Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat is a highlight for many travelers, and this small-group tour from Split promises an unforgettable day of island-hopping, snorkeling, and scenic adventures. With a focus on intimacy, comfort, and authentic experiences, it offers a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the region without the crowds.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it’s the limited group size—only 12 people—meaning you get a relaxed, personalized vibe. The variety of stops—from vibrant Hvar to peaceful Maslinica—ensures you experience both lively towns and tranquil nature. Plus, the crystal-clear waters and included snorkeling gear make exploring beneath the waves rewarding. Lastly, many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which can turn a good trip into a memorable one.

A possible consideration? Since it’s a full-day tour, be prepared for a long, active day on the water. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more downtime, this might not suit everyone. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring cash or plan to buy food at stops. But overall, this trip is best suited for those eager to pack in a lot of sightseeing and adventure without the hassle of organizing it themselves.

If you love discovering new islands, enjoy snorkeling, and want a mix of scenic beauty and cultural charm, this tour offers great value and a fun-filled day.

Good To Know

• Intimate group size for personalized attention and relaxed atmosphere
• Diverse stops, from lively Hvar to serene Maslinica and the Blue Lagoon
• Inclusive snorkeling gear to explore underwater worlds
• Fast, safe speedboat transportation for efficient travel
• Flexible itinerary with free time at each location
• Excellent reviews praising guides and overall experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary

This tour kicks off in Split, with a quick meet at the Smile Travel office. From there, you board a nimble speedboat that whisks you across the Dalmatian waters, setting the tone for a day of adventure. The boat’s speed and size (max 12 guests) mean you’ll enjoy the scenery and the breeze without feeling overwhelmed or crowded.

First Stop: Milna on Bra Island

Your first destination is Milna, a charming fishing village famed for its scenic harbor and authentic vibe. Expect to spend about 45 minutes here, giving you time to snap photos of the ancient stone architecture, relax by the water, or simply soak up the peaceful surroundings. Many reviewers mention how this stop feels like an escape from busy tourist spots, with the tranquil Mediterranean views making it a perfect introduction.

Hvar Town: The Star of the Show

Next, your boat whips over to Hvar, a hit among travelers for its lively atmosphere and historic sights. You’ll have 1.5 hours to explore the Old Town, walk past Venetian palaces, or visit the famous theatre, reputedly the oldest in Europe. A highlight, according to reviews, is the Fortica Fortress, which offers sweeping views over the city and beyond. Many visitors love strolling through the narrow alleys, shopping for souvenirs, or just relaxing on its beaches. The guides often point out local gems, making sure you don’t miss the best spots.

Pakleni Islands: A Swimmer’s Paradise

A 15-minute cruise takes you to the Pakleni Islands, a stunning archipelago known for crystal waters and peaceful coves. Here, you’re free to snorkel, relax on the boat, or stretch your legs with a walk. Many reviews praise the snorkeling gear included, which makes exploring underwater easy and fun. The famed Carpe Diem beach bar offers a perfect backdrop for chilling out with a drink, although the focus is on enjoying nature.

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Maslinica: Authentic Island Charm

After the water adventures, the boat heads to Maslinica, a small village famed for its peaceful harbor, traditional stone houses, and olive groves. Spend about an hour here, swimming, exploring the village, or just unwinding. Reviewers have expressed how authentic and unspoiled this spot feels, a true slice of island life.

The Blue Lagoon: The Crown Jewel

Finally, the tour’s highlight is the Blue Lagoon—a stunning, almost surreal stretch of water renowned for its sparkling, clear waters. This is your chance to sunbathe, snorkel, or simply soak in the beauty of one of the region’s most iconic beaches. Many travelers comment on how breathtaking the scenery is, with one reviewer describing it as “untouched nature and sparkling waters.” With about 1.5 hours here, you’ll have ample time for a dip and photos.

The Transportation and Experience

The entire journey is powered by a high-quality speedboat, offering a safe and exhilarating way to traverse the Dalmatian coast. The boat’s room for only 12 guests fosters a sense of intimacy, allowing guides to give personalized attention and ensure everyone feels comfortable. Many reviews highlight the fast, yet smooth ride, with guides playing music to keep the vibe lively.

The crew, including the licensed skipper and the English-speaking staff, is praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and safety focus. They are also known for their flexibility—many reviews mention how the guides, like David and Maren, make sure everyone’s preferences for timing and stops are taken into account.

Included and Not Included

The snorkeling equipment is provided, which is a big plus for underwater explorers. You’ll also get safety gear, life jackets, and a small gift, making the experience feel well-organized and thoughtful. However, lunch isn’t included, so bringing cash or snacks is advisable if you’re hungry. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the starting point.

Duration and Flow

Clocking in at around 10 hours, the tour is a full day, packed with diverse activities and stops. Many reviewers note that the timing is well-structured to maximize exploration without feeling rushed. The boat movements are timed to allow enough leisure at each destination, with the total cruise time giving you plenty of scenic moments.

Pricing and Value

At $130 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the comprehensive itinerary, included equipment, and small-group intimacy. When you factor in the guide’s local knowledge, the convenience of transportation, and the variety of stops, it’s an excellent deal for a day filled with different experiences. Some travelers have pointed out that the lunch isn’t included, but the overall cost remains competitive, especially given how much you’ll see and do.

Many reviews emphasize that it’s a well-organized, affordable way to cover multiple islands and enjoy Croatia’s best sights in one go, without the need to rent a boat or navigate on your own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want a full day of exploring with a small, friendly group. It’s perfect if you love snorkeling, scenic views, and discovering authentic villages. The tour’s pace and variety make it ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of Dalmatia without the hassle of planning each stop.

However, it may not be ideal for families with young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility or back issues, as it involves a lot of time on a speedboat and some walking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 10 years old, mainly because of the full-day pace and on-board activities.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you should bring cash or snacks if you’re hungry during the day.

What should I bring with me?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, beachwear, and cash for extras.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 45 minutes at Milna to 1.5 hours at Hvar and the Blue Lagoon, providing enough time to explore, swim, and take photos.

Is the boat comfortable and fast?
Yes, many reviews praise the boat’s speed and safety, along with its comfortable seating and lively atmosphere with music.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity is subject to sea and weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Lagoon, Hvar, and 5 Islands boat tour from Split strikes a nice balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Its small-group format creates a more personal atmosphere, while the variety of stops ensures you experience both lively towns and tranquil beaches. With included snorkeling gear, a professional crew, and scenic cruising, it offers fantastic value for a full day on Croatia’s spectacular coast.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring the islands, enjoy some underwater exploring, and capture stunning photos. The tour’s thoughtful organization, friendly guides, and breathtaking scenery make it a highlight for many visitors.

If you’re seeking an active, scenic, and flexible way to see Croatia’s best islands, this tour checks all the boxes—just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a spirit ready for fun.

Note: Book early to secure your spot, as this popular trip tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

You can check if your dates are available here: