Pula: Brijuni National Park & Swimming Tour (in Faana)

If you’re looking for a way to combine nature, culture, and a splash of relaxation while visiting Croatia’s Istria County, this Brijuni National Park & Swimming Tour from Pula might just be your best bet. While we haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, detailed descriptions and reviews paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience is the scenic cruise offering panoramic views of the 14 islands of Brijuni, packed with natural beauty and small historical highlights, and the relaxing swimming break in the clear waters of Faana. The inclusive food and drinks add extra value, making it a smooth, no-fuss outing.

A possible consideration is the lack of hotel pickup, which might require some planning if you’re staying outside the port area. And with a relaxed schedule totaling roughly 6 hours, it’s best suited for travelers looking for a day of leisure rather than an intense sightseeing marathon. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a gentle mix of boat riding, scenery, and swimming, especially if you’re keen on authentic local spots and good value.

This experience made our article of Fazana’s 3 Best National Park Tours: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Beautiful setting: Cruise around the 14 islands of Brijuni, known for their natural charm and ecological importance.
• Inclusive meal: Enjoy a freshly grilled meal (fish, meat, or vegetarian) along with drinks like wine, water, and juice on board.
• Flexible timing: Two hours of scenic cruising paired with a four-hour swimming break gives you a balanced day.
• Authentic experience: Relax in Faana, a traditional fishing town with beaches, bars, and narrow streets.
• Good value: At $65 per person, you get a guided tour, food, drinks, and a swimming stop — a package that offers a lot for the price.
• Dolphins and views: Some reviews mention the possibility of dolphin sightings, adding a special touch to the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Pula’s harbor, near the port authority marked by the yellow police building. Look for a boat named Arena — it’s pretty easy to spot, especially if you’re familiar with small cruise boats. The journey starts with a short but scenic cruise along the coast of the Brijuni Islands, which are protected as a National Park since 1984 and also serve as a Memorial area.

While the departure point and timing are straightforward, keep in mind that this trip doesn’t include hotel pickup. You’ll need to arrive at the harbor, which is quite manageable if you’re staying within Pula’s city center. The tour lasts around 6 hours, with about 2 hours of cruising and 4 hours in Faana, a quaint town famed for its tranquil waters.

The Scenic Cruise

Once on board, you’ll be treated to a 45-60 minute ride along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the islands’ rugged coastlines and lush greenery. The captain, who is experienced and friendly, guides you through this route, sharing tidbits about the islands’ history and ecology.

This part of the trip is especially appealing for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. You’ll love the way the boat glides past rocky outcroppings, small coves, and perhaps even a dolphin or two — a feature praised by travelers like Stefan, who mentions, “Especially worth it because of the dolphins you can see.”

Onboard Food and Drinks

One of the highlights of this tour is the mealtime experience. A freshly prepared, grilled meal is served on the boat, with options including fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes. The meal is served with wine, water, and juice, making it a relaxing way to enjoy your surroundings without any rush.

The quality of the meal is generally considered good value, especially given the included drinks, which can otherwise add up on similar excursions. This combination of good food, drinks, and scenic views creates an enjoyable atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

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The Faana Swimming Break

After the cruise, you’ll disembark in Faana, a charming fishing village with a laid-back vibe. Here, you’ll have about four hours to relax, swim, and explore. The waters of Faana are known for their crystal-clear quality, and the beaches are dotted with bars and small restaurants, perfect for a leisurely meal or a cold drink.

Travelers often mention how peaceful it is to float in these waters or stroll along the narrow stone streets with their small churches and local eateries. The swimming break is ideal for those who want to cool off and soak in the Mediterranean sun.

Returning to Pula

The group reconvenes in Faana, and you’ll be driven back to the starting point at the harbor. The entire experience, from start to finish, offers a relaxed, unhurried day in Croatia’s beautiful coastal environment.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The natural beauty of the Brijuni Islands is undoubtedly a major draw. Their combination of lush greenery, rocky landscapes, and the chance of dolphin sightings creates memorable scenery. The scenic cruise is not only enjoyable but also provides an excellent overview of the islands’ ecological and scenic significance.

The inclusion of a good-quality meal and drinks on board gives the experience a sense of value and comfort, especially for travelers who don’t want to worry about additional expenses. The swimming stop in Faana, with its calm waters and picturesque setting, makes this trip more than just a boat ride; it’s a chance to relax and enjoy the Croatian coast in a meaningful way.

The reviews highlight the overall positive experience, with one traveler noting, “Very nice tour around several islands, especially worth it because of the dolphins you can see.” Such testimonials underscore the appeal for nature lovers and those seeking authentic local experiences.

The Practicalities and Considerations

While the tour is very well-rounded, a few points are worth considering:

• Price: $65 per person is competitive, considering the guided cruise, meal, drinks, and swimming break. For travelers on a budget, it’s a good value, especially given the quality of the experience.
• No hotel pickup: You’ll need to get to Pula’s harbor on your own, which might require some planning if you’re staying outside the city center.
• Timing: The total duration is about 6 hours, making it a suitable half-day activity but perhaps too leisurely for those pressed for time.
• Language options: Tours are offered in German, Italian, English, and Croatian, catering to a diverse group and making it accessible for most travelers.

The Sum Up

This Pula: Brijuni National Park & Swimming Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation. It’s particularly good for travelers who want to see the islands from the water, enjoy a good meal, and unwind in a peaceful swimming spot. The inclusion of food, drinks, and the chance to spot dolphins makes it a smart choice for those seeking value and authenticity.

If you’re after a laid-back day with picturesque views and casual exploration, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty and local flavor, all without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour? No, the tour begins at the harbor near the port authority, so you’ll need to make your own way there.

How long is the cruise part of the trip? The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a scenic overview of the Brijuni islands and coastline.

What meals are served on board? A freshly grilled meal with vegetarian, fish, or meat options is included, along with drinks like wine, water, and juice.

Can I expect to see dolphins during the cruise? Some reviews mention dolphin sightings, which can add a special touch to your trip.

What is the swimming break like? You’ll have about four hours in Faana to swim in the clear waters, relax on the beaches, or explore the charming town.

Are there any language restrictions? Tours are offered in German, Italian, English, and Croatian, making it accessible for most travelers.

This trip is a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Croatia’s natural beauty and cultural charm. It offers good value, scenic views, and a relaxing break from sightseeing — ideal for those looking to savor the coast without a hectic schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: