Introduction
Imagine cruising along the Croatian coast on a charming wooden boat, with the sun warming your skin and the smell of pine in the air. That’s the essence of this full-day boat tour exploring Blue Lagoon and Neujam Bay—a popular choice for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic escape. We’re reviewing this experience based on numerous feedback from travelers, highlighting what makes it a good value and a memorable adventure.
What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines stunning natural scenery with easy access to snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters, all while enjoying delicious local food and drinks. Plus, the boat’s comfortable amenities, including neat bathrooms and shaded decks, make the entire day hassle-free.
One potential drawback is that the itinerary is quite relaxed and passive—this isn’t a tour for those wanting a packed, action-filled day or detailed historical commentary. Instead, it’s a perfect choice for those who simply want to soak up the views, breathe fresh air, and unwind. If you’re after a leisurely, scenic trip that offers great value and authentic Croatian coastal vibes, this tour might be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Beautiful Scenery: The tour offers breathtaking views of the Croatian coast, islands, and turquoise waters.
- Comfortable Boat: The wooden boat includes shaded decks and gender-separated toilets, making the trip comfortable.
- Excellent Value: For around $77, you get lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple scenic stops.
- Relaxed Pace: Stops at Blue Lagoon and Neujam Bay provide ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Good Food & Drinks: Enjoy domestic Croatian dishes with lunch, water, soft drinks, and wine included.
- Mixed Reviews: While most travelers praise the scenery and crew, some note the lack of detailed commentary and the boat’s slow pace.
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Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect
Starting from Split’s Stobre Peninsula
The adventure begins at Stobre, a charming settlement five kilometers east of Split. From there, you’ll enjoy a panoramic ride that offers sweeping views of Split’s skyline and the Iovo peninsula. This initial stretch is a fantastic way to get your bearings and snap some photos of the coast. The short 10-minute trip (no extra cost) sets the tone for a relaxed, scenic day.
The Blue Lagoon – Croatia’s Crown Jewel
The first major stop is the Blue Lagoon—a highlight for many. This archipelago of three islands is famous for its turquoise waters and sandy seabed, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The lagoon’s shallow waters make it ideal for families with kids or anyone wanting a gentle, safe environment to cool off.
According to reviews, the sound of crickets, the fresh scent of pine and crystal-clear waters make this a peaceful retreat. Travelers often comment on the beauty of the scenery and the ease of relaxing on the boat. With about 1 hour 30 minutes here, you’ll have plenty of time to sunbathe, snorkel, or just float while soaking in the atmosphere.
Beware: the Blue Lagoon is known for sea urchins, so while the water is beautiful, some travelers have stepped on them, so caution is advised when snorkeling.
Scenic Travel to Neujam Bay and the Kontesa Shipwreck
After soaking up the Blue Lagoon, the boat heads towards Neujam Bay, another highlight of this trip. The passage provides stunning views of the coast and islands en route, and travelers often find the peaceful landscape equally captivating.
Neujam Bay boasts a shallow sandy seabed with a magical turquoise hue. This spot is perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life, especially around the Kontesa shipwreck. Many reviews commend the rich flora and fauna, making it a worthwhile snorkeling stop.
Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes here, giving enough time for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the boat with lunch and drinks. The shipwreck adds a touch of intrigue, offering a chance for some memorable underwater photos.
While in Split, here are other experiences we've covered
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- From Split: Islands & Blue Lagoon Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
- From Split: Blue Lagoon & Underwater Museum (Lunch & drinks)
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Lunch and Relaxation
Lunch is included in the tour—domestic Croatian dishes such as chicken, fish, or vegan options (like Milanese pasta). Reviewers generally find the food tasty and satisfying, especially considering it’s served on a boat. The lunch includes wine, water, and soft drinks—a nice touch that makes the day feel leisurely and indulgent.
The boat provides shaded lower decks and upper sundecks, so you can choose to stay in the shade or catch some rays. Many guests appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms, which are a rare luxury on boat tours.
The Boat and Crew: Comfort and Service
Most reviews agree that the boat itself is large enough to prevent overcrowding, with a comfortable layout. The crew is praised for being friendly, attentive, and multilingual, making sure everyone feels taken care of throughout the day.
Some reviewers mention the slow pace of the boat—it’s not a high-speed adventure, but that allows for a more relaxed experience. The female and male-specific toilets are considered a thoughtful feature, adding to convenience and comfort.
While the crew doesn’t give detailed commentary about the islands or the history, they are attentive and ensure everyone’s needs are met. Some reviews note that the trip is largely about enjoying the scenery, swimming, and relaxing rather than educational narration.
Snorkeling and Equipment
Snorkel gear like masks and snorkels are provided, enabling travelers to explore underwater life. Fins are not included, so if you want to enhance your snorkeling, you might consider bringing your own.
Overall Experience
Most travelers leave the boat feeling refreshed and with plenty of photos of blue waters, lush islands, and smiling faces. The combination of beautiful scenery, good food, and friendly crew offers excellent value for money—especially considering the price of around $77 per person.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
Feedback consistently emphasizes the stunning views and relaxed atmosphere. One traveler raved, “We had a brilliant time, the crew were so friendly and attentive. The drink options were good—water, lemon water, and beer.” Others appreciated the delicious food and the calm waters, making it a highlight of their trip.
However, some travelers mention the lack of detailed commentary about the islands or the history, and a few note the boat’s slow speed as a downside. One review highlights that the tours do not include beaches, so if you’re hoping for sandy shores, you might find the snorkeling spots more rugged.
Weather can also impact the experience—canceled trips due to storms have been reported, so flexibility or a backup plan is advised. The full refund policy provides reassurance.
The Value Proposition
At roughly $77, the tour provides a comprehensive day out—including transportation, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and stunning scenery. For travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic, and well-organized experience, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The large boat with amenities ensures comfort, and the stops are long enough to truly enjoy each location without feeling rushed.
While it’s not geared toward those wanting detailed historical insights or high-adrenaline sailing, it’s perfect for families, couples, or friends who want to relax, take photos, and enjoy Croatian coastal beauty.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who prioritize scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and good value. Families with kids will enjoy the shallow waters and calm environment, while couples can relish the peaceful bays and memorable snorkeling. If you’re after authentic Croatian coastal scenery with delicious local food, this tour checks many boxes. However, if you’re looking for intense adventure or detailed island stories, you might want to explore other options.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the shallow waters at Blue Lagoon and Neujam Bay make it family-friendly. Just keep an eye on the sea urchins when snorkeling.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes lunch with wine and water, snorkeling masks, soft drinks, and crew service. Fins are not provided.
How long are the stops?
Each major stop—Blue Lagoon and Neujam Bay—allows for about 1 hour 30 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.
Are there facilities onboard?
Yes, the boat has neat bathrooms and shaded decks for comfort throughout the day.
What is the recommended attire?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. The boat’s shaded areas are perfect for resting in the shade.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Weather-related cancellations are also covered with a full refund or rescheduling.
Is the tour fast-paced?
No, the boat moves at a leisurely speed, prioritizing comfort and scenic enjoyment.
Are food options suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, vegan options like Milanese pasta are available, along with chicken and fish.
The Sum Up
This Full Day Boat Tour to Blue Lagoon and Neujam offers a delightful way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline. With beautiful scenery, comfortable amenities, excellent food, and friendly service, it’s a reliable choice for travelers seeking a relaxing day on the water. The stops provide ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and basking in the sun, making it ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends.
While it’s not a tour for those craving detailed history or fast-paced adventure, it excels at offering a peaceful, scenic escape with great value. Whether you’re visiting Split for the first time or returning for a relaxed day out, this trip captures the essence of coastal Croatia in a memorable, enjoyable way.
Your ideal travelers: Those who love natural beauty, good food, and a leisurely pace will find this tour a real treat. If you’re looking for an authentic, laid-back experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a touch of marine exploration, this cruise is well worth considering.
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