Fazana: Brijuni National Park Scenic Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to explore Croatia’s stunning Istrian coast, the Brijuni National Park Scenic Boat Tour from Fazana offers a charming blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history. This 1.5-hour cruise promises panoramic views of the archipelago, time to swim in crystal waters, and a glance at some of Croatia’s most unique islands.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, the opportunity to see all 14 islands of the park in a short, comfortable trip — perfect for travelers with limited time. Second, the chance to relax and swim on Sveti Jerolim, which many reviews praise as a peaceful and beautiful spot. However, a possible drawback is that the itinerary is subject to the number of guests, which can influence the timing or options for returning — so flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a simple, scenic experience with opportunities for swimming, and those interested in a taste of Croatia’s natural landscapes and historic sites. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a relaxed, informative outing with plenty of photo opportunities and a good chance to unwind.

Key Points

• Comprehensive island view: Covers all 14 islands of Brijuni National Park with insights into their highlights.
• Swimming opportunity: Offers an optional swim and snorkel at Sveti Jerolim, praised for its clear waters.
• Historical sights: You’ll pass by villas, Roman ruins, and even a safari park on Veliki Brijun.
• Flexible return options: Multiple return times depending on the day’s bookings, with a typical return around 4 PM.
• Value for money: At $40, it’s an affordable way to see the islands with included drinks and onboard facilities.
• Authentic experience: The tour emphasizes real natural beauty, wildlife, and some local history, with a knowledgeable crew.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Brijuni Boat Tour

Starting Point and What to Expect

The tour begins at the main pier in Fazana, with the boat Kristina waiting to take you on a scenic ride. You’ll meet at the start of the main pier on the left side, where the crew greets you with a friendly attitude. The boat cruise itself lasts about 75 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the archipelago’s shimmering waters, lush islands, and some of the historic landmarks that dot the landscape.

The onboard experience includes complimentary cold drinks and a restroom, making the journey comfortable. The crew’s knowledge and friendly manner are often highlighted, with reviews praising the informative commentary. Expect to see Veliki Brijun, the largest island, with its villa once owned by Austrian aristocrat Paul Kuppelwieser. His villa, Vila Kastel, adds a touch of history to the trip, along with Roman ruins and a safari park that hosts exotic animals—reminding travelers that the islands aren’t just pretty scenery but also a lively mix of nature and history.

The Highlights of Veliki and Mali Brijun

The boat’s route takes you past Veliki Brijun—an island worth noting for its Villa Kastel and Roman remnants. The island’s history as an aristocrat’s retreat and later a public park gives it a special atmosphere. The safari park here is a surprise for many visitors; it’s like a mini Africa in Croatia, with ostriches, zebras, and other animals roaming freely.

Next, you’ll see Mali Brijun, where Fort Minor has been transformed into a summer theatre. This spot offers a glimpse into how the islands are used today for entertainment and cultural events, adding a lively touch to the natural scenery.

Gaz Island and Other Notable Stops

After Mali Brijun, you’ll pass by Gaz, known for its fish-shaped silhouette—an ideal photo stop. The boat then skirts past islands like Galija and Vanga, with further views of Vila Brijunka and the lighthouse Peneda, overlooking Pula’s harbor. These passing sights give you a sense of the varied landscape, from rugged coasts to lush greenery.

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Sveti Jerolim: The Star of the Trip

The highlight for many is Sveti Jerolim, about 15 minutes from Fazana. This tiny island is praised for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish, making it a popular swimming and snorkelling spot. The reviews mention that staying on Jerolim is highly recommended, with plenty of peacocks freely wandering around, adding to its peaceful charm.

There’s also a beachside restaurant offering tasty food and cold drinks at reasonable prices, which makes spending some time here particularly enjoyable. The entrance fee (7 euros for adults, 4 euros for kids) is paid upon leaving the island, and this fee covers the island’s upkeep and amenities.

Practical Details and Timing

The tour includes a flexible return schedule—some days, you can head back at 2 PM, others at 4 or 5 PM. The exact time depends on the number of guests and the crew’s assessment that day. This flexibility ensures a more relaxed experience but also means you should coordinate with the crew if you have tight plans elsewhere.

The Value and Experience

At USD 40, the tour offers a good balance of value, considering the boat ride, the chance to swim, and the scenic views. The trip doesn’t include the island entrance fee, but this is manageable and well worth the modest additional cost for the experience of being on Sveti Jerolim.

Reviewers consistently mention how beautiful the island is and how reasonably priced the food and drinks are at the restaurant, adding to the overall value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour is perfect for travelers who want an easy, relaxed exploration of Brijuni’s islands without needing to hike or book multiple excursions. It suits those interested in natural scenery, wildlife, and history, especially for those who enjoy a refreshing swim in clear waters. Families with kids will appreciate the safe, short cruise and the chance to see peacocks and exotic animals. Couples seeking a peaceful escape will find the views and atmosphere very appealing.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or want a longer, more adventurous experience, this may feel a bit limited. The lack of organized stops for extended walks or sightseeing on the smaller islands might be a con for some.

Final Thoughts

This Brijuni National Park Scenic Boat Tour from Fazana offers a delightful taste of Croatia’s natural and historical treasures in a compact package. The combination of panoramic views, wildlife, and the chance to swim makes it a well-rounded outing for most visitors. The friendly crew, reasonable price, and flexible schedule add to its appeal.

While it may not satisfy those craving a full-day adventure or in-depth guided walks, it excels as a breezy, scenic cruise with plenty of photo opportunities and relaxing moments. It’s especially suitable for travelers with limited time, families, or anyone who simply wants to enjoy Croatia’s beautiful coast from the water.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to see the islands, enjoy a swim, and learn a bit about local history, this tour offers solid value and a memorable experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and they’ll enjoy the opportunity to see peacocks and wildlife. The boat is pet-friendly, so dogs are also allowed.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes the boat cruise, swimming at Sveti Jerolim, a soft drink onboard, and access to onboard restrooms.

Do I need to pay for the island separately?
Yes, the island entrance fee (7 euros for adults, 4 euros for kids) is paid on the spot when you leave the boat.

Can I stay on Sveti Jerolim after the tour?
Yes, you can choose to stay longer on the island, but you’ll need to pay the entrance fee and coordinate with the crew about your return time.

What are the departure times?
Availability varies depending on the day, with options for returning at 2 PM, 4 PM, or 5 PM. Check ahead for exact times.

How long is the boat ride?
The cruise itself lasts approximately 75 minutes, with additional time spent on Sveti Jerolim if desired.

Is the tour accessible for all?
High-heeled shoes, handcarts, and electric wheelchairs are not allowed, but the vessel is pet-friendly.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is offered in Croatian, English, and German.

Is there a max group size?
Specifics aren’t provided, but the flexible scheduling suggests small to medium groups, making the experience more intimate.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $40 per person, representing good value for a scenic, half-day adventure.

In essence, the Fazana: Brijuni National Park Scenic Boat Tour offers a breezy, beautiful, and authentic Croatian experience that’s perfect for those wanting a taste of the islands without a fuss. It’s a gentle, scenic escape that balances nature, history, and relaxation in a way that’s accessible and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: