Three Island Cruise Tour Featuring the Blue Lagoon and Solta

Introduction: Why Consider the Three Island Cruise Tour?

If you’re dreaming of a day floating around Croatia’s beautiful islands, this Three Island Cruise Tour offers an appealing mix of sights, swimming, and laid-back culture. We’re looking at a trip that promises stunning views from the water, authentic village visits, and the chance to relax in some of Croatia’s best beaches.

Two things we really like about this tour are how personal and flexible the experience feels—small groups mean more attentive guides and fewer crowds—and the variety of stops, from the lively Blue Lagoon to the quiet charm of Maslinica. One potential drawback is that the tour lasts around 8 hours, so it’s a full day, which might be tiring for some travelers.

This cruise will suit families, couples, or friends eager for an authentic day on the water—especially those who enjoy snorkeling, exploring small villages, and soaking in gorgeous scenery without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight on their Croatian vacation.

Key Points

• Authentic island experiences in a small-group setting for a more personal trip.
• Beautiful stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local villages like Maslinica.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and attentive service.
• Great value considering the included snorkeling gear, guide, and the variety of stops.
• Ideal for families and kids, with a relaxed pace and fun activities.
• Flexible cancellation policy for peace of mind if plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Departing from Split at 9:00 am

Most tours begin early, giving your group plenty of time to enjoy the day’s highlights. The journey starts with a boat trip that sets the tone—you’re in for a relaxed cruise, with good company and scenic water views. The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, allowing guides to tend to individual needs and share local stories.

Stop 1: Drvenik Mali and the Elica Lighthouse

Your first stop is at Drvenik Mali, home to the Elica Lighthouse. This is a quick 30-minute visit, mainly for photos and soaking in the views from the coast. The lighthouse itself isn’t a big attraction but offers a great photo opportunity and a taste of local maritime life. The nearby islet Kljuda provides a peaceful backdrop for a quick look around.

Stop 2: Swimming and Snorkeling at Vela Rina Bay

Next, you’ll spend 1 hour and 30 minutes in Vela Rina Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Here, snorkeling equipment is provided, and adventurous travelers often comment on the fantastic visibility and vibrant marine life. Expect to see interesting fish and perhaps even some small sea creatures. This stop feels like a true highlight for water lovers—a chance to cool off, float in the calm waters, and really appreciate the natural beauty of the Croatian coast.

Stop 3: Hidden Coves around Drvenik

The tour then moves to explore hidden coves scattered around the islands. These secluded spots offer a quieter side of Croatia’s coast, perfect for relaxing away from the crowds. The 30-minute exploration is less about sightseeing and more about soaking in the peaceful environment. Several reviews mention how this part of the trip provides a sense of discovery and serenity.

Stop 4: The Village of Maslinica on Solta

After the water-based activities, you’ll stop at Maslinica, a picturesque fishing village on island Solta. The 2-hour visit is well timed for a leisurely walk, a coffee break, or a relaxed lunch. The village’s charm is in its colorful houses, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate this authentic slice of Croatia, with some mentioning how it’s a perfect spot to breathe and enjoy local life.

Stop 5: The Blue Lagoon/ Krknjasi Bay

The final highlight is the Blue Lagoon on Krknjasi Island, where you’ll have about 2 hours. This is the main draw for most guests—famous for its turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Several reviews rave about how beautiful the water is, and some mention relaxing at a beach bar afterward. It’s a fun, lively spot that feels like a true classic Croatian postcard scene.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price ($839.26 per person) seems steep at first glance but is quite reasonable when you consider what’s included. All taxes and fees are covered, along with a driver/guide and snorkeling gear—a big plus for water activities. You also get the use of snorkeling equipment, which many reviewers say is of good quality.

However, lunch and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash or plan to buy at the beach bars or restaurants. Many reviewers’ notes about eating in Maslinica or relaxing at the beaches suggest that taking a light lunch or snacks along could enhance your experience.

Meeting Point & Timing

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, and the group returns back to the starting point afterward, making it easy to plan your day. Since hotel transfers are not included, you’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself, which is a good opportunity to familiarize yourself with the area beforehand.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

The reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides, often named as a standout feature. One reviewer raves about Captain Joseph, noting his local knowledge and pride in Trogir. Others especially appreciated the helpful staff providing water, strawberries, and extra jackets, which shows the attention to detail and genuine care.

Many mention the stunning scenery and how the stops at Blue Lagoon and Solta offer fantastic photo opportunities. Water lovers in particular loved the snorkeling parts, and families appreciated the safe, relaxed environment.

On the downside, some mention that the lunch might be simple—just a few pieces of grilled chicken or fish—and the full day can be tiring. However, the overall consensus is that the value for money is good, especially considering the personalized service, scenic stops, and water activities.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses—you’ll spend a good part of the day in the water and sun.
• Arrive on time to start your day smoothly.
• Consider packing a light snack or drinks, especially if you plan to eat at a local restaurant in Maslinica.
• The minimum age is 5 years, making this suitable for families with children.
• Moderate physical fitness is recommended—some walking and swimming are involved but nothing too strenuous.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, bring appropriate medication, as boat rides can sometimes be bumpy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise works best for travelers seeking a combination of scenic water views, island exploration, and water-based fun. Water lovers will enjoy snorkeling and swimming at the Blue Lagoon, while those looking for a taste of authentic Croatian villages will find Maslinica charming. Families with kids find it suitable thanks to the relaxed pace and safe environment.

It’s also great for those who appreciate local guides and small-group experiences—an approach that tends to foster more personal interactions and insider tips. If you’re after a full, active day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and don’t mind a long day in the sun, this tour delivers excellent value.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour? No, lunch is not included. Travelers typically buy food at the stops, especially in Maslinica, or bring snacks to enjoy during the day.

What should I bring on the tour? Pack your swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, and comfortable clothing. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included, so bring some cash for beverages at beach bars or restaurants.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point at the end of the day.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the minimum age is 5 years, and many reviews note it’s a good option for families looking for a fun day on the water.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. If you cancel earlier, you get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Three Island Cruise Tour from Split offers a well-balanced day that combines stunning scenery, water activities, and local culture. It’s especially appealing for those who want a personalized experience in a small-group setting and enjoy snorkeling, exploring villages, and relaxing on beautiful beaches.

While it’s a full day and some may find the simple lunch options less satisfying, the overall value, guided expertise, and memorable stops make it a strong choice. It’s perfect for families, water enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see Croatia from a different perspective—by boat.

If you’re after a day filled with photo-worthy moments, authentic local flavor, and fun in the sun, this cruise could be just what you need for a truly memorable Croatian adventure.