Stop on Island & National Park Day Cruise with Lunch Drinks

A detailed look at the Stop on Island & National Park Day Cruise with Lunch Drinks in Pula, Croatia

Exploring Croatia’s coast isn’t complete without a visit to the stunning Brijuni National Park. This experience, offered by PECO TOURS, promises a 5-hour journey filled with scenic island views, a well-curated itinerary, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and discovery. With a knowledgeable guide, a delicious lunch, and unlimited drinks, it’s a package that appeals to those wanting a balanced mix of nature, culture, and comfort.

One of the standout features of this tour is how smoothly it combines sightseeing with leisure. The included lunch—whether grilled fish, beef, or a vegetarian option—along with unlimited wine, soda, and mineral water, makes the day both enjoyable and fuss-free. It’s also a big plus that the tour is limited to 50 travelers, keeping it intimate enough to enjoy meaningful interactions with the guide and fellow travelers.

That said, a potential consideration is the entrance fee to Sveti Jerolim Island, which costs €7 for adults and €4 for children, payable in cash. While it’s a minor additional expense, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re budgeting strictly. This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and comfort, and who want an efficient way to see the highlights of Brijuni without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Enjoy unlimited drinks and a delicious, freshly prepared lunch on board.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guide Larissa shares insights about the islands’ history and nature.
• Multiple Stops: Visit one of the 14 islands, with Sveti Jerolim offering snorkeling opportunities.
• Balancing Sightseeing & Relaxation: The tour covers scenic cruising plus time on the islands.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 50 travelers ensures personal attention.
• Good Value: At around $66, it combines transportation, guided tour, food, and drinks in one package.

An In-Depth Review of the Brijuni Islands Day Cruise

Introduction to the Experience

We’re looking at a well-reviewed, comfortably paced tour that offers an excellent way to see Croatia’s famous Brijuni National Park. The cruise departs from Pula, a charming coastal city, with the promise of discovering 14 islands including the renowned Sveti Jerolim, famous for its snorkeling and peacock sightings. The fact that this tour has a perfect 5-star rating from 10 reviews suggests it’s consistently delivering a satisfying experience.

What we love about this cruise is its focus on ease and comfort. You don’t need to worry about planning transportation or meals; everything is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the views and learning about the islands’ past and present. Plus, the unlimited drinks—wine, soda, and mineral water—add a relaxed, celebratory vibe to your day on the water.

One thing to consider is the additional entrance fee for Sveti Jerolim (€7), which is quite reasonable but does add a small extra step. Also, the tour lasts about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing that can fit into most travel itineraries.

Who is this tour best for?

If you love being on the water, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and want a good balance of sightseeing with some downtime, this tour suits you well. It’s also perfect for those who value good food and drinks in a scenic setting. However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth historical or active snorkeling experience, you might want to explore other options or combine this with additional activities.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Start Point and Departure

The tour begins promptly at 10:30 am from a meeting point in Pula (VRFX+Q7). From here, you board a comfortable boat with around 50 other travelers, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not crowded. The initial leg of the trip is a scenic cruise along the western Istrian coast, where you’ll start to feel the gentle sway of the Adriatic.

Brijuni National Park Exploration

Our guide, Larissa, is a highlight. She’s described as knowledgeable and friendly, sharing engaging stories about the islands’ history, including their role during Yugoslavia times. Expect to learn about the islands’ natural environment and see wildlife, such as peacocks wandering freely and exotic fish in the waters around Sveti Jerolim.

Sveti Jerolim Island

This is the only island the tour visits in detail, but it offers enough to make the stop worthwhile. The island is known for snorkeling, with clear waters suitable for underwater exploration. Reviewers mention the fauna and flora are well-preserved, and the peacocks are surprisingly tame and abundant, adding a whimsical touch to the visit.

Dining and Drinks

The onboard lunch is a highlight, with options including grilled fish, beef patties, or vegetarian dishes. We loved the fact that the food is freshly prepared, which elevates the experience beyond typical boat fare. Accompanying the meal is unlimited white wine, soda, and mineral water—providing enough refreshment to keep everyone’s energy up for the whole trip.

Return and The Sum Up

After a leisurely couple of hours on Sveti Jerolim, the boat heads back to Pula, arriving around 3:30 pm. This timing is perfect for those wanting to enjoy the rest of their day exploring Pula or relaxing at their accommodation.

The Value and Practical Tips

Pricing and What’s Included

At $65.94 per person, the tour offers excellent value when you consider that it includes transportation, an expert guide, a full meal, and unlimited drinks. The only extras are the €7 island entry fee, payable in cash. This all-in-one package is ideal for travelers who prefer everything organized and want to avoid the hassle of booking separate transport or meals.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 50 travelers, the group size strikes a good balance—large enough to feel lively but small enough to enjoy personal interaction with the guide and fellow guests. From reviews, it seems the crew, especially Captain and Larissa, are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, making the trip more engaging.

Timing and Accessibility

The start time of 10:30 am allows for a relaxed morning. The meeting point is near public transportation, so getting there should be straightforward. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no strenuous activity required, though snorkelers should bring their gear if they want to explore underwater.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Readers’ insights highlight the friendly crew and the natural beauty of the islands. One reviewer mentions, “The captain and crew were super friendly, knowledgeable and punctual,” adding a layer of trust in the service. Another praised the peacocks on Sveti Jerolim, saying, “the peacocks are very surprising,” showing how these small details make the tour memorable.

The opportunity to see a less commercial side of Croatia—like the wild animals and preserved flora—resonates strongly with travelers seeking authentic experiences. The combination of scenic views and interesting stories ensures you leave with more than just photos—you gain a sense of the islands’ history and natural charm.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and relaxed day filled with beautiful island vistas, good food, and engaging storytelling, this cruise ticks all boxes. It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, history buffs, and those who enjoy a laid-back social atmosphere with unlimited drinks and a tasty meal included. The tour offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

For travelers seeking an easy, enjoyable way to discover Brijuni’s highlights, this experience provides excellent value and a memorable day out. It’s also perfect for those new to Croatia or visitors who want a hassle-free introduction to the islands’ natural and historical wonders.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and kids are welcome. The tour includes a short walk on Sveti Jerolim and snorkeling, but parents should supervise children around water and ensure they’re comfortable with boat trips.

How much does the Sveti Jerolim Island entrance cost?
The entrance fee is €7 per adult and €4 per child, payable in cash. It’s a small additional expense for access to the island and its snorkeling spots.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes boat transportation, a guided tour with Larissa, a freshly prepared lunch, and unlimited drinks—wine, soda, and mineral water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a camera. If you want to snorkel, bring your gear. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on the islands.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts about 5 hours, departing at 10:30 am and returning in the early afternoon, making it ideal for a half-day activity.

This tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Croatian coastal life, blending scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, it’s worth considering for your Pula itinerary.