Split: Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & olta Tour with Lunch & Drinks

Exploring Croatia’s Islands on the Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & Olta Tour

Imagine sailing across the shimmering waters of the Adriatic, sunshine warming your face, and the scent of sea breeze filling the air. That’s exactly what you get with the Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & Olta Tour departing from Split. This 8.5-hour cruise takes you to three uniquely charming destinations, each offering a different flavor of Dalmatian coastal life. The experience shines because of its relaxed pace, the stunning scenery, and the chance to swim in some of the most famous spots—like the sunken ship at Necujam Bay or the Blue Lagoon in Drvenik.

Two things I really like about this trip are the knowledgeable crew, especially the captain who keeps the journey lively, and the inclusion of plenty of local flavors—whether it’s the delicious on-board lunch or the chance to sip wine while soaking up the views. Plus, the variety of stops means you’re not just lounging on a boat; you’re actively exploring and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

However, one thing to consider is the tour’s timing and group size. With a maximum of 130 travelers, it’s a fairly popular trip, so it can get crowded, especially at the key swimming spots. If you’re someone who highly values quiet and solitude, this might be less ideal. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point in Split, which is simple but something to plan for.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beautiful multi-island itinerary: Covering Necujam Bay, Maslinica, and the Blue Lagoon offers diverse scenery and experiences.
• Inclusion of food and drinks: A hearty lunch plus local wines, juices, and water make this a good value for the price.
• Variety of activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatables provide plenty of options.
• Authentic local villages: Maslinica offers a glimpse into Dalmatian village life without the crowds.
• Crew and guides: Friendly and helpful crew, with some reviews highlighting Nana’s excellent service.
• Flexible upgrades: Guaranteed sun bed options are available for the upper deck, perfect for catching extra rays and enjoying a beer.

The Overall Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting from Split, your day begins with a comfortable boat ride that’s all about soaking up the sun and admiring the views. The boat itself is well-equipped, with snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and plenty of shaded and sunny spots. The crew, notably friendly and attentive, keeps things running smoothly, offering drinks throughout the day—wine, juice, and water—so you stay refreshed as you sail.

First Stop: Necujam Bay, “Shipwreck Bay”

This is probably the highlight for many—swimming near a sunken ship, which makes snorkeling especially fun. Lesli Phelps from her review says, “Great experience. Staff were very kind and helpful, especially Nana!!” The shipwreck adds a touch of adventure, and the clear waters make for excellent visibility. You get to spend about an hour here, which is enough time to cool off, explore, and snap some photos.

Second Stop: Maslinica on Olta

Next, you’re off to Maslinica, a small Dalmatian village on the “Green Island.” This stop lasts an hour, giving you time to swim, snorkel, or simply walk around the tiny streets. Marie D mentions, “Une belle journée en mer avec un personnel sympa sur un bateau confortable avec 3 ambiances,” noting the boat’s comfortable setup and the calm, family-friendly atmosphere at the front of the boat. You can relax on the beach, grab an ice cream, or sip a coffee at one of the local cafes. It’s a quiet, authentic village experience, far from the bustling tourist spots.

Final Stop: Blue Lagoon / Krknjasi Bay

Your last destination is the famous Blue Lagoon of Drvenik, about two hours long. This is the spot where many swimmers get their best photos and the most fun in the water. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, as some reviews mention spotting marine life during the boat ride. With two hours here, you’ll have enough time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat’s deck. Many appreciate the chance to relax and enjoy the final leg of the trip immersed in nature’s beauty.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $63.72 per person, including lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatables, this trip delivers a lot of bang for your buck. The lunch options—beef, tuna, or veggie burgers with fries—are straightforward but satisfying, and the inclusion of local wine and juice enhances the experience. It’s a flexible, all-in-one package for travelers looking for a full-day escape with varied activities and scenic stops.

The boat’s capacity of around 130 travelers means it’s lively but not overwhelming. Many reviews praise the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness, which makes a big difference when you’re spending a full day on the water. The opportunity to upgrade to a guaranteed sun bed on the upper deck is also a nice touch, especially if you want to maximize your sunbathing time without fighting for space.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of active water fun and relaxed seaside village strolls. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up scenic views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially good for those who want to see multiple islands without the hassle of organizing separate trips. The included lunch and drinks make it convenient, and the friendly crew ensures you’re well looked after.

However, if you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, or if mobility issues prevent you from quickly getting in and out of the water, you might find the crowds or the physical activity a bit challenging. Also, those who prefer private, quiet moments may want to consider smaller, more intimate tours, since this is a popular, larger group experience.

Practical Tips For Making The Most of Your Day

• Arrive early at the meeting point in Split to avoid rushing—it’s an easy walk from public transport.
• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want extra comfort, but goggles are provided.
• Wear sun protection—a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential on a full day in the sun.
• Upgrade to a sun bed if you want guaranteed space and extra comfort.
• Bring cash or cards to buy additional snacks or souvenirs at the stops if you wish.
• Be prepared for the crowds at the Blue Lagoon—arrive early if you want quieter photos.
• Check weather conditions before booking, as poor weather might cancel the trip or alter the schedule.

Final Thoughts

The Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & Olta Tour offers a lively, scenic, and satisfying way to explore some of Croatia’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The mix of swimming, snorkeling, authentic village visits, and a delicious onboard meal makes it a great value for those wanting a comprehensive day on the water.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy active days with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in nature’s beauty, along with friendly hospitality from the crew. The tour’s popularity reflects its appeal, but be prepared for a lively group experience. If you’re looking for a memorable, well-rounded day that combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, this trip hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You should meet at the specified location in Split, which is nearby public transportation.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes lunch (choice of beef, tuna, or veggie burger with fries), drinks (wine, juice, water), snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and the English-speaking crew.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments. The full-day schedule involves swimming and some walking.

How much time is spent at each stop?
Necujam Bay gets about an hour for swimming and snorkeling, Maslinica also around an hour for relaxing and exploring, and the Blue Lagoon allows about two hours for water activities.

Is there an option to guarantee a sun bed?
Yes, you can upgrade to a sun bed on the upper deck, ensuring a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy extra beers.

What’s the typical group size?
The maximum is around 130 travelers, which makes it lively but still manageable.

What are the meal options?
A simple but satisfying lunch with your choice of beef, tuna, or veggie burger with fries.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a hat, your snorkeling gear if preferred, a towel, and some cash for extras.**

Is this a good tour for families?
Yes, the mix of water activities and scenic stops is family-friendly, but keep in mind the full-day schedule.