Three Island Cruise Tour Featuring the Blue Lagoon and Solta

Planning a day out on the water in Croatia? If you’re considering the Three Island Cruise featuring the Blue Lagoon and Solta, you’re in for a relaxing and scenic experience. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, based on the detailed reviews and descriptions, it seems like a solid choice for travelers who want to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots without the fuss of complicated logistics.

What I find appealing about this cruise is the small group size, which promises a more personal, less crowded experience, and the variety of stops, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to wandering through charming villages. However, it’s worth noting that the price point of around $839 per person might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget—though, given what’s included, many will find it offers good value. This tour suits those who love water activities, picturesque scenery, and a relaxed day on the water, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

Key Points

• Beautiful multi-island itinerary covering Solta, Drvenik Mali, and Drvenik Veli
• Includes snorkeling, swimming, and village exploration for diverse experiences
• Small group setting enhances personal service and comfort
• Tour duration of around 8 hours balances sightseeing with relaxation
• Price reflects all-inclusive experience, but watch out for additional costs like lunch or drinks
• Ideal for water lovers and families, with a moderate physical activity level needed

An Overview of the Experience

This eight-hour boat excursion takes you along the Croatian coast, exploring several islands and iconic sights. It’s a combination of scenic cruising, water-based activities, and small-town strolling—designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty without the rush of larger tour groups.

The tour departs around 9:00 am from Split or Trogir, so you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. The journey is operated by Providenca Travel & Charter, a company with plenty of positive reviews emphasizing their friendly guides and attentive service. The experience is private, meaning only your group will participate, which adds to the feeling of a personalized day.

Why This Tour Catches Our Attention

One of the first things we love about this tour is the highlighted stops, especially the Blue Lagoon on Krknjasi Island. The reviews describe the water as “fantastic” and “turquoise blue,” which makes it clear this is a photo-worthy, swim-ready spot. The two-hour window there allows plenty of time to relax, snorkel, or simply soak up the scenery.

Another aspect that gets rave reviews is the local guide’s knowledge and friendliness. Tour participants often mention guides like Petar and Karlo—who go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable and entertained, sharing interesting facts and providing extra touches like bottled water and fresh strawberries. These personal touches can turn a good tour into a memorable one.

However, some potential downsides include the price, which can seem high for travelers who prefer self-guided or cheaper options. Also, since lunch isn’t included, most guests tend to eat either before, after, or at the stops, which adds an extra expense and planning step.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Drvenik Mali – Lighthouses and Islets

The journey begins with a visit to the Celica lighthouse on Drvenik Mali, a picture-perfect spot for photos and to soak in views. The stop here lasts about 30 minutes and is free of charge, allowing you to appreciate the rugged beauty of the island’s coast. The lighthouse is a classic Croatian postcard scene, and some reviews mention that the boat ride itself offers incredible scenery.

Stop 2: Snorkeling in Vela Rina Bay

Next, the boat anchors in Vela Rina Bay on Drvenik Mali for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in clear blue waters and look for fish and sea creatures—something many guests find “fantastic.” The shallow waters and vibrant marine life make this a highlight for water enthusiasts. The reviews confirm that the sea here is “blue and fantastic,” perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Stop 3: Exploring Hidden Coves

The boat then moves around the islands of Drvenik for about 30 minutes, allowing you to see some secluded coves. This part of the tour is all about appreciating the untouched beauty of the Croatian coast. While some might find this segment a bit short, it’s enough time to snap photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Stop 4: Maslinica on Solta Island

After the island hopping, you’ll arrive at the adorable village of Maslinica, where you get about two hours to explore. Guests often mention enjoying a coffee, wandering through the quaint streets, and soaking in the authentic fishermen’s village vibe. It’s a quiet, laid-back stop that feels authentic and charming—perfect for a quick stroll or a casual lunch (though not included).

Stop 5: The Blue Lagoon on Krknjasi Island

Finally, the tour’s star attraction—the Blue Lagoon at Krknjasi Island—awaits for about two hours. The reviews describe the water as “fantastic,” with many guests relaxing with a drink from the nearby beach bar. The lagoon’s turquoise hue and calm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and photo ops. This stop is the main reason many travelers choose this tour, and it doesn’t disappoint.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers all taxes, fees, a driver/guide, and snorkeling equipment, making it a relatively hassle-free experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear is particularly appreciated, as many enjoy the underwater exploration.

However, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat at the village or beach bar. Drinks are also extra, so if you’re craving a cocktail or soft drink, be prepared to pay on-site.

Notably, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point—either Split or Trogir. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as swimming and some walking are involved.

The Group Size and Overall Vibe

While the tour is described as a small group, it’s a private experience for your party only—adding a nice touch of exclusivity. Reviews mention a friendly, attentive crew, with guides like Joseph and Petar going out of their way to make everyone comfortable.

Guests seem to have a broad range of experiences—some praising the knowledgeable guides and great atmosphere, others noting the good value for money given the stops and personalized service.

Price and Value

At roughly $839 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering all the stops, snorkeling gear, and the personalized service, many see it as worthwhile. It’s especially appealing for those who want a curated day rather than a DIY adventure, and for those who enjoy water activities and picturesque scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, exploring multiple islands, swimming in beautiful waters, and having a guide to enrich your experience, this trip is a good fit. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or small groups who want an easy, all-in-one day out. Keep in mind, if you’re not comfortable with water activities or have mobility issues, check the physical demands involved.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coast—beautiful islands, lively snorkeling spots, and charming villages—all in one day. The small group setting and friendly guides add to its appeal, making it more than just a boat ride. For travelers who prioritize scenery, water-based fun, and a relaxed pace, it’s a solid choice.

However, the cost may be a deterrent for budget-conscious travelers, and the lack of included lunch means planning ahead. All in all, this experience gets high marks for its scenic stops, attentive crew, and flexible itinerary, making it a good pick for those seeking a curated, immersive day on Croatia’s waters.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in the late afternoon.

• What’s included in the price?
  All taxes, fees, a driver/guide, and snorkeling equipment are included. Lunch and drinks are extra.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, the minimum age is 5 years old, and it’s popular with families due to the water activities and relaxed pace.

• Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
  No, snorkeling equipment is provided, but bringing your own mask and snorkel if you have preferences can be a good idea.

• Are meals provided?
  No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to eat before or after the tour or at stops along the way.

• Is hotel pickup available?
  No, you need to meet at the designated starting points in Split or Trogir.

If you’re after a day of exploring, swimming, and soaking up Croatia’s coastal charm with a knowledgeable crew, this trip could be just what you need. It combines the best of water-based adventures with the chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic spots—all in a relaxed, personalized setting.