Split: Blue Lagoon,3 Islands, Big Slide, Mediterranean lunch

Taking a day to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast via boat is a fantastic way to combine relaxation, adventure, and authentic local flavors. This 8-hour cruise from Split offers a carefully curated journey through some of the most beautiful spots in the area, including the iconic Blue Lagoon, three diverse islands, and a taste of Dalmatian cuisine. The experience is designed to balance exhilarating activities with peaceful moments soaking up scenery, all aboard a comfortable vessel that caters well to groups of all kinds.

What really makes this tour stand out is the variety of stops—each offering its own unique charm. From the lively beach bar on Iovo Island to the tranquil Maslinica Town on Olta, you’re assured plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and simply enjoy the stunning waters. Plus, the inclusion of a waterslide and the chance to visit a shipwreck for marine life viewing add exciting touches that keep the day lively. And, of course, the traditional Mediterranean lunch with grilled fish, meat, or vegetables promises a hearty, flavorful break.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s success hinges on the weather, as poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Also, the pace can feel a bit tight for those wanting more leisure time at each stop. Still, if you’re after a full, activity-packed day with plenty of highlights, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s particularly well-suited for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation on Croatia’s gorgeous coast.

Key Points

• Diverse stops ensure a mix of lively spots and peaceful scenery
• Well-organized itinerary maximizes your time swimming, sightseeing, and eating
• Activities like watersliding and shipwreck snorkeling add a fun, active element
• Authentic Dalmatian lunch offers hearty, locally made food in traditional style
• Friendly guides and crew help make the experience enjoyable and smooth
• Good value at $100 with inclusive food, drinks, and activities

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

This cruise is designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s coastal magic without feeling rushed. It starts at the Riva promenade in Split, where you’ll hop aboard a comfortable vessel that’s often described as a sturdy, clean, ex-military-style boat. This choice of transportation is smart—it’s durable, stable, and spacious enough for groups, with shaded areas and sundecks to chill during the cruise segments.

First Stop: Iovo Island and Borko Beach Bar

Your journey kicks off with a roughly 75-minute cruise. Once on Iovo Island, the highlight is the beach bar Borko, a simple but charming spot just steps from the water. Here, you can settle into a relaxed vibe, sip on refreshing drinks, and take in the beautiful cove views. Reviewers mention that the crew is friendly and helpful, creating a welcoming atmosphere early on. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a swim and snorkel in the clear waters before lunch.

Lunch at the beach restaurant is a focal point of the trip. The menu features grilled fish, vegetables, or meat—prepared in classic Dalmatian style. Reviewers comment on the quality of the food; one even notes that the fish was “really good” and the lunch was “perfectly fine” considering the trip’s price. The setting makes for a delightful break, especially after a swim.

Second Stop: The Blue Lagoon near Drvenik Island

After lunch, the cruise heads to the Blue Lagoon, famous for its strikingly clear, turquoise waters. This spot is an Instagram favorite, and for good reason. The water’s transparency often impresses first-timers, providing perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling. One reviewer highlights the Blue Lagoon’s beauty as “unforgettable,” and describes the water as “crystal-clear.”

Adding to the fun, a waterslide is set up for guests to enjoy some splashy excitement. Multiple reviews mention the slide as a hit—kids and adults alike love the thrill of sliding into those inviting waters. The lagoon also offers the chance to view marine life, with some guests mentioning snorkel trips to see fish and even shipwrecks.

Final Stop: Olta and Maslinica Town

The last main stop is on Olta Island, where you’ll get a calmer, more relaxed experience. The charming Maslinica Town offers a peaceful end to your day, with time for photos, a quick swim, or simply soaking in the scenery. Guests often praise the guides for pointing out interesting sights and making the visit enjoyable, especially families with children.

The cruise then returns to Split after about 100 minutes of scenic sailing, giving you one final chance to take in the views or chat with fellow travelers while enjoying some music and drinks on board.

The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides and crew are a significant part of what makes this tour memorable. Reviewers mention friendly, communicative staff who are helpful, funny, and attentive—making sure everyone is comfortable and informed. The boat is described as clean, with plenty of shaded and sunbathing spots, providing comfort regardless of the weather.

Activities like snorkeling and viewing the shipwreck are highlights for many, especially given the clarity of the water. The waterslide gets consistent praise, with guests saying it adds a fun, playful element to the trip. The inclusion of free photos is a nice touch, helping travelers capture the fun without extra cost.

The Mediterranean-style lunch is another highlight. Several reviewers note that the food was “delicious,” with a good variety of grilled options and regional flavors. The drinks, including unlimited juice and water, keep everyone hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.

Timing and Group Size

The tour runs for about 8 hours, starting in the morning and wrapping up by late afternoon. The itinerary is tightly scheduled, with specific stop durations—about 2 hours on Iovo, 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon, and an hour on Olta. While this means plenty of activities, some reviewers mention that the wait times—especially for lunch—can be a little long, so packing some snacks might be wise if you get hungry or impatient.

Group sizes seem to be manageable, and the guided nature of the tour means you’re not left to navigate alone. The tour is conducted in English, making communication straightforward.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $100 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the inclusions: lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, a waterslide, and photos. Many reviews point out that the experience is “worth every penny.” The variety of spots covered, combined with the quality of food and the friendly crew, balances the cost nicely.

For those who love a mix of water activities, scenic views, and good food, this tour hits the sweet spot. The only caveats are the weather dependency—if it’s stormy, the trip might be canceled or altered—and the pace, which can be busy. But for sunny days, it’s a pretty reliable way to see a snapshot of Dalmatia’s coastal beauty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to travelers looking for a full-day, active, and social adventure. Families with kids will appreciate the safe, fun environment and the kid-friendly waterslide. Couples and friends can enjoy the lively atmosphere, swimming, and scenic stops. It’s also a good choice for those new to Croatia or boat trips, as the guides are friendly and informative, making the experience comfortable and engaging.

If you prefer longer, more relaxed days with ample time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you want a well-organized, enjoyable day with a good mix of activities and local flavor, this cruise could be perfect.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and snacks—the latter in case you want extra energy during busy stops.
• Arrive early at the meeting point for smooth boarding.
• Consider packing a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the stunning scenery and underwater moments.
• If you want to avoid long waits, arrive promptly for lunch and activities.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip—poor weather could mean cancellations or rescheduling.
• Alcoholic drinks aren’t included, so bring your own if you’d like to enjoy a glass of local wine or beer (note that some reviews praise the good wine selection).

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the boat cruise, a traditional Mediterranean lunch (grilled fish, meat, or vegetables), unlimited juice and water, snorkeling gear, a waterslide, free photos, and access to the ship’s hydraulic jump ramp.

How long are the stops at each island?
You’ll spend roughly 2 hours on Iovo Island, 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon, and 1 hour on Olta, with the cruise between locations taking additional time.

Is the lunch suitable for all dietary preferences?
The lunch primarily features grilled fish, vegetables, or meat prepared in Dalmatian style. Special dietary needs aren’t explicitly mentioned, so it’s best to inquire beforehand if you have specific restrictions.

Will I get enough time to swim and snorkel?
Yes. You’ll have plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and explore marine life at each stop, especially at the Blue Lagoon, which is known for its crystal-clear waters.

What should I wear and bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and perhaps some snacks. The boat has shaded areas, but bringing a hat and sunglasses is also recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Availability depends on the season and demand. It’s advisable to reserve in advance, but flexible options like “reserve now & pay later” are available.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from Split offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, fun activities, and authentic Croatian flavors. The highlights—crystal waters at Blue Lagoon, the waterslide, and a hearty Dalmatian lunch—combine to create a memorable day for everyone. The knowledgeable guides, friendly crew, and well-planned itinerary make it a good value choice for travelers eager to experience Dalmatia’s coast without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

While the schedule is tightly packed, it’s ideal for those wanting to see the highlights in a single day and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere. Families, groups, and adventurous travelers will find plenty to love here.

Whether you’re after picture-perfect scenery, fun in the water, or simply a relaxing day on the sea, this tour ticks many boxes—and leaves you with plenty of stories (and photos) to take home.