From Fazana: Dolphin watching sightseeing cruise at sunset

Taking a boat trip to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat along with the stunning scenery of NP Brijuni sounds like the perfect way to unwind at sunset. This particular cruise, offered by Natasa boat tours, promises an authentic, relaxed experience that combines nature, scenic views, and a touch of adventure. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What I find especially appealing are two things: first, the chance to observe wild dolphins playing and eating in their natural environment — an experience that’s genuine and unpredictable; second, the spectacular sunset views behind the Brijuni Islands, which are often described as breathtaking. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that dolphin sightings can never be guaranteed, and the experience depends on the animals’ mood and location on the day of your trip.

A key consideration is the duration and timing. At around two hours, the cruise is short enough to fit into a day’s plans but long enough to offer meaningful chances for dolphin encounters and scenic photos. The crew’s effort to find dolphins, combined with free drinks and a stable traditional wooden boat, makes this activity quite comfortable. However, if your main goal is to see dolphins, be prepared that sometimes they might not show up — as one reviewer humorously noted, “we didn’t see any dolphins, but the crew’s effort was commendable.”

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic wildlife experience: The crew actively searches for wild dolphins, making each sighting more special.
• Stunning sunset views: The cruise offers incredible panoramas of the Brijuni Islands at sunset, perfect for memorable photos.
• Comfortable boat: The traditional wooden boat is large, stable, and pet-friendly, suitable for all ages.
• Flexible booking: You can reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Language options: Guides speak Croatian, English, German, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers.
• Unpredictable wildlife: As with any wildlife tour, seeing dolphins isn’t guaranteed, but the crew’s dedication is evident.

Starting Point: Fazana’s Main Pier

Your adventure begins at the main pier in Fazana, a charming seaside town famous for its fishing culture and proximity to the Brijuni Islands. The meeting point is straightforward, and the crew from Natasa boat tours is known for their friendly, accommodating approach. The tour’s start time varies—make sure to check availability in advance—so you can plan to arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy.

The Boat: Size, Comfort, and Atmosphere

The vessel used for this cruise is a big, stable traditional wooden boat, designed for comfort and smooth sailing. Its stability is particularly important for those prone to seasickness, and the ample deck space allows for both shade and sunbathing options. The upper deck provides the best vantage point for panoramic views — perfect for snapping photos of the sunset and the islands.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

First Stop: Approaching NP Brijuni

Once underway, the boat meanders around the edges of NP Brijuni, offering close-up views of the islands. The guide and crew, speaking multiple languages, share insights about the parks and islands, adding context to the scenery. This part of the journey is as much about sightseeing as it is about relaxing on the water.

Dolphin Search: The Heart of the Tour

The crew keeps a keen eye and actively searches for wild dolphins, which are known to inhabit these waters. From reviews, it’s clear that the crew, including guides like Natasa, work tirelessly to locate these playful creatures. They often communicate with other boats to find the best spots. When dolphins are spotted, the boat slows down carefully, approaching without spooking them — a delicate dance that’s as much art as science.

The Sunset Moment: A Photographer’s Dream

As the cruise continues, the backdrop transforms into a fiery sunset behind the Brijuni Islands, casting a golden glow over the water. Many guests report that this is the highlight — perfect for photos and just soaking in the peaceful moment. From the upper deck, you get an unobstructed view, ideal for capturing the magic.

Optional: Refreshments and Relaxation

Throughout the tour, free drinks are available at the boat’s bar, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. This is a nice touch, especially after a day of sightseeing, and it helps you unwind while waiting for dolphins or enjoying the sunset.

What You’ll See and Hear

Expect a mix of scenery: rocky coastlines, lush islands, and open sea. The guides often share interesting tidbits about the local environment and wildlife, making the trip educational as well as scenic. Some reviews mention the crew’s friendly attitude and good communication skills, which enhance the overall experience.

Possible Drawbacks: The Dolphin Sightings

The main caveat—wild dolphins are unpredictable. As one reviewer, Timo, pointed out, “we didn’t see any dolphins, but that wasn’t the crew’s fault. They made a lot of effort, went to all the places you’d expect to see the animals.” This honesty reflects the nature of wildlife tours: sighting animals isn’t guaranteed, but the crew’s dedication means you’re giving yourself a good chance.

Pricing and Value

At $40 per person, this cruise provides a reasonable price point for a scenic, wildlife-focused two-hour experience. Compared to more elaborate or dinner-inclusive tours, it offers a straightforward, relaxed way to enjoy the sunset and potentially see dolphins — a perfect option for travelers seeking an authentic, nature-oriented activity without breaking the bank.

Who This Tour Is Best For

• Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Sunset lovers who want a picturesque view over NP Brijuni.
• Relaxed travelers looking for a short, scenic cruise with drinks and comfort.
• Those with limited time but still hoping for a memorable experience on the water.
• Families or pet owners — the boat is pet-friendly and suitable for all ages.

This cruise from Fazana offers a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Croatian coast and the Brijuni Islands. The opportunity to see wild dolphins in their environment is genuinely special, especially when combined with the sunset views — a moment that stays with you long after the trip ends.

While dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, the crew’s evident effort and friendly attitude make this experience worthwhile. The stability of the boat, the availability of free drinks, and the panoramic views from the upper deck add to its value. This tour best suits travelers who appreciate nature, relaxing on the water, and are open to the unpredictability that comes with wildlife encounters.

If you’re seeking an authentic, relaxed, and scenic experience that’s a little bit different from typical sightseeing, this cruise is a solid pick. Just remember to keep your camera ready, your expectations flexible, and your mind open to whatever wildlife surprises the sea might offer.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot ahead of time through the booking platform. You also have the option to pay later and cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, but it may extend slightly if the crew continues to search for dolphins in remote areas.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the boat is pet-friendly, making it suitable for families with children, seniors, and pets.

Is food or additional drinks included?
No, but unlimited free drinks are available on board during the trip, which is a nice touch to help you relax.

What if I don’t see dolphins?
While sightings are common, they’re not guaranteed due to the wild nature of the animals. However, the crew’s efforts and the scenic sunset are often praised as highlights regardless.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Croatian, English, German, and Italian, accommodating most travelers.

This dolphin cruise from Fazana offers a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife adventure, and relaxation. With its reasonable price and friendly crew, it’s well worth considering if you’re in the area looking to enjoy nature’s simple pleasures.