From Pula: Rovinj & NP Brijuni cruise with Red Island visit

Traveling through Croatia’s Istrian coast, especially around Pula, offers a delightful mix of historical towns, scenic islands, and inviting waters. This particular cruise, operated by Ananda Boat Tours Pula, promises a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, relaxation, and tasty local cuisine. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 100 reviews, it clearly appeals to many travelers seeking a blend of culture and leisure.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the boat itself is a modern luxury catamaran equipped with comfortable lounges, terraces, and an open bar — perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying soft drinks and a glass of wine. Second, the guided tour of Rovinj offers a lovely introduction to this charming city with its narrow streets and vibrant harbor. Third, the opportunity to relax on Red Island for swimming or snorkeling adds a refreshing touch to the day.

However, a potential consideration is the duration of free time at each stop — around 30 to 60 minutes — which may feel a bit brief for travelers wanting to explore in depth. Still, for those looking for a balanced, scenic, and stress-free experience, this cruise offers excellent value.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic boat rides, want a rundown of the region’s highlights, and appreciate good food and wine in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Rovinj and the Brijuni Islands without the hassle of planning.

Good To Know

• Luxury onboard experience with lounges, terraces, and open bar
• Balanced itinerary combining sightseeing, free exploration, and relaxation
• Informative guides provide context about Rovinj and NP Brijuni
• Delicious local cuisine with a choice of fish, meat, or vegetarian lunch options
• Opportunities for swimming and snorkeling on Red Island
• Scenic views of the Croatian coast, historic villas, and natural beauty
• Affordable price point for a full-day, guided boat tour with included food and drinks

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point and Boarding

Your adventure begins at a convenient meeting point just 200 meters from the Pula Colosseum, across from “Pietas Julia” nightclub. The vessel, Ananda, is a sleek catamaran designed for comfort, equipped with an air-conditioned lounge, two terraces, a VIP salon, and clean restrooms. The crew and guides, including friendly professionals who speak English, German, Italian, and Serbo-Croatian, ensure a smooth start.

The Journey to Rovinj

As you set sail, you’ll quickly notice how relaxing the atmosphere is — think gentle breezes, sun-kissed decks, and a view of the coastline that’s quite spectacular. This part of the trip is appreciated by reviews for its organized and friendly vibe. Catriona, one reviewer, mentioned, “the boat was clean and the trip was well organized,” which is a good sign of the quality.

Exploring Rovinj by Sea and Land

The cruise offers a brief but enriching overview of Rovinj from the water, with the guide sharing stories about its origins and history. After about 30 to 45 minutes, you’ll have about an hour to explore the city on your own. Many find Rovinj’s cobbled streets and colorful buildings charming, and the free time gives you flexibility to wander, shop, or sit at a café. A guest named Adam described it as “a fantastic tour, with nice views and delicious food,” emphasizing that the guide’s insights and the scenery make the visit special.

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Red Island: A Natural Escape

Next, the boat heads toward Red Island, famous for its natural beauty and historical significance. Here, you get roughly 1.5 hours of free time, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just wandering along the rocky coast. Many reviews highlight the island’s appeal — “Red Island is stunning and a perfect spot for a swim,” as one traveler put it. While snorkeling gear isn’t included, the calm waters and scenic surroundings make this stop worthwhile.

NP Brijuni and Scenic Views

The journey continues to the Brijuni National Park, where the guide points out the presidential villas, Vanga Island (notable for Tito’s former residence), and Gaz Island, with its distinctive fish shape. The boat passes by the Austro-Hungarian fortress and offers scenic views of the park’s islands. About 1.5 hours are spent here, including a guided overview and some scenic driving past notable landmarks.

Return via Fazana and Pula Harbor

Finally, the cruise makes a leisurely pass back through Pula’s main harbor, offering iconic views of the Arena, Bunker, and the famous Lighting Giants. The trip wraps up with the group returning to the starting point, often with satisfied smiles and a camera full of photos.

The Food and Drinks: A Highlight

One of the most praised aspects is the included lunch, which offers a choice of fish, meat, or vegetarian options. Reviewers frequently mention how tasty and plentiful the meal is, paired with unlimited soft drinks and wine, providing a real treat after a morning of sightseeing. The open bar is appreciated for its variety, making the experience feel more indulgent.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with check-in times varying based on availability. It’s a full half-day, so packing a towel and beachwear is recommended for the Red Island stop.

Price and Value

At $68 per person, the tour offers a lot of value — a scenic boat ride, guided sightseeing, a delicious meal, and free time for swimming and exploring. When compared to the cost of individual activities or private tours, this package delivers a solid balance of affordability and quality.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers. You can reserve your spot with flexibility — full payment is required only 24 hours in advance, and you can cancel for a full refund if plans change.

Weather Considerations

If the weather turns bad, the Blue Cave visit might be replaced with an alternative location, so flexibility is helpful. Also, the tour is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the overall organization. Adam notes, “It was a nice day,” while Baiba mentions, “Very pleasant trip and easy to book.” The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitudes, coupled with the well-maintained vessel, make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Many reviewers are particularly enthusiastic about the wine selection and the delicious food, which elevate the cruise from a mere sightseeing trip to a full-day indulgence. The scenic views of Rovinj and the Brijuni Islands are another recurring theme, with guests describing the coast as “beautiful” and “picturesque,” perfect for photo opportunities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of scenic views and cultural highlights. It suits couples, families, or solo travelers who appreciate good food, wine, and natural beauty without the hassle of planning. If you’re eager to see Rovinj from the water, explore the islands with a knowledgeable guide, and enjoy some beach time, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if you prefer longer exploration at each stop or have specific interests like diving or in-depth history, you might find the brief free time a bit limiting.

The Sum Up

This Pula-based cruise to Rovinj, NP Brijuni, and Red Island offers a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culinary delights. The modern vessel, friendly guides, and scenic stops make it a great way to see the Istrian coast without breaking the bank. The included lunch and drinks, combined with the natural and cultural sights, deliver excellent value for the price.

It’s best suited for travelers who love a leisurely pace, stunning views, and the chance to unwind on a boat with good company. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore the Croatian coast, this tour will likely leave you with wonderful memories and plenty of photos.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The entire tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including stops for exploration, swimming, and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the catamaran cruise, a tour guide, a choice of lunch (fish, meat, or vegetarian), unlimited soft drinks and wine, and a visit to Fazana.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, there’s about 30-60 minutes to explore Rovinj and 1.5 hours on Red Island for swimming or relaxing.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is not included, so you might want to bring your own if you plan to snorkel during the Red Island stop.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old. It is also pet-friendly, and wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Pack a towel, beachwear, and sunscreen. Remember, firework and fire-making are not permitted on the boat.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather is unfavorable, the Blue Cave visit may be replaced by a different location, ensuring safety and comfort.

This cruise from Pula to Rovinj and the surrounding islands provides a fantastic way to discover some of Croatia’s most scenic spots with comfort and style. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it offers a memorable slice of Istrian life on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: