From Split: Boat Tour to Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Trogir

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle of Split and soak in some of Croatia’s most captivating sights all in a compact half-day, this boat tour offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and adventure. The adventure takes you from the lively Riva promenade straight onto a comfortable speedboat filled with just a dozen fellow travelers—meaning you’ll get a more intimate experience than some of those crowded group tours. Within about 30 minutes of cruising, you’ll find yourself at the Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay with crystal-clear water that’s perfect for cooling off and snorkeling. Then, you’ll explore the historic town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its charming narrow streets and old stone architecture. The final highlight is a visit to a shipwreck at Necujam Bay, which offers a unique underwater spectacle for snorkelers.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the knowledgeable crew, especially the guides like Frankie, who really seem enthusiastic about sharing their local insights, and the small group size which enhances the feeling of a personal adventure. Plus, the chance to snorkel around a real shipwreck adds a memorable, slightly adventurous element to the experience. The only potential downside? Since the tour’s route can be altered in bad weather or rough seas, it’s worth checking the forecast and being flexible if needed. Still, most reviews highlight the smooth pace and relaxing atmosphere, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a balanced mix of chill, sights, and stories.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small-group experience keeps the atmosphere relaxed and personal, with only 12 passengers maximum.
• Knowledgeable guides like Frankie make the trip engaging with local insights and friendly service.
• Stunning water views and snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon and around the shipwreck provide memorable underwater encounters.
• Historic Trogir offers a walk through a UNESCO-protected old town, perfect for history and architecture lovers.
• Flexible timing and route adjustments in case of weather ensure safety without sacrificing the core experience.
• Cost reflects value: includes snorkeling gear, boat transportation, and a scenic, well-paced itinerary—no hidden charges.

Exploring the Croatain Coast: The Full Experience

This tour covers a variety of highlights that are both scenic and culturally enriching, all wrapped into a lively 5.5-hour window. You meet at Gray Line Tours’ office on Split’s lively Riva promenade, a great spot to soak up the city’s vibe before heading out. The tour begins with a 30-minute speedboat ride, which is fast enough to get you out to the islands but never uncomfortable. Many reviews mention the boat’s spaciousness and the confidence in the driver, which helps set your mind at ease.

The Blue Lagoon: Crystal Clear Waters and Snorkeling

Arriving at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll immediately notice the shallow water with its sandy and crushed shell seafloor—perfect for relaxing and for snorkeling. The shallow nature means less worry about deep currents, making it ideal even if you’re a beginner snorkeler. Many travelers rave about the mesmerizing blue color of the water, which makes for fantastic photos. Zoe, in her review, called it “one of her favorite things in Split,” emphasizing the beauty of the setting and the chance to enjoy the water away from crowded beaches.

Trogir: A Tiny UNESCO Treasure

Next, you’ll hop back on the boat for a brief 30-minute cruise to Trogir. Known as “Little Venice,” this tiny island town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with origins dating back over 2,400 years to Greek settlers. Walking through Trogir’s narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time. You’ll find medieval walls, baroque architecture, and charming squares. Many visitors appreciate the free time (about an hour) to explore at their own pace, whether that means wandering the alleys or sitting down at a cafe for a coffee.

The Shipwreck at Necujam Bay

After Trogir, the boat returns to the water for another scenic cruise, this time to Necujam Bay, home to a famous shipwreck that has become a popular snorkeling spot. The wreck adds an element of curiosity and adventure, offering underwater views of a vessel that has become part of the marine habitat. Many reviews from snorkelers describe it as “fabulous,” providing a chance to see marine life around the rusting ship. The shallow water makes it accessible for most, though one reviewer mentioned the absence of a mouthpiece for snorkeling, which could be an extra consideration for gear.

Returning to Split

The final leg is a 45-minute ride back to Split, with scenic views along the way. Many reviewers, like Sheri, mention feeling comfortable during the speedboat rides despite never having been on one before—thanks to experienced skippers and a well-organized schedule. The tour wraps up back at the Gray Line office, leaving you with a full yet relaxed day of discovering Croatia’s coastal charm.

Practical Details: What You’ll Need to Know

Pricing and inclusions are straightforward—you’re paying for a comfortable speedboat, English-speaking crew, snorkeling gear, and insurance. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bring along snacks and water—especially if you plan to swim for a while. The tour lasts about 5.5 hours, with a start time that varies, so checking availability is key. It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or people with mobility limitations, mainly due to the boat’s nature and water activities.

Weather can influence the itinerary—bad weather or rough seas might mean route changes or cancellations. That’s common in coastal boat trips, but most travelers appreciate the safety-first approach. The meeting point at Gray Line Tours is easy to find on Split’s Riva, right next to the Diocletian’s Palace entrance, making logistics simple.

Tips for a smooth trip include wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and bringing a towel or change of clothes. Warm clothing can be handy if you tend to get chilly after swimming. Also, since no mouthpieces are provided for snorkeling, bringing your own could make the experience more comfortable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy a laid-back day of natural beauty combined with some cultural exploration. If you’re interested in snorkeling and don’t mind a bit of boat riding, it’s perfect. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and engaging guides—many reviewers highlighted guides like Frankie and Larry for their friendliness and local knowledge.

However, if you’re seeking a long, in-depth cultural tour or are traveling with very young children or mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. The focus on water activities and short walking tours makes it ideal for active, curious travelers who want a quick yet immersive taste of Dalmatia’s coast.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

With a 4.5-star rating from 40 reviews, this tour clearly delivers value and enjoyment. The mix of scenic water, historic Trogir, and an underwater shipwreck makes it a well-rounded half-day trip that balances relaxation with a touch of adventure. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides add a personal touch that’s often missing in larger tours. The price, which includes snorkeling gear and insurance, is reasonable considering the itinerary and the experience’s quality.

This trip is best for those who want to get out on the water, see Croatia’s stunning coast, and enjoy some snorkeling without a full-day commitment. It offers a refreshing break from sightseeing on land, with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and capture memorable photos.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including boat rides, stops, and free time at each location.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable speedboat, an English-speaking captain and crew, snorkeling goggles, insurance, and VAT. Food and drinks are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old, and the water activities may not be suitable for very young or mobility-challenged travelers.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), warm clothing, and food or drinks if desired.

Can I snorkel around the shipwreck?
Yes, snorkeling around the shipwreck is part of the experience, and many review it as “fabulous,” although some mention the absence of a mouthpiece for snorkeling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour provider reserves the right to change the route or cancel in bad weather or rough sea conditions, prioritizing safety.

Is there time to explore Trogir?
Yes, you’ll have about an hour for sightseeing, walking, or relaxing at your own pace in the UNESCO-protected old town.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 12 passengers, which keeps the experience personal and relaxed.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Gray Line Tours’ office on Split’s Riva promenade, right next to Diocletian’s Palace entrance—easy to find and convenient.

This boat tour from Split offers a balanced mix of scenic water, cultural charm, and underwater discovery. It’s a perfect choice for curious travelers wanting a memorable, relaxed day on the Dalmatian coast.