From Split: Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch

If you’re considering a day on the water around Split, this Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands cruise might just be the trip you’re after. It promises a chance to soak up the sun, hop into the sea, and enjoy some local flavors—all in one day. While we haven’t done it ourselves, plenty of travelers seem to find it a good value and a relaxing escape, especially if you’re into swimming, scenic views, and a lively boat vibe.

What we love about this cruise is how it offers several swim stops — giving you the chance to cool off in some of the most beautiful spots along the Dalmatian coast. Plus, the friendly guides and good food seem to create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps people smiling. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a long day of about 8.5 hours, which might be tiring if you’re not used to full-day excursions.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a combination of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll find that the water activities and scenic stops make it engaging, but note that it’s not wheelchair accessible. Overall, it’s a solid pick for those who appreciate a laid-back, friendly vibe and want to see several spots without fuss.

Key Points

• Multiple swim and snorkel stops provide a great way to enjoy the water and see marine life.
• All-inclusive on-board lunch and drinks, including wine, make it a convenient experience.
• Experienced guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding value to the trip.
• Beautiful scenery and island visits offer plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.
• Group size and timing are balanced to keep the day manageable while still feeling intimate.
• Weather considerations might affect the route or experience, so check forecasts before booking.

This cruise gives you a chance to relax on the water, soak up some sun, and explore some of Croatia’s most enchanting islands and bays. It’s a well-rounded experience, blending scenic cruising with multiple opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off from the Obala Lazareta 1 in Split, at 8:30 am or 9:30 am depending on the month. Expect to be greeted by staff wearing recognizable shirts marked with Gray Line Croatia, ready to get you set for a day packed with adventure. After a brief safety and overview, you’ll hop onto the boat and start cruising along the Dalmatian coast.

The first leg is a scenic 70-minute cruise to Neujam Bay. This initial leg sets the tone—relaxing, with plenty of views of the coastline. As you arrive in Neujam, you’ll have about an hour to swim, snorkel, and take photos. Several reviews highlight how beautiful the waters are here, with one traveler noting the opportunity to snorkel around a shipwreck, which sounds pretty cool.

Next, another hour-long cruise takes you to the Dalmatian village of Maslinica on the island of Šolta. Here, you’ll have around 110 minutes to explore the small town, relax on the beach, or grab a coffee or ice cream. The village’s pedestrian-friendly streets and local charm are often praised; one reviewer loved the views and the little handmade jewelry shops.

From Maslinica, there’s a quick 25-minute cruise to the Blue Lagoon on Drvenik. This is arguably the highlight—famous for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun. Guests often mention how stunning the water is here, and some even spot dolphins during the boat ride, which adds a special touch.

The final stop is another 80-minute cruise back to Split. Before disembarking, many travelers comment on the good food and drinks offered throughout the day. A typical lunch includes a burger—beef, tuna, or vegetarian—with fries, complemented by white wine, water, or juice. One review mentioned that while the burger was tasty, it arrived lukewarm, which can be a minor letdown but doesn’t seem to spoil the experience.

Water Activities and Amenities

The tour provides stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and goggles, making water fun accessible for everyone. Reviewers appreciated these extras, which keep the energy lively and give more ways to enjoy the water.

The lunch is considered decent value, with many reviewers mentioning the generous portions and good quality. The choice of burger options caters to different dietary preferences, and drinks are unlimited, including wine—nice for those who want to unwind.

The Experience on Board

The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. Nana, in particular, gets frequent mentions for going above and beyond. Guests describe her as a friendly, attentive host who makes everyone feel welcome. Multiple reviews say she’s engaging, helpful, and adds a cheerful vibe to the trip.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-organized, with enough space for guests to relax. The music and lively atmosphere contribute to a fun, Ibiza-style day at sea. Even when the weather isn’t perfect—like during an unexpected rain shower—guides keep spirits high with playful antics (one memorable quote mentioned “playing ‘It’s Raining Men’”).

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Who It’s Best For

This cruise is most suitable for those looking for a relaxed day of swimming, sightseeing, and good food. It appeals to families, groups of friends, or couples wanting to enjoy the Dalmatian islands without fuss. If you’re after adventure and rugged hiking, this might not be your thing, but if you want a scenic, water-based escape, it’ll serve you well.

Pros:

• Beautiful stops with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities.
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.
• Good value for money, especially considering the all-day cruise with lunch, drinks, and water gear included.
• Comfortable boat with a lively, fun atmosphere.
• Multiple locations to explore, so you get a taste of different islands and bays.

Cons:

• The lunch can be lukewarm, and the burger options are simple—don’t expect gourmet.
• Weather-dependent; rough seas or storms may alter the route or cause cancellations.
• The long day might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to boat trips.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

If you’re looking for a full-day, relaxed cruise with plenty of swimming and scenic island stops, this offers solid value. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a friendly, lively atmosphere and want to enjoy local flavors and stunning waters without strenuous activity. Families with older kids will find the water activities engaging, and those interested in good guides and local scenery will appreciate the overall vibe.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, check the weather forecast, and be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride. Also, if gourmet food or a more luxury experience is what you crave, this tour’s straightforward lunch might not hit the mark.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour departs from Split Port at Obala Lazareta 1. You’ll need to make your own way there, but the meeting point is easy to find.

What should I bring?
Bring plenty of sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, a sun hat, water shoes, and warm clothing for the boat rides between stops. It’s best to come prepared for a full day on the water.

Can I snorkel without paying extra?
Yes, snorkel gear is included in the activities, but there is a 10 euro deposit for the snorkeling mask.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Typically, you’ll have around 1 hour at Neujam Bay, 110 minutes in Maslinica, and 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon. These times are enough to swim, snorkel, relax, and explore a bit.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a burger meal with fries, bread, and wine is served around 1 pm. You choose between beef, tuna, or vegetarian options at the start.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited water, juice, and white wine are provided throughout the day.

What if the weather is bad?
Rough weather or sea conditions may lead to route adjustments or cancellations for safety reasons. Always check the forecast and confirm with your provider if in doubt.

Is this suitable for children?
Most activities are water-based, so children who enjoy swimming will like it. However, it’s not explicitly designed as a family tour, and the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible.

This Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands cruise offers a well-rounded day for travelers who want a friendly atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and a good mix of swimming and sightseeing. The guides are clearly a highlight, making the trip more engaging and fun. The stops at Neujam Bay, Maslinica, and Blue Lagoon give you a taste of Dalmatia’s relaxing waters, charming villages, and vibrant marine life.

While it’s not a gourmet experience, the included lunch and drinks add value, and many guests find it to be a very good deal for the price. The long duration suits those who want a full day out, but if you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter excursion, it might feel a bit much.

Overall, if you’re after a laid-back, scenic cruise with friendly hosts and plentiful swimming opportunities, this cruise from Split will likely meet your hopes—and maybe even exceed them. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to see a few stunning islands, enjoy the water, and have a memorable time on the Adriatic.

Happy cruising, and enjoy your trip in Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian waters!

You can check availability for your dates here: