Fazana, a charming fishing town on Croatia’s Istrian coast, is a fantastic launch point for exploring Brijuni National Park. Its proximity to the park means you can hop on a boat and be surrounded by nature, history, and clear waters within minutes. We particularly like the scenic boat rides that offer a full view of the 14 islands, especially the Fazana: Brijuni National Park Scenic Boat Tour, which combines breathtaking scenery with opportunities to swim in pristine waters. If you prefer a more transparent view of marine life, then the Glass Boat Tour will be perfect—offering a peaceful glide over the coast with a peek into vibrant underwater ecosystems. For those seeking a relaxed mix of sightseeing and swimming, the Brijuni National Park & Swimming Tour balances a scenic cruise with refreshing dips in the turquoise waters of Fazana.
Quick Overview
This guide highlights three top-rated tours that showcase the beauty of Brijuni National Park from different angles. Whether you’re into scenic boat rides, underwater viewing, or combining sightseeing with swimming, each offers a unique way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline. Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Fazana: Brijuni National Park Scenic Boat Tour
Rated at 4.1/5 with 376 reviews, this Scenic Boat Tour is a favorite for its comprehensive approach. For around $41 per person, you’ll enjoy a panoramic boat ride that covers all 14 islands of Brijuni National Park. The journey departs from Fazana, taking you through the archipelago, which is home to diverse flora and fauna. The highlight is the chance to swim and snorkel for up to 5 hours at St. Jerolim Island, a small island famous for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of scenic cruising and active water fun. The boat allows you to relax and absorb the natural beauty of the islands, while the swimming stop provides a refreshing break. Many travelers appreciate the flexible schedule for swimming and the chance to explore the unique wild nature of the park. Although some found the boat ride long during peak heat, most agree that the overall value is excellent for the experience of being surrounded by such pristine waters and islands.
Bottom line: If you want a full-day adventure with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, this tour offers excellent value and a comprehensive way to see Brijuni’s islands.
2. Fažana: Glass Boat Tour of Brijuni National Park
With a higher rating of 4.7/5 from just 6 reviews, the Glass Boat Tour is a calmer, more intimate experience at only $35 per person. This tour is perfect for those who love marine life and scenic coastline views. The highlight here is the transparent bottom—a glass panel beneath the boat that provides a clear view of the underwater world without getting wet.
During the cruise, you’ll pass by notable sites like the Roman remains at Verige, the old Venetian villa, and prestigious golf courses at Veliki Brijun. This tour is especially good for travelers interested in history and underwater ecology, with the added bonus of observing marine life in protected waters. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and picturesque the journey is, with many noting the serene beauty of the coastline and the fascinating marine creatures glimpsed through the glass.
While the tour duration isn’t specified, the focus on relaxation and visual discovery makes it a good choice for those who prefer a laid-back experience. The slightly higher price reflects its more exclusive, less crowded nature.
Bottom line: If you want a gentle, visually impressive tour that combines history, nature, and underwater views, this glass boat cruise is an excellent pick.
3. Pula: Brijuni National Park & Swimming Tour (in Fažana)
Priced at $65 per person and rated at 4.5/5 with only 2 reviews, this Brijuni National Park & Swimming Tour is geared toward travelers who want more than just sightseeing. It combines a scenic 2-hour cruise with onboard food and drinks, plus a dedicated swimming stop in the turquoise waters of Fazana itself.
What sets this apart is the combination of nature, comfort, and relaxation. After cruising around the 14 islands, you get a chance to swim in the clear waters, making it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The tour’s inclusion of food and beverages on the boat offers added convenience, especially for families or groups wanting a hassle-free outing.
While the reviews are limited, the experience appears to suit those who value a leisurely cruise with the added perk of swimming in calm waters. The price reflects the inclusions, making it good value for travelers seeking comfort and a longer time on the water.
Bottom line: For travelers wanting a full day of scenic cruising plus a refreshing swim with onboard amenities, this tour hits the spot.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and how you like to experience the coast. If you’re after an all-in-one adventure with snorkeling and island exploration, the Fazana Scenic Boat Tour offers the most comprehensive experience. For a more tranquil, underwater-focused view without getting wet, the Glass Boat Tour is ideal. If you’d prefer a combination of scenery and swimming with comfort, the Brijuni & Swimming Tour provides good value.
Factors such as budget, time, and personal interests should influence your choice. For example, families with kids may prefer the relaxed swimming options, while history buffs might enjoy the unique Roman and Venetian sights seen along the coast.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to ensure availability and secure the best times for your preferred experience.
In summary, Fazana offers an excellent gateway to Brijuni National Park with a variety of tours suited to different tastes. Whether you want a full-day adventure with snorkeling, a peaceful glass-bottom cruise, or a relaxing combined tour with swimming, you’ll find an experience that matches your style. For the best chance of enjoying this unique stretch of Croatian coastline, plan ahead and book your tour early.