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

An Authentic Croatian Day on the Water: Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & olta Tour

This highly-rated 8.5-hour boat trip from Split promises a mix of sun, sea, and small-town charm. With stops at Neujam Bay, Maslinica on Olta, and the Blue Lagoon in Drvenik, it offers a balanced blend of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. What’s particularly attractive about this tour is the inclusive lunch and drinks, along with the chance to snorkel with local gear, and even try out a stand-up paddleboard or inflatables.

One of the standout features of this experience is how it caters to a variety of interests—whether you want to lounge on quiet beaches, explore a quaint Dalmatian village, or snorkel in translucent waters. However, potential travelers should be aware that this is a crowded tour. Some reviews mention overbooking, which might mean limited space and a busier atmosphere than some prefer. Still, if you’re happy to share the boat with up to 130 others and enjoy lively, social settings, this day trip can deliver excellent value.

This tour works best for those who love social boat excursions, scenic islands, and delicious local food. It’s suited for travelers who are okay with a full schedule and a lively group, but also want genuine opportunities for swimming and relaxing in stunning settings.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Three unique destinations—Neujam Bay, Maslinica on Olta, and Blue Lagoon—offer a variety of swimming, snorkeling, and exploring opportunities.
• Inclusive Meals & Drinks: A generous lunch with options like beef, tuna, or veggie burger, plus wine, juice, and water, add extra comfort.
• Activities for All: Stand-up paddleboarding, inflatables, and snorkeling gear make it fun for water lovers.
• Crowded but Social: Expect a busy boat with up to 130 travelers, which can be lively but might limit space.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead offers peace of mind.
• Authentic Experiences: Small village strolls and marine life sightings like dolphins enhance the trip’s charm.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour kicks off at Obala Lazareta in Split at 8:30 AM, with a prompt departure at 9:00 AM. You’ll be on a boat captained by an English-speaking crew, which is praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. The boat itself is designed to seat many, but some reviews mention it becomes quite crowded—so if you prefer a more intimate experience, this might be a consideration.

Stop 1: Neujam Bay

Your first stop is Neujam Bay, where you’ll have about an hour to swim and snorkel in clear waters. This spot offers a gentle start to the day with calm waters perfect for beginners. Reviewers like LesliePhelps1963 noted the “plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling” and appreciated the on-board lunch afterward. This stop is also ideal for taking photos of the rocky shoreline.

Stop 2: Maslinica on Olta

Next, the boat heads to Maslinica, a charming Dalmatian village on the “Green Island” of Olta. Here, you’ll get roughly an hour to explore. Take a walk around the small streets, sip coffee, or indulge in an ice cream. Some reviews mention it as a “small village” ideal for relaxing and soaking in local atmosphere. The waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling again, and many enjoy the laid-back vibe compared to busier tourist spots.

Stop 3: Blue Lagoon in Drvenik

The final stop is Krknjasi Bay, better known as the Blue Lagoon. Expect around two hours here, giving you plenty of time to swim in the azure waters, snorkel with provided gear, or try out inflatables and paddleboards. Expect to keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins during the ride—an exciting bonus for wildlife enthusiasts. One reviewer called this the “highlight” of the trip, with clear waters ideal for relaxing and snapping photos.

Including Food and Drinks

The lunch options are straightforward but satisfying—beef, tuna, or veggie burger, served with French fries. Several reviews mention that the food is “good” but note that it can get quite busy, so patience is key. Drinks including wine, juice, and water are available throughout the day, adding a nice touch of refreshment.

Extras and Equipment

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the stand-up paddleboard, inflatables, and snorkeling gear, which are included at no extra cost. The equipment is generally praised for being in good condition and fun to use. It’s worth noting that there’s a $10 deposit for snorkeling gear, so bring some small change.

Overall Atmosphere

While many reviews mention the friendly crew, notably Nana, who went above and beyond to make everyone comfortable, some travelers experienced a crowded environment. One review even described the boat as packed with “180 people,” which might make the experience less relaxed for some. The atmosphere tends to be lively and social, which suits those looking for a fun, social day rather than a quiet escape.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

For $65.94 per person, this tour offers a lot—three stops, snorkel gear, paddleboards, a decent lunch, and drinks. When you break it down, the value for money appears solid, especially considering the inclusiveness of activities and food. The convenience of having most gear provided and the chance to see multiple beautiful spots in one day is a plus.

However, the crowd factor can be a drawback. If you’re someone who prefers serenity or space to spread out, this might not be your ideal trip. But for those who enjoy lively group settings, the energy can actually enhance the experience.

What the reviews highlight:

“Staff were very kind and helpful,” said LesliePhelps1963, emphasizing the crew’s attentiveness. Another reviewer, Paul N., mentioned the “brilliant” day, highlighting the friendly crew and beautiful swimming spots. Conversely, some found the food “awful” and felt the boat was overbooked, which is worth considering when choosing this tour.

Practicalities

You’ll need to arrive promptly at 8:30 AM—late arrivals may miss the boat, as departures are punctual. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the designated spot. The maximum group size is 130, which is quite large but common for such excursions, contributing to the lively atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy social, active days on the water. It appeals to those who want to visit several spots, snorkel in scenic waters, and indulge in a casual, fun atmosphere. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo and like meeting new people, this could be a highlight of your time in Croatia.

However, if you prefer more peace and quiet, personalized attention, or a less crowded environment, you might want to explore other options. The tour also isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of boat boarding and movement.

The Sum Up

The Split Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & olta Tour offers a lively, well-rounded day out on the Dalmatian seas. It combines beautiful scenery, swimming opportunities, and a taste of local life in Maslinica—perfect for travelers eager for a social and scenic adventure. The included lunch, drinks, and water activities add great value, though the crowded environment might not suit everyone.

If you’re after a fun, energetic day with multiple stops, friendly crew, and chances for memorable photos and marine encounters, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy group travel, water sports, and exploring small villages. Just keep in mind the potential for busy crowds and prepare accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Obala Lazareta in Split, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and activities.

Are snorkel and water gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, inflatables, and stand-up paddleboards are included at no extra charge. A small deposit ($10) is required for snorkeling gear.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, it’s fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What is the group size?
Up to 130 travelers can join, which can lead to a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to boat boarding requirements.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, your own snacks if you prefer, and a waterproof camera or phone for photos. Towels and swimwear are provided by the tour.

This tour provides a practical, fun-packed day that combines the best of Dalmatian waters and villages. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a lively social scene, it’s worth considering for your Croatian itinerary.