Split Boat Trip Half-Day: Blue Lagoon, Trogir & iovo

Split Boat Trip Half-Day: Blue Lagoon, Trogir & iovo offers a lively, scenic adventure just a short ride from Split. For around $61 per person, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring some of Dalmatia’s most captivating spots—ideal if you’re craving a quick yet memorable escape to the sea. The tour visits the Blue Lagoon, the charming UNESCO-listed Trogir, and the tranquil iovo island, combining swimming, sightseeing, and relaxed lounging.

What we love about this experience is how compact it is—covering three diverse locations in a half-day makes it perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a taste of Dalmatian life. The speedboat makes the journey exciting and breezy, and the small group size (max 12 guests) ensures a cozy, personal atmosphere. Plus, the knowledgeable guides like Nino and Theresa add a layer of authenticity and local insight that’s hard to beat.

One possible consideration is the weather. Since the route depends on good sea conditions, rough weather might cause some changes or cancellations. Also, it doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’ll want to bring your own or plan to purchase at the beach bar on iovo. This tour suits those who enjoy quick, active outings, sea adventures, and exploring charming towns without fuss.

If you’re after a day filled with swimming, stunning views, and insightful commentary in a small-group setting, this trip could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, fun guides, and a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Quick and Scenic: A half-day trip that packs in island hopping, swimming, and sightseeing.
• Small Group: Max 12 guests for a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Diverse Stops: Blue Lagoon, Trogir, and iovo provide a mix of natural beauty and cultural charm.
• Guides Make the Difference: Friendly, knowledgeable guides like Nino and Theresa enhance the trip with local stories.
• Value for Money: At $61, it offers a well-rounded taste of Dalmatia’s highlights.
• Weather Dependence: Routes may shift in rough seas, so flexibility is essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Gray Line office in Split, right on the Riva promenade—a convenient, scenic spot close to the city’s heart. From there, you’ll board a spacious speedboat designed for comfort and easy maneuverability, with a maximum of 12 passengers. This smaller size is a big plus: it fosters a friendly vibe and keeps the experience intimate.

The journey to the Blue Lagoon takes around 30 minutes, giving you time to relax, enjoy the ocean breeze, and maybe snap a few photos of the coastline slipping past. The boat’s crew, including the captain and guides, speak fluent English and are friendly and attentive, making safety and comfort priorities.

The Blue Lagoon: A Natural Wonder

The first stop is the Blue Lagoon on the southeastern side of Drvenik Island. Here, we loved how the seafloor’s sand and crushed shells create a mesmerizing shade of blue, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow, calm waters are ideal for floating around and taking in the scenery without worrying about deep drops.

Reviews highlight how special this spot is for swimming: “Thanks to skipper Nino. The trip was great, a bit of adrenaline and speed, beautiful places for swimming,” says Iryna. The lagoon’s clarity makes snorkeling rewarding, revealing underwater life and colors you might not expect. It’s a peaceful yet vibrant underwater world that invites exploration.

Iovo Island: Relaxing Beach Vibes

After the lagoon, the boat heads to Iovo Island, a favorite for those seeking a laid-back vibe. Here, you’ll find the Borkko beach bar, situated right by the water. It’s a perfect spot to sip a drink and soak up the sun, or dip your toes in the clear sea.

Travelers rave about the time spent here—“Good vibes, stunning views, and great music,” says Alve—highlighting how this stop balances active swimming with relaxation. The shallow shoreline makes it suitable for all ages, and the relaxed atmosphere encourages lounging and chatting.

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Exploring Trogir: The Little Venice

The last major stop is the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir, often called “Little Venice,” thanks to its maze of channels and charming architecture. As you wander through its labyrinth of narrow streets and squares, you’ll notice the blend of Greek, Roman, and medieval influences.

Reviewer Jordy mentions, “Our guide Theresa was great, she planned everything in a nice pace and told us a lot about Croatian history,” emphasizing the value of a knowledgeable guide. Trogir’s stunning architecture, lively cafes, and waterfront views make it a perfect place for a gentle stroll and some sightseeing, finishing the tour with a cultural flavor.

The Return Ride

After exploring Trogir, the boat makes its way back to Split, offering one last chance to enjoy the sea breeze and reflect on a day well spent. The ride back is smooth, and you’ll arrive with plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day in Split or continue exploring Dalmatia.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The tour includes transportation in a comfortable speedboat, an English-speaking captain and crew, snorkeling gear, and insurance. It’s a straightforward, hassle-free way to see some of Croatia’s best spots without worrying about logistics.

Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks or plan to buy at the beach bar on iovo. Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and a hat are must-haves, especially since you’ll be exposed to sun for much of the trip. Warm clothing might be helpful if the breeze picks up or if you’re sensitive to the chill after swimming.

The trip is suitable for almost everyone but excludes children under 3, pregnant women, and travelers with certain mobility or health issues. Cancellation is flexible, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Guide Highlights

What makes this tour stand out are the guides. Multiple reviews praise guides like Nino and Theresa, noting their friendly attitude, local knowledge, and ability to keep the pace relaxed yet engaging. Travelers mention enjoying “good vibes,” “great music,” and guides who “told us a lot about Croatian history,” making the experience both fun and informative.

The small boat size fosters a personable atmosphere—some reviews describe it as “intimate” or “cozy”—which enhances the overall enjoyment. The guides’ attentiveness creates a safe environment where everyone can comfortably enjoy the swimming and sightseeing.

The Value of Authenticity

This isn’t a packaged, commercialized experience. You’re on a small boat, with real guides eager to share their local insights, making it feel like a day spent with friends rather than a tourist herd. The mix of swimming, cultural exploration, and lounging at a beach bar offers a well-rounded taste of Dalmatian life.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a quick, activity-packed half-day with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. If you enjoy small-group outings, friendly guides, and the guarantee of stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially recommended if you’re interested in snorkeling and exploring historic towns without dedicating a full day.

It’s also perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds—since the route can shift in rough weather, it’s good to have some flexibility. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a balance of fun and cultural sights, this tour offers great value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 3 years old. For older children, the active swimming and boat ride can be enjoyable, but parents should consider their child’s comfort with water and motion.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You should bring your own snacks and water or plan to purchase at the beach bar on Iovo.

How long does the trip last?
The total tour lasts roughly four hours, including stops at Blue Lagoon, Iovo, and Trogir, plus travel time.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. Pack warm clothing if needed for the boat ride or cooler weather.

Can I snorkel here?
Yes, snorkeling gear (goggles) is provided, and the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters are perfect for underwater viewing.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as spacious and comfortable for small groups, creating a relaxed vibe.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The operator has the right to change or cancel the route in case of bad weather or rough seas, so flexibility is key.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or back problems.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum is 12 guests, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

To sum it up, this half-day boat trip from Split offers a lively blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed fun. With friendly guides, stunning locations, and a small-group setting, it’s a great way to experience Dalmatia without committing a full day. Whether you’re after snorkeling, exploring historic towns, or just soaking up the sun, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Croatia’s coastal magic. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, good vibes, and efficient itineraries.

You can check availability for your dates here: