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The 4 Best Snorkeling Experiences in Split
Split is a fantastic base for exploring Croatia’s crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines. Its proximity to the Dalmatian islands means you can easily combine sightseeing with snorkeling in some of the most beautiful spots along the Adriatic. We’re particularly impressed by the Blue Lagoon & 3 Island Cruise, which offers a well-rounded experience with snorkeling, sightseeing, and local food, making it our top pick. The Blue Cave & Island-Hopping Tour is perfect for those wanting a more intimate, small-group adventure, while the Brac, Hvar, & Solta Day Trip combines island exploration with snorkeling and wine tasting for a relaxed, luxurious day.
If you’re looking to hit the water and see some of Croatia’s most famous sights, these four tours cover a variety of interests — from quick half-days to full-day excursions — all offering different ways to enjoy the Adriatic Sea. Whether you prefer speedboat rides, island-hopping, or exploring underwater caves, there’s a snorkeling adventure here for you.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a 5-hour Blue Lagoon & 3 Island Cruise that blends snorkeling with sightseeing and local cuisine (see more), an 8-9 hour luxurious island-hopping trip to Brac, Hvar, and Solta (see more), a full-day Blue Cave & island tour with visits to Komiža and Stiniva Bay (see more), and a Blue Cave & 5 Islands cruise focusing on Croatian gems (see more). Each tour offers a unique experience, whether you want a relaxed day, a quick snorkeling fix, or an adventurous island hop.
1. Split: Blue Lagoon & 3 Island Cruise with Wine & Snorkeling
This 5-hour boat trip is an excellent way to combine snorkeling, sightseeing, and local flavors. Starting at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 12, you’ll hop onto a speedboat and spend about 30 minutes heading to the Blue Lagoon, a favorite for its clear waters and soft sandy bottom. Here, you can snorkel directly from the boat, marveling at the marine life and underwater scenery.
Next, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir, where you can explore well-preserved architecture and take a quick photo stop. Afterward, the boat takes you to Labaduza Beach for more swimming and snorkeling. The highlight for many is the visit to Maslinica, a charming village on Šolta Island, where you can relax on the beach or explore a 300-year-old castle. The tour includes a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and wine tasting, making it a full sensory experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of underwater fun, cultural sightseeing, and tasty local food—all with a lively, friendly crew. Reviews highlight Ivan’s excellent guiding and the lively atmosphere, making it a highly-rated experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and local food within a manageable timeframe. It’s a lively, social tour with top-tier reviews.
2. Brac, Hvar, & Solta Day Trip: Snorkeling, Wine & Lunch from Split
For around $203, this 8 to 9-hour trip takes you on a luxurious journey through three of Croatia’s most famous islands. Depart from Split on a speedboat and head to Brac, where you can explore the historic town of Stari Grad and enjoy stunning views. The tour then transfers you to Hvar, one of Croatia’s most fashionable places, where you’ll wander the old town, visit the old spa house, and indulge in a local lunch with fresh grilled fish and organic wine at a seaside fisherman’s bay.
The final stop is Solta, where you can snorkel at a hidden, secluded spot, paddleboard, or swim in the calm waters. This tour is capped at just 12 people, ensuring an intimate experience away from crowds. The crew emphasizes authenticity, serving homemade seafood and organic wines, which adds a genuine touch to the day.
A standout feature is the combination of island hopping, cultural exploration, and relaxed water activities—all in one day. Travelers praise the boat’s speed and comfort, and reviews mention the delicious food and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full, luxurious day exploring islands with a focus on local food, wine, and snorkeling away from tourist hotspots.
3. Blue Cave & Island-Hopping Tour with Snorkeling from Split
This full-day adventure takes you to the famous Blue Cave, on Vis Island, which is often regarded as the must-see of Croatian caves. Starting from Split, you’ll visit Komiža, the island’s oldest fishermen’s village, and then explore Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon, where snorkeling and swimming are the main attractions. The tour also includes stops at Hvar and Stiniva Bay, a spectacular cove known for its steep cliffs and sandy beach.
What makes this trip different is its focus on visiting renowned caves and small islands with a small group, which allows for more personalized service. The Blue Cave itself is a highlight, with sunlight creating a glowing blue effect that’s perfect for underwater photos. The stops offer plenty of snorkeling time, and there’s free time on Hvar to explore or relax.
Reviews mention the smaller group size as a plus, providing a more relaxed experience. The guide shares interesting facts about each location, enriching your understanding of the region.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to see the Blue Cave and enjoy a more intimate, cave-focused island-hopping adventure with ample snorkeling opportunities.
4. From Split: Blue Cave & 5 Islands Snorkeling Cruise
This Blue Cave & 5 Islands cruise offers a comprehensive day exploring some of Croatia’s most iconic spots. Starting from Split, the tour visits the Blue Cave, a spectacular natural wonder famous for its glowing blue waters. The itinerary also includes Biševo, Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon, and Hvar, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on multiple islands and snorkeling stops, providing a full overview of the Dalmatian coast’s best features. The panoramic views of the Pakleni Islands and the chance to explore Stiniva Bay make it ideal for travelers who want a packed day of adventure.
Without a specific review rating, this tour is a good choice for those wanting extensive island visits and underwater exploration. The price point is competitive, offering good value considering the number of locations visited.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a detailed, island-hopping experience with multiple snorkeling stops and the opportunity to see several Croatian sights in one day.
How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Tour in Split
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a lively half-day trip with food and wine, the Blue Lagoon & 3 Island Cruise hits the mark. For a luxurious island-hopping day with a focus on culture and relaxation, the Brac, Hvar & Solta Day Trip is ideal. If you seek more personalized, cave-focused adventures, the Blue Cave & Island-Hopping Tour is a great fit. Lastly, for those who want a comprehensive, full-day tour covering multiple islands, the Blue Cave & 5 Islands Cruise offers the most extensive exploration.
Consider your budget, the time you have available, and whether you prefer speedboat rides, cultural sights, or underwater caves. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Split offers a variety of snorkeling experiences that suit different types of travelers. The Blue Lagoon & 3 Island Cruise is fantastic for a lively day combining snorkeling with sightseeing and food. The Brac, Hvar, & Solta Day Trip provides a more relaxed, luxurious vibe with wine and island exploration. For those seeking a deeper dive into underwater caves and small islands, the Blue Cave & Island-Hopping Tour is a perfect fit. And if you’re after a comprehensive, full-day adventure, the Blue Cave & 5 Islands Cruise will satisfy your curiosity.
No matter which tour you choose, early booking is recommended. These adventures offer a fantastic way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline and vibrant marine environment — a true highlight for any trip to Split.