Pula: National Park Brijuni Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re visiting the Istria region and craving a mix of stunning scenery, leisurely boat rides, and a taste of local cuisine, the Brijuni Islands cruise is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty enticing picture of a trip that combines natural beauty with comfort and good food.

What truly stands out are the breathtaking island views, the friendly crew, and the delicious onboard lunch. Plus, the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax on a pristine Croatian beach makes it a well-rounded day. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 5 hours, so if you’re after a more active, adventure-heavy experience, this might be more laid-back than some travelers prefer. That said, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy nature, good company, and a relaxed vibe.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic cruises, delicious local food, and a gentle exploration of Croatia’s marine and island landscapes. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with family, couples, or friends who enjoy a tranquil day out on the water.

Key Points

• Scenic cruise around the 14 Brijuni Islands on a charming wooden boat
• Delicious onboard lunch with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes
• Stop at St. Jerolim for swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration
• Knowledgeable crew makes the experience smooth and enjoyable
• Flexible timing with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Cost includes lunch and drinks, but entrance to the island is extra

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Croatian Experience on the Water

The Brijuni Islands cruise offers a chance to see Croatia’s stunning coastline from a different perspective. Starting from Port Pula—an important historical port from the Austro-Hungarian era—you’ll set off aboard a charming wooden boat that amplifies the sense of adventure and nostalgia. The boat’s relaxed pace allows you to soak in views of lush islands, white limestone beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

Guests consistently praise the friendly crew, notably the guides who often speak multiple languages including Croatian, English, German, and Italian. One reviewer, Lisa, remarked, “The crew was really friendly, the food was delicious, and the trip was really scenic.” It’s this personal touch that elevates what might otherwise be a simple boat ride into a memorable outing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Departure from Port Pula

Your adventure begins at the ‘Excursion Ulika Pula’ office, conveniently located opposite Tito’s park and near the boat dock. From here, the boat departs on schedule, setting sail towards the Brijuni National Park. The duration of the cruise is about 5 hours, making it ideal for a relaxing day without feeling rushed.

Cruising the Brijuni Archipelago

As the boat glides through the water, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the 14 islands that make up the national park. These islands are famous for their lush greenery and tranquil beaches. The boat ride itself is a highlight, with the chance to relax on deck, sip drinks, and listen to commentary from your multilingual guide.

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Lunch Onboard

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the lunch prepared onboard by a skilled chef. You can choose from three options: fish (mackerel with salad), meat (chicken breast with salad), or vegetarian (zucchini and paprika). The food is freshly grilled and served directly on the boat, providing a casual yet tasty meal with ample drinks included.

Stop at St. Jerolim

After lunch, the boat makes a stop at St. Jerolim, one of the islands within the national park. Here, guests typically have around 2.5 hours for free time—ample opportunity to swim in the clear waters, snorkel, walk along the beaches, or simply relax in the sun. Reviewers note that the water is especially transparent, making snorkeling particularly enjoyable.

Return to Port Pula

The tour concludes with a scenic cruise back to the original starting point, arriving around 5 pm. This leisurely schedule lets you unwind without feeling overwhelmed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the onboard lunch, drinks, and the boat cruise itself. The entrance fee to St. Jerolim (which is €5 for adults and €3 for children aged 7-18) is paid cash on the island. It’s also worth noting that drinks on the island are not included, so you might want to bring some cash for additional refreshments.

Things not included are hotel pickup and drop-off, so consider arranging transport or being prepared to meet at the designated meeting point. The meeting point is well-signposted and close to central Pula, making it straightforward to access.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour appeals especially to those who enjoy scenic boat rides with minimal fuss. The small group size and friendly crew create a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends. The delicious lunch and drinks onboard add to the feeling of value, especially considering the scenic backdrop.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the trip might not suit travelers prone to seasickness or those seeking high-energy adventure activities. The stop at the island is primarily for leisure, so if you’re after hiking or extensive exploration, you might find it somewhat limited.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Based on reviews, many find the scenic views and friendly guides make the trip worthwhile. Anouk described it as “really enjoyable,” highlighting the green islands, limestone beaches, and clear blue water. Klaudia appreciated the beautiful views and the good food and wine available during the cruise. Meanwhile, Lisa noted that “the crew was really friendly, the food was delicious,” emphasizing the overall warm vibe of the experience.

One common theme is how the stop on St. Jerolim feels like a perfect balance of relaxation and light activity—whether you swim, walk, or just soak up the sun, the time passes quickly.

Is It Worth the Price?

While the cost includes a tasty onboard meal and drinks, the main value lies in the scenic cruise and island stop. For those who love being on the water, enjoying good food, and taking in natural beauty at a relaxed pace, this tour offers a good deal. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but rather a laid-back experience that highlights Croatia’s peaceful island charm.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash for the island entrance fee and any extra drinks or souvenirs.
• Wear swimwear and bring a towel if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Book in advance, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
• Arrive at the meeting point early to avoid missing the departure.
• Consider your seasickness tolerance—the waters are typically calm, but it’s good to be prepared.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy scenic boat rides with a relaxed pace and are looking for a way to enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty without strenuous activity, this tour is ideal. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or older travelers who want a peaceful day out, delicious food, and a splash of adventure in the water.

Those seeking active hiking or extensive island exploration might find the stop at St. Jerolim somewhat limited. However, if your goal is to relax, swim, and enjoy good food with beautiful views, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You should meet at the designated office in Pula.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, from departure to return.

What is the meeting point?
You meet at the ‘Excursion Ulika Pula’ office, opposite Tito’s park near the boat dock.

Can I change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a freshly prepared lunch with drinks is part of the tour price. You get to choose from three options.

How much does the island entrance fee cost?
It’s €5 for adults and €3 for children aged 7-18, payable in cash on St. Jerolim.

Are drinks on the island included?
No, drinks on the island are not included and need to be purchased separately.

What should I bring?
Bring cash, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from age 7 and up can enjoy the trip, but be aware of the entrance fee and the need for supervision during swimming and walking.

Final Thoughts

The Brijuni Islands cruise offers a gentle yet scenic escape from the hustle of everyday life. With its combination of relaxing boat rides, delicious onboard cuisine, and a leisurely island stop, it’s a solid pick for travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty without demanding effort. Thanks to the glowing reviews about friendly staff, stunning vistas, and tasty meals, it’s clear that many find this trip to be a worthwhile addition to their Croatian itinerary.

While it might not be the best fit for thrill-seekers or those wanting hours of exploration, it absolutely delivers on its promise of scenic views and relaxed fun. For those who love the idea of a peaceful day on the water, complemented by good food and stunning scenery, this cruise is likely to meet your expectations—and perhaps even exceed them.

Enjoy your trip and make sure to bring your camera and swimsuit. Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: