Brijuni Islands: Sunset & Dolphins private boat tour

If you’re heading to the Istria region of Croatia and looking for a boat trip that combines wildlife, scenery, and a touch of romance, the Brijuni Islands Sunset & Dolphins tour from Faana might just be your perfect match. This private excursion, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 by travelers, promises a chance to see dolphins swimming alongside your boat while enjoying a spectacular sunset over the Croatian coast.

We love how this tour offers a balanced mix of nature watching and scenic beauty, all led by knowledgeable skippers who seem genuinely passionate about the area. There’s also the chance to spot deer on the islands, adding a quiet, almost fairy-tale quality to the experience.

That said, it’s worth considering that the trip can sometimes run longer than planned, especially if wildlife decides to put on a show. So, if you’re on a tight schedule or sensitive to delays, it’s good to keep this in mind.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed yet memorable adventure, especially if you love wildlife and stunning vistas.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Fazana.

Key Points

Private and Intimate: Small group size (up to 6 people) ensures a personalized experience.
Wildlife Encounters: High chances of seeing dolphins and, on occasion, deer on the islands.
Scenic Beauty: Unbeatable sunset views over the Croatian coast and Brijuni National Park.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Pets Friendly: Bring your furry friends along for a family-friendly outing.
Value for Money: For about $318, you get a full, personalized boat experience including gasoline and a skipper.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Brijuni Islands Sunset & Dolphins Tour

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Starting Point and General Setup

The adventure begins at Fazana port, a conveniently located departure point for visitors staying in Pula or nearby. The small group size—up to 6 people—means you’ll enjoy a more tailored experience, with plenty of opportunity for personalized questions or wildlife spotting tips from your skipper. The boat itself is equipped with gasoline and a knowledgeable guide or skipper who knows the waters well.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

After departing from Faana, the boat heads along the coast toward the Brijuni National Park, a protected area famed for its natural beauty and historical significance. You’ll cruise past 14 beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm, whether it’s the lush greenery, quiet coves, or the chance to see local wildlife.

A highlight of this trip is the visit to the Brijuni Islands themselves, where you can admire the panoramic views of the archipelago. This stretch offers a great opportunity for photos of recognizable landmarks and the shimmering waters of the Adriatic.

Next comes the search for dolphins, which is the core thrill of this tour. The guide and skipper do their best to find these playful creatures, and based on reviews, your chances are quite good. Travelers have reported seeing dozens of dolphins swimming and jumping around, sometimes quite close to the boat, creating a magical scene. One reviewer described it as a “féerie” (fairytale) moment—easy to see why.

Sunset and Wildlife Watching

About an hour of sailing out on open water allows you to enjoy the sunset in a relaxed setting. As the sky shifts to shades of orange and pink, the boat is ideally positioned for a romantic, peaceful moment. The guide often helps point out notable sights and shares interesting tidbits about the area, making the experience both scenic and educational.

While dolphins steal the show, travelers also sometimes glimpse deer on the islands on the return journey—an added bonus that lends a sense of untouched wilderness.

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What’s Included and What to Bring

Your fee covers gasoline and the skipper, which is a good value considering the personalized service and the private nature of the trip. The tour also emphasizes pet friendliness, so you can bring along your furry friends if desired.

What to bring? Pack warm clothing—even in summer, evenings can be cool on the water. An extra layer or a light jacket is recommended, especially if you plan to stay for the sunset.

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Duration and Flexibility

The tour usually lasts around the scheduled hours but can be longer if dolphins are particularly active or wildlife sightings extend the trip. Weather conditions are also a factor; in bad weather, the date can be shifted to ensure safety and comfort.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With only a maximum of 6 participants, the atmosphere is intimate, allowing for a more relaxed, quiet experience. This small-group setting is perfect for those who prefer to avoid large tour buses and crowded excursions.

The Experience from Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. Emmanuel called it a “féerie”, lauding the dozens of dolphins seen in a “superb” setting. Dimitri found it to be “a very pleasant and moving moment” for families, highlighting its suitability for all ages.

Some reviews mention minor organizational hiccups, such as booking confusion or a less outgoing captain, but these seem to be outweighed by the overall quality of the experience. Many recommend it highly, with Piotr specifically thanking the skipper for a “fantastic experience.”

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
Arrive early at Faana port to get comfortable and discuss any specific needs with your skipper.
Bring warm clothing and possibly a camera with a zoom lens to capture the wildlife.
Be patient; wildlife sightings are natural and unpredictable—sometimes dolphins might be shy or simply not available at your scheduled time.
Check the weather forecast before heading out, as rough seas may lead to rescheduling.
Consider bringing some snacks and water, especially if you’re sensitive to being out for a couple of hours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for small groups or families who appreciate natural beauty, wildlife, and relaxed surroundings. Couples seeking a romantic sunset experience will find the scenery mesmerizing, while nature lovers will enjoy the chance to see dolphins and perhaps deer.

It’s particularly ideal for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours, and for those looking to create memorable moments without spending a fortune.

The Sum Up

The Brijuni Islands Sunset & Dolphins private boat tour offers a beautifully balanced experience of nature, scenery, and wildlife, all wrapped in a small-group, personalized setting. You’ll cherish the chance to see playful dolphins, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and explore the peaceful Brijuni archipelago—an experience that’s both relaxing and full of wonder.

While it might run longer than expected or be influenced by weather, the value of having a dedicated guide, private setting, and the chance for up-close wildlife encounters makes it well worth considering. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group of friends, this tour is a fantastic way to connect with the Croatian coast’s natural charm and create memories that linger long after the trip ends.

FAQ

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is private for up to 6 people, making it a very exclusive experience with personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers gasoline and the skipper, ensuring a smooth ride and expert guidance during your adventure.

Can I bring my pet?
Yes, the tour is pets friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the ride.

What should I bring with me?
Bring warm clothing, especially for the evening or sunset, and consider packing a camera to capture the wildlife and scenic views.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather, the trip can be rescheduled to ensure safety and comfort.

Is there a chance of seeing wildlife besides dolphins?
Yes, on the way back, you might also spot deer on one of the islands, adding another special touch to your experience.

This private boat tour from Faana to the Brijuni Islands offers a lovely mix of nature, scenery, and wildlife viewing. It’s a perfect escape for those wanting a memorable, intimate adventure on Croatia’s stunning coast.