From Split: Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch

A vibrant day on the Dalmatian seas awaits with the From Split: Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch. Priced at $65 per person, this 8.5-hour tour departs from Obala Lazareta 1 in Split and offers a scenic journey through some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. The tour includes visits to Neujam Bay, the charming Maslinica village on Solta, and the famous Blue Lagoon at Drvenik, with plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, and relax. The lunch, served on board, features a choice of beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger, accompanied by French fries and wine, making it a well-priced option for a full day of adventure.

While the cruise is praised for its friendly guides, stunning scenery, and generous water-based activities, a few reviews note that food quality could improve, and certain stops might be crowded or less interesting for all. Still, the overall 4.3-star rating from over 2,200 reviews confirms this experience as a popular choice for those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and water fun on the Dalmatian coast.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $65 for an 8.5-hour boat trip that covers three islands.
• Visits to Neujam Bay, Maslinica, and Blue Lagoon, with ample swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
• Includes delicious on-board lunch with your choice of burger, French fries, and wine, plus unlimited drinks.
• Guides like Nana and Marco are frequently praised for their friendliness, attentiveness, and helpful explanations.
• Water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, inflatables, and goggles are provided for added fun.
• Tour departs early in the morning at 8:30 am from Split port, with check-in 30 minutes earlier.

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Departing from Split at Obala Lazareta 1

The tour begins at Obala Lazareta 1, near the St. Nicholas pier. Travelers are advised to arrive by 8:30 am for check-in, or 9:00 am during April and October. The departure time is 09:00 am (or 09:30 am in shoulder seasons). The Gray Line Croatia team recognizes guests by the Gray Line sign and staff members’ branded shirts, making for an easy check-in process.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Expect to spend most of the day on board, soaking in sunshine and sea breezes while traveling between stops. The itinerary includes a 70-minute sightseeing cruise at the start, followed by a 60-minute stop at Neujam Bay for swimming and snorkeling. Afterward, the boat continues for another hour of cruising, leading to Maslinica, where travelers have about 1 hour and 50 minutes to explore, relax, or swim.

The final stop is the Blue Lagoon at Drvenik, which gets around 1.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the beach. The cruise then returns with an 80-minute journey back to Split. The route allows plenty of time at each location, giving guests the chance to unwind, explore small towns, or enjoy water activities without feeling rushed.

Visiting Neujam Bay for Swimming and Snorkeling

Neujam Bay is the first major stop, offering good opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in calm waters. This spot is ideal for those who want to cool off after the cruise’s initial journey. The bay’s waters are generally clear, making it possible to see marine life with the provided goggles.

Guests appreciate having enough time here to enjoy the water, with relaxed pacing that allows for both swimming and taking photos. However, during busy periods, this stop can become quite popular, so arriving early or being prepared for some crowds is advisable.

Exploring Maslinica on Solta Island

The village of Maslinica is the only settlement on Solta’s Old Island. This small town offers a charming atmosphere, with narrow streets and local shops. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the waters around Maslinica, or relax on the beach.

Guests often enjoy walking around the village, sipping coffee or ice cream, or simply soaking in the views. The 110-minute break provides sufficient time to explore or unwind, making it a favorite stop for those who love small, picturesque towns. The local handmade jewelry stores add a nice touch for souvenir shopping.

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The Blue Lagoon at Drvenik

The final stop at the Blue Lagoon (Drvenik) is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning marine life. The 1.5-hour stay here includes swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Water visibility is typically excellent, and visitors can spot dolphins during the boat ride if conditions permit.

Guests frequently comment on the beauty of the lagoon, especially when the sun is shining through the waters. Water activities are well-supported with goggles and inflatable floats provided. This stop often feels like the perfect end to the day, with plenty of time to unwind before heading back to Split.

Water Activities and Onboard Facilities

On the boat, guests find stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and goggles, which add to the fun. These are included free of charge, giving everyone a chance to play in the water. The crew is praised for being friendly and attentive, ensuring safety and comfort during water-based activities.

The lunch service is a highlight for many, with a choice of beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers served at 1:00 pm. The meal includes French fries and a glass of wine, with juice and water also available throughout the day. While the food quality is generally good, some reviews mention that the burgers arrive lukewarm and could use more fresh toppings.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour departs from Split port at Obala Lazareta 1, with check-in 30 minutes prior. Arriving on time is essential, as late arrivals forfeit refunds. The boat is equipped with English-speaking guides, and the check-in process is straightforward, with staff clearly identifiable.

Guests should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water shoes, and sun hats for comfort. Warm clothing is recommended for travel between stops, especially during cooler months. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers must make their own way to the meeting point.

The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or pets. Weather conditions can influence the route; in case of rough seas or bad weather, the operator retains the right to change the route or cancel for safety reasons.

The Overall Value and Suitability

Considering the price of $65, this cruise offers excellent value for a full day of island hopping, swimming, and sightseeing. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and professionalism, making the experience more enjoyable. The measured pacing allows guests to spend enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

However, some food quality issues and crowding at popular spots are worth noting. The tour suits families, groups of friends, and solo travelers who appreciate water activities and scenic views. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or seeking a more relaxed, less structured day.

Final Thoughts on the Split Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise

This full-day tour from Split offers beautiful scenery, exciting swimming spots, and a tasty lunch at a very reasonable price. The inclusion of water sports gear and friendly guides make it a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore Dalmatia’s islands in comfort and style.

While the food might not impress everyone, the overall experience, spectacular locations, and high praise for guides like Nana and Marco make this a recommended way to enjoy the Croatian coast. Expect plenty of swimming, gorgeous views, and relaxed island exploration for a memorable day at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $65?
The tour includes scenic cruises, visits to Neujam Bay, Maslinica, and Blue Lagoon, lunch with a choice of burgers, water and wine, and water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling gear.

What are the departure times?
The tour departs from Obala Lazareta 1 at 9:00 am during most of the year, with check-in at 8:30 am. In April and October, departure shifts to 9:30 am with check-in at 9:00 am.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, and guests should be comfortable with standing or walking during stops. The tour is best suited for guests who can enjoy swimming and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water shoes, and a sun hat. Warm clothing is recommended for travel between spots, especially in cooler months.

Are meals provided?
Yes, lunch is included on board, with your selection made at check-in. The meal features a burger, fries, and wine, with juice and water also available throughout the day.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops vary from about 1 hour at Neujam Bay, 1 hour and 50 minutes at Maslinica, to 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon, offering enough time to swim, relax, or explore.

Is there anything else I should know?
Weather can influence the route or lead to cancellations. The tour begins promptly, and late arrivals forfeit the trip without a refund. The tour is a great choice for water lovers and those wanting to see multiple islands in one day.

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