Novalja is lovely from the land side, but the Velebit Channel and the islands beyond Pag are a different kind of postcard. One day on a boat can take you from a Pag harbour to a walled medieval town on Rab, or out to two car-free islands in the Zadar archipelago. Here is how the main boat day trips from the Novalja area work, and how to choose between them.
Why go out on the water at all?
Pag is a long, bare, stony island, and its best swimming spots are often reachable only by sea. A boat day trip gives you a different view of the coastline, clear water away from crowded beaches, and a town or island you would otherwise need a car, a ferry timetable and a lot of patience to visit.
Zavratnica and Rab: the classic full-day trip
The most popular excursion combines the mainland cove of Zavratnica, a narrow, steep-sided inlet under the Velebit mountains, with the island of Rab. Operators run it from Tovarnele port in Lun, with an alternative departure from Novalja. According to one local operator, boats leave around 10:00 (09:30 from Novalja) and return at about 17:00.
A typical day includes a photo and swim stop at Zavratnica, a swimming break at a beach on Rab, free time to wander Rab town, and a final swim in a bay near Lun before heading back. Rab is known for its four bell towers, so allow time to climb up and look over the old town roofs. Lunch is usually included in the price, often with a choice of fish, meat or vegetarian, but always confirm that when you book.
Some listings mention a minimum number of passengers and a weather guarantee, so check the cancellation terms before you commit to a date.
Silba and Olib: the slow-island day
If you want something quieter, a longer full-day trip heads to the Zadar archipelago islands of Silba and Olib. These are small islands with a preserved island lifestyle and little vehicle traffic, which makes them perfect for strolling, long lunches and swimming. One operator lists this trip as running from about 10:00 to 18:30 from Novalja port.
Shorter, social cruises
For a half-day, there are shorter cruises of around four hours from Novalja port to the small islands of Maun and Skrda, with swimming and a party atmosphere. They suit groups of friends who want sea, music and a relaxed afternoon rather than sightseeing.
Practical tips
- Book ahead in July and August, when the boats fill up fast.
- Bring reef shoes, sun cream, a hat, a towel and a light layer for the wind on deck.
- Ask whether the entrance fee for protected areas such as Zavratnica is included.
- Check the weather: the bora wind can cancel crossings, so keep a flexible day in your itinerary.
- Schedules and prices change every season, so confirm everything directly with the operator or your accommodation host.
Our verdict
Choose Zavratnica and Rab if you want the best mix of nature, history and swimming in one day. Pick Silba and Olib for slow island time, and a short cruise to Maun and Skrda for a lighter, sociable afternoon. Whichever you choose, it is a very simple way to add a bit of joy to a Novalja holiday.
