FAANA: PANORAMA NP BRIJUNI AND ISLAND SWIMMING STOP

Travelers looking for a scenic boat trip along Croatia’s Istrian coast will find the Faana tour of the Brijuni National Park an appealing mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and relaxing beach time. This experience, priced at around $41 per person, offers more than just a boat ride — it’s a chance to see Croatia’s wildlife, explore the historic islands, and enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.

The highlights are the panoramic views of the islands, the chance to snorkel and swim around Jerolim, and the opportunity to experience the local marine life through the glass bottom of the boat. What we particularly love is how this tour balances sightseeing with downtime, making it ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed yet visually engaging day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the island tickets cost an additional 7 euros per adult, paid directly on-site, and food or drinks aren’t included. So, if you’re after a full day of exploring and lounging in Croatia’s stunning waters, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, beach days, and a taste of local history without a hefty price tag.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: The tour offers breathtaking panoramas of the Brijuni Islands and surrounding coastline.
Snorkeling & Swimming: The stop on Jerolim Island provides a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters.
Marine Exploration: The glass-bottom boat adds an engaging element to spotting underwater life.
Historic Sights: You’ll glimpse old Venetian villas, Tito’s former residence, golf courses, and the harbor.
Flexible Options: You can choose to stay on the boat or hop off on the island, with tickets payable on-site.
Value for Money: For just over $40, you get a scenic cruise, snorkeling, and a boat ticket, making it a good budget-friendly option.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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The Departure and Initial Journey

The adventure begins in Faana, a charming seaside village. The tour features a cheerful boat with a distinctive exterior, which makes it easy to spot at the large pier. We loved how the boat’s design added a lively touch to the experience, setting the tone for a fun, relaxed day. Departing around mid-morning (check the schedule for exact times), the boat glides smoothly along the coast of the Brijuni National Park, giving everyone ample time to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

Throughout the ride, the boat’s glass bottom allows passengers to glimpse the marine world beneath. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds an educational layer without needing extra equipment. Plus, the crew is friendly and knowledgeable, often pointing out notable sights like the old Venetian villas, famously associated with Tito’s visits, and the lush golf courses that dot the islands.

The Panoramic Views of Brijuni Islands

As you cruise along, the views unfold — lush greenery, rocky coastlines, and the islands themselves. According to one reviewer, “The captain and staff were very nice,” and the sightseeing of the old villas and harbor was a highlight. With the coastline serving as a living postcard, you’ll get a good sense of why this area draws visitors for its scenic charm.

The tour’s focus on the panorama means you’ll see the islands from multiple angles, with plenty of photo opportunities. Whether you’re an avid photographer or just want to soak in the sights, the viewpoints on the boat provide fantastic framing for your shots.

Snorkeling & Swimming on Jerolim Island

After about two and a half hours of cruising, the boat stops at Jerolim Island, renowned for its inviting beaches and vibrant peacocks. As one reviewer put it, the island’s beautiful beaches and peacocks make it a charming spot to relax. This stop is the main reason many choose this tour — a chance to dip into the cool, clear waters, snorkel around, and enjoy some beach time.

You’ll want to bring your towel and beachwear, as towels aren’t provided, and the water is perfect for swimming. The snorkeling is accessible and fun, especially in the transparent sea, which makes spotting marine life easier. Keep in mind, if you prefer not to disembark, you can opt to stay on the boat and skip the island, offering flexibility if you’re short on time or not in the mood for a beach day.

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The Island Ticket and Additional Costs

On Jerolim, the ticket to enter the island costs 7 euros for adults and 3 euros for children, payable directly on-site. This fee covers access to the beaches, peacocks, and other island attractions. Many travelers consider this a reasonable price for the experience, especially given the natural beauty and the chance to see the island’s famous peacocks up close.

While food and drinks aren’t included, there are usually options available on the island or nearby, so packing a snack or water is advisable if you plan to stay for the entire stop. Some reviews mention that the tour is well-organized, with the crew punctual in returning to the boat at 3 pm, ensuring a relaxed yet timely experience.

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Returning to Faana

After a leisurely 2.5 hours on Jerolim, the boat departs back to Faana. The return trip offers more chances to soak in the views and enjoy the marine spectacle through the glass bottom. The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other explorations in the area.

Overall Value and Practicalities

For just $41, this tour offers a lot — scenic views, snorkeling, historic sights, and a relaxing beach stop. The price includes both the boat ticket and the national park panorama ticket, making it straightforward and easy to budget. Additional costs, like the island ticket, are modest, and you’re free to opt-out of the island stop if you prefer.

If you’re traveling with family or a group, the flexible nature of the tour and the friendly crew, as praised by reviewers, add to its appeal. It’s a good mix of guided sightseeing and free time, which can suit a variety of travel styles.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for travelers seeking beautiful coastal scenery and a chance to swim in Croatia’s famously clear waters. It’s well-suited for those interested in a mix of sightseeing and leisure, especially if you enjoy seeing natural and historic sites from the comfort of a boat.

It’s also a good pick for families, thanks to the relaxed pace and the fun of seeing peacocks and snorkeling. However, individuals with back problems should note that the boat ride may not be suitable, and those wanting a full day with included meals might want to look for other options.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including the stop at Jerolim, lasts approximately three hours.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride along the Brijuni coast and the national park panorama ticket.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or purchasing on the island is recommended.

Can I stay on the boat instead of going to the island?
Yes, if you prefer not to disembark, you can stay on the boat and return directly to Faana.

How much does the island ticket cost?
Island tickets are 7 euros for adults and 3 euros for children, payable on-site.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
The tour description highlights snorkeling in the clear waters, but it doesn’t specify if equipment is provided, so bringing your own or renting locally might be necessary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families who enjoy water activities and scenic boat rides, but keep in mind the overall length and the need for basic swimming ability.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Is the tour available in other languages?
The tour is offered in English, making it accessible to most travelers.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so check the weather forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Faana around the Brijuni National Park offers a delightful mix of scenic views, marine exploration, and island relaxation. The stunning vistas of the islands and coastline are the star of the show, making it an ideal choice for travelers craving picture-perfect moments and a laid-back day at sea.

The snorkeling stop at Jerolim is a highlight, especially for those eager to cool off and see Croatia’s vibrant underwater life. The optional island visit, with its charming peacocks and beaches, adds a layer of authenticity and fun.

While not including food and drinks, the overall value remains high, given the experience’s beauty and accessibility. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy gentle cruises, scenic photo ops, and a touch of beachside leisure without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a relaxed, beautifully scenic half-day with plenty of opportunities to see nature and historic sights, this tour offers a straightforward and enjoyable way to explore Croatia’s coastal gems.