If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, you’ll likely come across a variety of boat excursions offering glimpses of the region’s turquoise waters and historic towns. One highly-rated option is the half-day boat tour from Split that whisks you across azure seas to the Blue Lagoon, a shipwreck site, and the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir. We’ve gathered the details, reviews, and insider tips to help you decide if this experience fits your vacation style.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group setting with just 12 passengers ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Second, the professional crew, including knowledgeable guides like Frankie, make the journey both safe and engaging. Third, the diverse stops—from swimming in crystal-clear waters to exploring charming old towns—offer a balanced blend of nature, history, and leisure.
A possible consideration? The tour’s focus on specific stops means you won’t get to see some other nearby islands or attractions. If you’re seeking a full-day adventure or a more tailored experience, you might want to explore other options. However, for those who prefer a compact, well-structured outing that combines scenic beauty with cultural discovery, this tour hits the sweet spot.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic coastal scenery, small-group intimacy, and a mix of adventure and cultural sightseeing. It’s especially good for those wanting a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun, all while enjoying the safety and comfort of a speedboat.
Key Points
- Small group size (max 12 people) for a more personalized experience
- Highlights include Blue Lagoon, Trogir, and a shipwreck with snorkeling opportunities
- Experienced guides, with reviewers mentioning Frankie and others as knowledgeable and friendly
- Flexible, scenic route avoiding crowded spots, perfect for a relaxing half-day
- Includes snorkeling gear, insurance, and a comfortable speedboat ride
- No food or drinks included, so plan accordingly
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Departure
The adventure begins at the Gray Line Tours office on Split’s lively Riva promenade, right beside Diocletian’s Palace. This central location makes it easy to find and offers a scenic start to your day. The tour typically lasts 5.5 hours, with checkable start times, so you’ll want to confirm your preferred slot in advance.
The Speedboat Journey
Within about 30 minutes, you’ll be cruising along the Dalmatian coast in a spacious speedboat designed for comfort. The vessels accommodate a small group, which means less crowding and more space to relax and chat with fellow travelers or your guides.
Traveling at a lively pace, the ride itself becomes part of the fun. As one reviewer noted, the skipper’s competence and experience made the ride both safe and enjoyable, even for first-timers on a speedboat. Expect scenic views on the way to each stop, from rugged coastline to distant islands.
First Stop: Blue Lagoon
Arriving at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll discover a shallow, crystal-clear bay on the southeastern side of Drvenik Island. The seafloor of sand and crushed shells creates a mesmerizing, vivid blue hue that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Guests often mention how beautiful the water is—completely transparent with a gentle current, making it ideal for swimming or just floating in the sun. The shallow nature of the lagoon makes it safe for all swimmers, though those not comfortable with water should still exercise caution.
Some reviews point out that the lively atmosphere is complemented by lively music and sunshine, creating a true summer escape. You’ll appreciate the snorkeling gear provided, although a reviewer noted the absence of mouthpieces, so bringing your own might enhance your experience.
More Great Tours NearbySecond Stop: Necujam Bay and the Shipwreck
Next, the tour heads to Necujam Bay, another scenic spot that offers a famous shipwreck. Here, snorkelers and swimmers get a chance to explore the wreck and observe underwater life. The wreck isn’t merely a photo op; it’s a real underwater feature that adds an element of adventure to your day.
Reviewers have commented that the stops are timed perfectly—not too long, which keeps the experience fresh and avoids fatigue. The scenic drive to Necujam is also noted for its lovely views, adding to the overall relaxing vibe.
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Trogir: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The final stop is the historic town of Trogir, often called “Little Venice” due to its maze of winding streets, canals, and medieval architecture. This ancient town has been inhabited for over 2,400 years, with its old town listed as a UNESCO site since 1997.
Guests have compared walking through Trogir’s narrow streets to stepping back in time. You’ll have about an hour of free time to explore, shop, or simply relax in a café by the waterfront. The town’s charm, coupled with its historic significance, makes it a perfect ending point before heading back to Split.
Return Journey
After soaking in Trogir’s ambiance, the boat takes you on a 45-minute scenic ride back to Split, where the tour concludes. Many travelers appreciate the comfortable pace of the return trip, often complementing their day with photos and reflections.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s price covers transportation on a speedboat, an English-speaking captain and crew, snorkeling gear, insurance, and VAT. This makes it a good value, considering the small-group setting and diverse stops.
However, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or a packed lunch. As the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, you’ll need to plan your transportation to and from the meeting point on your own.
Insights from Real Travelers
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Frankie and Larry, who made the experience engaging and safe. Many comments emphasize the small boat’s intimacy and the well-timed stops that avoid crowding, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy each location.
One traveler mentioned that the pace was smooth and relaxing, and appreciated the good music on board. Another noted that the stops were scenic and well-chosen, offering a perfect balance between swimming, sightseeing, and downtime.
Some travelers mentioned the absence of certain features, like the shipwreck stops that are no longer part of the itinerary or the lack of mouthpieces for snorkeling, but overall, the experience consistently receives high marks for value and quality.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and aquatic fun without committing to a full-day affair. It’s perfect if you value small groups, expert guides, and a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and explore.
If you’re traveling with family, this tour offers enough flexibility for kids over 3 years old (but note it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues). The cost-benefit ratio is solid, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, insurance, and the small group size.
Lastly, if your goal is to avoid large crowds while still experiencing Croatia’s must-see sites, this tour offers a gentle, scenic, and authentic way to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at the Gray Line office in Split, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
What should I bring?
Pack sun protection like sunglasses and a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and some food or drinks since these aren’t included. Warm clothing might be useful if it’s cooler in the morning or evening.
Are children allowed?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years old, and pregnant women or people with mobility issues should consider their comfort before booking.
How long is each stop?
The itinerary is designed with well-timed stops: about 30 minutes at each of the Blue Lagoon and Necujam Bay, with around an hour to explore Trogir.
What if the weather is bad?
In case of rough seas or bad weather, the provider reserves the right to change the route or cancel for safety reasons.
Does the tour include food and drinks?
No, guests need to bring their own, but the tour price covers all other aspects like snorkeling gear and insurance.
Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the speedboat is described as spacious and comfortable, with a small capacity that enhances the feeling of intimacy and safety.
Final Word
This Split boat tour to Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Trogir offers a well-rounded, scenic adventure perfect for travelers who want to experience Croatia’s coastal charm without fuss. With knowledgeable guides, a small-group atmosphere, and a variety of stops to swim, explore, and relax, it provides excellent value for a half-day cruise. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Dalmatian coastal experience.
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