Columbo’s Pirate Ship “Santa Maria” – Split Panoramic & Sunset Tour

Taking a boat ride around Split’s stunning coastline offers a fresh, engaging way to see this historic city. The Columbo’s Pirate Ship “Santa Maria” tour combines scenic views, light adventure, and a touch of maritime charm — all in under two hours. Whether you’re a lover of panoramic vistas, hoping for a peaceful sunset, or eager to spot dolphins, this cruise has something for many travelers.

What makes this experience quite attractive is its affordable price point of $46.44, making it accessible for most visitors. The crew’s friendliness and their knowledgeable commentary are frequently praised, and the chance to cruise past highlights like Bacvice Beach and Marjan Hill is genuinely memorable. That said, some find the tour a bit limited if you’re after multiple beach stops or more in-depth sightseeing. But overall, it’s a lovely way to relax and enjoy Split from a different vantage point.

This cruise suits those who love quick, scenic escapes and are happy with a relaxed, social experience. It’s especially ideal for sunset lovers, families with children (though keep in mind some reviews note the short duration), and anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Split’s coast. If you’re after a full-day adventure or multiple swim stops, you might want to explore other options, but for a peaceful, informative sail, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Unique pirate-themed boat experience that adds character to your sightseeing
• Stops at iconic spots like Bacvice Beach and Kasjuni Beach for swimming and relaxing
• Scenic views of Split’s coastline, Marjan Hill, and the city’s historic Riva promenade
• Possibility of dolphin sightings and sunset photos during evening departures
• Light, 1.1 to 1.5-hour cruise suitable for most travelers’ schedules
• Affordable price with positive reviews highlighting value and friendly guides

A Detailed Look at the Split Pirate Ship Tour

Setting Off on a Scenic Adventure

The tour begins at Obala Lazareta 1, right in the heart of Split’s bustling harbor. The boat, a historic replica, sets the tone immediately — a charming pirate ship designed to evoke adventure and fun. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group stays intimate enough for personalized service, yet lively enough to foster a social atmosphere.

The crew, including guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge, kick off the experience with a warm welcome and a drink. You can choose from different tour times to fit your day — morning, afternoon, or sunset — which means you can tailor the cruise to your preferred vibe, be it a relaxed daytime sail or a golden hour photo session.

The Coastal Highlights

The cruise offers a panoramic view along Split’s coastline, with standout sights including Bacvice Beach, famous for its soft sands and the birthplace of the UNESCO-listed game Picigin. As one reviewer noted, “Bacvice is very shallow and perfect for water sports or families with kids.” The shallow waters are approximately 100 meters from shore, making it safe and fun for swimming.

Passing the Riva Harbor, you’ll glimpse the elegant promenade that dates back two centuries, lined with cafes and historic buildings, and is considered Split’s social hub. The guide will likely point out landmarks like the Diocletian Palace’s southern façade and the Franciscan Monastery, enriching your sightseeing with stories and context.

Further along, we glide past Sustipan, a little green oasis once a cemetery, now a peaceful park with pine trees and historical significance for Croatian kings. The reviews mention the classicistic gloriette standing as a remnant of the past, offering a tranquil spot for photos or a quiet moment.

Beach Stops and Water Fun

One of the tour’s highlights is a stop at Kasjuni Beach, a serene pebble and sand stretch backed by pine trees. This is an especially attractive part of the cruise, as it provides a chance for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging in the sun. One reviewer described it as a “relaxing and rural” spot, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape from the busy city.

The crew often offers the opportunity to swim in these clear, calm waters, and some guests have appreciated the chance to take a dip or snorkel. The limited duration of the swim stop — around 20 minutes — means you get a taste of water fun without missing the scenic cruise.

Sunset and Dolphin Spotting

Choosing a sunset tour transforms the experience. As the sun dips, the sky bursts into hues perfect for photos. Several reviewers mention that watching the sunset from the water provides a different perspective of Split’s skyline, with the golden hour lighting highlighting the city’s historic walls and rooftops.

While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, some travelers have reported seeing dolphins swimming alongside the boat, adding a magical element to the voyage. These moments can be unpredictable, but they’re an added perk that many find memorable.

What the Reviews Reveal

Guests frequently comment on the friendly, professional crew, which makes the experience enjoyable and relaxed. AbdelRahman_H shared, “Very nice crew and we took another trip with them the next day,” emphasizing the crew’s attentive and personable service. Many appreciated the informative commentary that added depth to the scenic views, highlighting landmarks like Marjan Hill and the city’s history.

The value for money receives mixed feedback. While most find it reasonable, some reviewers like LeongHooi_T mention that in their opinion, the tour is overpriced for what it offers, especially if booked at the harbor rather than online. This suggests travelers should compare prices and consider booking in advance for better deals.

A recurring theme in positive reviews is the relaxing atmosphere, with travelers mentioning the shade provided onboard and the chance to enjoy a glass of wine or juice as they cruise. The uncrowded boat was also noted, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Highlights from Guest Feedback

• Good value and friendly guides: “Great value for money. Lovely evening on the sea.” – pauljlomas
• Excellent scenery and sunset views: “Never skip sunset while in Split,” said AbdelRahman_H.
• Water and swimming experience: “Enjoyed a free drink and swimming,” shared Natallia_L.
• Some find the tour limited: “No beach stops, limited info,” commented LeongHooi_T, highlighting that the experience is more about sightseeing than multiple water activities.

Practical Details and Logistics

The duration of approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules. It’s a mobile ticket, so you can arrive and board conveniently, and the tour is suitable for most people, including service animals.

The group size capped at 12 ensures a personalized experience, and the meeting point at Obala Lazareta is central and easy to find, close to public transportation.

Booking several weeks in advance is recommended, with an average of 21 days ahead. The tour offers multiple departure times, including options for sunset, which is highly recommended for photography and atmosphere.

The cancellation policy is flexible; free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour are possible, which is helpful if weather conditions change or plans shift unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This pirate-themed coastal cruise offers a relaxed, scenic, and enjoyable way to see Split from a different perspective. It’s a good choice for those wanting a short, scenic escape with friendly guides and beautiful views, especially at sunset. The stops at Bacvice and Kasjuni beaches are perfect for a quick swim or sunbathing, and the overall atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly.

The price point, combined with authentic maritime charm and the potential for dolphin sightings, makes it a worthwhile option for travelers seeking value, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure. While it may not satisfy those looking for a full-day excursion or extensive water activities, it’s an ideal little taste of Split’s coastline, especially for sunset lovers and those wanting to relax on the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic water experience in Split
• Families or couples wanting a short, memorable cruise
• Sunset enthusiasts wanting the perfect photo opportunity
• Anyone interested in local landmarks and coastal views with friendly guidance
• Those on a budget who prefer pre-booked, reasonably priced tours

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, with stops at beaches for swimming and a relaxed atmosphere. However, because the cruise lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, consider whether your children are comfortable on boats for that length.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s typically a stop at Kasjuni Beach where you can swim and snorkel in calm, shallow waters. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, perfect for a quick dip.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera. Drinks are available onboard, but you might want to bring extra water or snacks if you’re hungry.

Is the boat accessible for all?
The tour uses a historic replica boat with a limited capacity. While accessible details aren’t specified, the cruise is designed to be enjoyed by most travelers, but those with mobility issues may want to check specifics beforehand.

What is the best time for this tour?
The sunset tour is highly recommended if you want stunning photos and a romantic atmosphere. Morning or daytime trips are also available and offer great coastline views without the sunset glow.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking about 3 weeks ahead is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and ensure availability.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Last-minute cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

In summary, the Columbo’s Pirate Ship “Santa Maria” tour provides a relaxed, scenic, and charming way to enjoy Split’s coast. With friendly guides, beautiful vistas, and gentle water stops, it’s suited for travelers looking for a peaceful yet memorable water experience amid Croatia’s stunning scenery.