From Faana: Private boat tour of Brijuni Islands

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

From Faana: Private Boat Tour of Brijuni Islands — A Detailed Review

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Istria County and looking for an authentic yet relaxed adventure, the Private boat tour of Brijuni Islands from Faana offers a wonderful way to experience one of Croatia’s most celebrated natural treasures. While we haven’t taken this specific tour ourselves, reviewing the details helps paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect — and it sounds like a memorable day.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning panoramic views of all 14 Brijuni islands make for impressive photo opportunities and a sense of being somewhere truly special. Second, the flexibility of choosing how long to spend on the islands — 2, 4, or 6 hours — means you can tailor your experience to your pace and interests.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency; since a lot of the experience involves swimming and outdoor exploration, poor weather could affect the day. Still, for those who enjoy a mix of leisure, scenic beauty, and light activity, this tour seems well-suited.

This experience is perfect for travelers craving a relaxed day on the water with opportunities for swimming, wildlife viewing, and exploring Croatian island life — whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or with friends.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The panoramic tour covers all 14 islands, providing breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities.
• Flexible Island Time: You can choose to spend 2, 4, or 6 hours on the islands, tailoring the trip to your interests.
• Swimming & Water Activities: Stops at Kozada, St. Jerome, and Veliki Brijun offer chances to swim, snorkel, and relax by the sea.
• Wildlife & Nature: Children will enjoy watching donkeys, peacocks, and exploring hidden beaches and cliffs.
• Cultural & Historic Sites: Veliki Brijun includes museums and galleries, with entry included, appealing to history and art lovers.
• Family Friendly & Relaxed: Dogs are welcome onboard, and the tour provides fresh drinks and a laid-back vibe for everyone.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Faana port, the tour kicks off with a 50-minute panoramic cruise that showcases the beauty of the 13 surrounding islands. From the boat, you’ll get sweeping views of the archipelago’s lush landscapes, cliffs, and secluded beaches—a perfect way to get a sense of the area’s natural beauty.

The first stop at Kozada Island is brief but significant. This abandoned island often captures visitors’ imaginations with its quiet, untouched charm. Depending on the season, you might have time to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The guide usually provides snorkeling masks, making it easy for even beginners to explore underwater life.

Next, the tour moves to the mainland’s star attractions: St. Jerome (Sv. Jerolim) and Veliki Brijun. Here, the experience becomes more interactive. You can opt to stay on St. Jerome if your idea of fun is sunbathing, swimming, or exploring the island’s peacocks and donkeys. There’s a beach bar and restaurant offering refreshing drinks and snacks, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty.

Alternatively, Veliki Brijun offers a richer set of activities. Visitors can visit museums and galleries, which are included in the price. The island also features a safari park—which can be explored on foot, by bicycle, or with electric mini cars. For families or those interested in history, this part offers a blend of leisure and education.

A notable feature of this tour is its flexibility. You choose how much time to spend on each island: 2, 4, or 6 hours. This means you can opt for a more relaxing day or a more active exploration depending on your mood or schedule.

The Value of the Experience

At $294 for up to six people, the cost might seem high at first glance, but considering the private nature of the tour, the inclusions (like snorkeling masks, drinks, museum entries), and the personalized experience, it offers good value. It’s a much more intimate, tailored experience compared to larger group excursions.

The skipper and guide are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip both safe and enjoyable. As one reviewer notes, their guide “explained everything well,” which enhances the overall experience. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere where personal requests are accommodated, and the views are unobstructed.

Given this, the main value lies in the personalized nature, the flexibility of timing, and the chance to explore both natural and cultural highlights of the Brijuni Islands at your own pace. The scenic cruise, combined with the opportunity to swim and explore, makes it a well-rounded day trip.

What Travelers Can Expect

From the moment you meet at Fazana port, you’ll notice the casual, friendly vibe of the tour. The boat is comfortable, and the skipper tends to be knowledgeable and accommodating — as confirmed by many reviews.

The 50-minute panoramic cruise provides an excellent overview of the islands, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the cliffs, beaches, and lush greenery. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy fresh drinks onboard, keeping you refreshed as you take in the scenery.

Stops at Kozada and St. Jerome are particularly suited for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The waters are described as crystal clear, making it easy to see marine life if you bring your snorkel gear. For families, children seem to love the animals on St. Jerome, like donkeys and peacocks.

Veliki Brijun offers a blend of leisure and exploration. You can visit museums and galleries, which are included, or rent bikes or electric mini cars to see more of the island. There are restaurants and cafes for a laid-back lunch or coffee break, perfect for a relaxed pace.

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Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

What makes this tour stand out is the balance between scenic beauty, cultural interest, and leisure. Unlike large group tours, a private boat allows for a more intimate experience, where you can tailor your stops and focus on what interests you most.

The abandoned Kozada island adds a hint of mystery and untouched charm, often overlooked by mass tours. The wildlife on Veliki Brijun, including peacocks and donkeys wandering freely, adds a whimsical element that children and adults alike will enjoy.

The quality of guides is a recurring highlight in reviews—knowledgeable and friendly, they help turn a sightseeing trip into a genuine connection with the area.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This private boat tour is great for couples, small families, or groups of friends who value personalized service and scenic, relaxed exploration. It’s especially attractive for travelers who enjoy swimming, wildlife, and light outdoor activities.

While not suited for people over 95 years or wheelchair users, the tour welcomes dogs onboard, making it ideal for pet owners seeking a day of adventure with their furry friends.

If you’re hoping for a full day of active exploration, this tour’s flexible timing allows you to customize your experience but remember, the emphasis is on leisure and scenic beauty rather than rigorous activity.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a beautiful, personalized day in Croatia’s natural and cultural landscape, the Private boat tour of Brijuni Islands from Faana offers a compelling choice. Its highlights—stunning views, flexible island stops, and friendly guides—combine to create a memorable experience that balances leisure with discovery.

While the price may seem high, the intimate setting and inclusive features make it worth considering if you value quality over quantity. It’s especially suitable for families with children, couples seeking a romantic escape, or small groups wanting a more relaxed, authentic adventure.

If you’re looking to see the best of Brijuni on your terms, this tour provides an excellent way to connect with Croatia’s island life, waters, and wildlife in a way that larger, less flexible options simply cannot match.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour starts at 16:30, but the total duration can be longer depending on how much time you choose to spend on the islands.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, the stops at Kozada, St. Jerome, and Veliki Brijun are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with masks provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Children enjoy watching the animals on St. Jerome and exploring the beaches. The tour is family-friendly.

Are drinks included?
Yes, fresh drinks are provided onboard during the cruise.

Can I choose how much time to spend on each island?
Yes. You can select 2, 4, or 6 hours for island exploration, allowing for a customized experience.

Is there an additional cost for visiting museums or the safari park?
Entry to museums and galleries on Veliki Brijun is included. There are extra costs if you choose to visit the safari park or rent bikes or electric cars.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel for water activities; comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the islands.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes, in case of bad weather, the date can be changed. It’s best to check the forecast and be prepared for a day on the water.

This private boat trip from Faana to the Brijuni Islands offers an authentic, scenic, and flexible way to experience one of Croatia’s top natural attractions. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a mix of leisure, wildlife, and cultural exploration — all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: