Split: All inclusive Bra & olta Island Swimming Cruise

Split: All-Inclusive Bra & Olta Island Swimming Cruise – A Detailed Review

If you’re considering a day on the water in Croatia, this all-inclusive boat cruise from Split offers a blend of stunning scenery, relaxing swimming spots, and local island charm. It’s a popular choice among travelers seeking a straightforward yet enriching experience, boasting an impressive 4.8-star rating from 180 reviews.

What we love about this trip is how it combines beautiful island scenery with comfortable amenities; the cruise ships with a spacious deck, open bar, and tasty food, making it ideal for those who want to relax without fuss. Plus, the two island stops—Bra and Olta—provide a genuine taste of local life away from tourist crowds, adding an authentic flavor to your day.

A potential consideration is the timing and duration—at 7 hours, it’s a full day but not overly long. It’s perfect if you’re eager to pack in a variety of experiences without feeling rushed.

This tour is best suited for families, couples, or groups looking for a leisurely day with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and good food. If you dislike boat travel or aren’t comfortable with swimming in deep water, you might want to weigh those factors, but overall, it’s a well-balanced outing that offers excellent value.

Key Points

• Comfortable and well-reviewed boat: The Polaris cruise ship provides ample seating and a smooth ride.
• Ideal for swimming and relaxing: Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.
• Authentic island visits: Two distinct stops—Bra and Olta—each with their own charm.
• All-inclusive experience: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and water toys included.
• Flexible and family-friendly: Children under 3 join free; 3-12 enjoy a discount.
• Good value for the price: At $102 per person, you get a full day of activities, food, and drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off at Obala Lazareta 3, right at the Split city port, making it easy to find and close to other attractions. The cruise departs around 9:30 AM, a reasonable morning start that leaves plenty of time to enjoy the day’s highlights.

Once everyone is aboard, the boat sets sail for Bra Island—about an hour’s journey from Split. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy your first sights of Dalmatian coast architecture and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic. The boat itself, operated by Boat Polaris, is described as beautiful and well-maintained, providing comfortable seating for all.

First Stop: Bra Island

After cruising, the boat anchors in a scheduled bay where you’ll have more than 2 hours to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun on the deck. The reviews frequently mention how crystal-clear water makes this stop especially appealing. Many travelers quote the water as “turquoise and perfect for swimming,” with plenty of space and equipment like floats and paddleboards available.

What makes Bra special is its less commercialized atmosphere, giving you a chance to enjoy the natural beauty uninterrupted. Several reviews describe this as a “secluded” and “gorgeous” swimming spot, ideal for a peaceful escape.

Second Stop: Olta Island and Lunch

At around 1:00 PM, the cruise heads towards Olta Island, with a scenic journey and lunch on board. The 3-course meal—featuring fish, meat, or vegetarian options—is a highlight for many. Guests often comment on the delicious food and the relaxed yet attentive service. The mention of grilled fish and fresh vegetables suggests a hearty, local-style meal.

Arriving in Stomorska, a charming fishing village on Olta, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore. Many visitors enjoy walking through the quiet streets or relaxing on the beach near the boat. One reviewer describes it as a “picturesque port,” and the small size means it’s manageable for a quick stroll or swim.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Cruise Back

At 3:30 PM, the boat begins its gentle cruise back to Split, arriving around 4:30 PM. The journey offers one last chance to enjoy the view, accompanied by music, drinks, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers. Many reviewers emphasize how smooth and relaxing this return trip is, with some noting the friendly, hospitable crew.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour checks many boxes for an enjoyable day at sea. Included are the boat cruise, visit to two islands, free time for swimming and exploring, croissant and welcome refreshments, and an open bar with soft drinks, beer, wine, and coffee.

The lunch is a carefully prepared 3-course meal, offering options for fish, meat, or vegetarian diets—an important detail that adds value and caters to various tastes.

Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and water toys are available, offering fun ways to stay active and explore the water at your own pace.

Note: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children under 3 can join for free, making it family-friendly. Children aged 3-12 enjoy a 50% discount, which adds to the accessibility.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Several reviews mention the friendly, hospitable crew who are knowledgeable and eager to make your day enjoyable. Many call this trip a “perfect way to spend a day,” praising the attention to service and the overall relaxing vibe.

The Downside

The main consideration is the timing—a full 7-hour day—so it’s not ideal for those with tight schedules or early bedtimes. Also, if you’re not comfortable swimming or prefer a more active or adventurous experience, you might find the stops somewhat limited.

Why You Might Love This Tour

• You’re seeking a relaxing day with swimming, good food, and scenic views.
• You enjoy small group or family-friendly outings with plenty of space to spread out.
• You appreciate authentic island experiences without the crowds.
• You want a value-packed day with food and drinks included.

Who Might Not Love It

• If you dislike boat trips or are prone to seasickness.
• If you prefer more structured or guided sightseeing rather than free time.
• If you’re looking for an all-day active adventure with multiple activities beyond swimming and relaxing.

FAQs

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
No, the tour starts at the Split city port, Obala Lazareta 3. You’ll need to make your own way there.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Pack your sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for sun protection. A camera is also recommended to capture the views.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, the tour includes an open bar with soft drinks, beer, wine, and coffee, plus a 3-course lunch with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children under 3 years are free, and kids aged 3-12 get a 50% discount. It’s suitable for families who want a relaxed day on the water.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
According to the info, yes—this tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a bonus for travelers with mobility needs.

What’s the duration of the cruise?
The total duration is about 7 hours, with departure around 9:30 AM and return around 4:30 PM.

What kind of stops are included?
You’ll visit Bra Island, where you can swim and snorkel, then Olta Island for lunch and exploring the fishing village.

How much time do I get at each island?
Over two hours at Bra for swimming and relaxing, and about two hours on Olta for exploring or swimming again.

What is the scenery like?
Expect stunning Dalmatian coast views, turquoise waters, and quaint fishing villages—plenty of picture-perfect moments.

What if the weather isn’t great?
Check the cancellation policy—full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This Split all-inclusive cruise offers a thoughtful mix of scenic beauty, relaxing water activities, and local island flavors. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed option that provides excellent value—especially with food and drinks included.

Travelers who enjoy swimming, serene landscapes, and authentic small villages will find this tour very satisfying. The friendly crew, comfortable boat, and variety of stops make it a reliable choice for a fun, laid-back day on Croatia’s coastline.

Whether you’re after a quiet escape or a chance to meet fellow travelers in a beautiful setting, this cruise checks many boxes. It’s suitable for families, couples, or anyone looking for a comfortable, hassle-free way to experience Dalmatia’s islands. Just come prepared to relax, swim, and savor the flavors of the region.

In short: Expect a friendly crew, gorgeous water, a delicious meal, and two memorable island visits—all on a boat that feels more like an escape than a tourist trap. This tour is more than just a boat trip; it’s a chance to unwind and enjoy Croatia’s beautiful coastline with ease.

You can check availability for your dates here: