3-Island Split Boat Tour (olta Drvenik Mali, Drvenik Veli)

Exploring the 3-Island Split Boat Tour: A Practical Guide to Croatia’s Coastal Gems

This 3-Island Split Boat Tour offers a relaxed, scenic escape along Croatia’s beautiful Adriatic coast, taking you to three unique islands near Split. The experience is designed for those short on time but eager to see some of the most picturesque spots, all from the comfort of a small, intimate catamaran. With a limit of just 12 travelers, it promises a cozy atmosphere, plenty of space, and the chance to truly unwind.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour is its focus on personalized attention and authentic experiences, like swimming near a sunken ship at Necujam or exploring a sandy beach on Vela Rina. Plus, the on-board Wi-Fi is a handy touch, allowing you to share your photos right away—something many travelers appreciate in today’s social media-driven world.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions turn unfavorable. The experience suits travelers who want a quick but immersive taste of Croatia’s islands, especially those keen on swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up some sun on secluded beaches.

Key Points

• Small-group setting ensures a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Three diverse stops: from sunken ships to sandy beaches and the Blue Lagoon.
• Flexible activities: swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and even Seadoo scooter rides.
• Includes essentials: snorkeling gear, water, safety equipment, restroom, and insurance.
• Ideal for time-pressed travelers aiming for a half-day adventure.
• Weather-dependent: cancellations due to bad weather could happen but are fully refundable or reschedulable.

The Experience: What to Expect from the 3-Island Split Boat Tour

Starting at Split Riva, the tour kicks off at 8:30am with a pickup service, making it convenient for most travelers. The boat itself is a cozy catamaran, comfortably accommodating up to 12 guests, which means you’re unlikely to feel crowded—perfect for relaxing and enjoying the stunning views.

First Stop: Necujam on Olta Island

Our first destination is Necujam, a lesser-known spot that offers a chance to swim near a sunken ship. This stop is about an hour long, giving ample time to float around the clear waters, explore the wreck, or simply lounge on the rocks. The quietness of Necujam lets you enjoy the sea in a way that’s often hard to find during peak summer seasons when beaches can get crowded.

From reviews, it’s clear that snorkeling gear is provided, so you can get close to underwater sights without needing to rent equipment elsewhere. Nathalie_R mentioned that the experience was marred by poor weather and communication issues with the operator, but she still appreciated the chance to swim in such a unique spot. The fact that it’s free of charge makes it an accessible highlight of the tour.

Second Stop: Vela Rina on Drvenik Mali

Next, we head to Vela Rina, a charming sandy beach on island Drvenik Mali. With an hour allocated here, this stop offers a perfect setting for sunbathing, picnicking, or splashing around in the shallow waters. The beach’s gentle sands are ideal for families or travelers looking for a peaceful spot to unwind.

From the reviews, it’s worth noting that this stop is also free of admission fees, giving you a chance to enjoy a pristine, natural environment. The setting’s tranquility makes it a welcome break from more tourist-heavy beach areas.

Final Stop: Blue Lagoon / Krknjasi Bay on Drvenik Veli

The tour’s highlight is probably the Blue Lagoon at Krknjasi Bay, where you’ll get to experience Seadoo scooter rides and soak in the vibrant, turquoise waters. This is about an hour of pure fun, with options for swimming and snorkeling.

The Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear water and scenic surroundings capture the essence of Croatian island beauty. The inclusion of Seadoo scooter adventure is a fun addition—though it’s worth noting that some travelers may prefer more time here, as it’s a short but lively stop. The lagoon is also free of charge, making it an excellent value.

Included & Not Included: What You Get and What You Don’t

The price of around $87 per person covers quite a lot, especially considering the small-group setting. You’ll have access to snorkeling equipment, water, restroom facilities, safety gear, and insurance—all essentials for a safe and enjoyable trip. The crew manages the boat, fueling, and safety protocols, so you can relax and focus on the scenery.

However, lunch isn’t included, so it’s wise to bring some snacks or plan to eat after the tour. The tour’s timing makes it suitable for a quick morning or early afternoon activity, so packing light is advisable.

Meeting Point & Timing

Meet at Split Riva at 8:30 am, a central location near public transportation, which simplifies logistics. The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, and it ends back at the starting point, making it a perfect half-day escape from the city.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While most reviews are positive, Nathalie_R’s experience offers a valuable lesson: bad weather can affect the tour, and communication issues can complicate planning. She mentions that “it was extremely hard to reach the tour operator before the tour to be picked up,” highlighting the importance of confirming details ahead of time.

On the upside, travelers who’ve enjoyed the tour praise the small group size, which allows for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The blue lagoon and secluded beaches are frequently highlighted as exceptional, especially for swimmers and snorkelers. The excellent wine selection at the Blue Lagoon stop is an unexpected bonus that many travelers mention, adding a touch of local flavor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is a hit for adventurous travelers who want to explore Croatian islands without the fuss of larger, crowded boat trips. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a short, scenic escape focusing on swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in quiet, natural spots.

It also appeals to those who enjoy small-group settings, where the experience feels more personal, and the crew can cater to individual preferences. However, keep in mind that if you’re planning during uncertain weather or need a more flexible schedule, you might want to check the weather forecast and confirm your booking well in advance.

The Sum Up: Is the 3-Island Split Boat Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, especially if you’re seeking a personalized, scenic water-based adventure close to Split. The tour offers a well-balanced mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, and fun activities like scooter rides, all within a manageable half-day timeframe.

The small-group size makes it a strong choice for travelers who value comfort and attention from the crew. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, water, safety equipment, and insurance provides good value for the price, considering the exclusive nature of the experience.

While weather can sometimes interfere, the tour’s flexibility with cancellations or rescheduling helps mitigate disappointment. Just make sure to prep with appropriate clothing, sun protection, and perhaps some snacks, since lunch isn’t included.

This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to discover Croatia’s island treasures in a relaxed atmosphere, without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

FAQ

How many people are on this tour?
The tour is limited to just 12 travelers, creating an intimate environment ideal for relaxing and personalized attention.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 8:30 am at Split Riva, making it a good option for a morning adventure before midday.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t part of the package, so plan to bring some snacks or eat afterward.

What activities are available during the tour?
You can snorkel, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy Seadoo scooter rides at the Blue Lagoon. Snorkeling equipment and safety gear are provided.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes. The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops are family-friendly, especially with the shallow beaches and calm waters. Always check with the operator for specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring your own sun protection, some snacks, and possibly a towel. The boat has restrooms and a fridge for drinks.

To sum it up, the 3-Island Split Boat Tour offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, fun activities, and small-group comfort. It’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting to make the most of a few hours exploring Croatia’s stunning islands with a relaxed, friendly crew. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and you’re all set for a memorable day on the water.