Pula is a fantastic base for exploring Croatia’s Brijuni National Park—a string of 14 islands offering a mix of wildlife, scenic beaches, and intriguing history. Its location along the Istrian coast makes it easy to hop onto a boat and escape to these peaceful isles. We especially love the Dolphin Watching in Brijuni tour for its chance to see playful dolphins and enjoy a relaxed cruise with onboard dinner and drinks. For travelers who prefer a more comprehensive experience, the Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit offers scenic sailing plus free time to explore and snorkel on Jerolim Island. These options highlight the park’s natural beauty and wildlife, making Pula an ideal launching point.
Our list covers a variety of tour styles, from half-day dolphin safaris to full-day island explorations, including private boat trips, snorkeling adventures, and sunset cruises. Each provides a unique perspective on Brijuni’s attractions, and all include some form of local storytelling—either about the parks’ history or its marine life. Read on to find the tour that suits your style and schedule.
1. Pula: National Park Brijuni Island Visit & Dolphin Cruise
This colorful trip combines a scenic boat cruise around the islands with the thrill of dolphin spotting, all from the comfort of a traditional vessel. It’s rated 4.5/5 based on 757 reviews and costs $59 per person. The tour includes searching for dolphins off the Adriatic coast, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and visiting Jerolim Island, known for its beautiful beaches. A highlight is the onboard lunch with unlimited wine, making it a relaxed, indulgent day. The guide shares interesting facts about the park’s fauna and history, enriching the experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of wildlife viewing, the opportunity to swim, and the onboard social vibe with drinks and dinner. It’s perfect for visitors who want a mix of nature, comfort, and local storytelling. The only downside is it’s a full day of boat time, which might be tiring for those with limited mobility or less into long boat trips.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking dolphin sightings, a laid-back vibe, and a taste of Croatian seafood. Book early to secure a spot on this popular cruise.
2. Pula: Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit
For around $53, this tour offers a balanced mix of sailing and island exploration. Rated 4.4/5 from 574 reviews, it features a traditional boat cruise with all-you-can-drink onboard and an included lunch. The guide provides a thorough history of Brijuni’s islands, which makes the experience educational as well as scenic. After cruising the islands, you get free time at Jerolim Island for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. The tour also includes a visit to see the wildlife native to the island, adding an animal-watching element to the trip.
This tour is particularly good if you want to combine sightseeing with leisure time. The boat ride offers excellent views, and the food and drinks are well-rated as part of the value. It’s suitable for families and couples alike, with a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities for swimming. The main consideration is the limited time on the island, which might not satisfy those looking for a comprehensive day of hiking or in-depth exploration.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for those wanting a relaxed cruise with a bit of wildlife, history, and free time on Jerolim Island.
3. Pula: National Park Brijuni/2 swimming stops/lunch/drinks
This 6.5-hour adventure, priced at $59, is perfect for water lovers. It includes a cruise around all 14 islands, two swimming stops, and the chance to slide from the big inflatable on the boat. Rated 4.5/5 from 248 reviews, guests rave about the fun of jumping and snorkeling in clear waters, and the onboard lunch with three delicious options prepared by a chef. The itinerary features a mix of sightseeing and water activities, including snorkeling at one of the park’s islands and relaxing on Jerolim’s beaches.
What sets it apart is the focus on active water fun, with the inflatable slide adding an element of playful excitement. The multiple swimming stops allow guests to really enjoy the pristine environment. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and it offers great value considering the food, drinks, and multiple water-based activities.
Bottom Line: A lively, water-centric tour that combines island exploration with lots of swimming and sliding — perfect for energetic travelers.
4. Dolphins Watching in the National Park Brijuni from Pula
This half-day tour, costing $68.34 and rated 4.5/5 from 232 reviews, is dedicated to spotting dolphins off the coast of Brijuni. It’s a 3-hour journey that offers the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural environment while enjoying a dinner and open bar onboard. The guide provides in-depth commentary about dolphins and the marine surroundings, making it both fun and educational. Guests often mention how many dolphins they saw and the beautiful sunset views from the boat.
What makes this trip special is the focus on marine life, with a relaxed cruise that emphasizes dolphin behavior and marine conservation. The onboard dinner and drinks add a social element, making it a popular choice for those who love wildlife and a bit of luxury.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers and those wanting a short, memorable experience with dolphin sightings and sunset views.
5. Sunset Dolphin Cruise in Brijuni National Park from Pula
If you’re after a romantic evening with a high chance of dolphin sightings, this $48 tour is ideal. Rated 5/5 from 40 reviews, it combines a 3-hour cruise with the magic of sunset views and dolphins dancing in the waters. The boat departs around 6 pm, cruising around the islands and providing ample photo opportunities of dolphins and the illuminated Pula Arena. The smaller group size (maximum 100 participants) ensures a comfortable experience with plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery.
Guests love the peaceful atmosphere and the spectacular views at sunset. The captain’s skill in locating dolphins adds to the thrill, and the experience is perfect for couples or anyone seeking a serene, scenic end to a day.
Bottom Line: An elegant, intimate option to enjoy the coast at sunset, with excellent chances to see dolphins and capture stunning photos.
6. From Pula: Island Stop and National Park Day Cruise
Rated 4.4/5 on 211 reviews and costing $53, this full-day cruise takes you around all the islands with a professional guide. You’ll get a taste of Croatia’s nature with a visit to Jerolim Island, known for its peacocks and exotic fish. The tour includes a delicious fish, meat, or vegetarian lunch, plus unlimited drinks. It’s a laid-back way to see the park’s highlights and enjoy some beach time.
This trip is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience without rushing, especially those interested in bird and animal spotting. The focus on nature and wildlife makes it suitable for families or those interested in the park’s flora and fauna.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, all-in-one day trip with plenty of time for swimming, wildlife, and a hearty Croatian meal.
7. Brijuni National Park Boat Excursion from Pula. With a visit to the island
This 5-hour tour, at $65.94, offers a traditional boat cruise with a focus on the islands’ history and natural beauty. It includes a Mediterranean lunch and unlimited drinks. Guests get free time to explore Jerolim Island, with a chance to swim and sunbathe. The guide shares insights into Tito’s former residence and the park’s wildlife.
It’s perfect for those curious about the island’s history and wildlife, with a good balance between sightseeing and leisure. Some reviews note that the experience is family-friendly and relaxing, though not overly adventurous.
Bottom Line: Excellent for history buffs and those seeking a laid-back day with scenic views and island exploration.
8. Stop on Island & National Park Day Cruise with Lunch Drinks
This 5-hour tour, rated 5/5 from only 10 reviews, offers an intimate cruise with a professional guide. It includes visiting Jerolim Island, known for its snorkeling, as well as a freshly prepared lunch and unlimited drinks. The tour emphasizes the natural beauty of the islands, with a focus on wildlife and relaxed exploration.
Guests appreciate the small-group atmosphere, personalized service, and the chance to see peacocks and other wildlife up close. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a quiet, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a small-group, customizable day with excellent food and wildlife viewing.
9. Island Visit National Park Brijuni & Dolphin Cruise
This 5.5-hour trip combines island sightseeing with dolphin watching, rated 4.5/5 from 16 reviews and costing $77.93. It features a boat tour of the park’s islands, a dolphin sighting, and a traditional Mediterranean lunch. The guide shares detailed stories about the park, making it a rich experience for lovers of both nature and culture.
Good for those who want a more in-depth look at Brijuni, with opportunities to see dolphins and explore the islands’ natural habitats.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a detailed, multi-faceted tour with wildlife, history, and scenic views.
10. From Pula: Private Boat Tour and Brijuni National Park
For travelers looking for exclusivity, this private boat trip up to 12 people costs $836. It’s a customizable experience, including swimming, snorkel, cliff jumping, and exploring Seagull cave. The tour offers unforgettable coastal views and personalized service, making it perfect for special occasions or just a more intimate adventure.
Guests rave about the flexibility and the memorable sunset, dolphin, and wildlife experiences. Its price makes it less accessible for casual travelers but ideal for those seeking privacy.
Bottom Line: An exceptional choice for private groups wanting a fully personalized, luxury day on the water.
11. National Park Brijuni Tour with Swimming on St. Jerolim Island
This 6-hour tour offers a full day of island cruising, starting at 11 am. It includes a trip around all 14 islands, with a swimming break on St. Jerolim Island. Rated 4/5 from 25 reviews and costing about $60, it’s ideal for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming.
The guide speaks multiple languages, and the trip features a scenic cruise with opportunities to see wildlife and relax on beaches. The inclusion of a swimming break makes it attractive for families or anyone wanting a more leisurely day.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers wanting a comprehensive tour with a relaxing swim and flexible schedule.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a Brijuni National Park tour, consider your priorities. Want to see dolphins and enjoy a sunset? The Sunset Dolphin Cruise offers a romantic, scenic experience. Interested in a full day of island hopping with wildlife and snorkeling? The From Pula: Island Stop and National Park Day Cruise balances sightseeing and relaxation. On a tighter schedule? The Dolphin Watching trips provide wildlife sightings and onboard dining.
Budget, group size, and activity level also matter. Private tours like the Private Boat offer exclusivity but at a premium. For families or active travelers, tours with swimming, snorkeling, and inflatables bring extra fun.
Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and tour. Consider shoulder seasons in spring or fall for fewer crowds and milder weather.
Final Thoughts
Pula offers a diverse array of National Park tours that cater to everything from wildlife lovers to history buffs and adventure seekers. For a relaxed, wildlife-focused experience with excellent dining, the Dolphin Watching tour hits the spot. If you want a full day of island exploration, the Island Stop and National Park Day Cruise provides great value and variety. For a romantic evening, the Sunset Dolphin Cruise offers stunning views and dolphin sightings.
Whatever your style, making a reservation early helps ensure your preferred experience. Pula’s waters and islands promise a memorable adventure—so pack your camera and get ready to explore Croatia’s coastal treasures.