Pula: Brijuni National Park Sunset, Dolphins & Dinner Cruise

This experience made our article of 12 Fantastic Cruises And Boat Tours In Pula.

Introduction

If you’re eyeing a unique way to experience the Croatian coast, the Pula: Brijuni National Park Sunset, Dolphins & Dinner Cruise offers a blend of natural beauty, local maritime tradition, and delicious food. While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a memorable evening on the water—filled with chances to see dolphins, watch the sunset, and enjoy a tasty onboard dinner.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see dolphins in the wild is one of those magical moments travelers often remember long after the trip ends. Second, the authentic wooden Croatian boat adds charm and character, making the experience feel less commercial and more genuine.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed—nature has a mind of its own. So, if encountering dolphins is your top priority, be prepared for some variability.

This tour is best suited for those who love nature, scenic views, and relaxing evenings with good food and company. It’s ideal for couples, families, or anyone curious about the wildlife and landscapes of this beautiful Croatian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Travel on a traditional Croatian wooden boat, not a crowded tour boat.
• Wildlife Encounters: Plenty of opportunities to see dolphins in their natural habitat—though sightings depend on the day.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Adriatic Sea and scenic views of Brijuni Islands.
• Delicious Dinner Options: Choose from three onboard meal choices—fish, chicken, or vegetarian—prepared fresh by the onboard chef.
• Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited mineral water, orange juice, and white wine with your meal.
• Good Value: At $58 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience combining wildlife, scenery, and culinary pleasure.

Setting Off from Pula: What You Can Expect

The experience begins at the Excursion Ulika Pula office, conveniently located opposite Tito’s park, near a tank station and traffic lights. From there, you’ll board a classic Croatian wooden boat, which instantly sets a charming, traditional tone. We loved the way these boats evoke a sense of maritime Croatian heritage—less “tourist trap” and more “authentic maritime adventure.”

The cruise kicks off with a panoramic view of Pula’s port, once a vital hub for the Austro-Hungarian empire. As the boat slowly leaves the harbor, you’ll have a chance to take in the bustling activity and the impressive Pula Arena, the Roman amphitheater that dominates the city skyline.

A Scenic Journey to Brijuni Islands

Once on the open water, the main focus is the beautiful coastline and the islands of Brijuni—a cluster of 14 islands known for their lush greenery, white sandy beaches, and historical sites. This stretch of the Adriatic is especially photogenic at sunset, and many reviewers mention how peaceful and inspiring the scenery is.

The boat gently meanders through the islands, giving you a chance to soak in the sights. The boat’s size and design are ideal for a relaxed, unhurried trip—not a high-speed ferry, but a serene vessel perfect for sightseeing and socializing.

Dolphins in the Wild: A Natural Wonder

One of the big draws here is the opportunity to spot wild dolphins. Experts and guides will keep a keen eye out, and according to reviews, the crew is quite experienced at finding these playful creatures. Several travelers noted seeing dolphins multiple times during their cruise, sometimes even swimming alongside the boat.

As one reviewer put it, “We saw dolphins several times,” and another mentioned, “they really try to find them and we saw them and so many.” That said, dolphin sightings are not guaranteed—sometimes they come close, sometimes they keep their distance. The experience is more about the potential and the thrill of wildlife in its natural environment than a certainty.

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Watching the Sunset

As the boat continues its journey, the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, casting a warm glow over the sea. This is perhaps the most magical part of the tour; the scenery truly comes alive during the golden hour. Many reviews highlight the peaceful, almost meditative quality of watching the sunset from the deck.

You’ll want to have your camera ready but also take a moment to simply enjoy the natural spectacle. The gentle rocking of the boat combined with the fading light offers a calming, almost timeless atmosphere.

Dinner on Board: Tasty, Simple, and Satisfying

One of the tour’s best features is the onboard dinner. Guided by a chef, the meal is freshly prepared and includes three options: mackerel with salad, chicken breast with salad, or a vegetarian dish. Several reviewers praised the quality, calling the food “quite good,” with one mentioning that the portion sizes are generous.

Included in the price are unlimited mineral water, orange juice, and white wine, which keeps the mood convivial and relaxed. Multiple reviews raved about the quality of the food and drinks, with one describing it as “better than expected” and noting how well the wine complements the meal.

The food is straightforward but well-prepared, offering a taste of local flavors without overly fancy presentation. The homemade nature of the dishes and the onboard setting contribute to an authentic, friendly atmosphere.

The Return Journey and Night Views

After dinner and some dolphin spotting (if luck is on your side), the cruise heads back to Pula harbor. As the boat approaches, you’ll be treated to nighttime views of Pula, illuminated and majestic at dusk, with the Pula Arena in the background. Many reviewers mention how striking this scene is—wrapping up the evening with a beautiful, memorable sight.

What’s Not Included

This tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. For most travelers staying in Pula, the starting location is quite accessible, but it’s worth factoring that into your plans.

Real Traveler Insights

Based on over 585 reviews, the overall impression is highly positive, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5. Travelers consistently mention friendly, attentive crew members and the excellent value for the price, especially considering the included dinner and drinks. Comments like “for this price you can’t beat it” and “a great atmosphere with friendly staff” highlight the tour’s affordability and quality.

Many visitors appreciated that the trip was not too long or too short, making it perfect for families or those with limited time. Some noted that early booking helps secure a spot on the upper deck, which offers better views, and that weather can impact the trip, so it’s wise to check the forecast.

The dolphin sightings, while not guaranteed, seem to be a common highlight. “We saw dolphins several times,” one reviewer said, reinforcing that patience and luck can pay off. Multiple patrons enjoyed the informative commentary from the crew, which added context about the islands and surrounding areas.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a jacket: As the cruise is in the evening, it can get breezy or cooler, especially after sunset.
• Book early: Spots on the upper deck are limited, and this experience fills up fast, particularly in peak season.
• Arrive on time: The tour departs from the designated meeting point, and punctuality ensures you don’t miss out.
• Consider your seasickness tolerance: The tour is in open sea, which can be bumpy for some. If prone to seasickness, bring medication or consider whether this trip suits you.
• Plan for good weather: Bad weather can lead to route changes or cancellations, so check the forecast before booking.
• Enjoy the scenery and take photos: The sunset and island views are stunning, so have your camera ready.

The Sum Up

This sunset cruise around Brijuni National Park offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, breathtaking views, and authentic local flavor. The chance to spot dolphins in their natural environment, combined with the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional wooden boat and a tasty onboard dinner, makes this a memorable experience—especially for those who love nature and scenic beauty.

The value is excellent, given the comprehensive experience, friendly crew, and included drinks. It’s an especially good choice for couples or families looking for a gentle, scenic evening that blends wildlife watching with cultural charm.

While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the overall ambiance and quality of the experience often leave travelers feeling satisfied and enchanted. Just remember to keep an open mind, dress appropriately for the evening, and arrive prepared for a peaceful, scenic adventure on Croatia’s stunning coast.

FAQ

Is dolphin spotting guaranteed on this tour?
No, dolphin sightings depend on the day and the dolphins’ willingness to approach. While guides are experienced at finding them, nature is unpredictable.

How long does the cruise last?
The tour lasts around three hours, offering enough time to enjoy the scenery, dinner, and dolphin watching without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited mineral water, orange juice, and white wine are included during the cruise, making for a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

What are the meal options?
You can choose from three onboard options: mackerel with salad, chicken breast with salad, or a vegetarian dish. All are prepared fresh by the onboard chef.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip. It’s a relaxing experience that appeals to a broad age range.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during high season, to secure your spot and preferred deck location.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly for the evening, bring your camera, and perhaps some light cash if you want extras. Bring seasickness medication if you’re sensitive.

Can I get dropped off at my hotel afterward?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

This cruise delivers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm, combining wildlife, scenery, and good food into a well-rounded, enjoyable evening. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure or a romantic sunset, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: