A full-day adventure exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands, with three stops, snorkeling, and a tasty lunch, all for just $65. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts, this cruise offers a relaxed way to experience some of the region’s best natural scenery and charming villages. We especially liked how easy it was to swim in clear waters and enjoy authentic local flavors onboard. The only caveat? Weather can sometimes throw a wrench in plans, so flexibility is key.
If you’re after a straightforward, fun, and well-organized day on the water, this tour suits travelers who love a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. It’s particularly popular among those who appreciate friendly guides and plenty of time to relax at each stop. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a balanced taste of Croatia’s seaside magic without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Multiple Stops: Visit Neujam Bay, Maslinica on Solta, and the Blue Lagoon at Drvenik, each offering unique scenery.
- Great Value: For $65, you get a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and a hearty lunch, with all water gear included.
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy local flavors, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly guides who keep the trip engaging.
- Flexible Water Activities: Use paddleboards, goggles, and inflatables to enhance your water fun.
- Ideal for Relaxation: Plenty of time at each spot means you can swim, sunbathe, or walk around without feeling rushed.
- Weather Contingency: Keep in mind that bad weather can lead to route changes or cancellations.
Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Special
Starting from Split Port at around 9:00 am (or 9:30 am in April and October), this cruise whisks you away on a scenic adventure across the Dalmatian coast. The first stop at Neujam Bay offers a prime opportunity to snorkel over a shipwreck, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. We loved the way the guides explained the marine life and ensured everyone was comfortable, making it accessible even for first-timers.
Next, the boat moves on to Maslinica on the island of Solta, a tiny but charming village with a laid-back vibe. Here, you can swim in the waters, walk around the streets, or relax at a café with a coffee or ice cream. Many reviews note how peaceful and authentic this stop feels, giving you a glimpse into local life beyond tourist hotspots.
Finally, the Blue Lagoon at Drvenik caps the day with a stunning, turquoise bay where dolphins sometimes appear during the boat ride—an added bonus many travelers find exciting. The water here is perfect for swimming and relaxing, with plenty of time allocated so you can enjoy the scenery and maybe even spot some marine wildlife.
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The Water and Snorkeling Experience
One standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at each stop. Reviewers frequently mention the joy of swimming over the shipwreck at Neujam Bay, a unique experience that feels both adventurous and safe thanks to the guides’ assistance. The availability of goggles and inflatables means you can add to your water fun without needing your own gear.
The water activities are well-loved; many people describe the marine environment as vibrant and full of life, making it a memorable highlight. Plus, the small group size and enough time at each location help prevent the usual feeling of rushing through the best bits.
Food and Drinks: A Hearty, Local-Style Meal
The included lunch is substantial and thoughtfully prepared, with options of beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers served with French fries and a glass of wine. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, calling it “delicious” and “bigger than expected.” The menu caters to different dietary preferences, which adds to the tour’s value.
Throughout the day, unlimited water, juice, and white wine keep everyone refreshed, and the availability of paddleboards and inflatables provides extra entertainment. Several reviews mention how the food and drinks contribute to the fun and relaxed atmosphere onboard.
Guides and Crew: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Engaging
One of the tour’s biggest strengths is the friendly and attentive crew, with hosts like Nana, Marco, Lana, and Mauro earning high praise. Reviewers consistently mention guides who were “friendly,” “helpful,” and “informative,” making the experience more personal and enjoyable. Nana, in particular, stands out as a favorite, with comments about her making the day “so fun” and “amazing.”
Guides keep everyone informed about the schedule and safety, and their cheerful attitude helps lift everyone’s spirits—even when the weather isn’t perfect. Their local knowledge adds a layer of authenticity, helping you appreciate the scenery and marine life.
More Great Tours NearbyComfort, Group Size, and Overall Experience
The boat is described as comfortable and suitable for families and groups of friends. With a typical group size that allows for personal interaction but still maintains a lively atmosphere, it balances intimacy with social fun. The boat’s layout and amenities, including music and water gear, foster a lively and relaxed environment.
The day’s pace is well-judged, with enough time at each stop to swim, walk, or simply soak in the surroundings. Reviewers appreciate that there’s no rush, and the timing feels natural, especially given the scenic stops and water activities.
While in Split, here are other experiences we've covered
- Blue Lagoon Island Bliss: A Full-Day with Lunch
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- From Split: Islands & Blue Lagoon Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
- From Split: Blue Lagoon & Underwater Museum (Lunch & drinks)
- From Split: PRIVATE Deluxe Blue Cave Tour with Grilled Lunch
- From Split: Private Guided ATV Tour with Lunch
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Bring warm clothing for the boat ride, as the wind can make it chilly, even on warm days.
- Pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and water shoes—comfort and sun protection are key.
- Arrive early at the port to check in easily; the meeting point is straightforward, marked by a Gray Line sign.
- Choose your lunch at check-in; options are beef, tuna, or vegetarian.
- Be aware that bad weather or rough seas might lead to route changes or cancellations—flexibility helps.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with relaxing water time without overly strenuous activities. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in snorkeling, local cuisine, and authentic small villages rather than big tourist resorts. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate friendly guides and a laid-back vibe will find it suits their pace.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see multiple islands and swim in beautiful waters, this is a solid choice. It’s also a good option for those who value good food, wine, and a fun crew—many reviews emphasize how guides and staff contribute to the overall enjoyment.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
No, the tour departs from Split Port, and you are responsible for getting there early. The meeting point is clearly marked with a Gray Line sign.
What’s included in the price?
For $65, you get a scenic cruise, visits to Neujam Bay, Maslinica, and the Blue Lagoon, snorkeling over a shipwreck, a hearty lunch with drinks, and water gear like goggles and paddleboards.
Can I choose my lunch?
Yes, you’ll select your meal option—beef, tuna, or vegetarian—at the meeting point before the tour starts.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water shoes, a sun hat, and warm clothes for the boat ride. It’s also wise to bring a digital or printed voucher for check-in.
What if the weather is bad?
The operator reserves the right to change routes or cancel the trip if weather conditions are unsafe. Keep an eye on the forecast and stay flexible.
Is this tour suitable for kids or people with mobility issues?
It’s not designed for wheelchair users, and the focus on swimming and walking around small villages might not suit everyone with mobility challenges.
Final Thoughts
This Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise from Split offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and local flavors at a very reasonable price. The friendly guides, diverse stops, and ample time for swimming make it a memorable way to experience Dalmatia’s coast. It’s ideal if you’re after a relaxed, social day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Croatia’s sparkling waters and charming villages.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and genuine hospitality over high-end luxury. If you want a fun, all-in-one day trip that balances snorkeling, sightseeing, and good food, this tour is hard to beat at the price.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Croatia, this cruise promises a taste of everything—stunning islands, lively guides, and some of the best water in the Mediterranean. Just pack your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and an open mind for a day of pure relaxation and natural beauty.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Split
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