Split Boat Trip Half-Day: Blue Lagoon, Trogir & iovo

Split Boat Trip Half-Day: Blue Lagoon, Trogir & Iovo — a compact adventure designed for those who want a taste of Dalmatian coast’s best. This tour offers a blend of stunning scenery, cultural charm, and laid-back beach vibes, all wrapped into a half-day escape from Split. With a good mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, it’s perfect for travelers craving a quick yet authentic experience of Croatia’s coastal treasures.

What we really love about this trip is the small-group atmosphere—only 12 passengers per boat — which feels intimate and safe. The guides and crew consistently receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both informative and fun. The chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon and unwind at the Iovo beach bar offers a perfect balance of adventure and chill. Plus, exploring Trogir, a UNESCO-listed town, adds a cultural element that keeps the trip well-rounded.

One possible consideration is the duration—since it’s only a half-day adventure, you’ll want to make sure the timing aligns with your plans, especially if you prefer more relaxed or in-depth explorations. Also, this tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so bringing your own snacks or planning for a meal afterward is a smart move.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic coastal experiences, small-group intimacy, and a good mix of sightseeing and swimming. It’s especially ideal for those looking for a quick escape from Split but still want a taste of Croatian island charm.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Only 12 passengers, making the experience more personal and comfortable.
• Varied Stops: Blue Lagoon, Iovo, and Trogir, offering a mix of nature, relaxation, and culture.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Nino and Theresa are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and good pacing.
• Authentic Experiences: Snorkeling, swimming in turquoise waters, and exploring a UNESCO-listed town.
• Flexible Pricing: At $61 per person, the trip offers good value considering the boat, guides, and activities included.
• No Meals Included: You’ll want to bring your own snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Gray Line office, conveniently located on Split’s Riva promenade, right next to the Diocletian’s Palace entrance. This central spot makes it easy to reach whether you’re arriving from your hotel or wandering the old town. The meeting is straightforward, and since transportation back is included, you won’t have to worry about logistics once your adventure concludes.

The boat departs around mid-morning and returns by early afternoon, making it a great option for a half-day trip that won’t eat into your vacation time. The boat itself is described as spacious and comfortable, designed to hold only 12 guests, creating a sense of intimacy and allowing everyone to enjoy the ride without feeling cramped.

The Speedboat Ride

The highlight for many is the ride itself. Traveling at a good speed, the boat whisks you away from Split’s busy port towards the islands and bays. Reviewers like Iryna mention the “adrenaline and speed”, which adds a lively, fun element to the trip. The experienced crew, including guides like Nino and Frankie, keep the ride safe and engaging.

This fast-paced start is perfect for those who love a splash of thrill, but if you’re prone to seasickness, make sure you’re prepared. The duration of the boat ride to Blue Lagoon is about 30 minutes, which is just enough to get excited for the stops ahead without feeling rushed.

Blue Lagoon: The Showstopper

The Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Island is the clear star of the tour. Known for its crystal-clear waters and shallow sandy seafloor, it’s an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow waters produce a mesmerizing blue hue that’s impossible to ignore.

Many travelers, including reviewees like Isabella, mention how much they enjoyed the snorkeling. The provided goggles make it easy to peek underwater and see the vibrant fish and underwater life. The shallow nature of the lagoon means it’s accessible for almost everyone, adding to its appeal.

One guest, Sheri, notes that “the stops were well timed—neither too long nor too short,” which means you get ample time to swim, relax, and soak up the sun without feeling rushed.

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Relaxing at Iovo Island

After the Blue Lagoon, the boat heads to Iovo Island, a quieter spot famous for its laid-back vibe. Here, you can kick back at the Borkko beach bar, right by the water, as many reviewers highlight. The bar offers a chance to sip a drink, enjoy some light snacks, and revel in the sun and sea.

Reviewers like Brooke call the experience “so fun” and appreciate the “good vibes, stunning views, and great music”. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after swimming, with many describing it as a highlight of the trip.

Trogir: A UNESCO Treasure

The final stop is the charming old town of Trogir, often called “Little Venice” thanks to its picturesque channels and historic architecture. This UNESCO-listed site has been inhabited for over 2,400 years, and walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time.

Guides like Jordy and Isabella praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides who shared stories about Trogir’s history and architecture. The town’s sinking channels and stone bridges create a fairy-tale setting, and many visitors enjoy wandering the streets, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere.

The trip allows enough time for a leisurely walk, with some reviewers mentioning they appreciated the balance between sightseeing and free time. Since the town is protected since 1997, it remains remarkably well-preserved, making it a highlight for culture and history lovers.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour’s inclusion of transportation, snorkeling gear, an English-speaking captain and crew, and insurance makes it straightforward and hassle-free. The price point at $61 offers good value for the experience, especially considering the boat, guides, and snorkel equipment.

Since food and drinks are not included, you’ll want to bring snacks, water, and possibly a drink or two to enjoy during the stops. The tour recommends bringing swimwear, towels, sunglasses, sun hats, and some warm clothing for the boat ride. Remember, pets are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with certain mobility or health issues.

Summary – Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine sea, culture, and relaxation in a compact, well-organized package. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a small, intimate group rather than large tour buses. The mix of swimming in stunning waters, exploring historic Trogir, and lounging at a beach bar makes it versatile enough to satisfy different interests.

If you’re craving authentic Croatian coastal vibes, with knowledgeable guides and a well-paced schedule, this trip ticks all those boxes. It’s a great way to see some of Dalmatia’s highlights without spending the whole day traveling or navigating on your own.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It’s a half-day experience, starting in the morning and returning by early afternoon, with the boat ride lasting about 30 minutes each way.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility issues, or pre-existing medical conditions.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you need to bring your own snacks and drinks, as they are not included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunglasses, sun hat, warm clothing for the boat ride, and some snacks or water for the day.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, goggles are provided, allowing you to explore the underwater scene at the Blue Lagoon.

What’s the group size?
Only 12 passengers, creating a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What happens in bad weather?
The activity provider reserves the right to change the route if weather conditions are poor or seas are rough.

Where does the tour end?
It finishes back at the same meeting point in Split’s Riva promenade.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, guides like Nino and Theresa are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and good pacing, making the trip more enjoyable.

To sum it up, this Split half-day boat trip offers a well-balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation, all delivered in a cozy, small-group setting. Whether you want to snorkel in the Blue Lagoon, explore the historic streets of Trogir, or unwind at Iovo’s beach bar, it provides a fun, authentic taste of Dalmatia without overpacking your day. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking a straightforward, high-value coastal adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: