Sun , Sea & Savor : National Park Brijuni Cruise & Lost Bay beach

Exploring Croatia’s coast from Pula on the Sun, Sea & Savor cruise offers a blend of scenic views, historical wildlife, and relaxing beach time—all in about four hours for around $63.

What sets this tour apart are the powerful views of Pula’s bay and the chance to visit the exclusive Brijuni islands, which Tito once called home. The cruise offers a luxurious yet laid-back vibe, with free-flowing drinks and freshly prepared lunch making it feel more like a day out with friends than a typical sightseeing tour. The chance to swim at Tinjanska Uvala’s hidden Lost Bay is a personal highlight, thanks to its seclusion and natural beauty.

That said, one thing to consider is that the cruise is a four-hour experience, which means you’ll be mostly on the water. If you’re expecting a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief. However, if you love a good combination of scenic cruising, light exploration, and chill beach time, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal views: Pass by Pula’s historic forts and the impressive Pula Bay
• Exclusive access: See Tito’s former residences and guarded islands from a boat
• Relaxing swimming stops: Enjoy the calm, unspoiled waters of Tinjanska Uvala
• Included meals and drinks: A freshly cooked, generous lunch plus unlimited soft drinks and wine
• Authentic experience: Small group size with informative crew adds a personal touch
• Great for all ages: Relaxed pace and scenic setting suit families, couples, or solo travelers

The Journey Begins: Scenic Pula and Historical Forts

Your adventure kicks off from Pula’s harbor, where the boat departs around noon. The first part of the journey is an overview of Pula’s bay, stretching over 4.5 kilometers of coastline. As you glide past, you’ll see the remnants of Austria’s fortifications—Muzil and Tinjan—built to defend what was once a strategic naval port for the Austro-Hungarian Navy.

The boat’s commentary (likely by crew members with good local knowledge) helps you appreciate the significance of these forts and the impressive Pula’s maritime history. Many reviews mention how friendly and informative the crew are, with one saying, “The crew gave some information on places we sailed past,” which makes the experience more engaging.

Exploring Brijuni National Park by Sea

The main highlight of this cruise is undoubtedly the chance to see several islands within Brijuni National Park without the hassle of a land-based tour. You’ll pass by Vanga Island, known for Tito’s former residence, the White Villa, still under heavy security. Many reviews comment on how unique it is to view these private and protected sites from the water, with one reviewer noting, “You can only see Vanga and Tito’s villa from this boat.”

The cruise also takes you past Mali Brijun, the second-largest island, with its Fort Brioni Minor, once a military fortress and now a summer theater called Ulysses. These islands are protected, so you won’t get off the boat, but the vantage point offers a rare glimpse into Croatia’s political and military past.

Unique Architectural and Natural Highlights

The cruise isn’t just about history; it’s also a feast for anyone interested in architecture and landscapes. Passing by various villas, parks, and remnants of old estates, you’ll see how different periods have shaped the landscape. One review mentions that Brijuni was transformed in the late 19th century into an exclusive summer retreat, turning it into a magnet for aristocracy and celebrities alike.

The Veliki Brijun, the largest island, is a stunning blend of cultivated gardens and wild vegetation, offering an impression of how nature and human touch can coexist harmoniously. Some parts of the island are reserved for Croatian government officials, but the public areas are open to visitors, making it a rich example of landscape design.

Hidden Beaches and Swimming in Tinjanska Uvala

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the stop at Lost Bay, a secret spot where you can swim and relax for about an hour and a half. The beach is described as quiet, shaded, and pristine, perfect for unwinding away from crowds. Travelers often mention the “chill beach bar” as a bonus, even though drinks there aren’t included.

A reviewer said, “Lost Bay gives you a peaceful retreat in the shade of plentiful vegetation,” emphasizing how ideal this stop is for a quick escape into calm waters. Remember to bring your sunscreen—this is a sun-drenched area, and shade is limited otherwise.

The Food and Drink Experience

Included in the ticket price are a freshly cooked lunch—choices include fish, meat, or vegetarian options, with gluten- and lactose-free options available—and unlimited drinks such as water, soft drinks, and a selection of local wines. Several guests praise the food, describing the lunch as “cooked fresh on board” and “more than enough for a satisfying meal”—a good value considering some reviews mention how enjoyable and well-prepared the meal is.

While drinks at the Lost Bay beach bar are not included, the generous onboard drinks service ensures you stay refreshed during the cruise. Many mention the friendly crew who keep the drinks flowing and tend to guests’ needs, making the experience feel relaxed and personalized.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is scheduled to start at 12:00 pm from Pula Boat Tours and lasts roughly 4 hours, making it a convenient half-day outing. Expect a small group size, with a maximum of 110 travelers, which allows for a more intimate experience. Booking about 11 days in advance suggests it’s popular, particularly in high season.

The boat itself, named “Europa,” is described as a luxury vessel, suggesting comfort during your cruise. The itinerary is paced so you can both take in the scenery and have plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The group size and friendly guides contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, while the overall price of around $63 makes this a good value for an experience that combines sightseeing, history, and leisure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting a relaxed day out, and solo travelers interested in scenic viewpoints and local culture. If you enjoy light walking, photography, and ocean swimming, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also suited for those who appreciate a well-organized, all-inclusive experience with fewer crowds and more personal attention.

In Summary: Why This Tour Matters

This cruise offers a wonderful snapshot of Istria’s coast, blending historic sights, natural beauty, and culinary delights into a manageable half-day trip. The unlimited drinks and freshly prepared lunch elevate it from a basic sightseeing tour to a truly enjoyable experience. The swimming stop at Lost Bay delivers a quiet, scenic beach moment that many reviewers find memorable.

The tour’s well-balanced itinerary, friendly crew, and stunning scenery make it a smart choice for travelers who prefer a comfortable, fuss-free way to explore Croatia’s waters and islands. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs plenty of sights, flavor, and relaxation into just a few hours.

FAQs

• What is the duration of the cruise?
  The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at noon and ending back at the meeting point.

• Are drinks included?
  Yes, unlimited soft drinks and red or white wine are included with lunch onboard. Drinks at the beach bar, however, are not part of the trip.

• Is there a meal provided?
  Yes, a freshly cooked lunch is included in the ticket price, with choices of fish, meat, or vegetarian, and gluten- and lactose-free options.

• Can I swim at Lost Bay?
  Absolutely. You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Tinjanska Uvala’s Lost Bay, one of the quietest beaches in the area, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

• What sights will I see?
  Expect to see Pula’s forts and bay, Brijuni islands, Tito’s former residence, Vanga island, Mali Brijun, and the Fort Brioni Minor.

• How many people typically join the tour?
  The tour can host up to 110 travelers, but the small-group atmosphere makes it feel more personal.

• Is the boat comfortable?
  Yes, the “Europa” is a luxury vessel, designed for comfort during sightseeing and cruising.

• What should I bring?
  Sunscreen, swimwear, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning views. Bring some cash if you plan to buy snacks at the beach bar.

Anyone seeking a relaxed way to see Croatia’s stunning coast, with an added touch of history and great food, will find this cruise well worth the modest investment. It’s especially suited for those who want a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and savoring local flavors, all with friendly service and hassle-free logistics.