Exploring Croatia’s Blue Lagoon and Islands by Speedboat: A Down-to-Earth Review

If you’re thinking about taking a boat trip in Croatia’s Dalmatia region, a private speedboat tour from Split or Trogir to the Blue Lagoon and nearby islands might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on the detailed info and reviews, it sounds like a solid way to spend half a day soaking up some sun, exploring crystal-clear waters, and discovering charming spots with your own skipper.

What really appeals to us about this experience? First, the chance to cruise comfortably in a private setting, away from big crowds, with a professional skipper taking care of navigation. Second, the variety of stops—swimming in the Blue Lagoon, exploring the quaint village of Maslinica, and relaxing on Iovo’s beaches—gives a good mix of adventure and chill time. One thing to keep in mind: it’s only 5 hours long, so if you’re looking for an all-day adventure or more comprehensive island hopping, this might feel a bit brief. But for those who want a taste of the sea with a relaxed pace, this tends to fit well.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy watersports, scenic views, and a bit of flexibility in a private group setting. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates a personalized experience or simply wants to avoid crowded tour boats, this setup could work really well. It’s less ideal for wheelchair users due to accessibility, but otherwise, it’s a straightforward way to see some of Croatia’s best coastal spots.

Key Points

Private, Flexible Experience: You get your own skipper and all the equipment needed for swimming and snorkeling, with a focus on comfort and personal service.
Stunning Scenery: The Blue Lagoon, with its clear waters, is often described as breathtaking. The islands of Iovo, Olta, and Drvenik also offer picture-perfect landscapes.
Variety of Stops: From swimming in the Blue Lagoon to exploring Maslinica village and relaxing at Borkko Beach Bar, the tour balances activity and downtime.
Convenient and Customizable: Pickup from several locations and the ability to reserve with flexibility (pay later) make this a practical choice.
Time-efficient: At five hours, it’s a short trip but packed with highlights, making it suitable for those with limited time.
Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users: Due to accessibility constraints, this tour isn’t ideal for travelers with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Why It Matters

This tour kicks off from Matejuka, where you’ll hop on your private speedboat. The first leg, a 30-minute cruise, takes you directly to the Blue Lagoon—arguably Croatia’s most popular lagoon. Known for its incredibly clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. As many reviews highlight, the Blue Lagoon’s beauty is truly striking, with water so transparent it’s almost surreal.

Once you arrive, you’ll have about 1.5 hours of free time to swim, snorkel, or just float around and enjoy the scenery. We loved the way travelers described their time here—some quote it as “stunning” and “breathtaking,” which is pretty common for this spot. The vibrant marine life and pristine waters are definitely highlights.

After that, a quick 15-minute boat ride takes you to Maslinica on the island of Olta. Here, you get a chance to walk around a charming village, maybe stop for lunch, and enjoy the peaceful vibe. Reviews mention that the village’s quaintness makes for a lovely break, and it’s an ideal spot to explore or relax under the sun.

Next, another 15-minute cruise brings you to Iovo, where you can unwind on a beach or stroll through the small village. This part of the tour is perfect for balancing active water time with laid-back beach lounging. The beach bar Borkko offers cocktails with views, which many find to be a real treat. “Sipping a cold drink while soaking in the scenery is a highlight,” one reviewer said, and we can see why.

Finally, a 30-minute return cruise wraps up your trip back at Matejuka. Throughout your journey, bottled water, beer, towels, and safety equipment are included, which adds convenience and comfort.

Planning more time in Maslinica? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

What to Expect During Your Day on the Water

The experience feels well-planned, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the key highlights without feeling rushed. The boat is private, so you won’t have to share your space with strangers, which many travelers find adds to the relaxed vibe.

The boat itself is a speedboat, meaning you’ll get to feel the wind in your hair as you cruise along the coast. The professional skipper speaks English, making navigation and any questions smooth. All safety gear is provided, so you can swim and snorkel with confidence.

One of the best aspects of this tour is the flexibility—if you’re not a big swimmer, the boat can be your base for just relaxing and taking in the views. For those who love to snorkel, the Blue Lagoon’s waters are particularly inviting, full of marine life and vibrant colors.

Pricing and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of a private boat, all equipment, safety gear, bottled water, and a professional skipper suggests good value for a half-day, personalized experience. Compared to larger group tours, paying a bit more for privacy often translates into a more comfortable, tailored outing.

It’s worth considering that this tour doesn’t include lunch or longer island hopping, so those after a full-day experience or a meal might want to plan separately. Still, for a focused 5-hour trip, it offers a lot of highlights and a memorable setting.

Authentic Traveler Insights

According to user reviews, the stunning views are what stand out most. Many comment on the Blue Lagoon’s “crystal-clear waters” and how the scenery “takes your breath away.” Some mention feeling like they had the whole area to themselves, thanks to the private nature of the tour.

A reviewer said, “The boat was comfortable, and the skipper was friendly. We loved the relaxed pace and the chance to just float in that amazing water.” Others appreciate the variety—visiting multiple islands and seeing different sides of Dalmatia without rushing or feeling crowded.

On the downside, a few note that the tour is quite short, which might leave water enthusiasts wishing for more time. Also, due to the boat size, it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, scenic escape without the hassle of big groups. It’s perfect if you enjoy watersports, lounging on beaches, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

If you’re traveling with someone who values comfort, privacy, and stunning views, this tour checks all those boxes. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility constraints.

While you're exploring Maslinica, here are other experiences we've looked into

Final Thoughts

This private speedboat tour from Split or Trogir offers a focused, flexible, and scenic way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal spots. The highlights—the Blue Lagoon, the charming village of Maslinica, and relaxing at Borkko Beach Bar—are sure to leave you with lasting memories. While it’s not a full-day adventure, the combination of scenery, comfort, and personalized service makes it a worthwhile experience, especially for those who prefer an intimate outing over crowded group tours.

If you’re after a relaxed but active day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the views, this tour could be just right. It’s a straightforward option that balances adventure with relaxation, making it suitable for most travelers who prioritize comfort and stunning scenery.

Ready to Book?

Split/Trogir: Blue Lagoon and 3 Islands Speedboat Tour

FAQ

Is this tour private or group?
It’s a private group tour, so you’ll have your own boat and skipper.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Matejuka, with specific coordinates provided for easy access.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 5 hours, including transfers, travel, and stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and cash for any extras or tips.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code or specific gear I need?
Just wear comfortable swimwear and bring towels; all safety equipment is provided.

Are meals included?
No, but you can choose to stop for lunch in Maslinica, which is part of the itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on a boat; not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

Are the guides bilingual?
The skipper speaks English and Croatian, ensuring clear communication throughout.

This private speedboat trip around Croatia’s Dalmatian coast offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, relaxing stops, and personalized service. Whether you’re seeking a quick escape or a highlight of your Croatian holiday, it’s worth considering for a memorable day out at sea.