From Trogir & Vinie: Vela Rina, Maslinica & Blue Lagoon

A Complete Look at the Trogir & Vinie: Vela Rina, Maslinica & Blue Lagoon Tour

If you’re seeking a day filled with scenic boat rides, swimming in clear waters, and discovering some of Croatia’s most charming spots, this tour from Trogir or Vinie offers just that. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines stunning scenery, authentic local towns, and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the sea. What makes this particular trip stand out is the balance of picturesque stops—like the famous Blue Lagoon—and cultural exploration in Maslinica, topped with a delicious onboard meal.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it manages the day’s pace—there’s enough time at each stop to soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The friendly guides, who are fluent in Croatian and English, also add a layer of authenticity and practical knowledge, which enhances the experience. However, a potential consideration for travelers is the need to be prepared for a 10-15 minute walk to reach Bay Vela Rina on Drvenik Mali, which could be a challenge for those with mobility issues.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation—perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast in a relaxed setting. With a competitive price point of $70 per person, the value for what you get—multiple stops, lunch, and swimming—is quite favorable for a full-day excursion.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride with multiple stops along the Dalmatian coast offering stunning views.
• Visit to Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Veli, renowned for its crystal-clear waters.
• Cultural exploration in Maslinica, including a historic castle and charming town ambiance.
• Included lunch and swimming opportunities provide great value and comfort.
• Knowledgeable crew enhances the experience, sharing insights and making everyone feel welcome.
• Flexible and well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure time.

Discovering the Dalmatian Coast: What to Expect

This boat trip promises a full day of exploring some of Croatia’s most beautiful and authentic spots. Starting from either Trogir or Vinie, you’ll journey to the stunning Drvenik Mali Island, a quiet haven where Vela Rina Bay becomes your first stop. The boat departs early—around 8:45 AM from Trogir and 10 AM from Vinie—so early risers will appreciate the chance to maximize the day.

The highlight here is the roughly 10-15 minute walk to Vela Rina, a bay that’s praised for its incredibly clear waters. Once you arrive, you’re free to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach. Reviewers love the unspoiled beauty of the waters (“the beaches are magnificent, and the water is crystal clear,” noted one guest). After an hour, the crew serves a delicious lunch onboard—focusing on fresh fish, meat, or vegetarian options—adding a culinary highlight to the trip.

Next, your boat heads toward Maslinica on the island of Olt, a picturesque town with a colorful harbor and historic castle. You’ll have about an hour and a half here, giving enough time to explore, take photos, or buy a souvenir. The Martinis-Marchi castle, built in the early 18th century, is a key highlight and offers a glimpse into local history. A review said, “the crew took great care to serve us unlimited drinks and even let us try a typical local alcohol,” which adds a fun, authentic touch.

The final stop is the Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Veli, considered one of the most beautiful bays in the area. You’ll spend another hour here swimming and jumping from the boat, with plenty of time to relax before heading back. The reviews highlight this as a favorite spot, describing the water as “crystal clear” and perfect for jumping in or taking photos.

The Value of the Experience

At $70 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions. The boat ride itself provides a smooth, comfortable experience, and the multiple stops mean you’re never just sitting around. The lunch is hearty and customizable, catering to different dietary preferences, which adds to the overall value.

The guides and crew are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—one reviewer said, “the crew was very friendly and we even got a ‘VIP’ spot at the front of the boat,” which makes for an enjoyable ride. The flexibility of the itinerary, allowing free time for swimming, exploring, or just soaking up the sun, is also appreciated.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: Depart early, around 8:45 AM from Trogir or 10 AM from Vinie, to make the most of your day.
• What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, water, snacks, and sunscreen. A walk to Vela Rina requires comfortable shoes.
• Duration: Expect to return around 5 PM from Trogir and 6 PM from Vinie, perfect for a full day out.
• Group size: Not specified, but the reviews suggest that the crew manages the group well, making the experience feel intimate and personal.
• Cost: At $70, including lunch, visits, and swimming, this is budget-friendly compared to similar tours, especially considering the scenic stops.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Many reviews mention the friendly, attentive crew, who give the experience a more personal touch. The local guide’s insights about the history of Maslinica and the stories shared about the Blue Lagoon make the trip more than just sightseeing—it’s about feeling connected to the spot. The local alcohol tasting and the availability of coffee next to Vela Rina’s beach add to the authentic feel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Croatia’s coast. It’s perfect for travelers craving scenic swimming spots, charming towns, and a taste of local culture without feeling rushed. Families with children, couples, or solo explorers will find plenty to enjoy, especially given the flexible schedule and friendly crew.

If you’re looking for a tour that combines beautiful scenery, cultural highlights, and good value, then this outing ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a mix of active and leisure moments during their travels.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Trogir and Vinie offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration. The highlight stops—the Blue Lagoon and Maslinica—are authentic and picturesque, providing beautiful photo opportunities and memorable experiences. The onboard lunch, friendly guides, and scenic stops make this trip a great value for a day on Croatia’s coast.

While the walk to Vela Rina might be a consideration for some, the overall experience compensates with stunning views and relaxing vibe. Whether you’re after a peaceful day at sea or a chance to explore charming Croatian islands, this tour delivers on both fronts.

In summary, if you’re after a authentic, scenic, and fun day out in Dalmatia with a knowledgeable crew and a flexible itinerary, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
From Trogir, the tour departs at 8:45 AM; from Vinie, it starts at 10 AM. It’s best to arrive 15 minutes early.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch is included in the price, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian.

How long is the boat ride?
The total tour lasts until around 5 PM from Trogir and 6 PM from Vinie, including all stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Comfortable shoes are recommended for Vela Rina.

Are there free time opportunities?
Yes, at each stop, you have free time to swim, explore, or relax. Vela Rina and Blue Lagoon are perfect for swimming and jumping from the boat.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, given the relaxed pace and family-friendly stops, but consider the walk to Vela Rina for young children.

What’s the group size?
While not specified, reviews indicate the crew manages the group well, making it a comfortable experience.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the activity starts at designated meeting points, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Is the tour multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Croatian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Croatian boat tour aligns with your travel style. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural sights, and friendly service, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Dalmatian coast adventure.