Split/Trogir: Blue lagoon and 3 islands speedboat tour

Planning a trip to Croatia and wondering if a half-day boat tour is worth your time? We’ve looked into the popular speedboat trip from Split, which promises a quick jaunt around some of the most photogenic spots in the area. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it matches your travel style.

Two things stand out about this experience: first, it offers a fast-paced way to see Trogir, the Blue Lagoon, and Maslinica, perfect if your time in Croatia is limited but you still want a taste of their scenic beauty. Second, the knowledgeable guides and stunning views regularly earn praise from travelers.

Of course, no tour is perfect. The bumpy speedboat ride at high speeds isn’t for everyone, especially those prone to seasickness or looking for a more leisurely cruise. Also, some reviews mention crowded spots and shorter visit times than expected, so if you’re craving in-depth exploration or tranquility, this might not be your ideal choice.

This tour appeals most to families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a quick, fun, and scenic trip without the hassle of planning multiple transport legs. If you appreciate guides with knowledge, snorkeling, and beautiful vistas, you’ll likely find this experience a solid value.

Key Points

• Efficient Experience: Covers Trogir, Blue Lagoon, and Maslinica in just half a day
• Beautiful Locations: Offers scenic views and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling
• Group Size & Price: Up to 50 travelers, at $65.94 per person, making it budget-friendly
• Expert Guides: Several reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly skippers
• Timing Flexibility: Choice of morning or afternoon departures
• Limitations: Short stops, crowded spots, and potentially bumpy rides

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Getting Started: From Split to the Water

The tour kicks off with a pickup from a centrally located meeting point in Split, making it accessible without extensive planning. Once everyone is aboard, you’ll be whisked away on a speedboat, which promises a thrilling ride across the waves. Expect a bumpy but exhilarating journey, especially at higher speeds, as noted by travelers who found the boat ride “very bumpy over the waves.” This isn’t a leisurely cruise; it’s a fast-moving adventure designed to maximize your sightseeing in a limited time.

Trogir: The UNESCO-Listed Gem

Your first stop is Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture and lively waterfront. The stop lasts about 50 minutes, enough for a quick stroll or a coffee break on the scenic ** waterfront promenade**. You’ll love the chance to wander cobbled streets, admire centuries-old buildings, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

One traveler summed it up: “Trogir was beautiful, with stunning streets, markets, and nice places to eat.” Since the tour starts here, you won’t see it as a traditional sightseeing stop but as a launching point for exploration — ideal for those who enjoy wandering independently and soaking up local charm.

Blue Lagoon: Snorkeling and Swimming

Next, it’s off to the Blue Lagoon on island Veliki Drvenik. With clear, inviting waters, this is the highlight for many looking to swim or snorkel. The tour provides masks and snorkels—a thoughtful touch appreciated by many, especially since seeing underwater life is one of the main draws.

However, reviews mention that the Blue Lagoon can be crowded and somewhat underwhelming if you’re expecting vibrant marine life. One reviewer noted, “The Blue Lagoon was a little underwhelming,” citing the rocky terrain and limited marine life, but still enjoyed the experience of floating in the crisp, blue water. Be advised: water shoes are recommended because the seabed can be rocky and full of sea urchins.

The time allocated here is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, which generally allows for a good swim and some snorkeling. Many appreciate the expert driving of the skipper, who gets the boat safely to the spot, and the chance to relax after the high-speed ride.

Maslinica: A Charming Fishing Village

The final stop is Maslinica, a well-preserved fishermen’s village. The stop here lasts around 50 minutes, giving travelers a taste of authentic Croatian village life. It’s a peaceful spot where you can take a stroll, sip a drink at the waterfront, or browse local souvenirs. The reviews highlight the beauty here, with one traveler calling it “a small heaven” worth exploring.

Unlike the previous stops, Maslinica offers a chance to slow down and enjoy authentic local scenery. It’s a perfect wind-down before heading back to Split, especially if you want to avoid the crowded tourist spots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of roughly $66, the tour provides speedboat transportation, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. The safety equipment and insurance are also included, which is reassuring when you’re zipping across the sea.

However, the tour does not include drinks or lunch, so plan to bring your own water or snacks if you need a boost. Plus, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation to the departure point.

The Value Proposition

Given the cost, travelers get a well-organized, scenic tour with multiple stops and snorkeling opportunities. You also get to see Trogir’s historic streets and Maslinica’s quaint charm — all within a manageable half-day, making it a good deal for those on a time crunch or looking for a quick escape from Split.

Cabin Crew & Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the skippers’ professionalism and local knowledge. One commented, “our young captain from Trogir was amazing,” noting that he knew the islands and made the trip enjoyable. Others remark on the smooth sailing and safe navigation, which are crucial when you’re rushing between scenic spots at high speed.

Travel Tips & Practical Considerations

• Water shoes are advisable due to rocky seabeds.
• Expect a bumpy ride at high speeds — not for seasickness-prone travelers.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early; some reviews mention delays.
• Bring sun protection — sunscreen, hats, sunglasses — especially if you’re spending time on the deck.
• Prepare for crowded spots, particularly at the Blue Lagoon, depending on the time of year.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Several reviews echo the positive experiences: “the boat trip highlighted Croatian scenery,” and “our guide Ivana was pleasant and skillful.” Many praise the skipper’s knowledge and the scenic beauty of the islands.

However, some negative points are worth noting: “the Blue Lagoon was crowded,” and “the short stops sometimes felt rushed.” A handful of travelers experienced organizational issues, such as delays or miscommunications, but the tour provider responded swiftly to concerns, indicating a generally professional operation.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This speedboat adventure is perfect for those who want a quick, scenic, and fun experience without spending a full day on the water. It suits families, friends, or solo travelers eager to see Trogir’s historic streets, snorkel in beautiful waters, and enjoy a taste of local village life in Maslinica.

If you’re someone who loves guided tours with knowledgeable skippers, or if you’re short on time but still want a multi-location experience, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re looking for serene, uncrowded beaches or a leisurely exploration, you may find it a bit rushed or crowded.

Final Thoughts

This half-day tour from Split offers a compact, scenic escape with a good mix of history, nature, and local color. It’s a great value for the price, especially with the included snorkeling gear and the chance to explore Trogir’s historic streets and the charming Maslinica.

The adrenaline-fueled boat ride and stunning views make it a memorable experience, particularly for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind the bumpy waters. The knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary ensure you’ll get a good sense of this beautiful part of Croatia without overextending your day.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for fun, scenic highlights with some active moments and don’t mind the crowds or short stops. It’s especially suited for families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a quick, memorable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from my hotel? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at the designated central location in Split.

How long is the total tour? The tour lasts approximately 5 hours including all stops, with around 50 minutes in Trogir, 80 minutes at Blue Lagoon, and 50 minutes at Maslinica.

What should I bring? It’s wise to bring water shoes, sun protection, water, and a towel. Snacks or drinks are not provided, so pack accordingly.

Can I snorkel at the Blue Lagoon? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and many travelers enjoy exploring the underwater scenery, although some mention it can be crowded.

Is the ride safe? Yes, safety equipment and insurance are included, and reviews note the skippers are experienced and professional.

Are there any restrictions? The tour is not suitable for travelers with back problems, mobility issues, pregnant women, or children under 5.

Can I choose a departure time? Yes, there is a choice of morning or afternoon departures to suit your schedule.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start of the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

To sum it up, this Blue Lagoon and islands speedboat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and fun adventure. It’s well-suited for those wanting a quick taste of Croatia’s coastal charms without committing a whole day. If you’re looking for a value-packed, lively experience with friendly guides and breathtaking views, this tour makes a compelling choice.