Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch from Split

Exploring the Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise from Split: A Practical, Authentic Review

If you’re dreaming of a day spent basking in the sun, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring charming Dalmatian villages, the Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise from Split promises just that. This full-day adventure offers a well-balanced mix of scenic water views, cultural stops, and leisure time — all for a reasonable price of around $66 per person.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its full island itinerary, giving you a taste of Croatia’s diverse maritime landscape in just one day. Plus, the lunch and drinks included add excellent value, making it perfect for those who want a fuss-free experience.

However, be aware that the tour can be affected by weather, and some reviews mention issues with timing and overbooking. Still, for travelers seeking an active, scenic day out with knowledgeable guides, this cruise is worth considering.

Key Points

• Full-day itinerary with visits to three islands, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the region.
• Swim and snorkel at the Blue Lagoon, with multiple stops for water activities.
• Authentic Dalmatian villages like Maslinica provide cultural and relaxed exploration.
• Onboard lunch with wine, plus extras like paddleboards, inflatables, and snorkel gear.
• Flexible options for dietary preferences and plenty of water, soda, and juice throughout the day.
• Variable reviews, highlighting excellent guides and views but also some concerns about timing and weather.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off early from Split Port at 8:30 am, with a strict departure time of 9:00 am. It’s crucial to arrive on time — we’ve seen reviews mentioning delays, so arriving a bit early ensures you won’t miss the boat. The meeting point at Obala Lazareta is convenient for public transportation, and the boat itself accommodates up to 130 travelers, so expect a reasonably lively atmosphere but enough space to relax.

Stop 1: Necujam on Solta Island

Your first stop is Necujam, a small area on Solta Island. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the water. Many reviewers appreciated this quiet spot, with one saying, “The shipwreck was neat and right near the surface, so you can see it well.” This suggests good visibility for snorkelers and non-swimmers alike, thanks to the protected bay.

Some travelers noted that the shipwreck is close enough to see from the surface, making it accessible even for freshwater snorkelers or those just dipping their toes in. Costs are minimal here, as the entry is free, and many guests loved the chance to relax in calm waters before moving on.

Stop 2: Maslinica Village

Next, the boat heads to Maslinica, a quaint Dalmatian village on Solta Island. The stop lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to stroll, grab a coffee, or dip into the clear water near the dock. Several reviews highlight this stop as a genuine, authentic experience, with suggestions to explore the small church or indulge in ice cream and local snacks.

One guest mentioned, “There was a very small church which was closed in 400 meters approximately from the boat docking,” but still enjoyed the relaxed vibe and small shops. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs, soak in the peaceful scenery, and see local life up close.

Stop 3: Blue Lagoon / Krknjasi Bay

The Blue Lagoon is the star of the show. This iconic turquoise bay is famed for its clear waters and vibrant underwater life. You’ll have around one hour here to swim, snorkel, and relax. The shallow waters and calm environment make it suitable for non-swimmers or those with limited water confidence.

Reviews praise the Blue Lagoon as “a great place to enjoy the water,” noting that it gets busy with other boats arriving later in the day. Still, many guests enjoy the chance to see fish and explore the underwater landscape — if you rent snorkel gear (for an additional fee), you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see some marine life.

Lunch is served on the boat around 1:00 pm — a tasty burger choice (beef, tuna, or vegetarian) accompanied by fries. The inclusion of wine, soda, and water throughout the day adds a relaxed, festival-like vibe. Guests have commented positively on the quality of the meal, with one reviewer noting, “The burgers were decent, especially the sauce they used.”

Additional Water Fun and Entertainment

Beyond swimming, the tour offers stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, goggles, and paddle noodles. Many reviewers appreciated these extras, especially Nana, the guide, who was praised for her friendly and informative attitude. With the boat being spacious, even non-swimmers can enjoy floating or relaxing on a donut-shaped tube.

Some reviewers pointed out that the snorkel equipment is available for a €10 deposit, meaning you might want to bring some cash if you’re eager to explore underwater. The unlimited drinks on board, including wine from 1 pm, make the day more leisurely, and nobody seems to complain about the quality of the refreshments.

The Island Villages and Local Charm

The stops at smaller villages like Maslinica allow for authentic, low-key exploration. Many guests enjoyed walking around, enjoying the local shops, or sitting in cafes. One review notes, “The village is full of attractions and a lovely place to get a quick gelato.” It’s this relaxed pace that makes the tour appealing — no rush, just time to soak in the scenery and local flavor.

The Pros and Cons: What to Keep in Mind

Advantages

• Stunning views and multiple opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Knowledgeable guides like Nana, who keep the group informed and entertained.
• Good value for money — the cost includes meals, drinks, and water sports gear.
• Relaxed, flexible stops in charming villages and natural spots.
• Comfortable vessel with enough space, offering a mix of sun and shade.

Drawbacks

• The timing can be tight; some guests have experienced delays or rushed stops.
• Weather dependency — bad weather might lead to route changes or cancellations, which can affect your plans.
• Some reviews mention overcrowding and the boat feeling congested.
• The snorkeling gear fee may surprise some; it’s not included in the base price.
• Occasional reports of overbooking issues leading to transfers between boats, which can be inconvenient.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who love a blend of water-based activities and cultural sightseeing. If you’re looking for a day where you can chill on deck with a drink in hand, explore small villages, and swim in famous spots like the Blue Lagoon, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s particularly suited for those who don’t require high-end luxury but appreciate an authentic, fun-filled day at sea.

It’s also a good choice if you value guides who are friendly and informative, and if you want a cost-effective way to visit multiple islands without the hassle of planning transport yourself.

However, if you’re very particular about precise timing, or if weather conditions are a concern, you might want to consider weather flexibility or alternative options. Non-swimmers and families with small children will find plenty of safe, shallow water spots to enjoy.

The Sum Up

This Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise from Split offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and water fun. The value for money is evident — from the included lunch and drinks to the availability of water sports gear, you’ll likely find this trip a worthwhile splurge for a memorable Croatian experience.

The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon, with its inviting turquoise waters, complemented by stops at authentic Dalmatian villages. The guide, Nana, often receives praise for her friendly attitude and helpful tips, elevating the experience further.

While weather and timing issues have been noted, most travelers leave feeling they’ve gained a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal wonders. This tour suits those who want a lively, scenic, and relaxed day out, especially if you’re eager to combine water activities with cultural exploration.

If you’re after a fun, social day with good food, beautiful views, and friendly hosts, this cruise is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch (beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger with fries), unlimited water, soda, and wine from 1 pm. You also get water sports gear like paddleboards, inflatables, and goggles, with snorkel masks available for a €10 deposit.

What are the stops on this cruise?
You’ll visit Necujam on Solta Island for swimming/snorkeling, the village of Maslinica for a relaxed cultural stop, and the Blue Lagoon, famous for its turquoise waters, for swimming and snorkeling.

How long is each stop?
Necujam offers about 1 hour for water activities, Maslinica allows for 1 hour 30 minutes of exploration, and the Blue Lagoon provides roughly 1 hour to enjoy the water.

What should I bring for the water activities?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash if you want to rent snorkel gear (€10 deposit). If you prefer specific equipment, check if you want to rent your own.

Are the guides helpful?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Nana for their friendly approach and helpful information, making the experience more enjoyable.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Absolutely. Many stops are shallow, and water inflatables, noodles, and floatation devices make it easy for non-swimmers to relax and enjoy the water.

What happens in bad weather?
The operator holds the right to change the route or cancel the tour for safety reasons. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Overall, this tour provides a lively, scenic, and culturally rich day out in Croatia’s stunning coastal waters. Perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the islands, with good food, friendly hosts, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.