Split: Blue Lagoon and 3 Island Cruise with Food and Drinks

If you’re dreaming of a full day exploring Croatia’s stunning coast and waters, a boat tour like this promises a mix of picture-perfect scenery, fun swimming spots, and tasty local bites. This particular cruise—running around 9 hours—takes you from Split to some of the most iconic spots in the area: the Blue Lagoon, the shipwreck near Olta Island, and the beaches of Drvenik and Iovo, all packed with opportunities to relax, snorkel, and soak up the views.

What we love about this experience is the variety of stops—each one offering something uniquely beautiful—plus the fact that the crew is praised for their friendliness and organization. That said, it’s a busy day, with quite a few people onboard, so if you’re seeking peace and quiet, it’s worth considering how crowded it might be, especially at the popular sites like the shipwreck.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love water-based activities, enjoy meeting new people, and don’t mind a lively atmosphere. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day of exploring Croatia’s islands with excellent food and friendly guides, this could be a fantastic choice—just be prepared for a full day of fun.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat with good amenities including WiFi, sunbeds, and snorkeling equipment.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling opportunities with a shipwreck dive and crystal-clear Blue Lagoon.
• Tasty locally sourced lunch included, with options like beef, tuna, or veggie burgers.
• Friendly and attentive crew known for making guests feel welcomed.
• A busy but well-organized itinerary—ideal for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.
• Great value for money considering the food, drinks, and multiple stops packed into the day.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Out

Starting Point and Welcome

Your day kicks off in Split, where you meet your crew in front of stand 11 at the Riva promenade. From here, you’re welcomed onboard with a breakfast of donuts and a refreshing drink—an energizer for the day ahead. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with plenty of space and good facilities, making the early start easier.

Olta Island and the Shipwreck

Your first stop is Olta Island, where the highlight is swimming through the Neujam shipwreck. According to reviews, this spot offers a truly unique experience—swimming through an abandoned vessel amid an array of aquatic life. Several reviewers noted that this is a popular spot, which can sometimes mean crowded conditions, making it less relaxing but still impressive for the novelty. One reviewer mentioned that the shipwreck was “a bit overrated” due to the crowds, so if tranquility is your aim, arriving early might help.

The Blue Lagoon in Drvenik

Next up is the Blue Lagoon, famed for its impossibly clear, turquoise waters. Travelers describe this as the highlight of the trip—”stunning” and “breathtaking” are common descriptions. It’s an ideal spot to swim, float, or just relax on the boat while taking in the view of the vibrant blue waters. The reviews emphasize the water’s clarity and the perfect conditions for swimming, making it a must-see for water lovers.

Lunch and Refreshments

After working up an appetite, lunch is served onboard—a premium meal made from locally sourced ingredients. The options are simple but satisfying: a beef burger, tuna steak burger, or a veggie burger, all served with French fries. Reviewers praised the quality of the food; one described the tuna burger as “delicious,” and many appreciated the generous drinks selection, including water, lemonade, and local wine. Given the price point of around $70, this full meal plus unlimited drinks offers good value, especially considering the all-day entertainment.

Final Stop at Borko Beach Bar on Iovo

The last stop is the charming Borko beach bar on Iovo Island. Here, you can sip on cool drinks while lounging at the beach or walking along the gorgeous cove. Reviewers love this final relaxing scene—some said it was “the best view” of the day—though a few noted that the beach bar can get busy, limiting space for sunbathers. Still, it’s a lovely way to unwind before heading back.

Return Journey

The cruise wraps up with the boat returning to Split in the late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to reflect on a day filled with swimming, scenic views, and good food.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included:
– Breakfast donuts and welcome drink to start the day right.
– A substantial lunch with options catering to different tastes.
– Unlimited drinks, including water, lemonade, and wine—perfect for staying hydrated and enjoying local wine.
– Use of snorkeling gear and sunbeds, making it easy to jump into the water or relax onboard.
– WiFi—useful if you want to share your adventures in real time.
– An English-speaking crew who are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness.

Not Included:
– A deposit for snorkeling equipment (though this is just a small fee).
– Extra lunch—if you’re craving more food, you’ll need to pay separately.
– Luggage storage or special assistance, so if you have mobility concerns or large bags, plan accordingly.

The Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Well-Organized

Many reviewers highlighted how well this tour is run. The guides are often praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and good communication skills—they even help with questions about the stops or the boat. A standout was Mario, who several guests mentioned as being particularly friendly and attentive.

The boat’s layout is generally comfortable, with sunbeds and shaded areas for those who want a break from the sun. WiFi was a nice bonus, though some noted that the boat can feel a bit crowded—about 70 people onboard and only a limited number of sunbeds. Arriving early is recommended if you want a prime spot—some guests found the boat a little slow due to the number of passengers, but most appreciated the overall organization.

Swimming conditions generally receive high praise, and snorkelers appreciated the equipment provided. The shipwreck is considered a unique experience—swimming through an abandoned vessel—though some said it was crowded, which could detract from the serenity. The Blue Lagoon, with its famous clear waters, is often described as the “best part” of the tour.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Food

Guests frequently mentioned how the food exceeded expectations, especially the tuna steak burger, and the drinks kept everyone refreshed. The local staff actively source ingredients, which adds to the feeling of enjoying a genuine Croatian experience.

The Crowd and Atmosphere

The tour’s popularity means it’s quite busy, with reviews emphasizing the lively, social vibe onboard. Many guests enjoyed the camaraderie, music, and shared experiences, but if you prefer quiet, consider this when booking.

The Value and Who It’s Ideal For

At roughly $70, including multiple swimming stops, a hearty lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and WiFi, this tour offers solid value. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a full day of exploring, with the convenience of a well-organized, all-in-one experience. The variety of stops means you’re never bored—each location offers new sights and activities.

This tour suits adventurous water lovers, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting to see the stunning Dalmatian islands without the hassle of planning multiple transport options. It’s also a good fit for travelers who appreciate friendly guides and lively atmospheres.

However, if your priority is tranquility or avoiding large crowds, you might find the busy spots and packed boat a bit overwhelming. Also, those with mobility issues should note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and there’s a deposit required for snorkeling gear.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Lagoon and 3 Island Cruise is a well-loved experience that balances stunning scenery, engaging activities, and tasty local food, all delivered with a friendly, professional crew. It’s clear that many guests find it excellent value—a full day for a reasonable price with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty.

We’d recommend this trip for active travelers eager for variety and socially-minded groups who enjoy shared experiences on the water. For those seeking a lively, well-organized day out with friendly guides and fantastic views, this cruise hits the mark. Just remember to arrive early and be prepared for a bustling, fun-filled adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially for kids who enjoy swimming and being on boats. Just be aware that it’s a full day with lots of water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a waterproof camera. A snack for the afternoon might be a good idea if you get hungry.

Can I buy extra food or drinks onboard?
The provided lunch and unlimited drinks are included, but additional snacks or beverages would need to be purchased separately.

Is the boat crowded?
Yes, with around 70 passengers, it can feel lively and busy, especially at popular stops. Arriving early for a good seat is recommended.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and children should be supervised during swimming and snorkeling.

How long is each stop?
Guests have enough time to swim and snorkel at each location, with stops typically long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tours run regardless of weather conditions, but some activities might be limited in bad weather.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, WiFi is available, so you can share your photos or check in with friends during the trip.

This Croatian island cruise is a lively, scenic, and tasty way to spend a day—perfect if you’re after an authentic, well-organized adventure in Dalmatia.