Split: Half-Day Blue Lagoon, iovo and Trogir Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of Croatia’s most inviting spots without dedicating a full day, this half-day boat tour from Split might just be what you need. It offers a quick escape designed to give you a taste of the coast’s beauty—crystal waters, charming towns, and relaxing stops—without the long hours on the water.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances beach relaxation with cultural discovery. The visits to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon are definite highlights. Plus, the small-group setting (max 12 people) makes the experience more personal and comfortable. However, the tour does have a quite packed itinerary, so if you’re after more time at each location, this might feel a little rushed.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a short but varied taste of the Dalmatian coast without breaking the bank. It’s suited to those comfortable with boat rides, looking for scenic views, and eager to explore key highlights of Split’s surroundings in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
• Diverse stops include cultural exploration in Trogir and scenic swims at Blue Lagoon and iovo.
• Efficient itinerary packs a lot into just over 5 hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Great value for money, especially given the multiple stops and included snorkeling gear.
• Knowledgeable guides help bring each location alive, making the experience more meaningful.
• Weather considerations can impact the trip, as some reviews mention choppy seas and weather-related changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

This boat tour from Split is a popular choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with some time in the water. It’s run by Gray Line Croatia, and with a price of around $61 per person, it’s quite accessible for most travelers. The duration of about 5.5 hours is just right—long enough to explore, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The journey kicks off at Gray Line Tours’ office on the Riva promenade, a central spot in Split, so logistics are straightforward. After meeting the crew, you hop aboard a small, comfortable speedboat that takes you to your first stop in about 30 minutes. The boat’s small size (max 12 passengers) is a definite highlight, making it feel more like a private adventure than a crowded excursion.

Trogir – A Historic Treasure in a Quick Visit

Your first stop is Trogir, a town often called “Little Venice,” known for its well-preserved architecture dating back over 2,000 years. You get about an hour here, which is enough to wander its narrow streets, admire the stone buildings, and soak in the timeless atmosphere. Many reviews mention that an hour goes by quickly, but it’s enough to get a good feel for the town. If you’re a history buff or just want some charming photos, this stop hits the mark.

One reviewer said, “It was just about enough time to have a quick wander around the town,” which echoes what others have found. It’s a nice blend of cultural exploration without the need for a full day in Trogir.

The Blue Lagoon – Relaxation and Snorkeling in Turquoise Waters

Next, your boat heads to the Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay on Drvenik Island noted for its stunning turquoise waters. The seabed here, a mix of sand and crushed shells, gives the water its signature glow. Spending about 1.5 hours here, you’ll get plenty of time to float, swim, and snorkel.

Snorkeling gear is included, but some reviews highlight that they only got goggles, so bringing your own full gear might be wise if you’re serious about underwater exploring. The water is usually warm and calm, perfect for a relaxing float or some light snorkeling.

A guest shared, “The Blue Lagoon was stunning, and it was great to see the shipwreck and swim in such clear waters,” which shows how much travelers appreciate the scenery and options here.

iovo and the Beach Bar Borkko – Laid-back Island Chill

After the Lagoon, the boat takes you to iovo (Okrug Gornji), a quiet spot known for its pristine waters. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach. Many reviews mention the laid-back island vibes and the convenience of nearby bars.

One traveler dubbed the experience “perfect for unwinding,” and another noted that the close proximity to a beach bar allows for easy refreshment after your swim. It’s a great way to enjoy island life for a short while.

The Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The boat ride back to Split lasts about 45 minutes, offering chances to enjoy the scenic coastline, take photos, and soak in the last moments of your trip. Some reviews mention that the ride can be a bit bumpy, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. A few guests felt that the sea was quite choppy, which impacted their comfort during the trip but didn’t seem to spoil the overall enjoyment.

The Crew and Guides

Based on multiple reviews, the guides and crew are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism. One review highlighted a guide who “rearranged plans due to weather,” showing flexibility and care. Guests appreciate guides who are attentive and engaging, adding context and making sure everyone feels safe—especially important during the boat rides.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, you get transportation in a speedboat, a captain and crew, snorkeling goggles, and insurance. Food and drinks aren’t included, so if you’re planning to spend a full day or want snacks, bring your own or plan to buy at the stops.

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Practical Considerations for Travelers

• The tour is best suited for those comfortable with speedboat rides; some reviews mention that the ride can be fast and bumpy.
• With a maximum group size of 12, it’s a more personalized experience, but keep in mind that the itinerary is quite tight—expect a schedule that moves swiftly.
• Weather can influence the trip; in rough seas or bad weather, the route might change or the tour could be canceled, so check the forecast.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Also, bring some food and drinks if you want to stay energized and hydrated.
• The tour is not suitable for very young children (under 3), pregnant women, or anyone with mobility or health concerns due to the nature of the boat ride and physical stops.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This is a good choice if you want to maximize your short time in Split with a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic views, and swimming, but don’t want to commit to a full-day outing. It also appeals to those who enjoy small-group settings, friendly guides, and a mix of cultural exploration and beach relaxation.

If you’re traveling with friends, seeking a fun, social day on the water, and love the idea of quick stops in picturesque towns and bays, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, if you prefer more in-depth exploration or more time at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable if I don’t want to snorkel?
Yes. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but if you’re not interested in snorkeling, you can simply relax, swim, or sunbathe in the beautiful waters.

How long do I spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 1 hour in Trogir, approximately 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, and around 1 hour on iovo. The boat ride between stops varies from 15 to 45 minutes.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, food, and drinks. It’s also handy to have your voucher ready for check-in.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues or mobility problems.

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes. Bad weather or rough seas may lead to route changes or cancellations for safety reasons. Always check the forecast before booking.

What kind of boat is used?
A small, comfortable speedboat with a maximum of 12 passengers, making for a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Can I buy food or drinks during the tour?
No, but you can purchase refreshments at the beach bar on iovo or bring your own. The tour does not include meals or drinks.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is quite fixed, but guides are generally attentive. Expect a tight schedule to fit all stops into the 5.5 hours.

In The Sum Up

This half-day boat trip from Split offers a well-structured, fun way to enjoy some of Croatia’s most photogenic spots. The combination of historic Trogir, the crystal-clear Blue Lagoon, and the peaceful iovo makes it a versatile option for those wanting a mix of culture, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

The tour’s small group size and friendly guides elevate the experience, turning routine sightseeing into a memorable outing. While the schedule is busy, many travelers find that the variety and value more than compensate for the quick stops.

If you’re after a convenient, affordable way to see multiple highlights in just a few hours, this trip is likely to meet your expectations. Just be prepared for the possibility of weather-related changes, and bring everything you need to stay comfortable and enjoy the water.

This experience works best for adventurous, water-loving travelers who appreciate good company, informative guides, and beautiful scenery, all wrapped into a manageable half-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: