Split: 45-minute Semi-Submersible Submarine Trip

If you’re looking for a quick, fun way to see the marine life around Split without getting wet, a semi-submarine tour might be just the ticket. This 45-minute adventure offers a glimpse beneath the waves while staying comfortably above water. It’s ideal for families, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience that complements your exploration of Croatia’s famous Dalmatian coast.

What we like about this trip is how accessible and easy it is to fit into a busy day — no need for snorkeling skills or heavy gear, just hop aboard and enjoy the views. The chance to see colorful fish and marine life through large viewing windows keeps the experience engaging, especially for kids. Plus, you get the bonus of scenic views of Split itself, especially from the upper deck.

One potential consideration is that the vessel is quite small, which can be cozy if you prefer a more spacious environment. Also, the windows could sometimes benefit from better cleaning, according to some reviews. But overall, this tour offers a relaxed, authentic peek into Croatia’s underwater world at an affordable price point — usually just $23 per person.

This experience works best for families, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a light, memorable activity that combines marine life with city views without the hassle of long tours or strenuous activities.

Key Points

• Accessible for all ages: Suitable for children and adults, with no diving or swimming required.
• Affordable price: At around $23, it offers good value for a short, scenic experience.
• Flexible timing: Choose between a day trip or a night tour with underwater lights for different atmospheres.
• Great views: See marine life through large windows and enjoy panoramic city views on deck.
• Small group feel: The vessel is intimate, making it more comfortable and personalized.
• Authentic experience: Offers a genuine, relaxed view of Split’s underwater ecosystem.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Split Semi-Submarine Trip

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins from the Riva promenade, right in the heart of Split’s bustling harbor. Arriving 15 minutes early is a smart move to ensure smooth boarding. The vessel, named “Marijeta,” remains above water at all times, with its hull submerged roughly 1.5 meters below the surface.

Imagine stepping onto a stable, boat-like platform that takes you on a gentle journey beneath the waves. The vessel is designed with large viewing windows in the hull, giving you a clear, 360-degree view of the underwater world. We loved the way this setup keeps everyone dry and comfortable, unlike snorkeling or diving, which can be intimidating for some.

The Vessel and Its Design

The semi-submarine is intentionally small, typically accommodating only a few families or groups at once. This means your experience is more intimate and less crowded. According to reviews, the vessel’s size is a plus — more than eight people might feel cramped. This cozy setup creates a feeling of exclusivity, and many reviewers appreciated having just a handful of fellow travelers.

The vessel’s deck on top is accessible at any time, allowing passengers to stretch their legs and take in the spectacular views of Split’s old town and the Palace of Diocletian. From above, you’ll see the gleaming rooftops, ancient walls, and bustling harbor scenes, creating a perfect contrast to the underwater vistas.

Marine Life and Underwater Views

As the vessel moves smoothly over the water, your personal viewing window reveals an active, colorful world beneath. You can watch schools of fish glide past, observe marine plants, and maybe even spot other sea creatures. Several reviews noted how surprisingly engaging the underwater scenery can be, especially during the daytime when visibility is best.

The opportunity to leave the cabin and step onto the deck offers a change of perspective — some loved to stand outside and snap photos of the city while watching the water below. This flexibility enhances the overall experience, making it not just about the underwater view but also about soaking in the atmosphere.

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Night vs. Day Tours

One of the exciting options is choosing between a daytime or nighttime tour. During daylight, you’ll enjoy vibrant colors and active fish, while at night, the underwater lights create a glowing spectacle. Some reviews mention that a sunset tour, like the one at 7 pm, provides a particularly memorable combination of marine views and a stunning sunset over Split.

The Duration and Pacing

At just 45 minutes, this tour is a quick, well-paced activity that fits neatly into a day of sightseeing. It’s long enough to see and enjoy the underwater environment but short enough to keep children engaged — a point many reviews highlight positively. The tour’s brevity makes it a low-commitment, high-enjoyment activity, perfect for a relaxed morning or late afternoon outing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers travel insurance, port taxes, the skipper and sailor, fuel, and VAT. It’s an all-in price that minimizes surprises. However, it doesn’t include lunch or personal expenses, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry afterward. The activity doesn’t offer hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Split.

Customer Service and Overall Experience

The crew and guide receive praise for being friendly, helpful, and welcoming. Many reviewers noted how knowledgeable and attentive the staff were, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable. A few mentioned that the windows could have been cleaner for clearer views, but this seemed to be a minor quibble.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $23 per person, this tour is a reasonable expense for the novelty and access it provides. Considering the small group size, the unique perspective, and the scenic contrasts between underwater and city views, it’s quite a bit of value for the money. It’s especially appealing for travelers with limited time looking for a distinctive activity that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This semi-submarine trip is perfect for families with young children, as it’s safe, easy, and engaging without requiring swimming skills. It’s also great for first-time visitors wanting a gentle introduction to Split’s waters and sights. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordability, and those seeking a peaceful, scenic activity will find this a delightful way to relax and enjoy the coast.

If you’re after an adventure that combines marine discovery with city views, and you don’t mind a small vessel, this tour offers an authentic, memorable slice of Croatian seaside life.

The Sum Up

The Split semi-submarine tour is a simple yet surprisingly captivating activity that provides a fresh perspective on Croatia’s coastal charm. Its affordability makes it accessible for most travelers, while the intimate size and friendly crew ensure a relaxed atmosphere. The underwater windows allow you to see marine life without fuss or gear, making it ideal for families, children, or anyone curious about the ocean.

While a bit cozy and occasionally hindered by window cleanliness, the experience’s beauty lies in its combination of marine life, scenic city views, and a laid-back pace. It’s a short activity, but one that tends to leave a lasting impression thanks to its authenticity and charm.

We think this tour shines brightest for those seeking a family-friendly, low-pressure way to enjoy the water, especially when paired with a sunset or evening experience. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable, and genuinely fun way to see a different side of Split — all from the comfort of your seat inside a quirky, semi-submersible vessel.

FAQ

Is the vessel suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as fun and relaxing for all ages, including children. It’s safe, with no swimming required.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but memorable activity.

Can I choose between a daytime or nighttime tour?
Yes, depending on your booked time, you can opt for a day tour or a night tour with underwater lights for a different ambiance.

Is the tour group large?
No, the vessel is small, typically accommodating just a few families or groups, which makes for a more intimate experience.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers insurance, port taxes, a skipper and sailor, fuel, and VAT. It does not include lunch or personal expenses.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is the semiSUBMARINE location on the Riva promenade, 15 minutes before departure.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with claustrophobia?
It might not be ideal, as the vessel is small and enclosed, which could feel restrictive for some.

You can check availability for your dates here: