Split: Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & olta Tour with Lunch & Drinks — An In-Depth Review
If you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun, snapping photos of crystal-clear waters, and exploring charming Croatian islands, then this cruise from Split could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, memorable day on the Dalmatian coast.
What makes this tour appealing? First, the invitation to swim and snorkel in pristine spots like Shipwreck Bay and Blue Lagoon—a dream for water lovers. Second, experiencing a small Dalmatian village with authentic charm in Maslinica, away from crowded tourist spots. And third, the inclusion of a hearty lunch and drinks on board, making it a great value for a full-day adventure.
That said, one consideration to keep in mind is the lack of a dedicated guide for sightseeing—you’ll mostly be enjoying the scenery with the crew and captain. This tour suits travelers who love flexible, social boat days, are comfortable with group excursions, and enjoy a mix of water activities and relaxed village visits.
Good To Know
- Water activities like snorkelling, paddleboarding, and inflatables are included for added fun.
- Stops at Shipwreck Bay, Maslinica, and Blue Lagoon offer varied scenic and cultural experiences.
- A generous lunch and drinks provide excellent value, especially given the scenic setting.
- No hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
- Suitable for most travelers but not recommended for those with mobility issues.
- Average booking time is about a week in advance, so plan early if you want a spot.
The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
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Meeting Point and Duration
The tour kicks off at Obala Lazareta 1 in Split, a convenient central location easily accessible by public transportation or foot. The total duration of roughly 8.5 hours means you’ll spend a good part of your day on the water, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
First Stop: Necujam (Shipwreck Bay)
The journey begins with a cruise out to Neujam Bay, affectionately called “Shipwreck Bay”. This spot is popular for its intriguing sunken vessel, making it an ideal location for snorkelling and swimming. Reviewers have noted that the water clarity is excellent, and the choice of a sunken ship adds a dash of adventure.
Guests are encouraged to bring their snorkelling gear or rent it on board (a small deposit is required). The crew typically provides goggles, and there’s usually plenty of time to explore the underwater scenery. Many appreciate the relaxed pace here, with some reviews mentioning “plenty of time for lunch on board,” which is a real plus after some water fun.
The option to upgrade to a sun bed on the upper deck is worth considering if you want to guarantee a comfy spot in the sun. A few reviewers, like Leslie Phelps, praised the “kind and helpful staff,” noting Nana’s attentive service made the experience even more enjoyable.
Second Stop: Maslinica on Olta (Green Island)
Next, the cruise heads to the charming Dalmatian village of Maslinica on Olta Island. This tiny village boasts a friendly, laid-back vibe with narrow streets and local cafes—perfect for wandering at your own pace.
Guests often describe this stop as “relaxing and authentic,” with opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy a coffee or ice cream by the waterfront. One reviewer mentioned that “the stops are made to enjoy the sea,” emphasizing how well the itinerary balances water activities and leisure.
If you’re less inclined to swim, you might enjoy strolling around the village, taking in the local architecture and scenery. The reviews indicate that the small group size (up to 130 travelers) helps maintain a cozy, friendly atmosphere.
Final Stop: Blue Lagoon (Drvenik)
The last destination takes you to the famous Blue Lagoon, known locally as Krknjasi Bay. With its bright turquoise waters and stunning surroundings, this spot is often called the perfect place for final swimming, snorkelling, or relaxing on the boat.
Many reviews mention the likelihood of spotting dolphins during the boat ride, which adds a magical touch. The two-hour stop offers enough time to enjoy the water, try the included paddleboard or inflatables, or just soak up the sun.
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Food and Drinks
Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to a lunch featuring beef, tuna, or veggie burgers with fries, satisfying even the most hungry guests. The drinks included—wine, juice, and water— help keep everyone refreshed after water activities. Some travelers appreciated the quality of the food and the generous drink selection, describing the overall experience as “great value.”
Additional Amenities
The cruise also offers stand-up paddleboards and inflatable toys for extra fun, alongside snorkeling equipment. This mix ensures that everyone, regardless of skill level, can find ways to enjoy the water.
Authentic Experiences and Reviews
One of the things we really like about this tour is the positive feedback regarding the crew. Leslie Phelps mentions that “staff were very kind and helpful,” and Paul N notes the “hospitable” crew made the day memorable. Nana, in particular, received praise for her attentiveness.
Guests also highlighted the stunning views along the way, especially during the boat ride, which reviewers describe as “both calming and scenic.” The small group size helps foster a friendly atmosphere, making it easier to chat with fellow travelers.
While some found the food “nothing spectacular,” most agreed it was “adequate and satisfying for a day at sea.” The wine only being served after lunch was a minor detail for some, but overall, the drinks selection was appreciated.
Considerations Based on Reviews
- The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so plan your transportation to the meeting point.
- For snorkelling gear, a small deposit is needed; bringing your own can save time.
- Some travelers found the food and wine service could be more prompt, but the overall experience remained positive.
- The lack of a dedicated guide means you’ll primarily enjoy the scenery and water, which suits those looking for a relaxed, social cruise rather than an educational tour.
Value for Money: Is it worth it?
At approximately $63.72 per person, this cruise represents solid value. It includes lunch and drinks, multiple swimming stops, paddleboarding, and a scenic boat ride—features that would cost significantly more if booked separately.
Most reviewers agree that the price aligns well with the experience. As Leslie Phelps noted, the stops are “awesome,” and Paul N called the day “brilliant,” emphasizing the quality of the crew and the scenery.
Who is this tour best suited for?
This experience is ideal for water lovers and adventure seekers who enjoy relaxing in natural settings. It’s well-suited for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a full day of sea, sun, and scenic villages.
It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a flexible, social atmosphere over guided sightseeing. However, if you’re less mobile or prefer more structured educational tours, this may not be the perfect fit.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included? No, you need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in Split.
What is the tour duration? The entire experience lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, including multiple stops and free time.
Are snorkelling equipment and water toys included? Yes, snorkelling goggles, paddleboards, and inflatables are provided at no extra cost.
Can I upgrade my sunbathing experience? Yes, you can choose a sun bed on the upper deck for a guaranteed spot in the sun and extra beer.
Is there Wi-Fi or mobile reception on the boat? The tour details don’t specify, but it’s safe to assume reception may be spotty on the water.
How many people typically join this tour? Up to 130 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with enough space to enjoy each stop.
What types of food are served? A choice of beef, tuna, or veggie burgers with fries, served during the lunch break.
Can children participate? Most travelers can participate, but the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments.
Is this tour suitable for couples or families? Yes, many reviewers mention enjoying the relaxed, scenic environment with loved ones.
What if the weather turns bad? The tour requires good weather, and if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
In brief, this Split cruise offers a wonderful way to experience Croatia’s stunning islands, clear waters, and small villages—all in one day. The combination of water activities, scenic stops, and included meals makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. With friendly staff and spectacular views, it’s a memorable way to explore the Dalmatian coast that balances value with authentic experiences.
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