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

Dive into Croatia’s Coastal Charm with a Half-Day Boat Trip

This Split boat tour offers a compact but immersive experience of Dalmatia’s stunning coastlines. For $61 per person, travelers spend 5.5 hours exploring the Blue Lagoon, iovo, and Trogir with a small-group speedboat that accommodates up to 12 passengers. The scenic cruise takes you from the bustling Riva promenade in Split across turquoise waters to some of Croatia’s most picturesque spots. Expect plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun, all led by knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety and comfort.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of historic Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon and surrounding bays. Overall, it’s a well-balanced half-day escape perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the Dalmatian coast without a full-day commitment. However, the duration means some stops are brief, so those seeking more extensive exploration may find it a bit rushed.

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Key Points

• Price: $61 per person, with full flexibility thanks to free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Duration: 5.5 hours total, including multiple scenic stops and sightseeing
• Small-group experience: Max 12 passengers for a more personal and relaxed atmosphere
• Stops: Blue Lagoon, Okrug Gornji on iovo, and Trogir
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, and exploring historic streets
• Departure point: Gray Line Tours office at Obala Hrvatskog Narodnog Preporoda 21 in Split

Starting at Gray Line Tours in Split

The tour begins at the Gray Line Tours office on the Riva promenade, a central and easily accessible location in Split. After a brief safety briefing and equipment distribution, the small speedboat sets off on a 30-minute scenic cruise across the Adriatic, offering great views of the coastline and nearby islands.

Because the boat holds only up to 12 passengers, the ride remains comfortable and intimate, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The guides are praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge, creating a welcoming environment from the start.

Exploring the Blue Lagoon on a Shallow Bay on Drvenik Island

The first major stop is the Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay on the southeastern side of Drvenik Island. Its sand and crushed shell seabed produce an unmistakable turquoise glow that many find captivating. This spot is perfect for swimming and snorkeling with vibrant marine life, and the water is warm and inviting.

The Blue Lagoon‘s calm, shallow waters make it suitable for all ages and swimming abilities, though some reviews note the snorkel gear is limited to goggles, so bringing your own snorkel is advised. The stop here lasts around 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery.

Swimming and Relaxing at Okrug Gornji on iovo

Next, the boat heads to Okrug Gornji, on the island of iovo. This area is known for its pristine waters, making it another ideal location for swimming and snorkeling. Travelers often enjoy lounging on the beach or relaxing at nearby Beach Bar Borkko, where they can sip refreshing drinks while soaking in laid-back island vibes.

This stop also lasts about 1 hour, providing a good balance between activity and relaxation. The scenic drive between stops adds to the enjoyment, with views of the coastline and open sea, helping travelers unwind after the busy morning.

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Discovering Trogir’s Historic Streets and Architecture

Following the water activities, the tour takes a 30-minute speedboat ride to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trogir’s narrow stone streets and medieval architecture date back over 2,000 years, including influences from Greek settlers, Romans, and Gothic and Romanesque styles.

Visitors have about 1 hour to wander through this charming coastal town, exploring its historic landmarks and soaking in the timeless atmosphere. The walkable size of Trogir allows for a quick but enriching visit, with options to see notable sites like the Cathedral of St. Lawrence or simply enjoy the local cafes and boutiques.

Scenic Return Cruise to Split with Opportunities to Swim

After exploring Trogir, the boat departs for Split, with a 45-minute scenic cruise back across the water. This leg offers stunning coastal views, and is a perfect chance to sit back and relax while enjoying the sea breeze and good music on board, as noted by some travelers.

Throughout the trip, the guides emphasize safety and comfort, and the speedboat‘s modern quality ensures a smooth ride. The tour concludes at the Gray Line Tours office, where travelers can reflect on a compact but rewarding experience packed with swimming, snorkeling, and historic sights.

Practicalities for a Smooth Trip

The tour includes transportation in a speedboat, a captain and crew, snorkeling equipment (goggles), and insurance. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, snacks, and water.

The meeting point is straightforward at the Gray Line office in Split. The activity is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with mobility or medical issues, due to the nature of speedboat travel and water activities.

Weather Considerations and Adjustments

In case of bad weather or rough sea conditions, the tour provider reserves the right to change the route or cancel for safety reasons. Some reviews mention that choppy waters and windy conditions can affect the experience, especially the shipwreck stop, which is sometimes less impressive or unavailable due to weather.

Travelers are encouraged to prepare appropriate clothing, bring sunscreen and hats, and check the weather forecast before setting out. The activity allows flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Balance of Experience and Time

Most travelers appreciate the timed stops, which are designed to give a taste of each location without feeling rushed. The 1-hour visit to Trogir, 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, and 1 hour at iovo are generally well-received, though some wish for a bit more time in Trogir.

The scenic boat rides and water-based activities make for a relaxed pace, with many reviews highlighting the friendly guides and comfortable speedboat as key strengths.

Who Should Join This Tour?

This half-day experience suits families, couples, and friends looking for a short but fun adventure around Split’s coast. The small-group format fosters a relaxed atmosphere and opportunities for personalized attention.

However, it may not be ideal for those seeking in-depth exploration or longer time at each stop. The water activities are accessible to most, but not suitable for very young children or people with certain medical conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Split Blue Lagoon, iovo, and Trogir Tour

This $61 tour offers a compact, well-organized way to experience some of the Dalmatian coast’s most captivating sights. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make for a comfortable journey, and the scenic boat rides add to the enjoyment.

While some reviews note the shipwreck can be underwhelming and the timing at Trogir is brief, most travelers find this half-day trip to be a great value for combining water fun with historic exploration. It’s perfect for those who want to see multiple highlights without a full-day commitment, and who are comfortable on a speedboat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 3 years old, and those with mobility or medical issues should consider the water-based nature of the trip.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, snacks, water, sunglasses, and a sun hat. The tour does not include food or drinks.

Can I snorkel at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, snorkeling is included with goggles, and the water’s clarity makes it a good spot to see marine life, although some reviews suggest bringing your own snorkel gear.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity provider may change the route or cancel for safety reasons. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before the trip.

How long do stops last?
The Blue Lagoon is around 1.5 hours, Okrug Gornji about 1 hour, and Trogir gives roughly 1 hour for sightseeing.

Is food included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, so pack your own provisions if desired.

This Split: Half-Day Blue Lagoon, iovo, and Trogir Boat Tour offers a balanced glimpse of the coast’s beauty, making it a solid choice for a short, scenic escape from Split.

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