If you’re planning a day out on the water in Dalmatia, this Split boat tour ticks many boxes — from exploring historic towns to swimming in stunning bays and discovering a sunken shipwreck. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear picture of what to expect.
What people love most? The beautiful scenery, the friendly crew, and the all-inclusive onboard food and drinks. There’s an undeniable appeal in spending a full day on a comfortable boat with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore.
However, one consideration is that the Blue Lagoon and shipwreck stops can get busy, especially during peak season, which might cut into your swimming or snorkeling time. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and good value for money. It’s especially perfect for those who want a hassle-free day with everything included.
Key Points
- All-in-One Experience: Combines sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration on one boat trip.
- Value for Money: Includes food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple stops.
- Comfortable Vessel: Fully equipped with open decks, air-conditioned salon, and onboard amenities like an aqua slide.
- Balanced Itinerary: Offers enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.
- Authentic Local Experience: Discover Trogir’s UNESCO-listed sites and view the Kontesa shipwreck.
- Family-Friendly Option: Suitable for those comfortable with boats and water activities, with some reviews noting it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or very young children.
The Experience: A Detailed Look at the Tour
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Starting Off: Check-In & Morning Coffee
Your adventure begins early, with a check-in at INFOPOINT no. 14 on the Riva Promenade. Arriving 20 minutes ahead ensures a smooth start. The crew, including guides like “Mario” and “Lena” (based on reviews), are known for being friendly and eager to share insights about the day ahead.
The boat departs around 09:20 am, and the first hour is a relaxed cruise while sipping morning coffee and nibbling croissants. This sets a calm tone for the day, and the views along the coastline are stunning, with the vessel providing plenty of open deck space for photo opportunities.
Exploring Trogir: UNESCO Heritage Site
The first significant stop is Trogir, a picturesque town packed with history. You get about an hour to wander independently and soak in landmarks like Kamerlengo Fortress, the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, and the charming promenade. The reviews suggest that more time might be ideal because Trogir’s narrow streets and historic charm can easily fill a longer visit. Still, it’s enough to get a taste of its medieval vibe and snap some memorable photos.
Travelers mention that guides like Lena give interesting snippets about Trogir’s history, making the visit more enriching. Some prefer to explore on their own — visiting local cafes or browsing artisan shops — before rejoining the boat.
Blue Lagoon: Swimming & Sunbathing
After a brief cruise, the next highlight is Blue Lagoon, usually around noon. This is the main swimming stop, with a 1.5-hour window to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Reviewers rave about how inviting the water is — “better than any beaches in Split,” as one put it. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
The onboard snorkeling gear means you can explore the seabed and maybe spot small fish, although some reviews mention that the shipwreck wasn’t as spectacular as expected. Still, the sea was notably clear and blue, making it a favorite part of the trip.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Shipwreck: Kontesa
The Kontesa shipwreck is the next stop, in Neujam Bay. The shipwreck is sunken and close to the surface, offering about 70 minutes of free time for swimming and snorkeling around the vessel. Reviewers describe it as an “interesting” wreck, though not necessarily a dramatic spectacle.
Some travelers, based on their reviews, noted that the water around the wreck can get crowded, especially with other boats or snorkelers. The guide often offers liquorice tastings onboard while near the wreck, adding a local flavor to the experience.
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Lunch & Refreshments
The onboard lunch is served as the boat heads between stops, with three menu options: fish, meat, or vegetarian — a thoughtful touch for dietary preferences. The reviews praise the quality and quantity of food, with croissants, fresh fruit, and a Dalmatian meal included.
Throughout the day, unlimited water, soft drinks, and wine are available, along with iced tea and fruit snacks. Some reviews note that additional drinks like beer and sodas can be purchased, but only cash is accepted, so it’s wise to come prepared.
Additional Stops & Sights
After the wreck, the cruise continues with several sightseeing points:
- Gospe od Prizdinice: A church built on a cliff, famous for a legend about the Virgin Mary touching the stone.
- Oceanographic Museum: Located on the split cape, offering scenic views.
- Tito’s Villa: Once home to Yugoslavia’s leader, Tito, and a notable historical site.
The cruise lasts about 8.5 hours in total, with a carefully timed schedule to ensure maximum enjoyment without feeling rushed.
Final Relaxation & Return
The last stretch of the cruise offers snacks like watermelon and views of Split’s coastline as the boat heads back. The boat arrives back at the original meeting point around 17:30, having covered a lot of ground and offering plenty of memorable moments.
Who is This Tour Perfect For?
This tour is ideal for those who want a full-day, hassle-free experience that combines sightseeing, water activities, and cultural exploration. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, and solo travelers comfortable on boats and interested in making the most of their time in Split.
Because of the inclusive nature — food, drinks, snorkeling gear — it offers good value, especially for travelers who prefer not to worry about additional costs during their day out. However, non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness might want to reconsider, as some stops involve swimming in open water.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early to check in smoothly and secure a good spot on the boat.
- Choose your lunch menu (fish, meat, vegetarian) at check-in.
- Bring cash for additional drinks or food options not included.
- Use sunscreen and wear breathable clothing — the sun can be intense.
- Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own mask if you’re particular.
- Prepare for busy spots; early mornings are generally less crowded.
- Book in advance as popular dates fill up quickly, especially in summer.
FAQ
- What time does the tour start?
Check the availability, but it departs around 09:20 am, with check-in at 09:00 am at INFOPOINT no. 14.
- Is food included?
Yes, a full Dalmatian meal, croissants, fruit snacks, and drinks are included. You select your preferred lunch menu (fish, meat, vegetarian).
- Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for exploring the shipwreck and swimming stops.
- Can I buy extra drinks onboard?
Yes, additional beverages like beer, soda, and ciders can be purchased but only with cash.
- Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 1 year old and those comfortable with water; not ideal for babies or non-swimmers.
- How long do we stay at each stop?
Trogir: 1 hour, Blue Lagoon: 1.5 hours, Shipwreck: 70 minutes, and other sightseeing stops vary between 30-45 minutes.
- What happens if the weather is bad?
The provider or captain reserves the right to change routes or cancel for safety reasons. Always check weather conditions beforehand.
- Is there a hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at the Riva Promenade INFOPOINT, so you’ll need to make your own way there.
Final Thoughts
This Split boat tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural discovery, all packaged with great value and friendly service. If you’re after a straightforward way to explore the Dalmatian coast, combine historical sites with scenic water stops, and enjoy plenty of onboard refreshments, this could be your perfect day out.
The mix of UNESCO heritage, a shipwreck adventure, and relaxing bays makes it especially appealing for those wanting a lively but manageable itinerary. With many travelers raving about the quality of food, the beauty of the Blue Lagoon, and the helpful guides, it’s clear this tour delivers a memorable experience—worth considering when you visit Split.
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