Boat Trip Coastal Tour from Faana to Pula and snorkelling

If you’re looking to combine sea, scenery, and a touch of history in Croatia’s beautiful Istria region, this Boat Trip from Faana to Pula with snorkelling might just be the experience for you. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a picture of a well-paced, enjoyable outing. It’s a great way to step away from land-based sightseeing and enjoy the coast from the water, especially if you love a little time in the sea.

Two things that stand out about this tour are its stunning coastal views and the opportunity to snorkel among fish, which makes for a memorable, relaxed day. The boat’s small size and friendly guides help create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for travelers who prefer a more personal experience.

One potential downside is the limited duration—just three hours—which means the stops are brief. Also, drinks and snacks aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring your own if you’re planning to stay refreshed.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy sea adventures, scenic cruises, and exploring Croatian coastal towns without too much fuss. It’s particularly good if you want a flexible, informal experience that combines nature, history, and some fun in the water.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: The 3-hour duration makes it perfect for a quick, memorable escape.
• Stunning scenery: Expect gorgeous views of the Croatian coast, the Brijuni Islands, and historic Pula from the sea.
• Snorkelling included: You get a good chunk of time (about 1.5 hours) for swimming and exploring underwater life.
• Small group vibe: The boat is small, with about 13 people, creating a friendly, less crowded feel.
• Flexible stops: The tour offers a chance to stop in a bay for swimming or relaxing, with optional visits to interesting spots like shipwrecks.
• Cost-effective: At around $51, it’s a solid value for a scenic adventure that includes snorkelling gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

We love the way this tour balances sea, scenery, and history. Starting from Faana, you’re immediately greeted with views of the Faana Channel and the Brijuni Islands, which are worth the trip alone. The boat cruise to Pula is about 45 minutes, and the journey itself offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the impressive coastline and the historic Austro-Hungarian breakwater.

What makes this trip special is the combination of natural beauty and historical perspective. Approaching Pula from the sea, you’ll see the Roman Amphitheatre (the Arena) and other landmarks from a different angle. This perspective tends to make the experience more memorable than just walking around the town. Plus, the guide’s commentary, according to reviews, is knowledgeable and adds a layer of interest to the cruise.

The secret stop for swimming and snorkelling is a highlight. We loved the way guests describe the experience: “snorkeling at various locations,” with clear water and an abundance of fish. One reviewer mentioned that the guide swam into a cave with them — a small detail that hints at the personalized touch. The 1.5 hours allocated for this part seem to be enough for a good swim, although some might find it a bit quick if they’re eager to linger longer.

After the swimming stop, the boat heads back to Faana, giving you another chance to enjoy the sea views, with the option to relax and take in the coast before returning. The return cruise is about 45 minutes, making the entire trip a well-balanced mix of travel, activity, and relaxation.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, which is a real plus for those who want to explore underwater without renting gear separately. As drinks and snacks aren’t included, it’s wise to bring your own or buy them beforehand—especially if you tend to get hungry or thirsty during water activities.

Remember to pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour is accessible to strollers, which makes it slightly more family-friendly, but note that swimming ability is required, and it’s not suitable for toddlers, pregnant women, or the elderly. Pets are allowed, so you can bring your furry friends along if they enjoy the water.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off at Ul. Titova Riva 18 in Faana, where the boat departs for the first cruise segment. Expect about 45 minutes of cruising towards Pula, during which you’ll get to admire the coast and the islands. The boat itself is small yet partially covered, which helps shield you from the sun or wind, making the ride comfortable.

Next, you’ll stop in a nearby bay for swimming and snorkelling. The reviews note that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often swimming with your to point out interesting underwater sights, like fish and cave structures. The one and a half hour allocated seems sufficient for a relaxed swim and exploration.

Afterward, the boat heads back towards Faana, again cruising for roughly 45 minutes, giving you a different perspective of the coastline on the return journey. The final part of the trip allows some free time for photos and relaxation before disembarking at the starting point.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly guide and skipper, Jimmy, as a highlight. One review states, “Jimmy is the best skipper in Croatia,” reflecting the high regard for the staff’s professionalism and friendliness. Another reviewer appreciated the “lovely morning” and the small, partially covered boat that felt intimate and less touristy.

The scenic views seem to resonate most with travelers, with comments about stunning coastlines and the Roman Amphitheatre visible from the sea. The snorkelling is also a big hit, with one traveler noting they swam around “various locations,” and another enjoying the visit to a shipwreck.

Despite the brief duration, many find the experience to be well worth the price, especially considering the inclusion of snorkelling gear and the intimate group size.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic boat ride with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and see Pula from the water, this tour offers good value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy light water activity and want a brief but scenic escape. It’s not perfect for those seeking a full-day adventure or detailed historical tours, but it pairs nicely with other land-based activities.

Travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and friendly guides will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine relaxation and sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple stops.

Final Thoughts

This Coastal Tour from Faana to Pula with snorkelling offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, light adventure, and cultural sights. You’ll get a fresh perspective on Pula from the water, enjoy some fun in the sea, and take in Croatia’s stunning coastline. With a solid 4.9 out of 5 rating from 16 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this brief trip to be a worthwhile addition to their Croatian itinerary.

While it’s not a long or action-packed tour, the intimacy and scenery make it a worthwhile choice, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day with a bit of snorkelling and sightseeing. If you like small boats, friendly guides, and the chance to see Pula from a different angle, this could be just what you need for a memorable Croatian experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
You should have swimming ability to participate, so it’s not ideal for very young children. It is accessible to strollers, but keep in mind that swimming and water activities are involved.

Are drinks and snacks included?
No, they are not included. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks to stay refreshed during the trip.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including cruising, swimming, and relaxing time.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. If you want to stay hydrated, carry your own drinks.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, like most outdoor activities, it’s best to check the weather forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling due to weather conditions.

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

This trip is a solid pick if you want to enjoy Croatia’s coast in a relaxed setting, with friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and a chance to cool off in the water. It’s perfect for travelers who value personal touches and scenic escapes over long, busy excursions.

You can check availability for your dates here: