From Split: Private Underwater Museum & Blue Lagoon Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast offers countless wonderful adventures, but a Private Underwater Museum & Blue Lagoon Tour from Split definitely ranks among the most unique. This full-day private trip combines the thrill of snorkeling and swimming in pristine waters with the intriguing experience of visiting the country’s only underwater museum. Plus, you get to relax aboard a luxurious speedboat equipped with WiFi, a shower, and a toilet—so comfort is part of the package.

What I really like about this trip is how it blends cultural curiosity with natural beauty. The underwater museum features life-sized statues and a sunken plane, making it more than just a typical snorkeling spot. It’s a fascinating blend of art and marine environment that you can explore for hours. Plus, the tour offers the chance to enjoy Croatia’s famed Blue Lagoon near Drvenik Island, which is stunningly clear and perfect for swimming. The second highlight? The boat itself—the high-end, fully equipped vessel makes the journey smooth, comfortable, and fun, especially with free WiFi and a stereo system for your favorite tunes.

One potential consideration is the fact that this is a 10-hour tour, so it’s a long day in the sun. While the boat’s amenities and the relaxed pace help, travelers prone to motion sickness or those with limited mobility might want to plan accordingly. Also, since it’s a private tour, it’s customizable which is fantastic, but that also means it can be pricier than group excursions. Still, the level of comfort, personalized attention, and the chance to see Croatia’s hidden underwater art make it well worth the investment.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique Underwater Museum: The only one in Croatia, featuring life-sized statues, a sunken plane, and religious-themed sculptures.
• Luxury Speedboat: Fully equipped with WiFi, a shower, toilet, leather seating, and a stereo system—making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.
• Flexible Itinerary: End the day with either Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or an additional island visit tailored to your preferences.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and museum entry are included, providing excellent value for a full day out.
• Private and Customizable: Perfect for those seeking a personalized adventure, with flexible stop choices and no crowded tour groups.
• Ideal for Adventure and Relaxation: Combines active snorkeling with relaxing on sunbeds and enjoying Croatian wines and soft drinks.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Closer Look

The day begins at a designated meeting point right in front of the boats near the Ambasador Hotel in Split. From there, you’ll board one of Split Sea Tours’ high-end aluminum alloy powerboats, which are notably spacious and comfortable. The presence of free WiFi onboard is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share photos or check messages while cruising along the coast.

The first major stop is the Blue Lagoon, located near Drvenik Island. This spot is often called the “Croatian Caribbean” for its crystalline waters and soft sandy seabed. I love the way the boat’s stereo system kicks in with your favorite tunes, making the sailing part fun and relaxed. You’ll have plenty of time to swim, relax on the sunbeds, or snorkel with the gear provided. The lagoon’s shallow waters make it ideal for all skill levels, and the scenery is picture-perfect.

After a couple of hours here, the boat heads to the Underwater Museum at Jelinak Bay. This is the real highlight for me. The 52 life-sized statues—including religious figures, a sunken fighter plane, and art installations—are positioned at various depths, creating an otherworldly experience. The museum’s entrance fee is included, which is a nice bonus. Many reviews praise the snorkeling experience here, noting how clear the waters are and how the sculptures’ details are so vivid underwater. Plus, the museum is a perfect blend of art, marine life, and history.

Following the underwater exploration, the tour usually concludes with a visit either to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or another nearby island such as Iovo or Olta. Since the tour is private, your guide or skipper can customize the stop based on your interests—be it wandering the ancient streets or relaxing on a quiet beach.

Throughout the day, drinks are plentiful, including bottled water, beers, wines, and soft drinks—all included in the price. Towels and sunbeds at the beach add to the comfort, making it easy to unwind after swimming or snorkeling.

The tour wraps up with a comfortable cruise back to Split, usually arriving around late afternoon or early evening. The return journey is smooth, and many travelers appreciate the opportunity to reflect on their day in Croatia’s beautiful waters with a refreshment in hand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a private, flexible day of adventure with a touch of culture. If you love snorkeling, exploring art in unusual settings, or simply relaxing on a boat with excellent amenities, you’ll really enjoy it. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or even families with older children. Keep in mind, the long hours mean it suits those ready for a full day of activity and sun.

The inclusion of local wine and beer adds a nice touch, making it a great choice for those who appreciate good drinks with their adventure. The luxury boat and personalized approach also mean you get more comfort and attention than typical group tours, which is well worth the extra cost if you’re looking for a more exclusive experience.

Price and Practicalities

The tour’s price reflects its private and all-inclusive nature, which many find to offer excellent value considering the comfort, personalized service, and unique destinations. The full-day duration means you should plan for comfortable clothing, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket for the ride back if it gets chilly. Since food isn’t included, you might want to bring a snack or plan to eat before or after the trip.

Meeting point is simple, right next to the Ambasador hotel in Split, and the boats are clearly marked. Because it’s private, you can tweak the itinerary to some extent—say, spending more time at the museum or exploring another island if you wish.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Split offers a special way to see Croatia’s coast beyond the usual beaches and towns. The chance to snorkel in the Blue Lagoon, explore the country’s only underwater museum, and relax aboard a luxurious boat makes it a standout choice for those craving both adventure and comfort.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized service, unique sights, and quality amenities. While the long day might not suit everyone, the careful planning, inclusions, and flexible stops help maximize value and enjoyment. If you’re looking to add a splash of art, culture, and marine fun to your Croatian holiday, this tour is a memorable way to do it.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point right next to the Ambasador hotel in Split. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to this spot.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and beachwear, plus a hat or cap for sun protection. It’s also wise to pack sunscreen and possibly a light jacket for the ride back, especially in cooler months or late afternoons.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, soft drinks, beer, and wine are included throughout the day, serving as a nice refreshment during the trip.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can tweak stops like choosing between Trogir or another island. You can discuss your preferences with the guide beforehand.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and passes are included, making it easy to explore the underwater sculptures and marine life comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at a time that varies based on availability. It’s a full-day adventure, so plan accordingly.

This tour balances luxury, authenticity, and fun, making it an excellent option for those seeking a memorable day exploring Croatia’s marine artistry and scenic beauty. It caters well to those who appreciate personal service and unique experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing.