Pula: Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit

Exploring Brijuni National Park from Pula by boat offers a uniquely relaxing way to experience Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast. This tour combines scenic sailing, island hopping, wildlife encounters, and delicious food — all wrapped into one accessible package. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a taste of natural beauty paired with cultural stories, all at an affordable price.

We particularly appreciate the informative guides, who manage to share fascinating facts while keeping the mood lively. The chance to spot dolphins, swim at St. Jerolim, and enjoy unlimited drinks on board makes this a memorable experience. One potential drawback? Some travelers might find the 4.5-hour duration a bit tight if they prefer more time on land. But overall, this tour is well-suited for those who love scenic boat rides, wildlife, and good value.

Ideal for visitors staying in Pula who want a comprehensive, enjoyable day out, this tour offers an excellent blend of comfort and adventure. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll find plenty to love — from the stunning vistas to the laid-back island vibe.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Sail along the coast and around the islands of Brijuni, enjoying spectacular sea views.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep your camera ready — dolphins often make an appearance, adding a special touch.
• Authentic island experience: Swim at St. Jerolim and explore its beaches and scenic spots.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights about the park’s history, Tito’s exotic animal collection, and local ecology.
• Excellent value: For around $53, you get a boat trip, a traditional Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks, and island exploration.
• Flexible options: You can choose to stay for 2.5 hours on the island or return earlier — perfect for different paces.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off with a 30-minute early boarding at the Pula meeting point, giving you time to settle in and soak up the anticipation. The boat itself is described as comfortable, and with a captain and guide onboard, you’ll be in good hands.

Sailing through Pula’s coastline and Fazana, the views are among the highlights. The captain provides a live commentary on the islands’ history, including their connection to Josip Broz Tito, who once owned the land and kept exotic animals here. This bit of lore adds a fun dimension for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

The main star of the tour is Brijuni National Park itself. As the boat circles the islands, you’ll get a comprehensive look at the varied landscapes, from lush greenery to rocky coastlines. This is a rare chance to see all the islands of the park from the water, which is particularly effective at capturing the scale and beauty of the area.

Dolphin sightings are common, according to reviews, so keep your camera ready. Several travelers reported seeing these playful creatures, which adds a spontaneous thrill to the day.

Lunch and Drinks on Board

One of the most praised aspects of this trip is the delicious lunch. The menu features traditional Mediterranean dishes: options include fish, beef, or vegetarian choices, all served with care. It’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel rushed, and the unlimited white wine, mineral water, Coca-Cola, and Fanta keep the spirits high.

The onboard atmosphere is relaxed, and many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the enjoyable vibe. Emma states, “The food and drink that was provided was also exceptional,” which sums up how well this part of the trip is received.

Visiting St. Jerolim Island

The stop at St. Jerolim Island is a major highlight. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here to relax, explore, or swim. The beaches are described as scenic with clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. There is an entrance fee of €7 for adults (and €4 for children), payable in cash, so bring some euros.

The reviews consistently praise the island’s beautiful beaches and scenic spots. Susan notes, “even saw a few dolphins which was an added bonus,” while Morgan adds, “The island stop was amazing, such clear waters.” If you prefer to stay on the boat, that’s also an option, providing flexibility based on your mood.

The Return Journey

After the island visit, the boat heads back along the coast of Pula and Faana, giving everyone a last chance to take in the stunning views. The trip concludes with a smooth return to the starting point, typically around 4.5 hours after departure.

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The Value Proposition

For $53 per person, this tour offers solid value. The inclusion of a boat trip, a hearty Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks, and a scenic island stop makes it a cost-effective way to experience Brijuni’s natural beauty and cultural intrigue. The reviews repeatedly praise the quality of the guide’s commentary and the good food and drinks, making it clear that this isn’t just a boat ride but a thoughtfully curated experience.

The dolphin sightings are a bonus that many travelers cherish, adding an extra layer of magic to the day. And with flexible timing at the island, you can tailor your experience to suit your pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value relaxed sightseeing with a touch of wildlife. It’s perfect if you enjoy beautiful boat journeys, friendly guides, and good food. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy here. Those with a keen interest in local history — particularly Tito’s connection to the islands — will appreciate the storytelling.

If you’re someone who prefers more time on foot or detailed land-based excursions, this might feel a bit rushed, but for most, the balance of boat, island, and food hits just right.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 4.5 hours, including time on the island
• Price: Around $53, which includes lunch, drinks, and boat transport
• Booking: Reserve early, as this tour is popular, and remember you can reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and cash (€7 for island entry)
• Language options: Croatian, English, German, Italian
• Meeting point: Starts 30 minutes before departure at the specified location in Pula

FAQ

Is there an age limit for the tour?
The tour is suitable for all ages; children will enjoy swimming and exploring the beaches, but remember to bring cash for the island entrance fee for any young explorers.

How can I pay for the island entrance fee?
The €7 fee for St. Jerolim is paid in cash on the island to the custodian. Be sure to carry some euros with you.

Are drinks on board unlimited?
Yes, the tour offers unlimited white wine, mineral water, Coca-Cola, and Fanta, making it a relaxed, social experience.

Can I stay on the boat during the island stop?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to go ashore, you can remain on the boat and enjoy the scenery or relax onboard.

What if I don’t want the fish or meat options at lunch?
Vegetarian options are available, and the lunch is described as traditional Mediterranean, so there should be choices to suit most dietary preferences.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
No, but many reviews mention that dolphins are often seen, which adds an element of surprise and delight to the trip.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking in advance is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking on the island and a boat trip; travelers with mobility concerns should check with the provider beforehand.

What should I wear?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. Comfortable clothing and footwear for walking on the island are recommended.

The Pula: Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit offers a well-rounded day of scenic sailing, wildlife watching, and island exploration, all at a reasonable price. The combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and a good quality meal makes this a solid pick for anyone wanting to experience the Croatian coast without fuss.

While it’s not an overly long or intense tour, it strikes a good balance between comfort and adventure. Travelers who enjoy relaxed sightseeing, fresh sea air, and the chance to see dolphins will find it particularly rewarding. Plus, the flexibility at the island lets you tailor your experience—whether you want a quick swim or a leisurely walk.

In short, this trip is a great way to appreciate Brijuni’s natural beauty and history, especially if you’re after value, comfort, and authentic moments. Just remember to bring cash for the island fee and some sunscreen, and you’re ready for a memorable day on Croatia’s sun-drenched coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: