- Exploring Croatia’s Split Coast by Private Speed Boat: An Honest Review
- Key Points
- What the Experience Looks Like
- The Itinerary Breakdown
- What’s Included and What Costs Extra
- Practical Notes for Travelers
- Real Traveler Insights from Reviews
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- Private Customised Boat Tour With Speed Boat
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Split
- More Tours in Split
- More Tour Reviews in Split
- More Split experiences we've covered
Exploring Croatia’s Split Coast by Private Speed Boat: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a way to see the stunning islands around Split without the hassle of big group tours, a private, customized speed boat might just be the perfect choice. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, reviews and details from providers give us a pretty clear picture of what you can expect—and it looks promising for those who love a bit of independence on the water.
What we really like about this experience is the freedom to choose your destinations—visiting places like Hvar, Bol, and the Blue Lagoon at your own pace, rather than being herded around in a large group. Plus, the option to hire a skipper ensures safe navigation, especially if you’re not comfortable driving a boat yourself. On the flip side, a potential downside is the additional costs at the end of the day, which might catch some by surprise if you’re not paying close attention to the details beforehand.
This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and want a flexible, personalized day on the water. It’s especially great for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring multiple islands without being tied to tight schedules. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience with the option for some adventure, this could be right up your alley.
Key Points

- Flexibility is key: You choose your stops and timing, making this ideal for personalized adventures.
- Skipper option available: For those who prefer to relax rather than drive, this is a big plus.
- Multiple island visits: Explore Bol, Hvar, Maslinica, and more, with plenty of swimming and sightseeing options.
- Additional costs: Fuel, skipper, and tips are extra, so budget accordingly.
- Snorkel equipment provided: Perfect for underwater exploration.
- Not suitable for visits to the Blue Cave: Always good to clarify what’s included and what’s not.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Split
What the Experience Looks Like

Booking this private boat trip means you’re in the driver’s seat—literally—if you opt to drive yourself or hire a skipper for peace of mind. The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, giving you a full day of exploring Croatia’s coast, with the option to extend the trip up to approximately 9 hours. The flexible schedule allows you to hit your favorite spots or discover new ones without feeling rushed.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Bol
Imagine stepping onto a beautiful beach island on Brac. Known for its iconic Zlatni Rat beach, Bol is a lovely start to your day. Reviews highlight that this is a free stop, giving you a chance to relax, swim, or just soak in the views. We loved the idea of jumping into the clear waters right away—what better way to start?
Stop 2: Blue Lagoon / Krknjasi Bay
A highlight for most travelers, the Blue Lagoon offers crystal-clear waters perfect for a swim or snorkeling—equipment is included, so you can easily dive in. Some tours include a lunch stop at a seaside restaurant or bar, making this a great spot for a quick bite and refreshing drinks while enjoying the scenery.
Stop 3: Trogir
A UNESCO-protected old town, Trogir’s cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere make for a charming visit. It’s an hour here to wander, snap photos, or grab a coffee in one of its many cafes. Many reviews mention that this stop offers a lovely blend of history and local life.
Stop 4: Maslinica
This quaint village on Olta island provides a peaceful break—perfect if you’re looking to escape the busier spots. With an hour here, you can explore, take photos, or just relax by the water. It’s less touristy than other stops but equally picturesque.
Stop 5: Hvar
The vibrant island of Hvar is well-known for its lively harbor and scenic views. Visiting for an hour, you’ll get a taste of the island’s charm. Many travelers enjoy wandering Hvar’s streets or sitting at a café with a view, which seems to match the experience described in reviews.
What’s Included and What Costs Extra
For a base price of about $515 for up to four people, you’re getting a private boat rental with the freedom to customize your route. The package includes snorkel equipment, which encourages underwater adventures.
However, there are a few expenses to keep in mind:
– Fuel surcharge (around 240 Euros): This is paid at the end of the day, so it’s wise to budget for it upfront.
– Skipper fee (100 Euros): Optional but recommended if you’re not confident driving the boat yourself.
– Tips for the skipper are not included but are appreciated if you feel the service was good.
Practical Notes for Travelers
The tour begins at 9:00 am and generally lasts between 5 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights, swim, and relax. The boat can be driven by you if you have a license, but a damage deposit is required (1000 or 1500 Euros depending on the boat size). For most travelers, hiring a skipper is the easiest way to enjoy the day without worries.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Split
- Private Blue cave, Mamma Mia and Hvar, 5 islands tour from Split
- The Best of Split Private Tour
- SPLIT-PRIVATE Emperor’s Walking Tour for History Lovers + Museum
- Private Full-Day Krka Waterfalls Tour with Wine Tasting
- Split and Trogir private tour *ideal for cruise ship guests*
- Split by Private Electric Rickshaw – Palace & Hidden Gems
Real Traveler Insights from Reviews

One reviewer highlighted that hiring a skilled skipper was worth the extra cost, describing their guide as “very competent in handling the boat safely and navigating his way around.” This suggests that the added expense pays off in peace of mind, especially if you’re unfamiliar with boating in Croatia.
Another mentioned how the day was spent “visiting different swimming spots, islands, and checking out villages,” which sounds exactly like what many travelers want—combining sightseeing with time for swimming and relaxing. The ability to customize the schedule means you can spend more time in your favorite spots or skip the ones you’re less interested in.
A note of caution from one reviewer was about the extra payments—fuel, skipper, and tips. They pointed out that these details aren’t fully clear on the website, so it’s wise to plan ahead and be prepared for these additional costs.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who value flexibility and personalized service. It’s perfect if you want to explore multiple islands at your pace, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and have the option to hire a skipper for a relaxed day.
While it’s not designed for large groups, the small group size (up to 4 people) makes it intimate and ideal for friends, couples, or small families who don’t mind moderate physical activity. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic day with the freedom to decide exactly what you see and do, this tour fits the bill.
Final Thoughts

Choosing a private speed boat tour around Split offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and personalization that big-group tours often lack. The ability to visit places like Bol, Hvar, and the Blue Lagoon on your own schedule means you can tailor the day to your interests and pace. Plus, with snorkel gear and the option to hire a skipper, you’re well-equipped for a safe and enjoyable trip.
While the added costs—fuel, skipper, tips—are worth considering, many travelers find that the overall value and flexibility outweigh those extra expenses. The reviews reveal that the experience is well-loved, especially for its stunning scenery and friendly service.
If you’re someone who enjoys being on the water, exploring islands, and having control over your adventure, this private boat tour could be one of the highlights of your Croatian trip. Just make sure to clarify costs beforehand and be ready for a day of sun, sea, and scenic discovery.
Private Customised Boat Tour With Speed Boat
“Relax and enjoy a private boating experience. Avoid large group boats. Its well worth the extra cost to hire a skilled skipper. We had a great one …”
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, if you have a boat license, you can drive the boat without a skipper. However, you’ll need to pay a damage deposit (1000 or 1500 Euros) at check-in.
Is the tour suitable for families with children?
The data doesn’t specify, but considering the moderate physical activity and the water-based nature, it’s probably best for older children comfortable with boating and swimming.
What if I don’t want to hire a skipper?
You can drive the boat yourself if licensed, or opt for the skipper to ensure safe navigation and a more relaxed experience.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase them at stops or bring your own.
How many stops are there?
There are five main stops—Bol, Blue Lagoon/Krknjasi Bay, Trogir, Maslinica, and Hvar—each offering different sights and activities.
What is the duration of the trip?
Typically between 5-9 hours, depending on your preferences and how long you spend at each stop.
Is there a set schedule?
No, it’s a private, customized tour, so you decide how to spend your time and which spots to visit.
What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture the views.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Will I see the Blue Cave?
No, this tour does not include a visit to the Blue Cave, so if that’s a priority, you might need to look for other options.
If you’re craving a day on the water that combines freedom, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure, this private boat tour from Split offers a flexible way to explore Croatia’s stunning coast. Just be sure to plan your extra costs and clarify the details beforehand for a smooth and memorable trip.
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