Split: Full Day Sailing Tour to olta Island and Bra Island

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast on a Sailing Adventure
This full-day sailing tour from Split offers a chance to unwind while exploring the picturesque islands of Olta and Bra. The experience is designed for those who love the water, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life without the crowds. What makes this trip stand out is the personal touch—small groups, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of time to soak in the views.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the laid-back pace and the chance to sample Croatian snacks paired with local wines. It’s not just a sightseeing cruise; it’s an authentic, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge in the sun.

A possible consideration is that the tour does not include lunch, so you might want to bring your own or plan to dine ashore on Olta. Also, if you’re expecting a big crowd or a very structured schedule, keep in mind that this tour is capped at six participants, which keeps it intimate but may feel slower and more personal.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a relaxed, personal vibe.
• Authentic Islands: Visit Olta’s peaceful village and Bra’s hidden bays—perfect for quiet exploration.
• Flexible Activities: Swim, snorkel, relax on the boat, or explore the islands at your own pace.
• Local Flavors & Wines: Enjoy Croatian prosciutto, cheese, bread, and white wine, paired with snacks and drinks.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Marin and Damien are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: Perfect if you’re after a slow, scenic day with plenty of free time and natural beauty.

Setting Sail from Split: What You Can Expect

Starting at the port near the “Ina” refueling station, you’re greeted by a 33-foot sailboat, marked “RO 1037”. The safety briefing is quick but thorough, making sure everyone feels comfortable before setting out into the Adriatic Sea. You’ll quickly feel the wind in your hair as the boat glides smoothly over the water—one of the most enjoyable parts of this trip.

The first stop is Bra Island, anchored in a tranquil bay. Here, you’re encouraged to swim or snorkel using provided gear, floaties, masks, and snorkels. The water clarity is often praised, making the swimming particularly rewarding. If you prefer to stay dry, the boat itself offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy a snack of cheese, prosciutto, and bread, along with a glass of white Croatian wine. Many reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are—Marin and Damien are often highlighted for their hospitality.

After about an hour here, the boat heads towards Olta Island, docked at the charming village of Stomorska. This unspoiled spot remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, giving you a genuine feel of Dalmatian island life. You’ll have roughly two hours to wander the narrow streets, swim in the local waters, or settle in at a seaside restaurant for lunch. Many guests comment positively on the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views.

The return journey is equally relaxing, with the sails up and the wind guiding you back to Split. A few reviews highlight how the gentle sailing and friendly guides made this a highlight of their trip, with some lucky travelers even spotting dolphins.

The Charm of Olta and Bra: Two Unique Islands

Olta is a fairy-tale-like village with old stone houses and narrow streets that seem frozen in time. It’s a great place to stroll at your own pace, soak up the quiet ambiance, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. The vibe here is unspoiled, making it a favorite among travelers seeking authentic Dalmatian charm.

Bra, on the other hand, is famed for its secluded bays and the lush greenery that surrounds its coast. The bay where you’ll anchor is often described as a perfect spot for swimming—calm, clear, and inviting. The island’s natural beauty makes it ideal for a peaceful escape, and many reviewers mention how relaxing the whole experience is.

Both islands offer ample free time, which is a notable highlight as it allows you to tailor your visit—whether that’s exploring, swimming, or simply lounging on deck with a glass of wine.

The Intimate Atmosphere & Guides Who Make It Special

What keeps this tour memorable are the small group size and friendly guides. With only up to 6 people, it feels more like a day with friends than a touristy group. Marin and Damien, in particular, get high praise for their courteous, knowledgeable manner and their ability to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Many reviews mention how they appreciated the informative commentary—not overly detailed, but enough to add context to the scenic views and islands. The guides’ familiarity with the area brought added value, making the experience more personal and engaging.

Pricing, Value, and Practical Tips

At $136 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the included activities—snorkeling gear, floaties, snacks, and drinks. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so planning ahead or bringing a picnic might be wise—especially if you want to enjoy Olta’s seaside restaurants.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the early afternoon. This timing suits travelers looking for a relaxed day without feeling rushed.

While the price doesn’t include hotel pickup or towels, bringing your own sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel will ensure you’re comfortable. The tour’s cancellation policy is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—giving you peace of mind when planning.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This sailing trip suits travelers who crave a laid-back, authentic experience. If you enjoy sailing, swimming in calm waters, and exploring quiet islands, you’ll love how intimate and personal this trip feels. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape.

It also appeals to those who appreciate local flavors—the included snacks and wines are thoughtfully selected—adding a genuine taste of Dalmatia. If you’re after a structured, busy day with lots of guided sightseeing, this might feel too relaxed.

If you’re sensitive to weather, be aware that bad weather like strong wind or rain may cause cancellation. But on good days, you’ll get plenty of sunshine, gentle sailing, and unforgettable views.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting to experience the Dalmatian Islands in a relaxed, authentic way, this full-day sailing tour from Split offers a wonderful blend of scenery, local flavor, and personal attention. The chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore unspoiled villages, and enjoy Croatian wine makes it a memorable day out.

It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer small groups, personalized service, and a slow pace that allows you to truly soak in your surroundings. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge add a layer of warmth that elevates the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the flexible free time and scenic stops more than compensate, giving you the freedom to enjoy the islands at your own speed. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip to Croatia, this sailing adventure is a genuine way to feel connected to Dalmatia’s natural beauty and simple pleasures.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll meet at the port near the “Ina” refueling station.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Towels are not provided, so pack your own for comfort.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, along with floaties, masks, and snorkels, making it easy to explore the underwater world.

How long do we spend on each island?
You’ll have about two hours to explore Olta and approximately one hour on Bra, with some free time for swimming and relaxing.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are seaside restaurants on Olta where you can grab a meal or bring your own picnic.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to six participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

What happens in bad weather?
The trip will be canceled if weather conditions like strong wind or rain make sailing unsafe, with full refunds available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.