Faana: Brijuni Islands Cruise with Peacock Island Stop

If you’re considering a day on the water around Croatia’s stunning Istrian coast, the Brijuni Islands cruise from Faana offers a compelling mix of scenery, wildlife, and leisure. This guided boat trip promises a 1.5-hour jaunt around the archipelago, plus ample time on Peacock Island for swimming and relaxing.

What makes this experience attractive? For starters, the insights from a friendly guide named Eric add a personal touch, making the trip more than just a boat ride. And, of course, the chance to snorkel among colorful fish and bask on a pristine beach is hard to beat.

A potential consideration? The entry fee for Peacock Island (7 euros for adults, 3 for children) isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll want to budget for that if you plan to explore the island beyond the beach. This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, scenic views, and light activity without the hassle of full-day commitments or complicated logistics.

Key Points

• Scenic boat tour: Passes all 14 islands of Brijuni National Park in 1.5 hours, offering stunning coastal vistas.
• Expert guide: Enjoy engaging commentary from Eric, who helps bring the landscape and wildlife to life.
• Free time on Peacock Island: Swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach for 2-3 hours amid beautiful surroundings.
• Optional lunch: Tasty onboard meal with unlimited drinks available, perfect for a leisurely day.
• Private tables: Groups of 3 or more can secure a cozy, private table on the boat.
• Good value: Combines scenic cruising, wildlife viewing, and beach relaxation for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Departure and Seamless Start

The tour begins at Faana’s main pier, marked clearly with a white lighthouse. Look for the “Remember Istria” sign or the tour leader named William. The boat, called “Galeb,” is clean and comfortable, with plenty of space for a small group to enjoy the journey.

The check-in process is straightforward and timely, allowing travelers to settle in and take in the first glimpses of the coast. As we set off, the boat glided smoothly along the shoreline, giving us a chance to appreciate the striking crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines of Istria.

Cruising Around Brijuni National Park

The core of this experience is the 1.5-hour boat journey around all 14 islands that make up Brijuni National Park. This isn’t a rushed look; rather, it’s a well-paced glide past scenic landscapes, with commentary available via an audio guide in multiple languages—English, German, Croatian, and Italian.

The guide, Eric, shared entertaining and informative insights about the islands’ history, wildlife, and geology. We loved the way he kept the atmosphere lively yet educational, making the scenery more meaningful.

From the boat, you’ll see dramatic cliffs, lush green patches, and the occasional glimpse of native animals. The ride is comfortable, with a private table for groups of three or more, ensuring a more intimate experience away from the general crowd.

Peacock Island: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxation

Once we reached Sv. Jerolim (Peacock Island), the highlight was the free time—about two to three hours—to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind. This island, accessible by boat, boasts crystal-clear waters that are perfect for observing marine life.

Snorkelers reported seeing a variety of fish, and the water quality was described as “fantastic” by those who enjoyed the underwater exploration. For many, this was the best part—the chance to float above vibrant underwater scenes, away from the busy mainland.

The island’s beaches are inviting, with soft sands and shaded spots for resting. You can also explore on foot, but most visitors seem content to lounge, swim, and soak in the views.

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Food and Drinks on Board

For those who opt for the lunch package, the onboard meal is a relaxed affair—tasty, and with unlimited drinks. The start time for this option is typically around 12:30, aligning well with the cruise’s schedule.

Having lunch onboard means you don’t need to worry about finding a place on the island—though there are additional dining options there, such as a restaurant and beach bar, which are not included in the tour price.

The meal adds to the value, especially if you’re hungry after swimming or exploring. The drinks are a hit, making the journey more leisurely and social.

Returning and Practicalities

After a relaxing afternoon, the boat returns to Faana, passing by scenic shoreline vistas once again. The entire experience, from start to finish, is designed to provide a balanced mix of sightseeing, leisure, and light activity.

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours for the cruise itself, with free time on Peacock Island extending the overall experience to roughly 4 hours. This makes it ideal for travelers looking for a half-day activity that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding.

Why This Tour Works

The real strength of this experience is the combination of scenic cruising and active relaxation. The knowledgeable guide, Eric, elevates the trip with context and stories that make the islands more memorable. The boat’s layout, with private tables for groups, ensures a comfortable and personalized feel, especially for those traveling with friends or family.

The snorkelers and swimmers rave about the quality of the water and marine life sightings. The fact that the entry fee to Peacock Island is separate means you can choose how much or how little you want to explore beyond the beach.

The optional lunch is a bonus, providing good value for those who want to settle in for a laid-back meal with unlimited drinks. The overall cost, considering boat, guide, free time, and food, is reasonable, especially when you factor in the scenic beauty and wildlife encounters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for nature lovers, families, and those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience. If you enjoy light activity—swimming, snorkeling, beach lounging—you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and want to learn a bit about the islands without a full-day commitment.

However, if you’re seeking a more active or extensive tour—such as island exploration or cultural visits—this might feel a little light on content. Still, for a relaxed day with stunning views and marine encounters, it’s hard to beat.

The Sum Up

The Faana Brijuni Islands cruise strikes a lovely balance between scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and leisure. The knowledgeable guide makes the experience more engaging, while the chance to snorkel on Peacock Island offers a memorable underwater perspective. The optional onboard lunch and private tables add a touch of comfort and convenience, making this trip suitable for groups of friends, families, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day on Croatia’s coast.

While the entry fee for Peacock Island isn’t included, most find the overall value worthwhile given the combination of activities and stunning scenery. This tour suits travelers looking for a manageable, enjoyable excursion that showcases the natural splendor of Brijuni without requiring a full-day itinerary or strenuous activity.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The boat cruise around the islands lasts about 1.5 hours.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the boat cruise, an audio guide, free time on Peacock Island, optional lunch with unlimited drinks, and a private table on the boat for groups of 3 or more.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entry fee for Peacock Island is 7 euros for adults and 3 euros for children; this is paid on-site and not included in the tour price.

Is there a guided commentary?
Yes, the guide, Eric, offers engaging insights, and an optional audio guide is available in several languages, including English, German, Croatian, and Italian.

What activities can I do on Peacock Island?
Swim, snorkel, relax on the beach, or walk around and enjoy the scenery. Marine life is abundant and visible in the clear waters.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel. You may also want to bring cash for the island entry fee or any extras.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially for kids interested in swimming and exploring beaches. The boat ride and free time are relaxed.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates small groups, with options for private tables for groups of 3 or more.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In poor weather, the tour may be postponed or canceled, with a full refund or alternative date offered.

This cruise from Faana offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Croatia’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling among fish, soaking up sun on a peaceful beach, or simply enjoying the views, it’s a day that combines gentle adventure with scenic serenity.

You can check availability for your dates here: