FAANA: NATIONAL PARK BRIJUNI GLASS BOAT PRIVATE TOUR

If you’re visiting the Istria region in Croatia and crave a quick but memorable escape into nature and history, the FAANA: National Park Brijuni Glass Boat Private Tour offers a compelling option. Though it’s only about an hour long and quite short in duration, this cruise packs a lot into a small package. You get to glide across the crystal waters, peer beneath the surface at vibrant fish, and glimpse some of the area’s historic Roman remnants—all from a comfortable, glass-bottomed boat.

What I really like about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and archaeological intrigue. The underwater panorama is particularly striking, giving you a sense of the marine life that flourishes in the protected waters of Brijuni. Plus, passing by the Venetian villa and old Roman sites adds a layer of cultural depth that makes this a well-rounded experience. Another highlight is the chance to see peacocks on the uninhabited Jerolim Island and enjoy the scenic views of Veliki Brijun’s golf courses—an unexpected splash of luxury amid nature.

That said, a potential drawback is the limited duration. If you’re looking for a deep, in-depth exploration of the islands or underwater world, you might find an hour too fleeting. Also, since the tour doesn’t include swimming or hotel transfers, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a quick sightseeing jaunt rather than those seeking a full-day experience or beach time.

Key points / Takeaways

• Short but Sweet: At around 1 hour, it’s a quick way to see Brijuni’s highlights without a lengthy commitment.
• Underwater Views: The glass-bottom boat offers a rare glimpse of marine life, with fish feeding opportunities as a highlight.
• Historical Passages: You’ll see Roman remains and a Venetian villa, adding cultural layers to your trip.
• Uninhabited Jerolim Island: Known for peacocks and swimming spots, it’s a charming stop with a restaurant.
• Best for Scenery & Snippets: Ideal for those wanting a taste of Croatia’s coast and history without a full-day tour.
• Limited Activity Options: Swimming isn’t included, and no hotel pickup, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Brijuni Experience: A Practical Guide

Setting the Scene: The Cruise Begins in Faana

Starting at the main pier in Faana, the tour kicks off with a friendly welcome from the crew—likely RIO BOAT FAANA, the provider known for their punctuality and clear communication. Arriving about 15 minutes early is wise, especially if you want to settle comfortably and soak in the scenery while waiting. The boat itself is a sleek vessel with a glass bottom, designed to maximize views of both above and below the waterline.

The boat’s facilities include a toilet and a complimentary drink, adding a little comfort to your short adventure. The host or greeter will typically speak English, making it accessible for most travelers. Remember, this tour is not suitable if you’re bringing bikes, and if the weather takes a turn for the worse, expect the trip to be postponed—Croatia’s coast is lovely but unpredictable weather-wise.

Cruising Past Roman and Venetian Ruins

As you glide across the Faana channel toward Veliki and Mali Brijun, you’ll pass by signs of ancient times. The remains of Roman celebrations like weddings, visible from the water at Verige, hint at the islands’ long history. The cruise gives you a sense of how these islands have been a backdrop for human activity for centuries. Approaching the Brijuni coastline, you’ll see the old Venetian villa—an elegant reminder of centuries of Mediterranean influence.

Guests often mention the beautiful landscapes and the feeling of being transported to a different era. One reviewer noted, “The views of Veliki Brijun’s golf courses and the old villa are worth the trip alone.” It’s a quick but satisfying peek into the cultural tapestry of the region.

Underwater Panorama: A Fish Feeding Spectacle

The highlight for many is the underwater view—a rare opportunity because fishing is strictly prohibited in the islands, ensuring a lively and healthy marine environment. As the boat reaches the last stop at Veliki Brijun, the glass bottom reveals a kaleidoscope of fish—fascinating for both kids and adults alike.

One traveler marveled, “The fish swarmed around, and it felt like I was peering into an aquarium.” The clarity of the water and the variety of fish make this moment particularly memorable, especially since it’s not often you get such a close-up view without diving gear.

Jerolim Island and Kozada: Wild and Relaxing Spots

Next, the boat crosses to Jerolim, a tiny, uninhabited island known for its peacocks and swimming spots. It’s a perfect quick stop for those wanting a break from the boat to stretch or maybe take a dip in the sea. There’s also a restaurant on Jerolim, so you can grab a drink or snack after enjoying the views or a quick swim.

Close by is Kozada, the nearest island to the mainland, known for its beautiful shades of blue water. Though the tour doesn’t include swimming, many guests plan to return later for a more leisurely beach day. It’s a good reminder that this experience is a snapshot—great for sightseeing but not a substitute for full beach or snorkeling trips.

The Return and Overall Experience

The boat then heads back to Faana, passing Veliki Brijun’s golf courses once more. Many reviews highlight the stunning vistas, especially the panoramic views of the islands and the coastline. The entire ride, despite its brevity, touches on scenic beauty, cultural remnants, and marine life.

The price of the tour is reasonable considering the views and the unique underwater perspective. While no hotel pickup is included, the central departure point makes it straightforward to access, especially if you’re already exploring near Faana or Pula.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This glass boat trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy short, scenic excursions with an emphasis on visual highlights. It’s suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a quick, engaging experience. Those with limited time but a curiosity for Croatian coastlines and ancient ruins will find this particularly valuable.

It’s also ideal if you want to see the underwater world without diving or snorkeling—an easy, comfortable way to get a peek at the vibrant marine life. However, if you’re after a thorough exploration, swimming, or a full-day adventure, you might want to consider more extensive options.

Price and Logistics

At roughly an hour long, the tour offers great value for a quick taste of the islands, marine life, and history. Since it includes a drink, a toilet, and panoramic views, it’s quite a complete package for such a short trip. Remember, no hotel pickup is provided, so plan your arrival to the Faana pier a bit early. Weather conditions can influence scheduling, so flexibility is beneficial.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after an easy, charming way to glimpse Brijuni’s maritime and cultural scenery, this glass boat tour will serve you well. The combination of underwater fish viewing, scenic island views, and quick historical snippets makes it a memorable mini-adventure. It’s especially suitable for those short on time but eager to tick off a few must-see sights from their Croatia itinerary.

For the price and the experience it delivers, I’d say it’s a smart choice—especially if you appreciate a bit of everything without committing to a full-day tour. It’s a fun, informative, and visually striking way to enjoy Croatia’s coastline.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, perfect for a quick sightseeing window.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get to the Faana pier yourself.

Can I swim during the tour?
No, swimming isn’t included or permitted from the boat during this specific experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. A camera or phone for photos is also a good idea.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy marine life and scenic views tend to love it, but keep in mind it’s a short cruise.

What language is the tour hosted in?
The host or greeter speaks English, making it accessible for most travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour will likely be postponed or canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, so check the forecast ahead.

Is this tour good for those interested in history?
While brief, it offers glimpses of Roman and Venetian ruins from the water, adding some historical flavor.

Can I book this last minute?
Yes, reservations can be made with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for spontaneity.

In all, this glass boat tour in Faana offers a tidy, scenic, and culturally intriguing package, ideal for those wanting a taste of Brijuni’s natural and historic charms in a relaxed, one-hour format. It’s a great way to add a splash of sea, history, and vibrant fish to your Croatian adventure.