Thinking about exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast? Our review of the Catamaran Cruise from Split to Bra, Bol, and Golden Horn Beach offers a detailed look at one of the most popular and highly-rated ways to enjoy this beautiful region. This tour combines scenic sailing, island hopping, and plenty of swimming, all wrapped up with delicious food and drinks that won’t break the bank.
What we love about this experience are the breathtaking views of the Dalmatian coastline and the value-packed all-inclusive drinks and food. These features make the day both relaxing and indulgent. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the long bus transfer—you’ll spend about 90 minutes in transit, which might be a bit much for those eager to maximize their time on the water.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of sun, sea, and scenery without the hassle of planning. It suits those who enjoy boat trips, swimming in clear waters, and exploring charming villages at a relaxed pace. If you’re after an authentic Croatian experience with lively yet laid-back vibes, this tour might just be perfect.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery of the Dalmatian coast from the deck of a spacious catamaran
- All-inclusive drinks and food for a stress-free day of indulgence
- Balanced itinerary of sightseeing, swimming, and free time at Bol and Golden Horn
- Knowledgeable guides who add insight and help you make the most of each stop
- Multiple swimming opportunities in hidden bays and beaches
- Great value for a full day of activity, transport, and refreshments
An Authentic Day on the Water
We start with the convenience of meeting at Obala Lazaret 1, right in Split, where the Summer Blues catamaran awaits. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with shaded and sunny spots—ideal for those who prefer a mix of sun and shade. From the outset, the crew’s friendly attitude and clear organization set a welcoming tone. The check-in process is smooth, with skip-the-line entry so you can start relaxing promptly.
The cruise begins with a lively one-hour sail along the Dalmatian coast, giving you panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and shimmering sea. You’ll be offered a welcome drink, and the atmosphere is relaxed, often with music that enhances the experience. As many reviews point out, the crew’s friendly nature and informative commentary make the journey engaging without feeling rushed.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Split.
Exploring Bra and Its Highlights
Once anchored at Bra Island, a bus tour takes you from Supetar to Bol on the southern coast—a quick 15-minute drive that brings you to the heart of the island. The guided tour covers key sights, with a highlight being the stop at Vidova Gora, the island’s highest point. Here, the vistas are truly spectacular, offering sweeping views over the island, the sea, and the famous Golden Horn Beach.
Several reviews praise this stop for its “breathtaking views” and “really good” guided commentary. You’ll get about 15 minutes here, enough time to snap photos and absorb the scenery. The Golden Horn Beach itself offers two hours of free time, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing on the sand. Many mention that the water here is incredibly clear, making for excellent swimming and snorkeling.
Bol town is then explored on foot, with about 45 minutes to wander through its charming streets, browse local shops, or grab a quick drink. The leisurely pace allows you to soak up the island’s laid-back vibe before reboarding the catamaran.
The Best of the Sea and Sun
Back aboard, the cruise along the coast reveals more stunning views of vineyards, cliffs, and small coves. The highlight is the lunch served onboard—a generous chicken salad accompanied by fresh fruit and cake. Several reviews note that the food is surprisingly good and plentiful, especially given the all-inclusive nature of the day.
The bar remains open with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks until the end of the trip, a big plus for those who love to indulge while sailing. The atmosphere is lively, with dance music and friendly chatter, making the boat feel more like a floating party than just a tour.
Later, the boat drops anchor at the natural bay of Luice, a protected spot perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The calm waters, coupled with the scenic surroundings, turn this into one of the trip’s most memorable moments. As one reviewer puts it, the water is “paradise,” and the chance to jump into the sea multiple times keeps everyone happily occupied.
On the return journey, you’ll visit another secret bay, offering a final swim before heading back to Split at sunset. You’ll find the last hours are spent relaxing, enjoying fresh fruit and cakes, and dancing to the music.
Practical Details and What to Expect
The day lasts about 10 hours, starting around mid-morning, with times varying based on availability. The small group size—limited to 10 participants—enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible. The tours are conducted in English, with live guides providing commentary and answering questions, adding depth to your understanding of the region.
The trip is priced for great value when considering everything included: unlimited drinks, a full meal, transfers, and guided sightseeing. The only potential downside is the bus transfers, which some find lengthy. One review mentions that the bus ride takes about 90 minutes, and the air conditioning was broken, making the journey less comfortable. However, most agree the scenery during the drive is worth it.
The boat is not suitable for wheelchair users, and pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals can be pre-ordered—an added convenience for those with dietary restrictions.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy This Tour Works and Who It’s For
This trip is a perfect choice for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging day at sea, with plenty of opportunities to swim in stunning waters and see key sights without the hassle of planning every detail. The mix of guided tours, free time, and onboard relaxation makes it appealing for those who like a balance of activity and leisure.
From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the knowledgeable guides, spectacular views, and generous drinks and food really elevate the experience. Many travelers comment that this was their favorite day in Croatia, thanks to the combination of scenic beauty and friendly crew.
However, those who prefer shorter transfers or are sensitive to bus rides may want to weigh the 90-minute journey against the overall enjoyment. If you’re traveling with kids or have mobility issues, this might require some extra planning.
The Sum Up
For those seeking a fun and scenic day on the water with a comfortable boat, good food, and plenty of swimming opportunities, this catamaran tour from Split ticks all the boxes. It balances the natural beauty of Bra and Bol with a lively, social atmosphere onboard.
It’s especially suited for travelers eager to enjoy Croatia’s coastal charm without the stress of organizing multiple activities. The combination of guided sightseeing, free time at beaches, and ample refreshments makes it excellent value for a full-day adventure.
If you love boats, beautiful scenery, and relaxed days in the sun, this tour deserves a spot on your Croatia itinerary. Expect stunning vistas, warm crew, and enough time for swimming in turquoise waters—what more could you ask for?
FAQs
How long is the boat trip?
The total tour lasts about 10 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, swimming, and sailing.
Are drinks and food included?
Yes, the tour offers all-inclusive drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—as well as a meal of chicken salad, fruit, and cake.
Is there free time at the beaches?
Yes, there are about 2 hours at Golden Horn Beach and additional time at other stops to swim, sunbathe, and explore.
What if I am vegetarian or have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals are available if pre-ordered, making it accessible for various dietary needs.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.
Is this trip suitable for children?
Children aged 0-3 can join for free, and those aged 4-14 get a 50% discount. However, the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users and pets are not permitted.
This comprehensive tour offers a lovely slice of Dalmatian life—sun, sea, and good company—making it a solid choice for your Croatian coastal adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Sailing Experiences in Split
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