Blue Lagoon & Islands Day Cruise from Split with Lunch

This experience made our article of 12 Must-Try Lunch Experiences In Split.

Introduction

Our review of the Blue Lagoon & Islands Day Cruise from Split offers a practical look at this popular Dalmatian seaside adventure. While we haven’t personally taken the cruise, the detailed feedback from travelers and the itinerary’s features paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What makes this trip appealing are two standout points: the chance to swim and snorkel in clear, inviting waters, and the opportunity to enjoy a tasty onboard lunch while cruising past stunning islands. Both add layers of value that make this outing a solid choice for those seeking a mix of relaxation and light exploration.

That said, a potential consideration is the route’s flexibility due to weather conditions—meaning if the seas are rough, the itinerary might shift. It’s worth being flexible and prepared for minor adjustments.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, enjoyable day on the water, with plenty of swimming, beautiful scenery, and good food. Families, couples, or small groups looking to experience the Dalmatian coast in a relaxed, friendly setting will likely find this trip very rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Water Activities: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and even stand-up paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters.
• Beautiful Island Stops: Explore Maslinica and Olta Island’s quaint villages and beaches.
• Delicious Onboard Food: A tasty lunch with options including beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers, plus refreshing drinks.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins and other marine life.
• Relaxed Pace: Multiple stops with enough time to swim, walk around, or just soak up the sun.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly crew make the experience smooth and engaging.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Split’s St. Nicholas Pier, the day begins with a smooth cruise under the Croatian sun. From here, the journey takes you to Neujam Bay, where swimming and snorkeling are the main attractions. The water is described as refreshingly clear, perfect for exploring the underwater world. We loved how many reviews highlighted the well-organized nature of the stops—one reviewer raved, “the stops to swimming and exploration was just right.”

After soaking up the sun and enjoying the water, a delicious onboard lunch awaits. The menu offers choices like a beef, tuna, or veggie burger served with French fries—simple yet satisfying, and good value considering the overall price. The inclusion of drinks like wine, juice, and water adds to the relaxed, festive vibe.

Next, the cruise heads to Maslinica, a charming village on Olta Island. Here, you can stroll the narrow streets, relax on the beach, or visit local cafes for coffee or ice cream. The village’s quaint atmosphere offers a quieter, more authentic experience compared to the busier tourist spots. Some reviews mention the beautiful views and lovely village atmosphere, making this stop worth the few hours allotted.

The final part of the trip takes you to Drvenik, home to the Blue Lagoon. This is the highlight for many travelers—crystal waters perfect for swimming, relaxing on the beach, or simply taking in panoramic island vistas. The chance to spot dolphins in the Blue Lagoon adds an element of excitement; multiple reviewers have noted seeing playful marine life, enhancing the sense of being part of a natural spectacle.

What You Can Expect Onboard

The cruise itself is described as well organized, with a friendly crew that explains the plan clearly. The English-speaking captain and staff are praised for their helpfulness and good humor—some reviews even mention guides like Marco, Nana, and Anja as being especially engaging and involved.

The boat includes amenities like inflatable toys, snorkeling gear (with a small deposit), and stand-up paddleboards. These options let you mix active fun with relaxation. When not in the water, you can lounge on the sunbeds (depending on your chosen option), sip a cold drink, or soak up the scenery.

The duration of the trip generally lasts a full day, with plenty of time at each stop. The balance of activities is praised for being not too rushed, allowing travelers to truly unwind and enjoy each location.

The Value Proposition and Price Analysis

At around $65 per person, this cruise presents good value for a full day of activities, scenic views, and a hearty meal. When you consider the multiple stops, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and drinks included, it’s a package that offers more than just transportation.

Several reviews mention that the food quality is good, with one traveler commenting, “the food was good, the staff was very friendly and really explained everything well.” The inclusion of refreshing drinks and optional beer makes it a relaxing, enjoyable experience rather than just a sightseeing trip.

While you do need to put down a $10 deposit for snorkeling gear, this small fee is typical and ensures quality equipment for your underwater adventures. The flexibility to reserve and pay later is a bonus, especially for travelers wanting to keep options open as plans evolve.

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Authentic Experiences and Guest Perspectives

From the enthusiastic reviews, it’s clear that guide expertise and friendly crew elevate the experience. For example, one review states, “Ivo and Nana were great hosts—they were funny and very friendly,” highlighting the warmth that most travelers appreciated.

Many note the stunning scenery—“beautiful views” and “stunning stops”—which makes the journey visually rewarding. The opportunity to spot dolphins in the Blue Lagoon is frequently mentioned, adding a touch of wildlife wonder to the day.

The stops in Maslinica and Olta aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about experiencing authentic Dalmatian village life with a relaxed pace. Travelers appreciate the mix of swimming, walking, enjoying local coffee, and just soaking in the peaceful island vibe.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sun protection: sunscreen, sun hats, and water shoes are recommended. The Croatian sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
• Consider your swimming gear: snorkel goggles are provided, but you might prefer your own for comfort.
• Prepare for minor route changes: weather can influence the day’s plan, so flexibility is key.
• Choose your lunch in advance: options include beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger—think about your dietary preferences beforehand.
• Book early: especially in peak season, tours can fill up quickly.
• Bring a light jacket or warm clothing: for the boat ride back or early mornings/evenings.

The Sum Up

This Blue Lagoon & Islands Day Cruise from Split offers a wonderful way to experience Croatia’s Dalmatian coast with a mix of water activities, authentic island visits, and good food all bundled into one enjoyable day. It’s a trip that balances scenic beauty with relaxed exploration—perfect for travelers seeking a low-stress, family-friendly outing with plenty of chances to swim and unwind.

The knowledgeable guides, lively crew, and well-organized stops make it stand out. The overall value for money is high, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, paddleboards, drinks, and a hearty lunch.

While the route can shift due to weather, most travelers agree that the highlights—beautiful waters, charming villages, playful dolphins—make this a memorable experience. It’s best suited for those who want a full day of fun, scenery, and relaxation without the need for intense sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, enjoyable day on the Dalmatian waters that combines comfort, authentic experiences, and a touch of adventure, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the cruise, lunch (beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger with French fries), drinks (wine, juice, and water), snorkeling equipment (with a deposit), inflatables, stand-up paddleboard, a friendly captain and crew, and depending on your option, sunbeds and beer.

How long is the trip?
The cruise typically lasts a full day, with enough time spent at each stop for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

What should I bring on the trip?
Pack sun protection (sunscreen, hat), swimwear, towel, water shoes, and warm clothing just in case. You might also want to bring a camera or phone for photos.

Are there any physical limitations?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and some stops involve walking or swimming, so consider your mobility.

Can I choose my lunch options?
Yes, you select your preferred lunch at the meeting point—choices include beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The route may change due to weather or sea conditions, but the crew will do their best to ensure a memorable day regardless. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This cruise offers a friendly, scenic, and tasty way to see parts of Croatia that are often hidden from the mainland. Whether you’re after a relaxing day of swimming, exploring charming villages, or just soaking up the sun, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Dalmatian experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: