FAANA: PANORAMA NP BRIJUNI AND ISLAND SWIMMING STOP

Imagine cruising along the coast of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, with the wind in your hair and the promise of stunning scenery ahead. That’s exactly what this 4-hour boat tour from Faana offers — a relaxed yet engaging way to see the Brijuni National Park, enjoy some snorkeling on an island known for its peacocks, and soak up the natural beauty of the Adriatic.

We particularly like how this trip combines scenic views with some authentic sea swimming, giving travelers a taste of both land and underwater worlds. Plus, the glass-bottom boat offers a peek at marine life without getting wet — a bonus for those less eager to snorkel. One potential consideration is the price of the island tickets, which isn’t included in the base cost; at €7 for adults, it’s an extra to budget for. This tour suits travelers seeking a short, flexible adventure that balances sightseeing, wildlife, and seaside fun without overstuffing the day.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and panoramic views of the Brijuni Islands
• Swim and snorkel in clear, inviting waters on Jerolim Island
• Glass-bottom boat allows marine exploration without getting wet
• Flexible options to return early or stay on the island longer
• Cost-effective at $41, with added expenses for island tickets
• Ideal for those who love natural beauty and relaxed outdoor activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Boat Ride

Your adventure begins in Faana aboard the Glass Boat Igor, a cheerful vessel with a distinctive exterior design. Departing around your chosen time, the boat embarks along the coast of the Brijuni National Park, a chain of islands famed for their scenery and history. The 80-minute cruise is a highlight itself, offering views of old Venetian villas where Tito once stayed, golf courses, and the busy Brijuni harbor. We appreciated how the boat’s scenic route provided a good overview of the park’s natural and built attractions.

Sightseeing and Marine Life

The boat features a glass bottom, giving you a window into the underwater world. As you cruise past, you might catch glimpses of marine life — an easy, no-risk way to observe fish and seabed features. This feature is particularly handy for families or camera enthusiasts wanting quick snapshots of the underwater scenery. The crew’s commentary (in English) helps contextualize what you’re seeing and points out notable landmarks along the way.

Stops at Jerolim Island

After about an hour of sightseeing, the boat stops at Jerolim Island for about 2.5 hours — the main highlight of the trip. Known for its beautiful beaches and famous for its peacocks wandering freely, Jerolim offers a relaxed environment perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters beckon you to dip in, and the snorkeling opportunities are notable for their visibility and marine diversity.

The island’s peacocks are a charming touch, adding a bit of whimsy to the landscape. You’ll find plenty of time to take photos, wander, or simply relax on the sand. The tour staff often encourage guests to explore at their own pace, which we found appreciated.

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Return and Marine Exploration

Around 3 pm, the boat crew will come back to pick up travelers who wish to leave earlier. For those staying, the island offers a free 2-hour window to enjoy the beaches, take photos, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Before heading back, the boat makes a brief marine life viewing stop, approximately 20 minutes, allowing a final glimpse of underwater scenery.

Getting Back to Faana

The return trip is smooth, and you’ll arrive back at the large pier in Faana, just in time to relax or continue exploring the area. The entire experience totals roughly 4 hours, making it ideal for a half-day adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $41 per person covers your boat ticket and the NP Panorama ticket, which grants access to the scenic coast and the boat cruise. It does not include food, drinks, towels, or the €7 island ticket payable on Jerolim Island. It’s worth budgeting a little extra for snacks or souvenirs, and for the island fee if you choose to stay longer.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews show a generally high level of satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from five reviews. One traveler from Poland praised the organization and friendly crew, describing it as “the best ship in the area.” Conversely, a UK traveler had to cancel due to bad weather and illness, highlighting the importance of flexible bookings in unpredictable conditions.

Other travelers lauded the beautiful views and friendly team, with one commenting, “Sehr schöne Tour & nettes Team!” (Very nice tour & friendly team!). The emphasis on the scenic views and the relaxing atmosphere seems to resonate most, reinforcing that this is a good choice for those wanting to enjoy Croatia’s coastline without a crowded or overly structured experience.

Why This Tour Works Well

This boat trip strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and leisure. The panoramic views of the islands are genuinely striking, and the swim stop at Jerolim adds a tangible sense of adventure. The glass-bottom boat provides a peek at marine life, offering a bit of educational value alongside the fun. The flexibility of returning early or staying longer makes it adaptable for different schedules.

The tour’s value depends on your expectations: it’s a short, scenic, and relaxing outing rather than a full-day exploration. For families, it’s simple enough to enjoy with kids, especially given the shallow waters and friendly staff. For solo travelers or couples, it’s a peaceful way to experience the coast without the hassle of renting boats or planning complex excursions.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re craving beautiful coastal scenery and a light outdoor activity that combines boat cruising, swimming, and wildlife spotting, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a laid-back pace and want a glimpse of Croatia’s natural side. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the reasonable price, especially considering the included NP Panorama ticket.

However, if you prefer full-day adventures or want to explore more islands or historical sites, this might feel a bit limited. Also, those with back problems should be cautious, given the boat’s typical seating arrangements and the need to manage on and off the boat.

Final Thoughts

This Fazana boat tour to Brijuni offers a compact but memorable experience of Croatia’s stunning coastline and islands. The combination of scenic views, marine exploration, and a peaceful beach stop makes it a worthwhile option for those looking to enjoy the outdoors with minimal fuss. The friendly crew and flexible schedule add to its appeal, making it a good choice for a relaxed day out.

The price reflects the quality of scenery and activity, but travelers should be prepared for the extra €7 island fee if they wish to stay longer. For families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty, this tour provides a gentle yet engaging introduction to the Brijuni Islands.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket for the boat and the NP panorama view are included. The island entrance fee of €7 per adult (and €3 for children) is paid on-site if you wish to stay longer on Jerolim Island.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise along the coast and around the islands lasts about 80 minutes, offering scenic vistas and marine life viewing.

Can I go back to Faana early?
Yes, if you prefer, you can be picked up on Jerolim Island at 3 pm and return to Faana without staying the full duration.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, and perhaps some snacks or water. Towels aren’t provided, and there’s no mention of food or drinks included.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the family-friendly environment and shallow waters suggest children would enjoy the swimming and wildlife spotting.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling is available during the free time on Jerolim Island, and the waters are suitable for it. Snorkel gear isn’t explicitly provided, so you might want to bring your own.

What about the weather?
Since one review noted a cancellation due to bad weather, it’s wise to check the forecast before booking and be flexible with your plans.

In the end, this tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to experience Croatia’s coast with some wholesome outdoor fun. It’s best suited for travelers who love nature, gentle adventure, and beautiful views — a simple pleasure that’s easy to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here: