Split: Blue Lagoon 3 Islands All-Inclusive Cruise with Lunch

The best part of this full-day Split cruise is its easy rhythm: boat ride, swim, boat ride, lunch, another swim, then a small island village. You get a broad taste of the Dalmatian coast without arranging ferries, restaurants, beach stops, or equipment yourself.

I like the generous time at each stop and the friendly hosts, especially guides such as Nana, Marko, Sandra, and Ivana. I also like the clear value at about $62 per person, with lunch, wine, water, juice, coffee, a doughnut, and seasonal fruit included. The main drawback is that the boat can feel crowded, with hard, small benches and limited paddleboards during the busiest months.

Key points to know before booking

• Three very different stops: Swim near Čiovo, float in the clear waters of Krknjaši Blue Lagoon, then explore Maslinica on Šolta.
• Food and drinks are covered: You receive a doughnut and coffee early, lunch with wine, water and juice throughout, and fruit on the return.
• Water gear is available: Snorkeling goggles, inflatables, and stand-up paddleboards are provided with a €10 deposit.
• The day is long but well paced: The tour lasts 510 minutes, with roughly 90 minutes at Čiovo, 100 minutes at the Blue Lagoon, and 90 minutes at Maslinica.
• Come early for a better seat: Check-in is 8:30 a.m. for the main-season 9 a.m. departure, and late arrivals are not refunded.
• Bring a warm layer: Even on a sunny day, wind during the longer boat rides can feel surprisingly cool.

Why this cruise works so well from Split

Split is an excellent starting point for a day on the Adriatic, but planning an island-hopping day on your own takes effort. You would need to check ferry times, find swimming spots, carry food, and arrange transport between separate islands or bays.

This cruise removes that work. You meet at St. Nicholas Pier, board the boat, and let the crew handle the route. The result is less independent than hiring a small private boat, but far simpler and usually better value for a first taste of the islands.

The day lasts 8.5 hours, including the boat rides. That matters because this is not a quick sightseeing outing with one rushed swim. You have real free time at three stops, plus open-water views from the boat.

I would think of it as a relaxed day at sea rather than a guided history tour. The focus is swimming, sun, scenery, food, music, and time off your feet. Guides give instructions and keep the schedule moving, but the experience is not built around long talks about local history.

Meeting at Split Port before 9 a.m.

The meeting point is Obala Lazareta 1, at St. Nicholas Pier in Split Port. Look for the Gray Line sign and staff wearing shirts with the same mark.

For the standard schedule, check-in is at 8:30 a.m. and departure is at 9 a.m. The instructions ask you to arrive 30 minutes before departure, and that is useful advice. One practical reason is seating. Some people found that arriving later meant sitting on the floor, while others described the benches as small and firm even when seated.

In April and October, the schedule shifts later. Check-in is at 9 a.m. and departure is at 9:30 a.m. Confirm the exact time when you book.

Hotel pickup is available for an additional charge from accommodations in Split city center, Bačvice, Riva, or the Marjan area. The shuttle leaves 30 to 45 minutes before the tour. You enter your address during booking and receive confirmation within 24 hours.

If you are staying close to the port, walking is likely the simplest option. If you have children, luggage, or an early-morning dislike of finding taxis, the paid pickup may be worth considering.

The first hour at sea and the Čiovo stop

After leaving Split, the boat spends about an hour cruising toward Čiovo. This first stretch gives you time to settle in and look back toward the city from the water.

Coffee and a doughnut are served during the morning. Seasonal fruit also appears later in the day, and water and juice are available throughout the cruise. This small breakfast is useful because the tour begins early and lunch does not come immediately.

The first stop at Čiovo lasts about 90 minutes. It is mainly a water stop, with time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing near a beach bar. The area is also used for sightseeing and photographs.

A highlight here can be the chance to look beneath the surface near a shipwreck. Several people described using the provided goggles to see it, though the route and sea conditions can change. Do not treat the wreck as guaranteed, especially in windy weather.

The boat carries inflatables, snorkeling goggles, and stand-up paddleboards. A €10 deposit is required for the equipment. The gear adds a lot to the stop, particularly if you want to float rather than swim continuously, but there are only a few paddleboards. In high season, you may need to wait your turn.

Bring water shoes if you have them. Rocky or uneven entries are common at Croatian swimming spots, and shoes make getting in and out more comfortable. You should also pack a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat.

Krknjaši Blue Lagoon and the main swim

From Čiovo, the cruise continues for about 30 minutes to Krknjaši Blue Lagoon near Drvenik. This is the classic postcard stop, with clear turquoise water and a wide setting made for swimming and floating.

You have about 100 minutes here, which is enough time to do more than take a quick dip. You can swim, snorkel, use an inflatable, or simply sit in the sun. The boat may feel like the center of the stop, since lunch is served onboard.

The timing around lunch is worth noting. The crew organizes the meal during this stop, and there may be a wait before food reaches everyone. One useful tip is to ask about swimming before lunch if conditions allow, rather than assuming you must remain on the boat until the meal is finished.

Lunch includes your choice of beef burger, tuna burger, or vegetarian burger, served with French fries. Wine is included with the meal, along with water and juice. The portions are filling, and the tuna and vegetarian choices give the meal more range than many basic boat lunches.

Food quality can vary. Some people found the lunch tasty and larger than expected, while one person found a beef burger and fries lukewarm and plain. The beef option may be served as a simple patty without salad toppings, so do not expect a restaurant-style burger with a choice of sides.

The food is best understood as practical boat lunch, not a culinary reason to book the tour. At this price, the fact that you receive a hot meal, fries, and wine in the middle of an island day adds meaningful value.

Maslinica on Šolta, a change of pace

After lunch and the Blue Lagoon, the boat cruises for about 25 minutes to Maslinica on Šolta. This stop lasts around 90 minutes and feels different from the earlier swimming bays.

Maslinica is a small seaside village with traditional stone houses and a picturesque marina. You can walk along the waterfront, browse small shops, sit for coffee, take photographs, or swim again if you prefer not to spend the full stop on land.

This is the stop that gives the day a little local character. The first two locations are mainly about the sea. Maslinica lets you stretch your legs and see a compact island settlement rather than spending every minute on the boat.

You should set your own priority before arriving. If you want coffee or a walk, leave the swimming gear behind and head into the village early. If the water is your main reason for booking, there is still time for one last swim.

Some people wished for longer at the stops, but the schedule gives you enough time to enjoy each place without turning the day into a series of rushed photo stops. Maslinica is a good final visit because it breaks up the repeated pattern of swimming and sunbathing.

The return cruise to Split

The final boat ride takes about 80 minutes. By this point, you will probably be ready for a quieter stretch, though music is part of the atmosphere on the boat.

Seasonal fruit is served on the return journey. It is a simple touch, but welcome after a day of swimming, sun, and salty air.

The longer return ride is also when you notice the boat comfort most. The benches are functional rather than plush, and some people found them hard or narrow. On the other hand, the frequent stops keep you from being seated for the entire day.

Wind can make the return feel cold, especially in spring, autumn, or on a breezy summer day. Bring a jumper or light jacket even if Split is hot when you leave. This is one of the most useful packing tips for the trip.

The boat returns to Obala Lazareta 1 in Split. Since the tour begins and ends at the same port, you avoid arranging a separate transfer back into the city.

What is included, and what is not

The all-inclusive label is fairly useful here, but it does not mean every drink or extra is covered. Included items are:

• Cruise from Split and return
• Swimming stops at Čiovo, the Blue Lagoon, and Maslinica
• Beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger
• French fries
• Wine with lunch
• Water and juice throughout the cruise
• Coffee and a doughnut
• Seasonal fruit
• Snorkeling goggles, inflatables, and stand-up paddleboards with a €10 deposit

The deposit for water equipment is returned according to the provider’s process when the gear comes back. You should still bring your own mask if you want to avoid waiting for shared equipment.

One person noted that the soft-drink selection could be broader. The included water and juice cover the basics, but do not expect a full bar menu. The wine is included with lunch, though its quality is modest.

At $62, the package offers solid value. A separate boat trip, lunch, drinks, and paid swimming equipment could quickly cost more. You are also paying for the convenience of one organized day rather than several separate bookings.

How crowded and comfortable is the experience?

The boat experience changes with the season. In late April, the boat may be less full, creating a calmer feel and easier access to equipment. Summer departures are more likely to fill up, particularly in July and August.

This is not a private cruise. You share the boat, the benches, the inflatables, and the paddleboards with the rest of the group. Arriving early gives you the best chance of choosing a preferred seat.

The crew receives much of the credit for keeping the day pleasant. Nana is often singled out for being warm, attentive, and fun, while Marko, Sandra, Ivana, Lana, Anja, and other crew members are described as clear and helpful. The hosts explain what happens next and keep the timing organized.

That matters on a long day with several stops. You do not need to keep checking the clock or wonder where to go next. Instructions are given before each swim and visit, and the crew handles the practical details.

Music also forms part of the atmosphere. It can make the ride lively, but this may not suit someone looking for a quiet, private boat outing.

Who should book this Split boat trip?

I would recommend this tour to you if you want a simple way to see several Dalmatian locations in one day. It is particularly good for couples, families, and first-time visitors who want swimming, scenery, food, and a little village time without planning every detail.

Families can benefit from the inflatables, goggles, and paddleboards, although children should be comfortable around open water and follow the crew’s instructions. The long day also means you should bring enough sun protection and a warm layer for the boat rides.

This is less suitable if you use a wheelchair, since the experience is not wheelchair accessible. It is also not the right pick if you want a quiet luxury cruise, a private group, a serious food experience, or long guided explanations at every stop.

Weather matters. In rough seas, the provider can change the route, use a different boat, or cancel for safety. A change of route can also mean missing a planned swimming location or the shipwreck area. Plan the cruise early enough in your holiday that you have room to adjust if weather interferes.

Should you book the Blue Lagoon cruise?

I would book it if your ideal day is three attractive coastal stops, plenty of water time, a simple lunch, and a friendly crew at a reasonable price.

The strongest reasons are the generous swimming periods, the three different settings, and the amount included for $62. You get more than a short ride to one crowded bay. You get Čiovo, Krknjaši Blue Lagoon, Maslinica, breakfast, lunch, drinks, fruit, wine, and basic water gear.

Go in with realistic expectations. The boat can be full, the benches are not luxurious, the food is straightforward, and paddleboards are limited. Arrive early, bring a jumper, wear water shoes, and choose your lunch at check-in.

For a low-stress day on the Adriatic, this is a sound choice. For the most personal and peaceful island experience, spend more on a private boat instead.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from St. Nicholas Pier at Split Port. The address is Obala Lazareta 1.

What time should I arrive?

For the main season, check-in is at 8:30 a.m. and departure is at 9 a.m. You should arrive 30 minutes before departure. In April and October, check-in is at 9 a.m. and departure is at 9:30 a.m.

Which places does the cruise visit?

The cruise stops at Čiovo, the Krknjaši Blue Lagoon near Drvenik, and Maslinica village on the island of Šolta.

Is lunch included?

Yes. You choose beef burger, tuna burger, or vegetarian burger at the meeting point. French fries and wine are included with lunch.

Are drinks included?

Water and juice are available throughout the cruise. Coffee and a doughnut are provided in the morning, and seasonal fruit is served on the return journey. Wine is included with lunch.

Can I use snorkeling gear and paddleboards?

Yes. Snorkeling goggles, inflatables, and stand-up paddleboards are available with a €10 deposit. The number of paddleboards is limited.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, and water shoes. A jumper or light jacket is also useful because the boat rides can feel cold in the wind.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

No. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Late arrivals and no-shows are not eligible for a refund.