From Split: Islands & Blue Lagoon Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Planning a day trip that balances beautiful scenery, historical sights, and a splash of adventure? This Islands & Blue Lagoon cruise promises just that—an active day on the water with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy Croatia’s coast. Whether you’re after picture-perfect vistas, a taste of local flavors, or a quick swim in crystal waters, this tour might be worth considering.

We particularly like the chance to visit UNESCO-listed Trogir, a charming old town packed with history and narrow alleys. The Blue Lagoon, with its clear, inviting waters, is also a highlight—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on deck. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and drinks adds value, making it a convenient all-in-one day.

However, a word of caution: reviews reveal that the tour can sometimes deviate from its advertised schedule or amenities, and the shipwreck snorkel may disappoint some. This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and water activities, especially those who don’t mind a flexible timetable.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stellar views of islands, coastlines, and the iconic Blue Lagoon.
• Historical Highlights: Trogir offers a quick but worthwhile taste of Croatian heritage.
• Included Meals & Drinks: A thoughtful touch, with lunch, water, wine, and iced tea included.
• Variable Schedules: The itinerary may shift depending on weather or captain’s decisions.
• Short Trogir Visit: You’ll get about an hour to explore Trogir, enough for a quick stroll.
• Snorkeling & Water Fun: Snorkeling gear, a water slide, and a shipwreck provide opportunities for water-based entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Boarding and Departure

The tour begins early, with options to meet either in Slatine (08:30) or Split (09:15). The boat departs promptly, so arriving on time is key. The journey to Trogir takes about an hour, sailing past Iovo Island, where you’ll see the Gospe od Prizdinice, one of the island’s oldest churches. During this sail, most groups are served coffee or tea with croissants—simple but appreciated for a quick start.

Trogir: A Brief Cultural Stop

Arriving in Trogir around 11:00, travelers have just an hour for sightseeing. That’s tight but enough to appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets, visit the Kamerlengo Tower, or peek inside the St. Lovre Cathedral. The reviews suggest this part of the trip is a highlight, despite the brief window, as Trogir’s medieval charm is very palpable. Some travelers wish they had more time, but the short visit does ensure you’ll get back on schedule.

From Trogir to Blue Lagoon: Lunch on the Water

After a quick cruise from Trogir, you’ll reach the Blue Lagoon around 13:00. The journey includes serving a freshly made lunch, with options of fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes—though some reviews mention the food quality as basic, and the presentation simple. The included drinks—water, local wine, and iced tea— help keep everyone refreshed as you enjoy the views.

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The Lagoon: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Water Fun

Once at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have about two hours. This is the main water activity stop, and you’ll love the chance to swim, snorkel, or relax on deck. Snorkeling gear is available, and some reviews mention that the equipment is limited, so don’t expect to snorkel with gear for everyone. The onboard water slide (or inflatables noted in some reviews) adds a fun touch, especially for families or the young at heart.

Exploring the Shipwreck: Neujam Bay & Kontessa

Next, the boat heads to Neujam Bay on Island Olt, where you’ll moor near the shipwreck Kontessa. This spot is a dedicated snorkel adventure for those interested in exploring the sunken vessel. The reviews indicate that this part can be hit or miss—some find it fascinating, others a bit underwhelming. The water around the wreck is calm, making it a decent spot for a quick underwater exploration.

Return Journey: Fresh Fruit and Relaxation

On the way back to Split (departing around 17:15), refreshments continue with fresh fruit, a nice touch to end the day. The trip concludes around 18:30 in Split or 19:00 back at Slatine, making for a full day on the water.

The Pros of This Tour

Stunning Views & Water Activities: The scenery along the coast and the Blue Lagoon are undeniably beautiful. You’ll love the chance to cool off in turquoise waters on a warm day, with snorkeling gear and a water slide adding extra fun.

Efficient Mix of Sightseeing & Leisure: The itinerary balances cultural highlights with leisure time well. The quick stop in Trogir offers a taste of history, while the water-based stops focus on relaxation and fun.

All-Inclusive Comfort: The tour’s inclusion of lunch, drinks, WiFi, and water gear simplifies the day—no need to worry about extra costs or packing your own snacks.

Flexible Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with flexibility, paying later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—great for planning spontaneity.

The Cons & Considerations

Limited Time in Trogir: With just an hour in the UNESCO city, you might feel rushed, but it still offers enough to get a flavor of its charms. If you’re eager to explore more deeply, consider visiting independently or staying longer.

Meal Quality & Amenities: Some travelers felt the food was basic, and the water slide or inflatables were not as advertised. This could impact the overall enjoyment, especially if you’re expecting a gourmet meal or specific water toys.

Inconsistent Snorkeling Gear: Since equipment availability can be limited, snorkelers should plan accordingly. The shipwreck snorkel is a quick stop, so don’t expect an extensive underwater adventure.

Possible Schedule Variations: Weather or captain’s decisions might slightly alter the itinerary, so flexibility is key. Some reviews note that trips can end earlier or shift focus unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers wanting an easy, all-in-one day on the water, combining brief cultural sightseeing with plenty of swimming and relaxing. Families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy water activities and scenic boat rides will find it appealing. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler, you’ll appreciate the inclusive meal and drinks. However, if you seek a deep dive into Croatian history or world-class snorkeling, this might feel a little light on those fronts.

The Sum Up

This Islands & Blue Lagoon cruise from Split delivers on scenic beauty and water-based fun. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, and amenities makes it a convenient way to spend a full day on the Dalmatian coast without much hassle. While the schedule can be somewhat flexible and the water activities somewhat limited, most travelers will find the experience enjoyable and worth the modest price.

It’s a solid choice if you’re after a leisurely day with a mix of sightseeing and swimming. Those with adventurous spirits and a love of the outdoors will appreciate the opportunity to explore the shipwreck and snorkel in clear waters. However, if you’re looking for a more immersive cultural experience or gourmet food, you might want to consider other options or plan a longer stay in Trogir.

This tour offers a balanced taste of Croatia’s stunning coast at a reasonable price, making it a good pick for travelers eager to see a bit of everything without overcommitting.

FAQ

How early should I arrive to board the boat?
You should arrive at the designated meeting point—either in Slatine (around 08:30) or Split (around 09:15)—to ensure timely boarding.

What does the tour include in terms of meals and drinks?
The tour provides breakfast (coffee and croissant), a multi-choice lunch (fish, meat, or vegetarian), and drinks throughout the day, including water, wine, and iced tea.

Can I snorkel at the shipwreck?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for the shipwreck Kontessa at Neujam Bay, but some reviews mention limited equipment. Be prepared for a quick snorkel rather than an extensive underwater exploration.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, WiFi use is included, allowing you to share photos or check messages during the trip.

How much time do we spend in Trogir?
About one hour, enough for a quick look around the UNESCO-listed town, including a visit to Kamerlengo Tower or St. Lovre Cathedral.

What are the main water activities?
Swimming, snorkeling, and using the onboard water slide or inflatables. The shipwreck snorkel is an optional, short activity.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, the schedule may vary depending on weather conditions or captain’s decisions. Some parts of the day could be shortened or shifted.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Basic snacks and extra drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if desired.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this tour fits your Croatian adventure style. Whether you’re after scenic views, a quick cultural fix, or just a fun day on the water, it offers a straightforward way to enjoy the coast with some good company and great scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: