From Split: Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch

From Split: Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch — A Complete Review

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Croatia’s famous Dalmatian islands, this Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise offers a convenient and well-reviewed way to do just that. With a typical duration of about 8.5 hours and a price tag around $65, it promises a blend of swimming, sightseeing, local flavors, and a dash of summer fun.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the stunning variety of stops—from the lively Blue Lagoon to quaint Maslinica—means you’ll enjoy diverse scenery and atmospheres. Second, the friendly guides and organized schedule tend to make the day flow smoothly, leaving plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Split. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a value-packed day with family-friendly activities, especially those who love a mix of adventure and laid-back seaside charm.

Key Points

• Multiple stops guarantee variety, from Blue Lagoon to small island towns.
• Swim and snorkel options at each location add a fun, refreshing element.
• Guides and crew receive high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness.
• Included lunch and drinks provide good value, with options for beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers.
• Water toys, like paddleboards and goggles, enhance water fun.
• Timing and pacing allow enough time at each destination without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction To The Experience

If you’re looking for a full-day escape into Croatia’s beautiful islands without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple bookings, this cruise could be just what you need. It’s a straightforward, organized way to see some of Dalmatia’s best spots while enjoying the comfort of a good-sized boat and a friendly crew.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances scenic cruising with active swimming stops. From the moment you board at Split’s Obala Lazareta, you’re set for a day filled with sunshine, sea breezes, and coastal charm. The included lunch and drinks help keep you fueled—crucial for a day spent mostly in the water and outdoors.

A potential consideration is that the route and schedule may change depending on weather and guest numbers. As some reviews note, there is a flexibility for safety reasons, which is reassuring but might mean slight variations in your planned stops.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxing yet engaging day at sea, especially families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to see Croatia’s islands without the fuss of independent boat rentals.

What To Expect During Your Day

Starting From Split

The day kicks off early at Obala Lazareta 1 in Split, with check-in starting around 8:30 am (or 9:00 am in April and October). The departure is around 9:00 am—so arriving a bit early helps you settle in and get ready for the adventure ahead. The boat itself is comfortable, with plenty of space to relax, take in the views, or chat with fellow travelers.

The Scenic Cruise and First Stop

The initial 70-minute cruise offers fantastic vistas of Dalmatia’s coastline. Expect gentle sea breezes and the chance to spot marine life, possibly even dolphins. The guide’s commentary helps set the scene, providing context about the islands you’ll see.

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Neujam Bay

The first activity stop is Neujam Bay, about an hour long. This is a prime swimming and snorkeling spot, with clear waters and a lovely beach setting. Several reviews highlight how much they enjoyed the chance to dive into the water and see underwater life, including a shipwreck during some trips. According to feedback, there’s ample time here—around an hour—to swim, relax, and take photos.

Second Cruise and Maslinica

After leaving Neujam, you’ll enjoy another hour of cruising to Maslinica, a tiny but charming village on the island of Šolta. The stop here is notably longer—about 110 minutes—giving you time to explore the small town, enjoy a coffee or ice cream, or simply soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Many reviewers appreciated the local flavor of Maslinica, often describing it as a quintessential Dalmatian village with handmade jewelry stores and stunning seaside views.

Watersports and Relaxation

At each stop, swimming and snorkeling are the main attractions. The availability of goggles, inflatables, and paddleboards enhances water fun, according to guest feedback. One reviewer mentioned that they particularly enjoyed the doughnuts for breakfast and the generous lunch, which included a choice of beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger accompanied by French fries and wine.

Blue Lagoon (Drvenik)

The final major stop is the Blue Lagoon at Drvenik—a favorite for many travelers thanks to its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. The 1.5-hour window here gives plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and relax. Some reviews mentioned that it’s a perfect spot for taking photos or simply lounging on the boat deck while soaking up the sun.

Return Cruise and Final Views

The last cruise segment lasts about 80 minutes, providing a leisurely journey back to Split. Many reviews praise the friendly guides, particularly highlighting their enthusiasm and attentiveness, which make the entire trip feel personal and well-organized.

The Food and Water Experience

The lunch included on board is more than just a side note; it’s a highlight for many travelers. For around $65, you get a tasty burger (beef, tuna, or vegetarian), French fries, and a complimentary glass of wine. Reviewers often mention the generous portion sizes and the good quality of the meal. Some felt that soft drink options could be more varied, but overall, it’s a fair value considering the full day and multiple stops.

Water, juice, and wine are unlimited during the cruise, according to reviews, which helps keep everyone well-hydrated while enjoying the sun and water activities.

Water Toys and Extras

The availability of stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and goggles is a real bonus. Guests frequently mention how these additions amplify the fun, whether for relaxing on a float or exploring underwater life. One guest noted that using goggles to see the shipwreck was an “amazing experience,” showing how these small details elevate the trip.

The Experience and Reviews

Based on over 2,200 reviews, the overall rating is 4.3 out of 5, with many travelers praising the friendly guides (especially Nana, Marco, and Anja) for their professionalism and positive energy. Reviewers often mention how ample time at each stop allows for genuine relaxation and enjoyment.

Some common praises include:

• Beautiful locations and clear waters
• Good value for money, especially considering the included food and drinks
• Knowledgeable, friendly guides making everyone feel welcome
• Water toys that add a playful touch

A few minor criticisms include the lukewarm food at times and the shipwreck not always visible due to weather or busy conditions. One review noted that they wished swimming could happen before lunch since waiting for the meal sometimes delayed water fun.

Practical Details

The tour departs from Split Port, with check-in starting at 8:30 am (or 9:00 am in certain months). You’ll want to arrive at least 30 minutes early to find the Gray Line team and get settled. The duration of 8.5 hours includes cruising, stops, and onboard meals, making it an efficient way to see multiple islands in one day.

Pricing is around $65 per person, which is quite reasonable given the included meals, water toys, and multiple scenic stops. Remember, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the port.

The guided commentary and friendly crew help ensure the experience is smooth, and the flexible route adapts to weather conditions if needed. Be sure to bring sun protection, water shoes, swimwear, and a towel for maximum comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, fun-filled day exploring Croatia’s islands with minimal planning. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends who enjoy swimming, scenic views, and local flavors. It also offers a good balance of organized activity and free time at each destination, appealing to those who like a bit of adventure without feeling rushed.

If you’re seeking intimate, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this might not be your best choice, as it caters to larger groups. However, if you’re after value, friendly guides, and beautiful water, this cruise hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour departs from Split Port, so you’ll need to make your way there yourself.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat), swimwear, a towel, water shoes, and warm clothing for the boat between stops.

Can I choose my lunch?
Yes, you’ll select your preferred burger (beef, tuna, or vegetarian) at the meeting point.

How long is the stop at each location?
Most stops last between 1 to 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to swim, take photos, or explore.

Are water toys included?
Yes, paddleboards, inflatables, and goggles are provided for water fun.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity provider may change the route or cancel the tour for safety reasons, especially in rough seas or bad weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the trip, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise from Split offers a wonderful way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline without the stress of independent boat hire. It combines scenic cruising, swimming, and local flavor in a well-organized day that tends to earn high marks for guides, value, and scenery. The inclusion of lunch and water toys enhances the experience, making it good value for the price.

While not perfect—some may wish for softer food or longer at certain spots—the overall consensus is that it’s a fun, relaxing, and visually beautiful day out. It’s especially suited for those who love sea life, scenic views, and friendly guides making the experience memorable.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore some of Croatia’s most beloved islands and get a taste of Dalmatian water life, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: