Faana: Glass Boat Tour of Brijuni National Park

If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic adventure that combines marine beauty with touches of history, the Glass Boat Tour of Brijuni National Park in Croatia offers a fantastic option. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this experience provides a relaxing way to see some of Istria’s most captivating sights.

What I love about this trip is the way it balances stunning coastal views, a peek into historical ruins, and vibrant underwater scenery—all from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. Plus, at just $35 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to add a unique excursion to your Croatian itinerary. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, so planning your arrival is something to consider.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love nature and history, enjoy easy boat rides, and want a water-based activity that’s both relaxing and visually captivating. Families, couples, or solo explorers seeking a peaceful, scenic escape will find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Affordable luxury: The tour costs around $35, offering excellent value for a 1.5-hour scenic cruise.
• Unique perspective: The glass-bottom boat provides a close-up view of underwater life in protected waters.
• Rich sights: Passes by Roman ruins and Venetian villas add a historical touch to the natural beauty.
• Vibrant marine life: The strict fishing laws mean an abundance of fish and underwater activity.
• Flexible experience: You can choose to stay inside and watch fish or enjoy the sun on the deck.
• No included transport: The tour starts at the Faana main pier, requiring your own arrangements.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction

This glass boat tour of Brijuni National Park promises a peaceful escape into Croatia’s scenic coastlines and underwater worlds. It’s a specially designed cruise that highlights the natural beauty of the islands along with snippets of their history—perfect for travelers craving a laid-back yet visually spectacular experience.

What makes this trip particularly attractive is its affordable price point—just $35 for a 90-minute journey—making it accessible without sacrificing quality. The boat itself is described as nice and clean, with a friendly crew, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a full-day excursion; it’s a short, scenic trip ideal for those wanting a quick dose of marine and coastal beauty. The experience does not include pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan how to arrive at the main pier in Faana, which is a minor but important detail for logistical planning.

This tour seems best suited for visitors who value authentic, close-up experiences of marine life, enjoy historical sights, and prefer a gentle, relaxed pace over action-packed activities.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off at the main pier in Faana, where the boat docks about 10 minutes before departure. The entire trip lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing a nice window to enjoy the views without feeling rushed. The boat has both indoor and outdoor seating options; many reviews mention the pleasure of sitting downstairs to watch fish through the glass or soaking up the sun on the upper deck.

The Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins with a cruise across the Faana channel, heading towards Veliki and Mali Brijun, two of the main islands in the national park. The boat skims along the coast, revealing the rugged shoreline and lush greenery that define this protected area.

One of the highlights is passing Verige, where you can spot the remains of old Roman structures. Travelers have described these ruins as venue sites for grand celebrations like weddings, which adds a charming historical layer to the scenery. Seeing these ancient relics from the boat offers a peek into the past without the need for a separate tour.

Next, the boat glides past a Venetian villa—an architectural relic that hints at Brijuni’s storied past. You’ll also see the famous golf courses of Veliki Brijun, which add a touch of modern leisure amid the natural setting. These sights show how the islands have long been places of both historical importance and leisure.

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Marine and Underwater Views

The boat’s glass bottom is a major selling point. As you reach the last point of the island, you’ll be treated to a vibrant underwater panorama. The water here is strictly protected, leading to a lively marine ecosystem teeming with different fish species. The tranquility of the protected waters means you’ll likely see fish swimming close to the glass, making this a delight for snorkelers and non-swimmers alike.

Visiting the Islands of Jerolim and Kozada

From there, the boat crosses to Jerolim, an uninhabited island famous for its peacocks and relaxed, natural vibe. Many reviewers mention that Jerolim is perfect for swimming and enjoying a casual meal at the island’s restaurant. You might find the peacocks wandering freely, adding a whimsical touch to your visit.

Finally, the cruise heads to Kozada, the closest island to the mainland, with its striking shades of blue water. This marks the endpoint of the tour before returning to Faana, where many travelers comment on how the trip leaves a lingering sense of peacefulness and awe.

The Experience and Its Highlights

The Boat and the Crew

Many reviews praise the cleanliness and comfort of the boat, along with the friendly English-speaking crew—a big plus for international visitors. Drinks are included onboard, adding a touch of refreshment during the cruise.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

Travelers often mention the stunning views—both of the coastline and the underwater world. The opportunity to see Roman ruins and Venetian villas from the water offers perfect photo moments that capture the area’s historical and natural beauty.

The Marine Life

The strict fishing laws mean the waters are teeming with fish, and many enjoyed watching them through the glass bottom or simply relaxing on deck while listening to the gentle sounds of the sea. One reviewer called the experience very pleasant and an addition to our vacation, noting the kids loved the relaxed vibe and the views.

Flexibility and Comfort

You can choose to stay indoors to watch the fish or soak up the sun outside. The boat’s design accommodates both preferences comfortably, and the 1.5-hour duration feels just right—not too long, not too short.

Pricing and Value

At $35 per ticket, this tour offers great value. It includes the boat ride and a drink, meaning you’re paying mainly for a scenic, well-organized cruise with unique underwater views. Compared to other activities in the area—some of which involve full-day tours or multiple excursions—this is a straightforward, budget-friendly option that delivers plenty of memorable sights.

Travelers have mentioned that the experience is relaxed and friendly, making it a wonderful break from more structured sightseeing. The short duration also makes it accessible for families and those with limited time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This glass boat tour is perfect for families with children, couples seeking a romantic yet casual outing, or solo travelers who love scenery and history. It’s especially suitable if you want a low-key way to see marine life, ancient ruins, and stunning coastlines without the hassle of a full-day commitment.

If you care about quality and authenticity over flashy or overly commercialized activities, this trip will hit the right notes. However, those looking for a full-day adventure or extensive island exploration might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Faana Glass Boat Tour of Brijuni National Park offers a charming, accessible way to explore Croatia’s scenic coastlines and underwater worlds. Its affordable price, combined with stunning views, historical sights, and a relaxed pace, makes it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a gentle, memorable experience.

You’ll love the chance to see Roman ruins and Venetian villas from the water, watch vibrant marine life through the glass bottom, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the islands. The friendly crew and comfortable boat add to the overall enjoyment, making this tour a hassle-free highlight of any Croatian trip.

Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, or families seeking a calm, scenic outing, this experience balances value and authenticity beautifully. Whether you’re visiting for a quick escape or fitting it into a broader itinerary, it promises genuine moments of wonder and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the main pier in Faana, with the boat docked there 10 minutes before departure.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering enough time for sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the private glass boat ride and an onboard drink.

Are there options to stay inside or outside on the boat?
Yes, you can stay downstairs and watch fish through the glass or enjoy the sun on the upper deck.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention children enjoyed the experience, especially the marine views and relaxed atmosphere.

Does the tour include transportation to the start point?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off; you’ll need to arrange your own way to the Faana pier.

Is there any snorkeling or swimming?
The tour itself doesn’t specify snorkeling, but you can enjoy the underwater views from the boat. Jerolim island nearby is a good spot for swimming and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection—there’s plenty of opportunity to relax on deck.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with heart problems or wheelchair users due to the boat’s design and nature of the activity.

In essence, this glass boat tour offers a delightful blend of scenic coastline, underwater marvels, and historical glimpses—perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic Croatian experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: