Zagreb to/from Omisalj on the days of embarkation and disembarkation. The transfer leaves at 11:30 am from Zagreb Center and 12:15 pm from Zagreb Airport. PLEASE PLAN FLIGHTS ACCORDINGLY Return transfer to Zagreb Airport is at 8 am on the last morning of your tour. Again, plan your flights accordingly.
If you are flying into Rijeka Airport, a taxi transfer can be arranged for you in advance.
You can also book a transfer from the train station in Rijeka that departs at 9:30 am and a return transfer from the boat back to Rijeka Train Station. See pricing.Climate
The Istrian Peninsula is situated in the northwestern part of Croatia between the Gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner. In general, temperatures are slightly lower here than in Dalmatia. The Mediterranean climate and the many hours of sunshine make this an ideal location for a bike and boat tour. Several types of winds blow here that determine the climate: the ‘Yugo’, a warm southerly wind that brings rain. The ‘Bura’ which brings clear weather and the ‘Maestral’ that blows during the summer offer refreshing air from the sea. Because of the abundant rainfall, Istria is one of the greenest places in all of Croatia with its vast pine forests. Be sure to check local conditions prior to your arrival.
Day of Rest
If you need a day or two off the saddle, you can always stay on board the ship sunbathing and enjoying the passing scenery.
Recommended
It is advised for you to use soft-shell luggage as storage in the cabin is very limited. Softshell luggage when empty collapses easily and can then be stored under your bed.
Remarks
Helmet use is mandatory. Though there is a limited number of helmets available on board for borrowing, it is STRONGLY recommended to bring your personal, well-fitted helmet.
Minimum number of participants: 14
Maximum number of participants: 29
Non-electric touring bicycles also available. Discount will apply. See pricing.Important to know
It is each traveler's responsibility to research travel requirements and to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, blank visa pages required for your destination (s), and any other requirement.
US citizens: A good website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU citizens: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and the destination country.
EU-citizens: (without special situations like dual citizenship, main residence abroad or a limited-validity passport) are required to have a valid passport or ID-card, not expiring within six (6) months from the end of your tour.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Additional information regarding transfers
All airport transfers require a reservation with exact flight details. Please inform us well in advance of departure.
For the smooth execution of airport transfers, please send us the following data:
- Arrival date and departure date
- Departure or arrival airport
- Airline and flight number
- Estimated arrival or departure time
For hotel transfers please send us the following information:
- Date of transfer
- Exact hotel address
- Preferred transfer time
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Island Hopping.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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