Blue Lagoon/Trogir/olta Boat Excursion with Lunch

Introduction

If you’re visiting Split and want an efficient way to see some of the area’s top sights in a day, this Blue Lagoon/Trogir/Olta Boat Excursion with Lunch offers a good balance of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and aquatic fun. While it’s not a private luxury experience, it provides a solid way to tick off multiple highlights without the hassle of planning your own logistics.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines a UNESCO-listed town, a stunning island lagoon, and a quaint fishing village, all within roughly ten hours. The snorkeling gear included is ideal for those eager to explore the underwater beauty, and the lunch offers a decent selection that caters to different diets.

However, a word of caution: reviews point to some organisational hiccups and crowded boats, which might impact your comfort. This tour best suits first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a quick, comprehensive taste of the region, especially if you’re happy with a lively, group setting rather than a quiet, boutique experience.

Key Points

• Multiple highlights in one day: Trogir, Blue Lagoon, and Maslinica offer diverse experiences.
• Snorkeling gear included: Great for exploring the clear waters.
• Value for money: Lunch and drinks are included, boosting overall value.
• Long hours on water: Expect around 10 hours, including transit.
• Crowded boats: Some reviews mention discomfort due to crowding.
• Variable organization: Occasional delays or changes can occur, especially with weather or technical issues.
• Authentic local flavor: Maslinica is a small fishing village with street art and relaxed vibe.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off bright and early at Obala Lazareta 1, Split, at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to get ready and arrive. The group sizes can go up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere. The mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward, but be prepared for some pre-departure hustle, especially during peak seasons.

First Stop: Trogir – A UNESCO Treasure

The journey begins with a one-hour visit to Trogir, an ancient town packed with stone-paved streets, historic buildings, and a lovely waterfront. This is an excellent chance to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and maybe grab a quick coffee or gelato. The reviews highlight that the guided commentary is informative and engaging, helping visitors appreciate the city’s architectural gems and its protected status.

While some travelers might wish for more time, the short visit allows you to get a taste of the town’s charm without the risk of missing the boat. Remember, this is about efficient sightseeing, so don’t expect a deep dive into every alley but rather a brisk overview.

Second Stop: Blue Lagoon – Swimming and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll hop aboard the boat heading to the Blue Lagoon (Krknjasi Bay), renowned for its crystal-clear water and stunning setting between three islands. This is the heart of the tour for many, especially those eager to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun.

You’ll have around two and a half hours here, which should be enough to relax, float around, and explore underwater with the provided snorkeling gear. The reviews are mixed: some rave about the beautiful water and the fun of snorkeling; others note that the coral and marine life can be underwhelming depending on the weather and season. It’s important to set expectations — this is a popular tourist spot, but not a secluded paradise.

Be aware that one review pointed out some crowding and limited space outside on the boat, especially during peak hours. The experience is more enjoyable if you’re prepared for some hustle and bustle, and if you bring goggles or masks for better underwater views.

Third Stop: Maslinica – Village Relaxation

After splashing around, the boat heads to Maslinica, a small, authentic fishing village on the island of Šolta. Here, you’ll get about an hour to wander the streets, admire street art, or sit by the water with a coffee or ice cream.

Many reviews mention that Maslinica is a charming and peaceful place, perfect for a quick stroll, a photo, or simply relaxing away from the crowds. It’s a chance to experience a slice of local life, away from tourist-heavy spots.

Lunch and Drinks

A highlight of the tour is the included lunch, served onboard or at the stop, featuring fish, meat, or vegetarian options. According to reviews, the quality varies, but most find it decent and satisfying — a good value considering it’s included in the price. Soft drinks and soda are provided to keep you refreshed after your swim.

Some travelers, however, mention long waits for lunch, and a few found the vegetarian options somewhat limited, with only vegetables. Still, the lunch service is generally seen as a positive aspect, especially for the convenience and the chance to refuel without additional cost.

Transportation, Group Size, and Duration

This tour uses a large boat, which can be crowded, especially during summer. Be prepared for a long day on water, with approximately 10 hours including transit, stops, and onboard time. The group size can reach 100 travelers, making it suitable for those comfortable in lively, social environments but perhaps less so for travelers seeking tranquility.

While the price of roughly $78 per person is on the affordable side for a full-day experience, remember that some reviews note disorganization and delays caused by weather or technical issues. Despite these occasional setbacks, the tour offers port pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics.

Authenticity and Value for Money

Most reviews highlight that the tour offers good value, especially with lunch and snorkeling gear included. It’s a practical way to see multiple sights without the stress of planning transport or tickets. The guides are often praised as friendly and attentive, providing helpful commentary to deepen your understanding of each stop.

However, the crowd level and boats’ condition are points to consider. Some travelers found the boats hot, crowded, and in need of refurbishment, which can detract from the comfort during the day. Nonetheless, if you’re not overly fussed about luxury and value a fun, active day with stunning views, this trip delivers.

Real Experiences from Travelers

One guest mentioned, “The staff were extremely friendly and attentive. We were informed regularly of our itinerary,” reflecting the positive side of guided service. Conversely, others noted frustrations: “Boat has no AC; everything is very old, hot, and sticky inside,” reminding us that comfort can be variable.

The Blue Lagoon itself gets mixed reviews: some praise its beautiful waters, while others feel it’s overly crowded and not ideal for snorkeling, especially in bad weather. The authentic charm of Maslinica garners consistent praise for its laid-back vibe and scenic streets.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This boat excursion is perfect for first-time visitors to Split who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day. It’s also great for families and groups looking for a relaxed, all-in-one trip. If you’re comfortable with large group tours, don’t mind crowded boats, or are seeking a fun, lively atmosphere with scenic stops, this trip will suit you.

However, if comfort and quiet reflection are your priorities, or if you’re seeking a luxury experience, you might find this tour a bit rough around the edges. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and some organizational quirks.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Lagoon/Trogir/Olta Boat Excursion delivers a solid value for those eager to see a handful of Croatia’s highlights in one go. It’s a well-rounded day featuring historic streets, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, all with included meals and snorkeling gear.

The long hours on the water and large group size mean it’s best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere. Its mixed reviews highlight that this isn’t a luxury cruise, but it’s a fun, energetic way to experience some of the region’s most popular spots without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for authentic small-town flavor, stunning scenery, and a touch of aquatic adventure, this trip offers a good starter. Just keep your expectations in check regarding comfort and organization, and you’ll probably enjoy a memorable day in Croatia.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Expect a lively group and some boat time, so keep an eye on younger travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, sun cream, extra clothing for changing, and perhaps goggles for snorkeling. Remember, the boat can get crowded and hot.

How long are the stops?
You’ll spend about an hour in Trogir, two and a half hours at Blue Lagoon, and an hour in Maslinica. Lunch and transit time fill out the rest of the day.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian lunch options are available, but it’s best to advise at booking if you need them.

What is the boat like?
The boat is large enough for many passengers but can be crowded, especially in high season. Some reviews mention that it’s not very modern, and onboard comfort varies.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included and available for your use in the lagoon.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This boat trip offers an engaging way to experience Croatia’s highlights, especially if you enjoy a spirited group atmosphere and scenic water-based activities. While not perfect, it’s a practical choice to get a taste of Trogir’s history, the Blue Lagoon’s beauty, and the charm of Maslinica, all in one day.