Split: Blue Lagoon and 3 Island Cruise with Food and Drinks

Overview of the Split: Blue Lagoon and 3 Island Cruise Experience

This 9-hour adventure from Split offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s stunning coastlines and islands. For just $79, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable vessel and explore some of Dalmatia’s most memorable spots—think crystalline waters, a shipwreck to swim through, and a lively beach bar. It’s a popular choice, boasting a high rating of 4.8 from nearly 500 reviews, which suggests most travelers find it a worthwhile value.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the variety of locations visited—from the shipwreck at Olta to the famed Blue Lagoon—and the inclusive nature of the experience, with food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and WiFi all covered. However, a potential drawback is that some reviews point out it can get crowded, especially at the Blue Lagoon, which is a popular spot for boat tours. If you prefer quieter, more secluded experiences, this aspect might be a consideration.

Overall, what makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic beauty, engaging activities, and friendly guides like Bepo, who gets a lot of praise for going above and beyond. Just remember to bring a towel, perhaps some snacks, and a sense of adventure—this trip is about enjoying Croatia’s lively coast with a group of fellow travelers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning Locations: The Blue Lagoon and shipwreck sites are visually stunning and ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Inclusive Comfort: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and WiFi are included, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.
• Guides and Crew: Friendly, accommodating crew members like Bepo and Henry are often highlighted for their attentive service.
• Perfect for Social Travelers: The lively atmosphere and shared experiences make it great for meeting new people.
• Value for Money: At $79, the tour offers a lot—the scenic stops, food, drinks, and activities—making it a good deal.
• Crowd Factor: Expect a lively, sometimes crowded boat; arriving early or on less busy days could improve your experience.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Really Experience

Starting in Split: Easy and Convenient

Your day begins at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda, right in the heart of Split’s bustling Riva promenade. Meeting the crew at Stand 11, you’ll check in and start your 9-hour journey. This central location is ideal—you won’t have far to travel or worry about complicated logistics, which I appreciate.

The First Cruise: Setting Sail with a Breakfast

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with plenty of space for relaxing and socializing. The crew kicks off the day with a welcoming drink and a breakfast donut—simple, but a nice touch to start your day. While cruising, you’ll get a good sense of the coast and the surrounding islands.

Olta Island: The Shipwreck and Snorkeling

The first stop is Olta, where the highlight for many is swimming through the Neujam shipwreck, an abandoned vessel that’s now a haven for aquatic life. Reviewers like Isabel and Lisa rave about the experience, mentioning how memorable it is to snorkel through the wreck and see the marine life up close. The waters here are clear, and the setting feels a bit adventurous—an opportunity to combine history with fun.

The Blue Lagoon: The Crown Jewel

Next, you’ll arrive at the Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Island, famous for its impossibly clear, turquoise waters. It’s a photographer’s dream and a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating in the warm sea. Emma notes that “the water is cold, but still so lovely to be in,” and many reviewers mention how stunning the scenery is.

Keep in mind that the Blue Lagoon is a popular stop, so it can get crowded, as some reviews mention. Arriving early or staying close to your group is advised to avoid feeling overwhelmed. The tour provides plenty of time here—about two hours—so you can relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery.

Lunch on Iovo Island: Tasting Local Flavors

The included lunch features burgers made from local ingredients (beef, tuna, or veggie options), with French fries. Several reviews praise the quality of the food—“delicious,” “great burgers”—and mention the friendly staff preparing it. It’s a straightforward, filling meal that’s well-suited after some active swimming.

Borko Beach Bar: Relaxed Final Stop

The last stop is Iovo, where you can unwind at the beach bar Borko, famous for its idyllic setting. Many reviewers say the beverages—unlimited drinks like water, lemonade, and wine—are a highlight, as well as the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the sun, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the final moments of your trip.

Return Cruise: Winding Down the Day

The cruise back to Split takes about 75 minutes, giving you time to reflect on the day. The crew often plays music, adding to the convivial vibe. It’s a smooth ending to a packed day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Locations: Why They Matter

The combination of the shipwreck, Blue Lagoon, and quiet beaches on Iovo creates a well-balanced experience. You get the thrill of exploring a sunken vessel, the visual wow of turquoise waters, and the laid-back vibe of beachside bars. This variety ensures that no two stops feel the same.

The Food and Drinks: A Key Value

Most reviews agree the lunch is hearty and flavorful, especially considering it’s included in the price. The unlimited drinks, including wine, often get a nod for elevating the experience. Having WiFi onboard allows you to share your adventures or check messages, which is handy but might distract from fully soaking in the scenery.

The Crew and Guides: Making It Special

Names like Bepo and Henry come up repeatedly as helpful, enthusiastic hosts. Many travelers mention how their friendliness and attentiveness made the day more memorable. For example, one reviewer praised Bepo for going above and beyond, making everyone feel cared for.

The Social Aspect: Meeting Fellow Travelers

The boat can be lively and busy, with many guests from different countries. Emma’s tip about bringing a sweatshirt and towel because it can be breezy on the boat is helpful—comfort is key. If you’re looking for a fun, social day, this tour delivers.

The Price vs. Experience: Is It Worth It?

At $79, this tour offers a lot—multiple stops, food, drinks, snorkeling gear, WiFi, and transportation. Reviewers feel it provides good value for money, especially given the high quality of the locations and the positive crew interactions. Some mention that the experience could improve with more land stops or better food options, but overall expectations align with the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a fun, social day with beautiful scenery and a mix of activities, this cruise is a strong pick. It suits travelers who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and eating well-prepared local food. It’s also great for those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience that minimizes planning and logistics.

However, if you prefer tranquility and avoiding crowds, be mindful that the Blue Lagoon can be busy, especially in peak season. It’s best for active, flexible travelers ready to make the most of a lively day on the water.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Arrive early at the meeting point to secure a good spot and avoid feeling rushed.
• Bring a towel and a light jacket or long pants—it can be breezy on the boat.
• Consider snacks and water if you want extra refreshments beyond what’s provided.
• Book in advance—this tour is popular and often sold out, especially in peak summer months.
• Respect the schedule and be on time at each stop to make the most of your day; reviews mention some people being left behind.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?
The price covers breakfast donuts, a hearty lunch (burger options), unlimited drinks including wine and lemonade, snorkeling equipment, sunbeds, and WiFi onboard.

What should I bring with me?
A towel, long pants or a sweatshirt (for the breeze), snacks or water if desired, and perhaps a waterproof camera for underwater shots.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the tour is generally active with swimming and boat time, so families with young children should consider their comfort with those activities.

How long is each stop?
Most stops last between 75 minutes and 2 hours, giving ample time to swim, snorkel, or relax, but not so long that it feels sluggish.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can reschedule if weather conditions aren’t cooperative.

Can I extend my time at any stop?
The schedule is fixed, but arriving early or staying on land longer on your own isn’t typically included. It’s best to stick to the plan for a smooth experience.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from Split combines the best of Dalmatia’s coast—crystal waters, shipwreck adventures, and delicious local food—in a lively, sociable package. The high ratings reflect many travelers’ satisfaction with the friendly guides, stunning scenery, and overall value. If you’re looking for a day that balances fun, relaxation, and Croatian charm, this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially well-suited for those happy to share a boat with others, enjoy snorkeling and swimming, and indulge in locally made eats and drinks. While it can be bustling at times, for many, that adds to the fun atmosphere. Just remember to arrive early, bring your essentials, and prepare to have a memorable time exploring Croatia’s gorgeous coastline.

In summary, this tour offers a dependable, enjoyable way to see some of Croatia’s most loved spots without breaking the bank. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it provides a lively, scenic, and tasty day out on the water—perfect for making the most of your time in Split.