FAANA: Brijuni boat trip+stop & Swim at St. Jerolim Island

Travelers eager to explore Croatia’s stunning Brijuni National Park from the water will find this boat trip offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation. While many tours stick to land-based visits, this experience stands out by letting you sail in style—like a president—aboard a modern, safe vessel with a knowledgeable crew. The highlight is a stop at Sv. Jerolim, a small, peacock-filled island where swimming and leisurely exploring become memorable highlights.

We love the intimate size of the boat, which makes for a more personalized experience, and the chance to appreciate panoramic views of the islands that larger ships often miss. One potential consideration is that the tour does not include entry to Brijuni’s main attractions, so if you’re looking for a full-land experience, this might be a good supplement rather than a complete visit. This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic cruising, authentic encounters with nature, and a touch of history—all in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Personalized Small-Boat Experience: With a crew boasting over 15 years of experience, the tour feels intimate and well-organized.
• Expert Guides & Multilingual Staff: Guides speak Croatian, English, German, and Italian, making the experience accessible for diverse travelers.
• Unbeatable Views & Unique Stops: Panoramic views of all 14 islands and a rare stop at a peacock-filled island provide special moments.
• Swimming & Relaxation: Opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters at Sv. Jerolim add a refreshing touch.
• Historical Flair: Sail like the dignitaries of the past, following in the footsteps of Tito and other famous visitors.
• Value & Flexibility: The tour costs $41 per person, with optional extras like swimming, and offers flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Brijuni Boat Experience

If you’re considering a trip to Croatia’s Brijuni Islands, this boat tour offers a delightful way to see the archipelago from a different perspective—out on the water, where the views are spectacular and the atmosphere more relaxed. Unlike land-based visits, which can sometimes feel hurried and touristy, this cruise invites you to enjoy the panoramic scenery, the crystal-clear sea, and the feeling of sailing like a dignitary.

Two things truly stand out: the boat itself is new and safe, operated by a crew with over 15 years of experience, and guides speak multiple languages, making the trip easy to follow whether you’re a Croatian native or visiting from afar. The tour’s relaxed pace and small group size mean you can soak in the scenery and ask questions without feeling lost in a crowd.

One possible drawback is that the tour doesn’t include entry to the main Brijuni Park, which means you won’t visit the larger islands or museums included in some land-based excursions. Instead, it’s more about appreciating the islands from the water and enjoying a swim at Sv. Jerolim. Given that, it’s best suited for travelers who want a quick but beautiful overview of the area, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos.

The Itinerary: What To Expect

Starting Point and Cruise

The journey begins in the charming coastal town of Fazana, a popular departure point for boat trips to Brijuni. Once aboard, you’ll quickly notice the vessel’s modern design and cozy size—perfect for a group of around twenty or fewer passengers. The crew, experienced in navigation and hospitality, creates a relaxed yet professional atmosphere, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and well-guided.

As the boat glides out of the harbor, you’ll immediately notice the panoramic views of the islands. The route takes you past all 14 islands of the national park, giving a broad perspective of this diverse landscape. Expect to see lush greenery, rocky outcroppings, and secluded beaches, all framed by the shimmering sea.

Following in Tito’s Footsteps

One of the appealing aspects of this tour is the connection to history. As you sail past the islands, you’ll learn how Josip Broz Tito and other notable guests once visited these waters. While the tour doesn’t include landings on the main islands, the guided narration—available in multiple languages—adds context about the park’s natural and historical significance.

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Stop at Sv. Jerolim Island

The most distinctive part of the trip is the stop at Sv. Jerolim, a tiny but lively isle famous for its free-roaming peacocks. These birds are a charming sight, often approaching visitors with curiosity. The island offers a perfect pause for swimming in pristine waters or simply relaxing on the rocky shores. The small island also hosts a local restaurant, so you can grab a quick snack or drink before heading back onto the boat.

Swimming & Relaxation

Swimming options are open and optional, allowing you to cool off in the inviting waters. The reviews highlight how enjoyable and well-organized the swimming stops are—“a beautiful Schwimmpause auf Jerolim,” as one German-speaking traveler noted. The clear waters make for a refreshing break, and the natural environment is far more authentic than a crowded beach.

Returning and Dolphins

As the boat heads back to Fazana, there’s a chance—albeit depending on luck—to spot dolphins or other coast animals, adding a touch of wildlife magic to the cruise. This element of surprise is a small but appreciated bonus.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Small-Boat Advantage

The small size of the vessel ensures a more intimate experience. Unlike large cruise ships, this boat allows for a closer connection to the scenery and easier communication with the crew. This feature is consistently praised in reviews, with travelers noting how well-organized and friendly the team is.

Knowledgeable Guides

The guides speak multiple languages, including English, Croatian, German, and Italian, which helps travelers from various backgrounds feel included and well-informed. The guide Zana, in particular, receives praise for sharing interesting and accurate details, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Authentic Nature & Historic Perspective

The tour offers a unique vantage point of Brijuni, letting you appreciate its untouched landscapes and natural beauty firsthand. The connection to Tito and other historic figures adds a layer of cultural depth, especially for those interested in Yugoslav history or Croatian heritage.

Value & Flexibility

At only $41 per person, the tour seems fairly priced for a couple of hours of scenic cruising, a stop at a unique island, and swimming. Since you can reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, it offers flexibility for travelers with uncertain plans.

Deep Dive: The Experience & Authenticity

Every aspect of this trip suggests a focus on authenticity and comfort. The vessel’s modernity and safety standards are clear, and the crew’s experience shines through in their professionalism. Travelers consistently mention the friendly guides and the beautiful views, which are the core of this experience.

The peacock-filled island of Sv. Jerolim is a highlight, providing a rare glimpse of wildlife that freely roams the island—something that sets this tour apart from more conventional land visits. The opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and relax on quiet shores makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking peaceful natural beauty.

While the lack of entry to the main park might disappoint those eager to explore Brijuni’s museums and larger islands, it’s a worthy compromise for the chance to see the islands from the water and enjoy a genuine swimming break.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This boat trip appeals most to travelers who value scenic views and authentic experiences over extensive land-based sightseeing. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace, enjoy nature and wildlife, and want to experience Croatia’s islands in a more personal setting. History buffs will appreciate the Tito connection, and families will find the stop at Sv. Jerolim ideal for a quick swim and wildlife spotting.

It’s especially suitable for those who might find larger, busier tours overwhelming or prefer to blend sightseeing with leisure activities like swimming. It’s also great for visitors staying in Pula or Fazana looking for a mid-morning or afternoon escape into the sea.

The Sum Up

This Brijuni boat tour offers an affordable, intimate, and scenic way to experience one of Croatia’s most beautiful national parks. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a chance to swim and relax on a peacock-filled island, it strikes a fine balance between sightseeing and leisure. The small vessel ensures a personal touch, and the multilingual staff makes it accessible for international visitors.

While it doesn’t include a full land tour of Brijuni’s larger islands, it compensates with its authentic, relaxed vibe and the chance to see the islands from the water—something that’s truly special. It’s a great choice for those who want a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty, a touch of history, and a peaceful break from busy travel schedules.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace, swimming opportunities, and interesting wildlife make it suitable for families. The small boat size is comfortable for kids.

Does the tour include entry to Brijuni’s main attractions?
No, the tour does not include entry to the main park or islands; it’s primarily a scenic cruise plus a stop at Sv. Jerolim.

Are food and drinks available on the island?
A local restaurant is available on Sv. Jerolim, where you can purchase snacks or drinks, but food isn’t included in the tour price.

How long is the entire trip?
The main activities, including cruising and the stop at Sv. Jerolim, last about 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is swimming safe and comfortable?
Yes, the waters are clear and inviting, with well-organized swimming stops designed for relaxation and enjoyment.

This tour offers a genuine slice of Brijuni’s natural and historical charm, wrapped in a relaxed, personalized experience that many travelers find memorable. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just seeking a lovely boat ride, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Istrian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: