Blue Lagoon & Islands Day Cruise from Split with Lunch

Traveling to Croatia often means soaking up sun, sea, and stunning scenery—and this Blue Lagoon & Islands Day Cruise from Split promises just that. With an approximately 8.5-hour journey under the Dalmatian sun, you’ll get a taste of Croatia’s best islands, clear waters, and charming villages—all while enjoying a tasty onboard lunch. The cruise has earned a solid 4.4 out of 5 based on 149 reviews, which indicates most travelers find it worth their while.

One feature we particularly appreciate is how well-organized the excursions are, with stops designed for swimming and exploration, making it as much about relaxing as it is about discovering. The onboard amenities, from paddleboards to snorkeling gear, are perfect for those wanting a hands-on water experience. However, the tour does have some limitations—such as the route potentially changing due to weather or sea conditions—and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so a bit of planning might be needed.

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to combine a scenic boat ride with active water activities, picturesque villages, and dolphin spotting—especially if you’re traveling on a budget and prefer a guided day out that covers several highlights in one go.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: For just $65, you get a full day of cruising, swimming, snorkeling, and a fresh onboard lunch.
• Variety of stops: The itinerary includes multiple stops at Neujam Bay, Maslinica, and the Blue Lagoon—each offering unique photo ops and relaxation opportunities.
• Engaging guides and crew: Many reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable hosts like Marco, Nana, and Anja, who go the extra mile to make everyone comfortable.
• Family-friendly activities: The tour includes paddleboards, inflatables, and snorkel gear, making it suitable for families or groups looking for active fun.
• Unbeatable scenery: Expect plenty of panoramic island views, crystal-clear waters, and chances to see playful dolphins if you’re lucky.
• Potential weather dependency: Route changes might happen in rough seas or bad weather, so flexibility is key.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & First Stops

The adventure begins at Obala Lazareta 1, at Split Port—an easy-to-find meeting point marked by the familiar Gray Line signage. From here, the boat departs for a sightseeing cruise lasting about 70 minutes, offering your first glimpse of the Dalmatian coastline and nearby islands. Several reviews noted that the start of the day sets a relaxed tone, with friendly staff making everyone feel at ease from the outset.

Neujam Bay – The Water & Swim Break

After the initial cruise, you’ll arrive at Neujam Bay, where the clear waters beckon for a swim and snorkeling. Reviews from travelers like Liam Alexander from Germany who called the trip “amazing,” appreciate these stops for providing just the right amount of time to cool off without feeling rushed. Expect about an hour here, enough to float around and soak up the sun. Tour guides often point out marine life, and some guests mentioned seeing dolphins in the distance, adding a splash of magic to the experience.

Lunch Onboard & Refreshing Drinks

As you cruise on, a delicious lunch is served—choices include beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers paired with French fries. Reviewers like Nicolas from France praised the quality, noting the food was “really good” and well-presented. Included drinks—wine, juice, and water—complement the meal, making the whole experience feel like a floating café. Many reviews highlight the value of this included meal, especially considering the length of the trip.

Maslinica & Olta Island – Village Charm and Beach Life

Next, the tour takes you to Maslinica on the Green Island of Olta, where you get around 110 minutes for exploring. Guests often mention the charm of the village, with its quaint streets, coffee spots, and a small beach perfect for sunbathing or a quick swim. Reviewers find the free time here ideal for a leisurely walk, a coffee, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The opportunity to snorkel or relax on the sand makes this stop well-loved.

Blue Lagoon & Dolphin Spotting

The grand finale is the Blue Lagoon in Drvenik, a popular photo stop and swim spot. Here, you’ll find some reviewers questioning if it’s truly “the” Blue Lagoon, but most agree it’s a lovely, relaxing spot for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews often mention the chance to spot dolphins as a highlight—something that adds a touch of excitement and connection to nature.

Last Cruise & Return

The final leg involves an 80-minute cruise back to Split, giving you one last chance to enjoy the scenery and possibly spot more marine life. Many travelers reflect on how the day felt well-paced, with enough time at each stop to unwind and explore.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides & Crew

Every review praises the crew’s friendliness and professionalism. Guides like Marco and Nana are noted for their humor and helpfulness, explaining the itinerary and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Anja, in particular, received praise for her engaging and involved hosting style, making the journey more personal.

Stunning Views & Water Activities

The panoramic views of islands and the opportunity for water activities—stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling—are what make this trip memorable. Guests especially enjoy the chance to take photos of the pristine waters and rocky coastlines, often describing the scenery as breathtaking.

Good Value for Money

Considering the price—$65 per person—the trip offers excellent value. Included are the cruise, lunch, drinks, and water gear, plus the chance to see dolphins and explore multiple islands in one day. Several reviewers have mentioned that similar experiences elsewhere cost more and offer less.

Authentic Experiences

The stops at local villages like Maslinica let you glimpse authentic Croatian life, away from tourist traps. The food and drinks on board also reflect local flavors, making the experience more genuine than a simple sightseeing tour.

Practical Tips for Travelers

What to Bring

Pack essentials like swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a sun hat. Water shoes are recommended for rocky beaches, and a light jacket or warm clothing might be useful for the boat ride’s breeze. Reviewers noted that bringing your own water shoes can be helpful since some beaches are rocky.

Lunch Choices & Payment

You’ll select your lunch option at the meeting point—choices include beef, tuna, or vegetarian. The included drinks make the meal more enjoyable, and the price covers all this, so no hidden costs are lurking.

Weather & Route Changes

The route can be altered due to weather or sea conditions. While this is beyond the tour operators’ control, most reviews mention that the staff communicate well if changes are needed, and the overall experience remains enjoyable.

Accessibility & Suitability

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s designed for those comfortable with boat travel and outdoor water activities. Children and families tend to enjoy the stops, but old or mobility-challenged travelers should consider this before booking.

Booking & Cancellation

The tour offers a flexible booking policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. It’s a smart choice for those with uncertain plans, especially given the unpredictable nature of weather-dependent excursions.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day on the water without breaking the bank. If you love scenic boat rides, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming villages, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups who enjoy active outdoor experiences but appreciate comfort and good organized logistics.

The included lunch, drinks, and water gear add significant value, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to maximize their time and money. The friendly guides and the chance to spot dolphins ensure the trip feels personal and engaging.

However, those seeking a more leisurely or accessible experience might want to consider their mobility or weather preferences, as the route can change, and some areas are rocky or challenging for wheelchairs.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
For $65, you get the cruise, a choice of onboard lunch (beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger with fries), drinks (wine, juice, water), snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and the services of an English-speaking captain and crew.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is Obala Lazareta 1 at Split Port, where you’ll look for the Gray Line sign and staff in branded shirts.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 8.5 hours, including multiple stops, cruising, and free time at each location.

Can I bring my own water shoes or snorkel gear?
While provided gear is available, bringing your own water shoes might be helpful, especially for rocky beaches. Snorkeling goggles are included, but you can also bring your own if preferred.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, especially since it includes water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. However, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The route may be adjusted due to bad weather or rough seas. The crew will communicate any changes, and most reviews suggest that the experience remains enjoyable despite potential route adjustments.

The Blue Lagoon & Islands Day Cruise from Split offers a well-balanced mix of water fun, scenic views, and cultural exploration—all at an attractive price point. The friendly guides, excellent value with included meals and gear, and multiple stops for swimming and sightseeing make it a fantastic choice for those wanting a lively, active day on Croatia’s stunning coast. If you’re eager to enjoy Croatia from the deck of a boat, with plenty of opportunities to relax and explore, this tour is undoubtedly worth considering.