Pula: National Park Brijuni Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re visiting Pula and crave a blend of scenic beauty, delicious food, and a touch of adventure, a cruise around the Brijuni Islands might just be the perfect day trip. This experience, offered by MB Ulika, takes you on a five-hour journey through one of Croatia’s most celebrated national parks, with a stop on the charming island of St. Jerolim. It’s a chance to relax, explore, and enjoy some of the clearest waters in the Adriatic — all on a traditional wooden boat that adds a nostalgic touch to your adventure.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines the leisurely pace of a cruise with the opportunity to actually step onto an island. The included lunch on board, featuring options like fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, makes this outing feel both indulgent and practical. Plus, the free drinks and a walk around lush islands make it a full, satisfying experience. One standout detail from reviews is the knowledgeable crew, who seem to make the trip both fun and informative, especially guides who can share insights in several languages.

A small warning — due to weather or sea conditions, the captain might alter the route or cancel the trip altogether. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider that the cruise involves a boat ride on open waters, which can sometimes get a little bumpy. But overall, the balance of scenic sailing, island exploration, and a fantastic lunch makes this an excellent choice for most travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s coast.

• Beautiful scenery: The cruise offers crystal-clear waters, lush green islands, and stunning limestone beaches.
• Flexible food options: Choose from fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, prepared onboard by your chef.
• Authentic boat experience: The wooden boat adds charm and nostalgia, making the journey more memorable.
• Well-organized stop: The island of St. Jerolim provides around 2.5 hours for swimming, walking, or relaxing.
• Informative guides: Many reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable crew and multilingual guides.
• Value for the price: The combination of sailing, food, drinks, and island time offers good value for a half-day adventure.

Starting at Port Pula, the largest port of the former Austro-Hungarian empire, the tour begins with a short walk to the ‘Excursion Ulika Pula’ office, opposite Tito’s park. From there, a charming wooden boat takes you out into the Brijuni Archipelago, a collection of 14 islands that form Croatia’s first national park.

The boat trip itself is a highlight. The sailing on a traditional vessel feels like stepping back in time, and the views are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll pass by green islands dotted with trees, white limestone beaches, and the shimmering blue water — perfect for photos and simply soaking in the scenery. Many reviews note that the views are a key highlight, with one describing the islands as filled with “trees, limestone beaches, and clear blue water,” which truly captures the essence of the area.

Midway through the cruise, the chef will fire up the grill onboard to prepare a freshly cooked lunch. You’ll have a choice: fish (like mackerel with salad), meat (chicken breast with salad), or a vegetarian option (zucchini and paprika). The food is generally fresh and tasty, making it a perfect complement to your day on the water.

The stop at St. Jerolim is a key part of the trip. This small island is accessible for a €5 entrance fee (cash only), and it offers enough time — about 2.5 hours — for swimming, snorkeling, or simply wandering along the white limestone beaches. Many travelers mention that the “time flew by,” especially when they went for a swim or enjoyed an ice cream. The island’s natural beauty, combined with the peaceful atmosphere, makes it a perfect spot for unwinding.

After the island stop, the boat heads back to Pula, arriving around 5:00 PM. The return journey offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. The experience is generally well-paced, balancing activity and leisure.

Expect a relaxed itinerary: a scenic cruise, a tasty onboard lunch, and a generous stop on one of the islands. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for a more intimate experience — helpful if you’re traveling with family or friends.

The guides are multilingual, including Croatian, English, German, and Italian, which makes the trip accessible to a wide range of travelers. Many reviews praise the friendly crew for their helpfulness and knowledge, which enhances the overall experience.

Timing is flexible — check the availability since starting times vary — but plan to arrive a little early to set sail smoothly. The cost includes the onboard lunch and drinks, but remember to bring cash for the island entrance fee and any additional snacks or souvenirs.

This cruise suits families, couples, or friends who enjoy scenic boat rides and want a relaxed day exploring Croatia’s natural beauty. It’s ideal if you’re interested in swimming and snorkeling in clear waters or want a good meal with a view. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for those prone to seasickness.

Those looking for a more active or cultural experience might find this tour light on historical details, but if your main goal is to enjoy Croatia’s remarkable coastlines and islands, this trip offers excellent value.

At a reasonable price, especially when considering lunch, drinks, and island stop, this experience offers solid value. It’s a half-day activity, so it fits well into a busy itinerary. The cancellation policy is flexible — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — and the reservation process allows you to book now and pay later, giving you some flexibility.

Make sure to bring cash for the island entrance fee (€5) and be prepared for weather changes. If the sea turns rough, the captain may adjust the route or cancel the trip — always good to have a backup plan.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience that combines cruise, nature, and good food, this tour is hard to beat. The stunning vistas of the Brijuni Islands, combined with the friendly guides and tasty onboard meal, make for a memorable day.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, relaxing experiences with some adventure thrown in. The stop at St. Jerolim provides a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for unwinding after a scenic cruise. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or just basking in the sun, this trip ticks all those boxes.

For those interested in Croatia’s coastal beauty without the hassle of planning, this cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of the most picturesque parts of the region. The combination of delicious food, stunning views, and friendly guides ensures you’ll leave with plenty of great memories, even if you’re not a seasoned sailor.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, drinks are included onboard, but you might want to bring extra water or personal beverages if you prefer.

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the vegetarian option features zucchini and paprika, prepared onboard by your chef.

How long is the stop on St. Jerolim?
You’ll have about 2.5 hours for swimming, walking, or relaxing on the island.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, as long as there is availability, but it’s better to book in advance during peak seasons.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s suitable for most ages, but due to boat motion, it might not be ideal for very young children or those prone to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Cash for the island entrance fee (€5), swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a towel.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and the boat boarding process, so it may not be suitable for those with significant mobility challenges.

What happens in bad weather?
The captain may change the route or cancel the trip; always check the weather forecast before heading out.

To sum it up, this Brijuni Islands cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Croatia’s coast. It’s perfect for travelers seeking scenic beauty, a relaxed pace, and tasty local food — all wrapped in a charming boat ride. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply looking to escape the city for a few hours, this trip provides a memorable escape into the peaceful, picturesque world of the Croatian archipelago.