This review covers a popular Croatian tour that takes visitors on a scenic, action-packed half-day journey to three islands near Split and Trogir. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, countless travelers have raved about its beautiful stops and friendly guides, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline without committing to a full-day excursion.
What we love about this experience? First, the luxury speedboat offers a comfortable and speedy way to explore. Second, the multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing provide a well-balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. Third, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference, bringing local stories and tips to life.
One possible consideration? The tour is weather-dependent, so if conditions turn rough, it might be canceled or altered — which is always worth keeping in mind for safety reasons. Otherwise, this tour suits those craving a compact, scenic adventure with plenty of water fun, especially if you enjoy small-group settings and authentic coastal villages.
Good To Know
- Comfortable Speedboat: Modern, well-equipped vessel providing a smooth ride.
- Multiple Stops: Blue Lagoon, Maslinica village, and Duga Cove for swimming and exploring.
- Expert Guides: Friendly, informative hosts who enhance the experience.
- Flexible Schedule: Morning or afternoon trips, with options for private groups.
- Good Value: At $68 per person, it offers a lot of scenic and water-based experiences.
- Weather Sensitive: Tour may be rescheduled or canceled if the sea isn’t calm.
An Introduction to the Croatian Island-Hopping Experience
For those keen to combine the thrill of speedboat travel with the beauty of Croatia’s islands, this half-day tour from Split or Trogir offers a neat package. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a quick, yet immersive, taste of Dalmatia’s coastal charm. The tour’s main draws? You’ll experience blooming blue waters, quaint villages, and secluded beaches — all with the convenience of a luxury boat and small group intimacy.
We love that this trip is flexible enough to fit into a busy itinerary, yet still provides ample time at each stop to relax or explore. It’s especially appealing if you prefer outdoor water activities, scenic viewpoints, and authentic village visits over crowded, large-group tours.
The only thing to keep in mind? The weather can impact the trip, so good planning around a clear forecast is advisable. But with friendly guides and a smooth itinerary, this adventure offers solid value for your Croatian holiday.
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The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
Pickup and Departure
The tour begins either from Trogir (in front of Fortress Kamerlengo) or Split (at Mletacki mul, Riva), with departure times typically around 9:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m., depending on your booking. This flexibility is handy for fitting into your plans.
From the start, you’ll notice the great views of Trogir and Split as you set off, making the ride itself a highlight.
Stop 1: Blue Lagoon (Krknjai, Veliki Drvenik)
After a 15-20 minute boat ride from Trogir or about 35-40 minutes from Split, you arrive at the Blue Lagoon — a highlight for many travelers. The water here is famously clear, with a tranquil atmosphere perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Reviews point out that the boat is well-equipped with snorkeling gear and life jackets, ensuring safety and fun in the water. Guests often mention the refreshing drinks and coffee onboard as a nice touch, making the whole experience feel relaxed and personal. You’ll love the peaceful surroundings and the chance to soak up the sun in this stunning setting.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyStop 2: Maslinica Village, Oltar Island
Next, we head to Maslinica on Oltar Island, a charming village with a restored 16th-century castle that’s now a luxury hotel. The stop here typically lasts about an hour, giving you time for a leisurely stroll, some photos, and to soak in the local vibe.
Reviewers are quick to praise the traditional stone houses and the picture-perfect waterfront, ideal for a quiet break. The guides often share stories about the village’s history, adding depth to your visit.
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Stop 3: Duga Cove, Iovo Island
Our last main stop is at Beach Bar Borkko in Duga Cove on Iovo Island. This secluded spot features a sandy seabed and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming or just unwinding on the boat.
Guests often mention how peaceful this setting is, with some reviews noting they appreciated the less crowded environment. The 15-30 minute boat rides between stops allow for scenic views and photo opportunities, making the journey itself part of the fun.
Return and Drop-Off
After about an hour at Duga Cove, the boat heads back, with a final 15-minute ride to return to the original departure point. Travelers can expect a comfortable and scenic journey back, often accompanied by music and a chance to reflect on the day.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Speedboat Experience
The new, luxury speedboat is a major plus — it’s modern, comfortable, and swift, allowing you to cover three islands in just a half-day. The boat’s shaded areas, Bluetooth music, and onboard shower are thoughtful touches that elevate the experience.
The Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling
Each stop is chosen for its natural beauty and tranquility. The Blue Lagoon is lauded for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or snorkeling. Reviewers like Hollie and Rhyann mention how the fresh water and coffee onboard add to the enjoyment, making it feel like a personalized experience rather than a large, crowded tour.
Authentic Village Visits
Maslinica offers a chance to see real Croatian village life, with traditional stone houses and scenic waterfronts. Reviewers find Maslinica to be delightful and charming, with some calling it a relaxing escape that’s worth a leisurely walk.
Hidden Beaches and Quiet Spots
The final stop at Duga Cove is often described as a hidden gem, offering peaceful waters and a sandy seabed. Guests appreciate the less touristy vibe here, perfect for unwinding after a busy sightseeing morning.
The Authentic Guides and Their Impact
Multiple reviews highlight the importance of the guides, with some reviewers mentioning Sinisa, Klaudia, Tommo, and Luca as guides who are “fun, welcoming, and informative.” They’re praised not just for their knowledge but also for their ability to make everyone feel comfortable, whether sharing local stories or helping guests with snorkeling gear.
Guests have said guides like Tommo and Claudia made the trip very fun and comfortable, with some noting they felt very well looked after. The guides’ ability to adapt to weather conditions and ensure safety is also appreciated, especially given the tour’s weather-dependent nature.
Price and Value for Money
At $68 per person, this tour offers good value considering the luxury boat, multiple stops, and included amenities like snorkeling equipment, water, coffee, and a shaded area. The reviews suggest travelers find the experience to be worth every cent, especially with the small-group atmosphere that ensures personalized attention.
Many mention that the tour balances relaxation and activity well, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends. The quick itinerary allows travelers to enjoy a variety of locations without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying
- Book in advance to secure your preferred departure time, especially during high season.
- Bring essentials such as hat, towel, sunscreen, and cash (some stops might be cash-only, like the beach bars).
- Consider bringing water shoes for snorkeling and beach activities, as suggested in reviews.
- Dress in layers — if the outside temperature drops below 27-28°C, a light jacket for the boat might be helpful.
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as the tour relies on calm seas for safety and enjoyment.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for travelers who want a quick yet enriching taste of Croatia’s scenic islands. It’s ideal if you prefer small-group experiences, enjoy water activities, and appreciate charming villages away from the crowds.
Families, couples, and groups of friends will all find something to enjoy here, especially those who value knowledgeable guides and authentic spots over commercialized attractions. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic, and fun half-day trip that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark.
FAQs
What are the pickup points?
Starting points vary depending on your booking, either in front of Fortress Kamerlengo in Trogir or at Mletacki mul, Riva in Split.
How long is the tour?
It lasts around 5 hours, with specific times depending on your chosen departure.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour can be canceled or modified for safety reasons, with options for rescheduling or a full refund if canceled due to weather.
Are snacks or meals included?
No, food isn’t included, but water, coffee, snorkeling gear, and other amenities are provided onboard.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews indicate that even young children enjoy the trip, with the guides ensuring safety and comfort for all ages.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, sunscreen, cash, and possibly water shoes for snorkeling and beach stops.
Is there a private group option?
Yes, private groups can be booked, providing a more personalized experience.
To sum it up, this half-day 3-island speedboat tour offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and cultural charm. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a quick escape from the mainland, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and soak up Dalmatia’s coastal vibe. The small-group setting, friendly guides, and well-chosen stops make it a top pick for an authentic Croatian adventure. Whether you’re looking to cool off in turquoise waters or explore quaint villages, this trip provides a memorable, value-packed experience perfect for many itineraries.
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