Trogir/Katela: Private tour to Blue Lagoon and 3 islands

Exploring the Croatian islands by boat is one of those travel experiences that often feels more luxurious than it is expensive. This private speedboat tour from Trogir or Katela aims to give you a personalized glimpse of some of Dalmatia’s most beautiful spots—without the crowds and with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing.

What we especially like about this cruise? First, the flexibility that comes with a private tour—it’s your schedule, your pace. Second, the chance to see some of the less-visited gems alongside the more well-known Blue Lagoon. That said, the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, especially in high season, and the boat ride can be quite bumpy, which might not suit everyone.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring small villages at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those seeking a private, intimate day on the water, with a good balance of adventure and downtime.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Up to 9 people on a comfortable speedboat, offering flexibility and personalized attention.
• Three Distinct Spots: Blue Lagoon for swimming, Maslinica for authentic village charm, Duga Bay for peaceful relaxation.
• Inclusive Equipment: Snorkel gear, lifejackets, bottled water—everything you need for fun and safety.
• Flexible Schedule: Short stops at each location, with enough time to swim, walk, and enjoy local food.
• Potential Crowds: Blue Lagoon can be busy during peak season, so expect some crowds there.
• Expert Skipper: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Setting Out from Trogir or Katela

Your day begins at a designated meeting point, which varies depending on your booking. The journey starts with a scenic cruise across the shimmering waters of Dalmatia. As you board your private speedboat, you’ll notice the boat’s modern, safe design—plenty of space for a group of up to nine, and equipped with snorkel gear and lifejackets. Your skipper, who speaks English, will be your guide, sharing tidbits about the islands and the surrounding area.

The ride itself is quite exhilarating. Some reviews mention that the boat ride can be “very bumpy and exciting,” and while that might sound intimidating, it’s generally seen as part of the fun—especially on a fast boat zipping across the waves. If you don’t enjoy rough waters, it’s worth noting that the ride might be a bit bumpy at times.

First Stop: The Blue Lagoon

Your first destination is the famed Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Veli Island. This spot is famous for its crystal-clear waters—an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling—and a favorite among travelers for its postcard-perfect scenery. You’ll have time to relax on the white sands or float in the protected waters, which are often calm despite the choppier ride earlier.

From reviews, we know that some visitors found the Blue Lagoon a little crowded, especially during peak season. One traveler said, “The Blue Lagoon is a bit overrated and too crowded,” but others appreciated the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant marine life using the snorkel gear provided. It’s a popular spot, so don’t expect complete tranquility, but the scenery and water clarity make it worth the visit.

Second Stop: Maslinica Village on Olta Island

Next, your boat will head over to Maslinica, a charming village on Olta-Maslinica Island. Here, you’ll get a taste of local life away from the tourist throngs. The village’s old streets, unspoiled beaches, and turquoise waters make it an authentic stop. You might choose to explore the old town, enjoy a quick snack or drink, or simply stroll along the waterfront.

One review highlights that the tour allows for “enough time to get a drink and snack, swim in the sea, and take in the views.” This stop offers a genuine chance to see how locals live, away from the heavily-touristed areas. It’s a peaceful counterpoint to the busy Blue Lagoon, and the unspoiled beaches are perfect for soaking in the sun.

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Final Stop: Duga Bay on Iovo Island

The last stop is Duga Bay on Iovo Island, on the south side, surrounded by tall pine trees and peaceful waters. This is a quieter, more relaxed place—ideal if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural beauty at your own pace. You can swim in the calm bay or relax in the shade of the trees.

Reviewers mention that Duga Bay is “a perfect spot to relax in the shade or swim in the bay’s peaceful waters,” offering a welcome calm after the more lively Blue Lagoon. It’s a great way to wind down before heading back to your starting point.

Returning to Trogir or Katela

The cruise back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. The scenery, the boat ride, and the variety of stops make for a memorable trip. The total tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours, providing enough time at each location without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes all necessary safety equipment—lifejackets and snorkel gear—as well as bottled water and the services of a professional skipper. No food is included, so bringing cash for snacks or drinks at the stops is recommended.

What should you pack? Think sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and cash for extras. Since the meeting point can vary, double-check your booking details beforehand.

Value and Pricing

At around $647 for a group of up to 9, this private tour offers a good value for those wanting a personalized experience. Compared to group tours, the price might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the privacy, flexibility, and tailored stops, it’s quite reasonable—especially if you’re traveling with family or friends looking for a semi-private adventure.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple travelers mention the knowledgeable guide and the stunning views as key highlights. One reviewer called the boat “wonderful,” while another appreciated the “polite and helpful” skipper. Despite some noting the Blue Lagoon’s crowds, many found the variety of stops and the relaxed pace a real plus.

A traveler observed, “The boat ride was wonderful,” and another said, “Great half-day tour with enough time to swim and enjoy the scenery.” The mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and village exploration strikes a good balance, especially for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a private, flexible way to explore Dalmatian islands without the hassle of large group tours. It suits those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and discovering small villages—plus, it’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends. If you’re seeking a more adventurous, personalized day on the water with authentic stops, this tour fits well.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour from Trogir or Katela offers an excellent balance of scenic sightseeing, swimming, and authentic village exploration. The flexibility of a private experience means you can tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s spending more time swimming or wandering through local streets.

While the Blue Lagoon can get crowded and the boat ride can be a bit bumpy, these are balanced out by the expert guidance, stunning scenery, and the peaceful stops at Maslinica and Duga Bay. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value privacy, personalized attention, and a well-rounded day on some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic Croatian island experience that combines fun, relaxation, and a touch of adventure, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private speedboat, a skpper, snorkel gear, lifejackets, and bottled water. Food is not included, so plan to bring cash for snacks or drinks.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 9 people can join, making it a good option for small groups or families seeking privacy and flexibility.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts and ends at a designated meeting point, which may vary depending on your booking. Check your confirmation for details.

Is the boat ride safe?
Yes, the boat is designed for safety, and the skipper is experienced. However, the ride can be bumpy, so if you’re sensitive to rough waters, consider this when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with each stop allowing enough time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Can I upgrade or add options?
The basic tour does not include food or additional activities, but you can bring cash for extras during stops.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour is suitable for most, the boat ride might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, especially given the bumpy waters.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and cash for snacks or souvenirs.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: