Split: All-Inclusive 3 Islands and Blue Lagoon Cruise

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast often means boat trips, but the All-Inclusive 3 Islands and Blue Lagoon Cruise from Split offers something particularly memorable. This 9-hour journey takes you past shimmering waters and colorful islands, with the chance to snorkel, relax, and enjoy hearty local food—all on a charming wooden boat built in 1903. I’ve gathered enough reviews and details to give you a full picture of what makes this tour stand out and what to keep in mind.

One thing I love about this experience is the thoughtful inclusions. The unlimited open bar is a definite highlight, serving everything from wines and beers to fresh juices—no need to worry about running out or overpaying at the bar. The second is how flexible and well-organized the stops are, from swimming in the crystal-clear Blue Lagoon to wandering the picturesque fishing village of Maslinica on Olta. A third plus is how the crew’s attentiveness keeps the whole trip smooth and fun, with plenty of tips and helpful guidance, like avoiding sea urchins while swimming.

That said, a point to consider is the price and logistics: while the tour offers great value, it’s a long day that starts early. You’ll need to arrive at least 15 minutes before the 8:40 AM meeting time—no late arrivals allowed—and transportation isn’t included. For some, the inclusive meals and drinks are worth every penny; for others, the basic lunch options may seem simple, especially if you prefer more elaborate dining.

This cruise offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full-day experience, with plenty of swimming, good food, and a chance to see multiple islands without fuss. The combination of friendly guides, beautiful stops, and value for money makes it a solid pick for most visitors to Split, especially those eager to indulge in local flavors and the stunning sea.

Key points / Takeaways

• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes breakfast, lunch, desserts, fresh fruit, and unlimited drinks—wine, beer, water, and juice—making it a stress-free day.
• Historic Wooden Boat: The vessel, built in 1903, adds charm and nostalgia to the journey, combining traditional style with modern safety features.
• Multiple Island Stops: Discover Drvenik Veli, St. Fumija, and Olta, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring picturesque villages.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The tour’s schedule includes brief sightseeing cruises and generous time for swimming at Blue Lagoon and other spots.
• Snorkeling and Relaxation: Provided equipment and floating mattresses encourage fun in the water, with reviews highlighting the quality of snorkeling gear.
• Great for Social and Family Groups: The inclusive nature, friendly crew, and multiple stops make it suitable for all ages and groups seeking a social day on the sea.

If you’re looking to turn a day in Split into one of the trip’s highlights, this all-inclusive boat cruise might be just what you need. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that balances sightseeing, swimming, and eating, all while cruising on a vessel with a story—built in 1903 and still sailing the waters of Croatia. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect, why people love it, and a few things to keep in mind.

The Starting Point and Practicalities

The tour begins at Obala Lazareta, with the crew waiting in white polos marked ‘Junior’. It’s advisable to arrive at least 15 minutes beforehand, around 8:25 AM, to ensure a smooth start. The meeting point is conveniently located near the large white boat “Jaffa”, which might be about 50 meters away. There’s no included hotel pickup, so plan on making your way there independently—public transport or walking works well if you’re staying nearby.

Once aboard the “Junior”, a beautifully maintained vessel with a nostalgic charm, the crew—whose enthusiasm clearly shows—sets the tone for the day. The tour is designed to be a full 9 hours, with specific stops for swimming, sightseeing, and dining. The schedule is tight but flexible enough to enjoy the variety of experiences.

The Itinerary: A Full Day on the Water

The itinerary is carefully crafted, with a mix of cruising and stops. It begins with a 2-hour sightseeing cruise along the coast, giving you a chance to settle in and admire the scenery. Then, the first stop is Maslinica on Olta, a charming fishing village where you can enjoy lunch, walk around, and swim or snorkel in the clear waters. Here, reviews mention the friendly staff bringing drinks and updating guests on the next stops—attention to detail that makes a difference.

Next, there’s a 45-minute cruise before heading to the Blue Lagoon, arguably the most iconic part of the trip. Expect about 1.5 hours for swimming and snorkeling, with the waters praised for their magnificent clarity. Many reviews highlight the snorkeling gear provided, along with floating mattresses, which make floating and exploring the underwater world easy and fun.

After a brief cruise, the tour proceeds to Sveta Fumija, another swimming spot where guests can relax or snorkel. The last long cruise segment, lasting about 1 hour and 40 minutes, wraps up the day with more scenic views before returning to Obala Lazareta.

Food, Drinks, and the All-Inclusive Aspect

One of the standout features is the all-inclusive menu, which includes a delicious breakfast—croissants, hot coffee, and fresh juice—to start the day. Lunch is served on board and offers choices like tuna steak, chicken, or vegetarian options, with accompanying sides and dessert. Some reviews appreciated the generous portions, especially the filling chicken and tasty tuna.

The unlimited open bar is a hit, offering white and red wine, beers, water, and juices throughout the day. Reviewers often mention how they appreciated being able to enjoy drinks without concern about extra costs, with some noting the wine was served by the pint, adding a relaxed, social vibe.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Relaxing

The water activities are a major draw. The snorkeling equipment and floating mattresses provided make it easy to enjoy Croatia’s famously clear waters. Some guests loved jumping from the second deck of the boat, especially when guided by the crew’s tips—like avoiding sea urchins or where to swim safely. The reviews consistently mention the magnificent waters and how much fun they had exploring marine life.

The Guides and Service

The crew, often praised for being friendly, attentive, and helpful, plays a crucial role in making the day enjoyable. Rino, mentioned in one review, was particularly appreciated for his guidance. They kept everyone updated about the schedule, helped with snorkel gear, and served with a smile, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace combined with a bit of adventure. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a fun day on the water. You’ll love the beautiful scenery, the opportunity to swim in pristine waters, and the comfort of knowing everything from food to drinks is taken care of. However, be prepared for a long day with early start times and a schedule that’s packed but rewarding.

The Value Proposition

With the price covering meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple stops, many reviewers feel they’re getting good value—especially considering the large, well-maintained vessel and the friendly service. While the lunch choices are simple, they are hearty and satisfying, and the open bar keeps the mood lively.

Final Thoughts

This Split-based cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to soak up Croatia’s stunning coastlines. If you’re after an authentic local experience with plenty of swimming, good food, and friendly guides, it’s an easy recommendation. The combination of historic charm (the boat), scenic beauty, and all-inclusive perks makes it stand out among many options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour begins at Obala Lazareta, so you’ll need to get there on your own, but the meeting point is easy to find.

What should I bring? Pack a towel, camera, sunscreen, breathable clothing, and sunglasses. The waters are rocky, so beach shoes might be helpful, especially for children.

Can I swim at each stop? Yes, each stop is designed for swimming and snorkeling, with provided equipment. The Blue Lagoon is especially recommended for its clear waters.

Is there a dress code? Casual, comfortable clothing is best. Bring swimwear, and don’t forget your sun protection gear.

Are drinks really unlimited? Yes, the open bar includes wine, beer, water, and juice, served throughout the day. Some reviewers mention wine served by the pint.

What if the weather is bad? The operator reserves the right to cancel in case of strong winds, storms, or large waves, with full refunds offered if that happens.

This cruise from Split offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, relaxed swimming, flavorful food, and friendly service—all on a vessel with a story. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day on the water, it’s a solid choice for most visitors seeking authentic Croatian coastal experiences.