Split: Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & olta Tour with Lunch & Drinks

Traveling along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast offers countless chances to enjoy crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and scenic islands. One popular way to experience this is through a full-day boat tour departing from Split that includes stops at three stunning locations: Neujam Bay, Maslinica in Olta, and the Blue Lagoon. We’ve taken a close look at this tour to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your Croatian adventure.

What we love about this experience is the chance to swim and snorkel in beautiful waters and the opportunity to relax aboard a comfortable boat with lively yet laid-back vibes. The included lunch and drinks add a nice touch of value, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise. But, as always with popular tours, there are some considerations to keep in mind — mainly the potential for crowds and long hours. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy social, active days on the water and are ready for a lively, full-day outing.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 6 Best Lunch Experiences In Trogir.

Key Points

• Ideal for beach lovers and those wanting to swim and snorkel in Mediterranean waters
• Includes a hearty lunch and drinks, adding to the overall value
• Crowded boat experience reported by some travelers, so be prepared for a lively environment
• Excellent for social travelers who enjoy meeting others and relaxing on deck
• Flexible water activities including paddleboarding, inflatables, and snorkelling gear
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers or those seeking a quiet, private experience

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Departure Point and Booking Details

The tour begins promptly at Obala Lazareta 1 in Split at 8:30 AM, with departure at 9:00 AM. It’s essential to arrive on time because the crew is strict about leaving promptly, which is common for boat trips that need to adhere to schedule constraints. The mobile ticketing system makes the process simple, and the tour is operated by Tours in Croatia, a reputable local provider.

With a group size capped at around 130 travelers, this is a fairly popular tour, which means a lively atmosphere, but also a chance to meet fellow travelers. It’s worth noting that no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Split. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with mobility issues.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Neujam Bay (Necujam)
This is your initial introduction to Croatia’s inviting waters. The bay offers a solid hour for swimming and snorkeling, making it an excellent way to shake off the morning travel fatigue and jump into the sea. Reviewers have mentioned that the water is clear and inviting, perfect for exploring with snorkel goggles provided by the crew.

One traveler praised the experience, saying, “Great experience. Staff were very kind and helpful, especially Nana!! Food was good and the stops were awesome.” The relaxed atmosphere here sets the tone for the rest of the day, with plenty of time for sunbathing, floating, and taking photos.

Second Stop: Maslinica in Olta
This small Dalmatian village on the so-called “Green Island” of Olta provides a charming, more laid-back experience. You’ll have an hour here, which many say is enough to wander the narrow streets, sip a coffee, or just relax on the beach. Swimming and snorkeling are again on offer, and the village’s quaintness makes it a delightful contrast to the busier bay.

As one traveler put it, “We had a great time meeting people and swimming around at the different locations. Our host, Nana, was wonderful.” The village’s relaxed pace lets you soak in some local flavor and enjoy relaxed beach vibes, with plenty of ice cream options and small cafes to choose from.

Final Stop: Blue Lagoon / Krknjasi Bay
This is the highlight for many — the iconic Blue Lagoon, famed for its turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. The two-hour stay here allows for ample swimming, snorkeling, and leisure. Many reviewers emphasize the beautiful scenery and the chance to spot dolphins during the boat ride.

One review mentions, “The swin at the sunken ship, Maslinica, and the rest at grey line private beach before the journey back to Split harbor one we will never forget.” The Blue Lagoon’s clear waters, combined with the opportunity to paddleboard or enjoy inflatables, make it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Water Activities and Equipment

The tour includes a variety of water-based fun: stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and snorkeling goggles. This variety means all comfort levels can enjoy the water, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just want to float around. Some reviews note that the crew is helpful with equipment, which can make a big difference if you’re new to these activities.

Lunch and Drinks

A big plus of this tour is the included lunch, which offers a choice of beef, tuna, or veggie burger with French fries. The food, as some reviews pointed out, is “good,” though not gourmet, but sufficient for a day on the water. The crew also serves local wine, juice, and water, enhancing the experience without adding extra cost.

One traveler shared that the wine was only served after lunch, which might be a minor disappointment for some, but overall, the drinks add a nice Mediterranean touch. If you’re a foodie or seeking a gourmet meal, this might not be your highlight — but for most, it’s a satisfying inclusion.

The Crowds and Group Size

Several reviews mention crowding issues, with some passengers feeling overwhelmed by the number of travelers on board. One review describes the boat as full of 180 people, with not enough seats, and some travelers choosing to leave early.

This is an important consideration if you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience. The boat’s capacity of 130 travelers means it’s lively, noisy, and energetic, especially during peak season.

Overall Atmosphere

The mood on the boat is generally cheerful and friendly. Reviewers often mention the helpful, kind crew, and a few describe a festive environment upstairs. Nana, the crew member, is singled out for praise, highlighting the importance of attentive staff.

Duration and Group Size

The 8.5-hour duration means a long day, but most find it well worth the time. You’ll be engaged with swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing, so it doesn’t feel overly long. The group size makes the experience social but can also influence comfort; arrive early for a better seat if possible.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price of around $66 per person, this tour offers good value — especially considering the variety of stops, water activities, and included lunch and drinks. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a full day of fun and relaxation on the water with the chance to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots.

However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer a more tranquil, private experience, this might not be ideal. The lively atmosphere and large groups are part of the charm, but they also mean less quiet time and more hustle.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for social travelers who love swimming, snorkeling, and meeting new people. It suits those looking to enjoy scenic views and a relaxed yet lively environment. If you enjoy water sports and want an all-in-one day trip with good food and drinks, this tour offers plenty of bang for your buck.

It might not be ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful escape or have mobility challenges. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowds or long hours, consider whether a smaller or more exclusive tour might better suit your style.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
No, the tour provides snorkeling goggles for you to use. You might want to bring your own mask or fins if you’re more serious about snorkeling.

Is there hotel pickup included?
No, the meeting point is at Obala Lazareta 1 in Split, and you need to arrive there by yourself.

How long is each stop?
Neujam Bay and Maslinica are each about an hour, giving you plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. The Blue Lagoon has a two-hour stay, allowing ample leisure.

Can I participate if I don’t swim well?
Yes, you can still enjoy the sights from the boat and relax on deck. Snorkeling and swimming are optional activities.

What should I wear?
Swimwear is recommended, and bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. The boat has some shaded areas but expect plenty of sun.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch and drinks, including wine, juice, and water.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long hours and water activities. Check with the provider if you have specific age concerns.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How crowded can I expect the boat to be?
During peak season, some reviews report up to 180 people, which can feel crowded. Arrive early for better seating.

Final Thoughts

This Split boat tour to Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, and Olta offers a lively, scenic, and activity-packed day out. With swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and multiple picturesque stops, it delivers a well-rounded Croatian experience. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds value, and the friendly crew makes the day enjoyable.

If you thrive in bustling environments, love water-based activities, and want to mingle with fellow travelers, this tour will hit the mark. It’s a wonderful way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful waters and islands in just one day.

However, be prepared for crowds and a full schedule. For those seeking serenity or a more private experience, consider other options. But if you’re after a fun, social, and active day on the sea, this tour provides a memorable Croatian adventure.