Pula: National Park Brijuni Island Visit & Dolphin Cruise

Exploring the Pula: National Park Brijuni Island & Dolphin Cruise

Thinking about a day trip from Pula that combines stunning scenery, wildlife spotting, and a bit of relaxation? This Brijuni National Park & Dolphin Cruise offers all that and more. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking to see the islands by boat, enjoy a delicious meal, and maybe even catch a glimpse of dolphins frolicking in the waters.

What we love about this experience is how it balances beautiful sightseeing with laid-back fun. The unlimited drinks onboard keep things relaxed, and the chance to see dolphins—if luck’s on your side—is a real highlight. Plus, the stop at St. Jerolim Island offers a chance to swim and explore at your own pace, making it ideal for those who want a little adventure and downtime in one trip.

That said, there are a few points to consider. The visit to the island involves an extra fee (€7 for adults, €4 for children), and the stop is primarily a beach with limited other attractions, so if you’re expecting a full sightseeing experience on the island itself, you might find it somewhat brief. This tour suits those who want a scenic cruise with good food, wildlife spotting, and flexible free time rather than a deep dive into any single aspect.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and a social atmosphere with drinks and good company. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxing day on the water will find plenty to enjoy here, though those seeking a more in-depth cultural or historical tour might want to explore other options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful boat cruise covering all the islands of Brijuni National Park, offering fantastic views of the coastline and islands.
• Dolphin spotting is a real possibility; many travelers have been lucky enough to see these playful creatures.
• Relaxed atmosphere with unlimited wine, soft drinks, and mineral water onboard, making for a laid-back experience.
• Enjoyable stop at St. Jerolim Island for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring; ample free time (about 2.5 hours).
• Informative guide shares interesting facts about the islands, enhancing your understanding of the area.
• Good value for money given the inclusion of lunch, drinks, and sightseeing in one package.

The Experience From Start to Finish

Booking and Meeting

Booking this tour is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your plans. The tour typically starts with boarding about 30 minutes before departure at the designated meeting point in Pula harbor. It’s worth arriving early to settle in and get comfortable, as the boat can get busy but generally remains spacious enough for everyone to enjoy the ride.

The Boat and Crew

The vessel used is described as comfortable, with multiple loos on both levels—something that travelers appreciate, especially on longer trips. From reviews, the crew earns high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, particularly the guide, Larisa, who is known for speaking several languages and making sure everyone feels cared for.

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The Scenic Cruise

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the coast of Pula and Faana, taking in the views of the Adriatic Sea and the lush islands. The boat’s route covers all of Brijuni’s islands, giving you a comprehensive perspective of this beautiful archipelago. Many reviews mention how scenic the journey is, with some calling it “fascinating” and “exciting.”

Dolphin Watching

One of the biggest draws here is the chance to see dolphins. The crew actively searches for them, and according to reviews, many groups have been lucky to spot these playful creatures swimming alongside the boat. Several travelers have described the sight of dolphins as “amazing” or “fantastic,” and it’s clear that this moment can make the trip extra memorable.

Lunch on Board

A major highlight is the lunch served on the boat, which features traditional Mediterranean dishes. You can choose from fish, beef, or vegetarian options, with many reviewers calling the meal “delicious” or “tasty.” The meal is paired with unlimited white wine and soft drinks, creating a relaxed, convivial atmosphere onboard. Some reviewers have noted that the food is simple but well-prepared, and they appreciated the generous drinks offering.

Stop at St. Jerolim Island

Around 2.5 hours are allocated for exploring St. Jerolim Island. You can stroll its scenic beaches, go for a swim, or simply relax on the sand. The island itself is described as beautiful, with plenty of fish and some wildlife, including peacocks wandering around. You’ll want to bring your swim gear, goggles, and sunscreen—many reviews highlight how refreshing the swim can be after the boat ride.

Some travelers have mentioned that the island’s only facilities are a restaurant and restrooms, which are functional but not luxurious. The landscape is mainly natural, with lovely scenery and opportunities for photography or just soaking up the sun.

Return and Sunset Views

As the trip concludes, you’ll sail back toward Pula. Many reviews mention how lovely it is to arrive back in the city in the evening, with views of the city’s Roman Amphitheater illuminated at sunset. It’s a peaceful, picturesque way to end your day on the water.

The Value and Overall Impression

At $59 per person, this tour offers solid value when you consider the many components—boat cruise, guide, lunch, drinks, and island stop. It’s a full day out that balances scenic beauty, wildlife, leisure, and good food, making it a well-rounded experience.

That said, the extra fee for the island (7 EUR for adults, 4 EUR for children) is something to budget for. Most travelers find the overall experience to be worth the cost, especially considering how well-organized and enjoyable it is.

Real Traveler Feedback

A common theme among reviews is the high praise for the friendly guides and crew. Many comment on how knowledgeable and accommodating they are, which makes a big difference in comfort and understanding of the trip.

Another key positive is the opportunity to see dolphins. While it’s not guaranteed, many have remarked that their luck paid off with dolphin sightings—truly a highlight that elevates this tour from a standard boat trip to something special.

The meal and drinks also stand out as substantial parts of the experience. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed the food, with some noting that it exceeded expectations for a boat lunch, and others appreciating the unlimited wine and soft drinks.

Potential Downsides

Some travelers have expressed slightly disappointed expectations about the island stop—mainly that there’s not much to do there beyond the beach and restaurant, and the extra fee might seem a bit steep for some. Also, if you’re unlucky, you might not see dolphins, which could be a letdown if dolphin spotting was a primary goal.

The toilet facilities on the boat, while functional, are described as “grim” by a few, so don’t expect luxury amenities. The overall duration and timing are well-structured, but the stop on the island might feel a bit brief for those who want to explore more deeply.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who love scenic boat rides and wildlife sightings. If you’re interested in relaxing with a drink in hand while enjoying beautiful surroundings, it’s a great pick. It also works well for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure without too much planning or effort.

Families with older children might enjoy it, especially due to the opportunity to swim and sightsee. If you’re a couple or a small group looking for a laid-back day with excellent food, drinks, and a bit of adventure, this cruise will hit the spot.

However, if you’re after a deeper dive into the islands’ history or culture, or prefer more comprehensive island excursions, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved on the island, though the main attractions are accessible.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the designated Pula harbor.

How much does the island entry fee cost?
The entry fee for the island is 7 EUR for adults and 4 EUR for children, payable in cash at the island.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for the island fee and any extras. Also, goggles or snorkels are recommended if you plan to swim.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for families with older children who enjoy boat trips and swimming, younger kids or those with mobility challenges might find the island stop less accommodating.

Can I see dolphins?
There’s a good chance, but dolphin sightings depend on luck. The crew actively searches for them, and many reviews mention successful sightings.

What is the food like?
The lunch is a traditional Mediterranean meal with fish, beef, or vegetarian options. It’s generally well-received, simple but tasty.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about a full day, with approximately 2.5 hours on the island and the rest on the water.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, unlimited white wine, mineral water, and soft drinks are provided onboard.

Is there Wi-Fi on the boat?
This isn’t specified in the info, so it’s safe to assume Wi-Fi availability may be limited or unavailable.

How large are the groups?
The tour typically involves a comfortable boat with enough space for everyone, as it’s described as not overcrowded.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day that combines wildlife, beautiful islands, and good food, this Pula: Brijuni Island & Dolphin Cruise hits most marks. The blend of a boat tour, a stop at a scenic island, and the possibility of dolphin sightings make it a memorable experience for many travelers. The friendly guides, delicious lunch, and unlimited drinks add to the appeal, making it good value for the price.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy being on the water, love spotting animals, or want a flexible, enjoyable day without heavy sightseeing commitments. For anyone looking to relax, unwind, and soak up the beauty of the Croatian coast, this cruise offers a genuine and satisfying way to do just that.

You can check availability for your dates here: