Bike & Boat Kvarner Bay
Starting Point: Begin your adventure in charming Opatija, a coastal town with stunning views.
Scenic Coastlines: Cycle along picturesque Kvarner Bay, with the sea on one side and lush scenery on the other.
Island Exploration: Discover Krk and Cres Islands, each offering unique landscapes and charm.
Historic Towns: Visit Rijeka and Senj for history and Mediterranean ambiance.
Diverse Landscapes: Experience coastal paths, forests, and panoramic views.
Island Cres: Explore Cres, known for its pristine nature and crystal-clear waters.
Local Cuisine: Savor seafood, wines, and Croatian dishes.
Relaxation and Adventure: Balance beach relaxation with cycling thrills.
This self-guided Kvarner cycling tour offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty, culture, and culinary experiences. First Hand Experience
(2 ratings)
Departure
Daily departures
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Starting Point
Opatija - Krk (L)
Total Distance
218 km
Activity Level
Medium
Cycling tour around the stunning Kvarner bay
This guided cycling tour around the stunning Kvarner Bay starts on Krk Island and ends on Cres Island exploring amazing coastlines, medieval towns, old villages and picturesque bays on the route. Highlights include great beaches, vineyards, pine woods, cycling on the historic islands and exploring memorable coastal towns and stunning hilltop views. Croatia is a beautiful country with beautiful islands, rich history, Mediterranean vegetation and mild climate. Without a doubt, the best way to explore it is by bike.
Itinerary
Arrival in Opatija, with check-in at the harbour available from 11:00. The ship sets sail at 13:00, with lunch served on board as you cruise toward Krk Island, the largest island in the Adriatic. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxed cycling tour from the historic town of Krk to the nearby village of Punat, passing through gentle landscapes and coastal scenery. After the return ride to Krk, enjoy some free time at leisure to explore the town’s charming streets, relax by the sea, or unwind at a local café. Overnight in Krk.
After breakfast, set off on a cycling journey through the fragrant Mediterranean landscapes of Krk Island. Pedal past olive groves, fig trees and traditional dry-stone walls, making your way to Dobrinj, a charming hilltop village that feels like an open-air museum — a true blend of past and present. Continue cycling through the countryside dotted with grazing sheep, arriving at Vrbnik’s fertile fields, home to the island’s renowned golden-yellow Žlahtina wine. Take a well-deserved break in Vrbnik, with the option to enjoy a local tasting of wine, cheese and prosciutto. The route then ascends to Treskavac saddle, offering a panoramic view over Punat Valley and the islet of Košljun, home to a 12th-century Franciscan monastery. From there, enjoy a scenic descent through Bašćanska Draga, passing a series of Glagolitic letter sculptures, a tribute to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Arrive in the seaside town of Baška, where dinner will be served on board. Overnight in Baška. Note: In case of unfavorable weather conditions (particularly strong bura winds), the tour will conclude earlier and overnight accommodation will be in Krk.
Enjoy breakfast on board as you cruise toward Lopar on the island of Rab, known for its natural beauty and sandy beaches. Your cycling tour begins with a visit to one of the island’s most famous sandy bays, followed by a ride through the island’s scenic interior, passing by the charming area of Supetarska Draga. The route continues toward the historic walled town of Rab, easily recognized by its four iconic bell towers, dramatically perched on a narrow, arrow-shaped peninsula. Lunch is served on board upon arrival in Rab. In the afternoon, cycle to the Dundo Forest Nature Reserve, one of the few remaining primeval Mediterranean forests, stretching across the Kalifront Peninsula. Along the way, take a refreshing swim break in the idyllic St. Mara Bay, a perfect spot to unwind amidst nature. Overnight in the port of Rab.
After a short crossing to the island of Pag, embark on a cycling tour through its distinctive, moon-like landscape. Your first stop is the village of Lun, renowned for its ancient olive trees—some over a thousand years old—and charming stone walls. Please be careful while cycling, as the island is home to many free-roaming sheep. Pag is also famous for its distinctive cheese, and we highly recommend taking a break at a traditional ‘konoba’ tavern to savor this local specialty. Continue cycling to the idyllic village of Mandre, where you will return to the ship for lunch on board. In the afternoon, cruise to the flower-filled island of Ilovik, offering ample opportunities to walk, swim and relax in its serene surroundings. Enjoy an optional Captain’s Dinner on board (included for Premium category), followed by an overnight stay in Ilovik.
After breakfast, set sail toward Mali Lošinj. Begin your cycling tour through the enchanting Čikat Peninsula, surrounded by fragrant pine forests, Mediterranean herbs and pristine beaches. Continue your ride to the picturesque village of Veli Lošinj, where you can soak up the charming coastal atmosphere before returning to the vessel for a delicious lunch on board. In the afternoon, enjoy an easy ride to one of the nearby beaches or choose to climb to Sveti Ivan Hill (250m) or visit the Providenca viewpoint—a perfect spot to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Mali Lošinj and the southern islands of the Lošinj archipelago.
After breakfast, set off on a cycling journey through fragrant pine and laurel forests en route to Cres Island, connected to Mali Lošinj by a small bridge. Your first stop is the charming and artistic village of Osor, rich in history and culture. Next, take a more challenging ride toward the picturesque fishing village of Martinšćica, where lunch will be served on board. Following lunch, continue cruising to the historic town of Cres, where you’ll have a free evening to explore at your leisure. Overnight in Cres.
During breakfast, set sail toward Mošćenička Draga, a charming town located along the stunning Opatija Riviera. Upon arrival, embark on a scenic cycling route along the panoramic coastal road, offering spectacular views of the sea and nearby islands. Cycle to the village of Brseč, perched on a rocky cliff above the water. After a refreshing break, continue uphill to St. Jelena Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Kvarner Bay. Descend to the medieval town of Mošćenice, nestled at the foot of Perun Hill, before cycling back down to Mošćenička Draga, where the vessel awaits your return. Enjoy lunch on board before cruising to Opatija, where you’ll have a free evening to explore this elegant coastal town. Walk through its famous parks or stroll along the 12-kilometer Lungomare promenade, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere. Overnight in Opatija.
An early breakfast, followed by check-out and farewell to the crew. Legend of abbreviations: B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner, CD – captain's dinner
Price
Price per person based on two people sharing:
Date of Day1 sets the trip's season.
(Currency converter)• accommodation in a double cabin on a selected boat and deck, with WC and shower
• breakfast and either lunch or dinner. During our cycling routes, stops at local restaurants are recommended where you can sample the local specialities. These meals are not included in the price of the trip and are paid for by the customers. There is a possibility to book a captain’s dinner, which is paid directly on the spot and is offered by the captain and your tour guide.
• professional English/German speaking bike guide
• complimentary water
• complimentary Wi-Fi
• GUIBO application electronic form. One download per adult person. Every additional download 15 EUR.
• bike rental 180 EUR, hybrid bikes are equipped with bottle holder, bag carrier, small bag (14x8x8cm) & helmet
• electric bike 280 EUR
• saddlebags rental 21 EUR per cruise
• single-use cabin 50% surcharge on twin share price
• supplements for Traditional Ensuite vessels only:
• English breakfast: 40 EUR per person per week – incl. 2 eggs, bacon, tomato and mushrooms, or fruit & yoghurt, or similar (regular continental breakfast included in the price of the cruise includes: coffee, tea, milk, juice, cereal, bread, a variety of spreads – butter, honey, jam, soft cheese; daily additions such as ham and cheese or boiled eggs, frankfurters, salami etc.). Hot & cold buffet breakfast included on Premium Superior and Premium category vessels.
• Captain’s dinner: 30 EUR per person: choice of fish or meat menu – ship’s speciality served (included in price on Premium Superior and Premium vessels)
• Daily cabin cleaning: 50 EUR per cabin per week – included in the price for Premium and Premium Superior vessels – daily cabin servicing, fresh bed linen and towels midweek; Not provided on Traditional and Traditional Ensuite ships but can be ordered in advance.
• parking possible from 15 – 25 EUR per day
• extra towels: guests will be provided with two towels for personal use per week. Extra towels can be rented for 3 EUR & beach towels for 6 EUR per cruise/towel. Company’s beach towel can be purchased on arrival for 12 EUR.
• airport transfers – available on request from Zagreb, Rijeka, Pula or Trieste airport
Not included: entrance fees to national parks, some lunches & dinners, drinks with meals
• visitor’s tax and port fees: 60 EUR per person / week (to be paid on the spot)
• bike handling fee: 20 EUR per person / week (to be paid on the spot)
A non-refundable deposit of 300 EUR per person is to be paid upon reservation. The outstanding balance is to be paid at the latest 45 days before the departure date for individual bookings (up to 4 cabins) and at the latest 12 weeks before the departure date for small group reservations (5 or more cabins).
Cancellation policy for bookings
Individual bookings (up to 4 cabins):
• from the day of confirmation up till 45 days before arrival – non-refundable deposit (300 EUR)
• 44-30 days – deposit + 25% of the remaining balance
• 29-22 days – deposit + 50% of the remaining balance
• 21 – 0 days – 100% fee
Small group bookings (5 and more cabins):
• from the day of confirmation up till 85 days before departure – advance payment is non-refundable
• 84 – 56 days – deposit +25% of the remaining balance
• 55 – 49 days – deposit +50% of the remaining balance
• 48 – 42 days – deposit +75% of the remaining balance
• 41 – 0 days 100% fee
Name change fee – 20 EUR per person / Date change fee – 20 EUR per person – valid only if the change is done up to 45 days before booked departure, otherwise regular cancellation conditions will be applied.
Route Profile
218 km
95% paved, 5% unpaved
Paved roads, some side and unpaved roads, also hilly routes. The length of the daily cycling routes is estimated and depends on local information and various detours or shortcuts that can be done en route. Sailing and cycling routes may be changed on the spot due to weather conditions and the capacity of the respective cyclists on board. Departure is during the morning hours, mostly after breakfast.
Medium – For those who, for example complete daily trip to the market by bike in nice weather and consider cycling should be fun but not training. Gentle hills or stretches on gravel paths do not cause any difficulties. Average daily elevation gains between 100 and 500 meters.
Accommodation
Premium Boat: Steel-hulled vessels with a traditional, yet modern look offer accommodation in air-conditioned, spacious en-suite cabins with double or twin beds, a hairdryer and a safety deposit box. Premium vessels are 29 to 35m in length with cabins 8 to 14m2 in size. Services included: buffet breakfasts, three-course lunches or dinner, Captain’s dinner, professional English/German speaking bike guide onboard, daily cabin service, a mid-week fresh set of towels and bed linen, luggage handling, olive oil and wine tasting on board, complimentary water, afternoon tea and coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi. Traditional Ensuite Boat: Wooden vessels featuring air-conditioned cabins with private showers/toilets, mostly bunk beds, and an air-conditioned salon. Services included: Continental breakfasts, three-course lunches or dinner, bike guide, complimentary water, complimentary Wi-Fi. Upper / main deck are allocated according to availability! Lower deck cabins are in the hull of the ship below the main deck.
- 1-7 Traditional Ensuite or Premium Boat
Travel Options & Local Transfer
Starting point of this tour is Opatija, popular holiday destination in Kvarner Bay, Croatia.
Getting to Opatija and back from Opatija
Starting point of this trip is Opatija in Kvarner Bay, Croatia.
Getting there…
By plane: closest airport is Rijeka (RJK) on island Krk. some 30 km from Opatija. Other good options are Ljubljana (LJU) and Trieste (TST).
By bus: Flixbus from Munich, Ljubljana and Belgrade stop or have terminals in Opatija.
By train: Rijeka has nearest train station. Many seasonal trains stop or end there.
By car: Croatian Motorway A7 / E61 from Slovene border to Rijeka passes only 5 km from Opatija. Parking is arranged for customers taking this trip in local garages but needs to booked with booking.
…. and away
Just use one of the options above.
All prices per transfer, one way. Price includes transport of bikes.
Rental Bikes
Helia bikes are available in different sizes and unisex frame model:
All rented adult bikes are equipped with:
- Vaude one-sided saddlebag
- combination bike lock
Only for self-guided tours: per two bikes – one repair kit, one spare inner tube, glue, patch, a pump, Allen keys and tire levers
Other available rental bikes