Faana: Brijuni Islands Cruise with Peacock Island Stop

If you’re exploring the Croatian coast, a cruise through the breathtaking Brijuni National Park is an experience worth adding to your itinerary. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this trip offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, engaging commentary, and relaxing beach time.

Three things that stand out about this experience are the chance to see all 14 islands in the archipelago from the water, the opportunity to snorkel and swim on Peacock Island, and the inclusion of a tasty onboard lunch with unlimited drinks. However, a note to consider is that you’ll need to pay an extra entry fee to visit Peacock Island itself, which might be a minor additional cost for some travelers.

This cruise is ideal for those looking for a combination of sightseeing, light adventure, and relaxation in a short time. If you love impressive views, learning about the area, and enjoying some beach downtime, this tour could be a perfect fit.

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Key Points

Scenic boat trip around all 14 islands of Brijuni National Park in just 1.5 hours
Expert commentary from knowledgeable guides, including insights from Eric
Snorkeling and swimming opportunities on Peacock Island, with a focus on marine life
Onboard lunch with unlimited drinks included if you opt for the 12:30 start
Private tables available for groups of three or more for a more intimate experience
Flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours before

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Brijuni Islands Cruise

If you’re seeking a quick yet immersive way to explore Croatia’s stunning Brijuni Islands, this cruise from Faana checks many boxes. What makes it stand out is the chance to see all 14 islands from the water, combined with the chance to relax on Peacock Island’s beaches and peek into the local marine life through snorkeling.

The experience is led by guides like Eric, who are praised for their friendly demeanor and engaging storytelling. You’ll also enjoy the added bonus of a well-organized trip that provides both scenic views and free time, making it a well-balanced outing for families, couples, or small groups.

A potential downside? The tour doesn’t include entry to Peacock Island itself, so you’ll have to pay a small fee if you want to explore further once ashore. But for many, the overall value — especially with the lunch and unlimited drinks — makes it a compelling choice.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, appreciate informative guides, and are after a mix of sightseeing and leisure.

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What to Expect from the Brijuni Islands Cruise

This cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll pass by all the 14 islands that make up Brijuni National Park. The route is designed to showcase the park’s dramatic shoreline, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a relaxed ride, but one that’s packed with visual delights.

The boat departs from Faana’s main pier, identifiable by the white lighthouse and a standing board with “Remember Istria.” The boat, called “Galeb,” provides a comfortable platform to enjoy the scenery, with private tables available for groups of three or more. This small detail makes a significant difference if you’re traveling with friends or family, offering a more personalized experience.

The Scenic Cruise and Wildlife Viewing

Once underway, your guide—like the friendly Eric—will share insights about the islands’ history and ecology. As you cruise past the islands, expect to see plenty of photo-worthy vistas, from rugged coastlines to lush patches of forest. The boat’s proximity to the shoreline means you’ll get great views and a sense of the park’s scale.

A highlight for many travelers is the chance to spot local wildlife, as the tour mentions wildlife viewing as part of the 1.5-hour journey. Although specific animals aren’t detailed, the natural setting suggests opportunities for spotting birds or marine life from the boat.

Making the Most of Peacock Island and Snorkeling

The real star of this trip is the stop at Peacock Island, or Sv. Jerolim. Once anchored, guests enjoy about 2-3 hours of free time on the island’s beaches. This is your moment to relax, swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun.

From reviews, it’s clear snorkeling here is a favorite activity. One traveler mentioned, “We all particularly enjoyed snorkeling on Peacock Island. You can see lots of fish underwater and the water is fantastic.” The clarity of the water is often praised, making it ideal for observing marine life.

Snorkeling gear may not be included, so if you’re eager to explore underwater, consider bringing your own or renting on-site. The beach area is described as beautiful, with soft sands and clear waters perfect for a dip after the boat tour.

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Entry Fee and Beach Facilities

It’s important to note a small extra: the entry fee to Peacock Island is 7 EUR for adults and 3 EUR for children. This fee helps cover access to the island’s beaches and facilities. While there’s no mention of extensive amenities, the beaches are described as lovely, providing a peaceful spot for sunbathing or swimming.

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Lunch and Drinks on Board

One of the tour’s standout features, especially for those who like to keep the day relaxed and unhurried, is the optional lunch served on the boat. The 12:30 start option includes a tasty meal with unlimited drinks, offering a well-deserved break after the snorkeling session.

Guests have raved about the value of this addition — a good-quality meal combined with drinks makes for a very comfortable experience, especially on a warm day. Onboard dining also means you won’t need to worry about finding a restaurant afterward, saving you time and energy.

The Practicalities: Booking, Group Size, and Weather

Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve in advance and flexible policies like free cancellation up to 24 hours before. This flexibility is helpful in Croatia’s unpredictable weather, as tours are postponed or refunded if the weather isn’t suitable.

The tour is suitable for small groups, with private tables available, which feels more intimate than a large cruise. The duration of 1.5 hours makes it manageable for families, older travelers, or those on a tight schedule.

Timing is flexible, but the 12:30 start with lunch is particularly popular. Make sure to check availability so you can plan around your other activities.

Authentic Guide Experience

Reviews mention guides like Eric, who are praised for their friendly and informative approach. You’ll get background on the islands’ geography and history, enhancing the sightseeing and snorkeling experience. The tour also offers an audio guide in multiple languages—English, German, Croatian, and Italian—catering to diverse travelers.

Overall Value and Personal Experience

Considering the price point, this tour offers a good balance of sightseeing, leisure, and cultural insight. The inclusion of lunch and unlimited drinks, plus the private tables for groups, makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting a relaxing, informative day.

The boat itself is described as a comfortable vessel, and with the opportunity to see stunning coastal scenery, it provides a unique perspective on the islands’ beauty. Plus, the snorkeling on Peacock Island seems to be a crowd favorite, especially for underwater enthusiasts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Brijuni National Park without committing to a full-day tour. It’s especially suited for families, small groups, or couples who enjoy light adventure combined with relaxed beach time. If you’re a keen snorkeler or just love stunning coastal views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you’re planning to explore the islands in greater depth or visit museums and other attractions, this cruise might serve as a delightful introduction rather than a comprehensive experience.

The Sum Up

This cruise from Faana to Brijuni Islands offers a well-rounded, value-packed outing combining scenic boat views, wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and a tasty onboard lunch. The knowledgeable guides, especially Eric, add a personal touch that makes the trip more engaging. The opportunity to relax on Peacock Island’s beaches and enjoy the spectacular coastline makes it an attractive option for a half-day adventure.

It’s best suited for those wanting a scenic overview with some active elements, without the need for extensive planning. The inclusion of private tables, flexible booking, and multilingual guides increases its appeal for a variety of travelers.

Overall, if you’re after a light, scenic, and fun Croatian island experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable trip that fits well into a busy travel schedule.

Where do I meet the tour?
You’ll meet at Faana’s main pier, identifiable by the white lighthouse and a standing board with “Remember Istria.” The boat is called “Galeb.”

Is lunch included?
Lunch is optional and available if you select the 12:30 start time. It includes a tasty meal and unlimited drinks.

Do I need to pay any extra fees?
Yes, there’s an additional entry fee to Peacock Island—7 EUR for adults and 3 EUR for children.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling is a popular activity on Peacock Island, with many guests enjoying the underwater scenery and marine life.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides like Eric speak English, German, Croatian, and Italian, and an audio guide in multiple languages is also available.

What is the group size?
Groups are generally small, especially if you reserve a private table for three or more people, offering a more intimate experience.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour will be postponed, or a full refund will be offered.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the boat ride, snorkeling, and beach time, but remember to bring the appropriate gear and consider the extra entry fee for Peacock Island.

This Brijuni Islands cruise from Faana offers a charming slice of Croatia’s coast with memorable scenery, engaging guides, and relaxing beach time. Whether you’re into marine life, scenic boat rides, or just want a peaceful day by the sea, this tour is worth considering.