National Park Brijuni Tour with Swimming on St. Jerolim Island

The National Park Brijuni Tour with Swimming on St. Jerolim Island offers a well-rounded day trip for those seeking scenic views and relaxation in Croatia’s renowned archipelago. Priced at $59.95 per person, this 6-hour tour departs daily at 11 am from Pula Harbour and takes you around all 14 islands of the Brijuni National Park. The journey features a panoramic cruise, a guided tour with multilingual commentary, and a peaceful stop on St. Jerolim Island, known as the Island of Peacocks. The tour combines sightseeing, a beach break for swimming and sunbathing, and an included lunch with drinks, making it an engaging choice for travelers wanting both adventure and relaxation.

While the experience generally receives positive feedback, a few reviews hint at potential limitations, such as partial island views and weather-related disruptions. This tour appeals most to those interested in scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and enjoying beautiful beaches without the need for extensive walking.

Key Points

• 6-hour guided tour starting at 11 am from Pula Harbour, ending around 4:30 pm
• Cruise around all 14 islands of Brijuni National Park with multilingual guides
• Includes a swimming stop on St. Jerolim Island, home to peacocks and stunning beaches
• Lunch and drinks are included, featuring grilled fish or meat, salad, bread, water, orange juice, and unlimited wine and Fanta
• Entry to St. Jerolim Island costs €5 for adults and is free for children aged 0–6
• The tour has a rating of 4.0/5 based on 25 reviews, with some feedback noting limited island views and weather issues

The Departure and Meeting Point at Pula Harbour

The tour begins promptly at 11 am at Riva, Pula, where the Ana boat awaits. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The boat is designed for groups up to 30 people, ensuring a comfortable yet intimate environment. The crew offers guidance in several foreign languages, helping you understand the sights and history of the islands. After the tour, guests are returned to the same meeting point, completing the scenic loop.

Cruising Through Brijuni’s 14 Islands

The two-hour panoramic cruise showcases the highlights of Brijuni National Park, including Vanga Island, the former residential island of Tito, Minor Fort on Mali Brijun, and a safari park. The guides provide insights into each attraction, making the sea journey both entertaining and educational. The cruise also features lunch with grilled fish or meat, accompanied by salad, bread, water, orange juice, and unlimited wine and Fanta. This meal adds a relaxed, social touch to the experience, perfect for enjoying the scenic views.

Exploring the Peaceful St. Jerolim Island

The main highlight of the tour is the stopping at St. Jerolim, also called The Island of Peacocks. Here, visitors find magnificent beaches with crystal-clear water and a rich underwater ecosystem suitable for swimming and sunbathing. The island hosts peacocks that freely roam, adding charm to the peaceful setting. Guests can relax on the beach, take a dip in the sea, or enjoy beverages from the beach bar. The 3.5-hour stay provides ample time for leisure before heading back to Pula.

The Optional Island Entry Fee and Crowd Considerations

Entry to St. Jerolim costs €5 for adults, while children aged 0-6 enter free. Some reviews mention that during peak season, St. Jerolim can become crowded, and access to the water might be limited due to the rocky coastline. The natural, rocky landscape is distinctive, but it may not be ideal for sunbathing for everyone. Visitors should consider this if they prefer sandy beaches or need easy beach access.

Practical Details and Included Amenities

The included amenities make this tour convenient: lunch with a choice of grilled fish or burger, salad, bread, and water. Unlimited white wine and Fanta are also part of the package, making it easy to relax and socialize during the cruise. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals and those with limited mobility, as the boat is accessible and most participants can participate without strenuous activity.

Limitations and Considerations Based on Feedback

Some reviews express disappointment with the number of islands actually visited—about 4 or 5 out of 14—due to boat engine issues or weather conditions. Others mention that St. Jerolim can feel crowded, especially during high season, and the natural coastline has spiky rocks that may hinder easy access to the water. The tour’s weather dependence means that poor conditions could lead to cancellations or modifications, such as substituting the swimming stop with another beach visit.

Comparing this Tour to Similar Experiences

This tour is a balanced option for those interested in sightseeing and beach relaxation. It stands out for its multilingual guides and the opportunity to see Tito’s residence and safari park from the water. Similar tours offer dolphin watching or more extensive island visits, but this one emphasizes a shorter, relaxing, and family-friendly experience with included lunch and drinks.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for families, small groups, or couples who want to enjoy breathtaking views and a peaceful beach break without extensive walking or complex arrangements. It suits travelers looking for a value-packed day that combines sightseeing, swimming, and good food. Those seeking adventure or longer island exploration might find this tour somewhat limited, especially considering the partial island views and potential crowding.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Relaxing Day Trip in Croatia

The Brijuni National Park tour offers a beautiful cruise around all 14 islands, with a highlight stop on St. Jerolim for swimming and relaxation. The lunch with drinks adds comfort, and the multilingual guides make the experience accessible. While some reviews point out limited island visibility and crowded beaches, most guests appreciate the stunning scenery, peaceful setting, and value of the package.

This tour is particularly suited to visitors who enjoy scenic boat rides, wildlife spotting, and beach time in a manageable and well-organized outing. It’s a good choice for those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure in Croatia’s famous archipelago.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, departing at 11 am and returning around 4:30 pm.

What is included in the price?
The price includes guided sightseeing, lunch with drinks, unlimited wine and Fanta, and beach time on St. Jerolim. Entry to the island costs €5 for adults.

How many islands will I see during the cruise?
The cruise covers all 14 islands of the Brijuni National Park from the water, but actual island visits are limited to the stop at St. Jerolim.

Is swimming on St. Jerolim safe?
Yes, the crystal-clear waters offer good swimming conditions, though the rocky coastline requires caution. The island is known for its peaceful beaches and peacocks.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most participants can participate, as the tour does not involve extensive walking. However, beach access may involve navigating rocky terrain.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or full refund is offered.

Can I book this tour for children?
Yes, children 0-6 years are free, and the tour suits families with a preference for relaxing scenery and gentle activities.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are available online, and the tour uses a mobile ticket that simplifies check-in at Riva, Pula.