Three islands, one easy sea day.

This cruise is interesting because it mixes swimming bays with island village time, all run at a relaxed pace from Split. I also like the all-inclusive feel: coffee and a doughnut early, lunch onboard, plus drinks so you’re not hunting for purchases every stop.

A big reason this works is the people running it. Hosts like Nana (and other energetic guides) keep the day organized with clear updates, fun energy, and enough structure that you never feel lost. You also get real water-time, not just a quick dip—three separate stops means you can swim, snorkel, and lounge without rushing.

One consideration: the lunch is included and generally good, but a few people report it can arrive lukewarm, and the burger can be pretty simple. Plan your expectations around value first, and you’ll enjoy it more.

Key points before you go

• Three swim stops spread across Čiovo, the Blue Lagoon area near Drvenik, and Maslinica on Šolta
• Lunch choices onboard: beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger with French fries, plus wine with lunch
• Coffee and a doughnut early, then seasonal fruit on the return trip
• Snorkeling gear + water fun: goggles are included with a €10 deposit, plus paddleboards and inflatables
• Maslinica village time for a stroll and coffee by the sea, not just beach lounging
• Expect a basic boat-day: limited seating comfort shows up in some feedback, so get there early

Entering the day at Split Port: Gray Line check-in and an easy start

You’re headed out of Split for a full sea day, starting at Obala Lazareta 1. The meeting point ties to Split Port / St. Nicholas Pier, and you’ll spot the operation by the Gray Line sign and staff shirts. Check-in starts at 8:30am, and the usual departure time is 9:00am. In April and October, you’ll typically check in at 9:00am with a 9:30am departure.

If you’re staying in Split’s center areas (Bačvice, Riva, or Marjan), there’s also hotel pickup mentioned from accommodation, but it’s an extra fee per adult. The shuttle leaves 30–45 minutes before the tour starts, so you’ll want to be ready on time and double-check your address during booking.

Why I like this kind of start: it’s simple. You don’t need to coordinate ferries, figure out docking times, or buy tickets for each separate activity. You just show up, choose your lunch at check-in, and settle in.

The boat rhythm: how the day stays relaxed between stops

The schedule is built around motion plus breaks. You’ll cruise on open water while light refreshments are served, then you arrive, swim, and move on when it’s time. On-board, you’ll get updates in English and local languages (Serbo-Croatian and Croatian), which helps a lot if you’re trying to follow along with when swimming and snorkeling gear is ready.

One practical tip from how the day is paced: bring your towel and water shoes. The boat gives you swimming opportunities at multiple points, and you’ll likely be stepping in and out with wet decks and rocky edges at some stops.

Also, dress in layers. Reviews mention it can get cold with wind during travel between locations. Even if Split is warm, the sea breeze can surprise you once you’re moving.

Čiovo bay (near the island of Čiovo): swimming with breathing room

Your first island stop is at Čiovo, about 1.5 hours for photo ops, sightseeing, and water time. The idea here is not to cram. You get a chance to swim or snorkel in a calmer setting, then spend the rest of your time near the water—often with an easy, holiday feel.

What makes this stop feel worthwhile is that it’s a “warm-up.” Before you reach the Blue Lagoon area (which is the star), Čiovo gives you a chance to get your sea legs, test your snorkeling setup, and enjoy the shoreline without feeling like you’re already late in the day.

What to watch for: if you’re hoping for a full village experience right away, you won’t get that here. Čiovo is more about water time and quick looks rather than a deep town visit.

Blue Lagoon near Drvenik (Krknjaši area): the highlight swim and shipwreck snorkeling

This is where the day turns into the photos you came for. The stop around the Blue Lagoon near Drvenik is roughly 100 minutes of break/free time plus swimming and snorkeling. The water here is described as turquoise, and it’s treated like the main event.

The water setup includes snorkeling goggles (with a €10 deposit), plus optional water gear like paddleboards and inflatables. Several people also mention goggles for seeing a shipwreck nearby. Important reality check: visibility depends on conditions, but you can count on the crew encouraging you to use the gear so you get the best shot at what’s under the surface.

This stop is valuable because it balances fun and practicality:

• You get enough time to swim more than once, not just a rushed dip.
• You’re not locked into a single viewpoint. Paddleboards and inflatables give you options if you don’t want to snorkel the whole time.

If there’s a drawback, it’s that this is the most popular area. If you’re very sensitive to crowds in the water, go for your swim earlier in your time window at the stop.

Šolta and Maslinica village: a real taste of island life

After the Blue Lagoon, you head to Maslinica on the island of Šolta. This stop is about 1.5 hours, with a photo stop, visiting time, and again swimming/snorkeling as an option.

Maslinica is described as a charming seaside village with a picturesque marina and traditional stone houses. That’s your shift from “water park day” to “island town stroll.” You can walk around, take photos, and enjoy a coffee by the sea—exactly the kind of break that makes a long boat day feel complete rather than exhausting.

What you’ll likely appreciate here is pacing. You don’t need to decide between swimming and sightseeing. The day already gave you the heavy water action earlier, so Maslinica works as recovery time: short walks, views, and an easy return to the boat.

Small consideration: you’re still on a cruise schedule, so you won’t have hours to explore like you would on your own. If you love wandering shops and local streets for a full afternoon, this part may feel short—but it’s still a nice contrast to the swim-heavy morning.

Food and drinks onboard: simple, included, and mostly satisfying

This is an all-inclusive-style day, and the meal setup matters because it removes stress.

You’ll get:

• Coffee and a doughnut (early on the trip)
• Lunch onboard with choices: beef, tuna, or a vegetarian burger, served with French fries
• Wine with lunch
• Water and juice throughout the cruise
• Seasonal fruit on the return journey

In terms of value, this is the part that adds up. At the price point (listed around $62 per person), you’re not paying separately for lunch, coffee, and multiple drink runs while you’re bouncing between islands. Even if you skip alcohol, the included non-alcohol options (water and juice) make the day feel easier.

One note on quality: most feedback is positive, but a few people call out lukewarm lunch temperature and a burger that can be basic. I’d treat the lunch as a solid included meal, not a gourmet highlight. If you’re the type who cares a lot about hot food arriving hot, bring that expectation into your planning.

Water gear and what to bring for an actually comfortable swim day

You’re supported for water activities, but you’ll still want your own essentials.

What’s included:

• Snorkeling goggles, plus stand-up paddleboards and inflatable options
• A €10 deposit is required for the snorkeling goggles

What you should bring:

• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Water shoes

I’m a big fan of water shoes for this kind of day because they make boarding and exiting much less annoying. If you’re doing any snorkel time, they also help you step around without worrying about slick surfaces or sharp spots.

Also, consider a small change of clothes for later. You’re out on the sea, you swim multiple times, and by the time you’re headed back to Split you’ll appreciate something dry.

Price and value: why this cruise feels like a good deal

Let’s talk value honestly. At around $62, you’re paying for:

• Transport by boat from Split
• Multiple guided stops (including island time)
• Lunch with a choice of mains
• Wine with lunch
• Water and juice through the day
• Coffee, doughnut, and seasonal fruit
• Access to swimming time across three locations

That’s a lot packed into one paid ticket. For many people, the real win is not “getting the cheapest option,” but avoiding the add-on costs that show up when you try to DIY island hops. One taxi here, one ferry there, lunch somewhere else, drinks everywhere—those totals can creep up fast.

This is also the kind of tour that works well when you don’t want to plan. You get a structured day with breaks and predictable return timing, but still with enough free time at each location to do what you feel like doing.

Who this cruise suits best (and who should skip)

This cruise is a strong fit if you want:

• Three swim opportunities in a single day
• A mix of sea views and a short island village visit
• An easy plan without ferry schedules and booking headaches
• Some flexibility during the stops (snorkel, lounge, or paddle)

It’s also family-friendly based on the tone of many positives, since the day includes play-oriented water activities like inflatables and paddleboards.

Where it may not fit:

• Wheelchair users: it’s listed as not suitable.
• If you dislike boat days or get seasick easily, you should think about weather and sea conditions. The operator can change the route or cancel for safety if the sea is rough.

Should you book the Blue Lagoon 3 Islands Cruise from Split?

Book it if you’re after a classic Adriatic “swim and relax” day with included food and drinks, plus a real stop at Maslinica for scenery and a coffee break. The most consistent strengths here are the friendly hosting (often people mention Nana by name), the amount of time in the water, and the fact that your basic costs are already handled.

Skip it if you’re picky about meal temperature or you want a long, slow village exploration. This is a boat-day package: you move, you swim, you snack, you stroll briefly, and then you’re back in Split.

If your goal is a low-stress day that still feels like you experienced something special, this one is an easy yes.

FAQ

What time does the cruise leave Split?

The departure time is 9:00am. In April and October, departure is 9:30am.

Where do I meet for the tour?

Meet at Split Port at St. Nicholas Pier, with the meeting point address listed as Obala Lazareta 1. Look for the Gray Line sign and staff wearing Gray Line shirts.

What’s included in lunch and drinks?

Lunch is included with a choice of beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger with French fries, plus wine with lunch. You’ll also have water and juice throughout the cruise, and coffee and a doughnut are included.

Are snorkeling masks and water activities provided?

Yes. Snorkeling goggles are available (with a €10 deposit). The experience also lists stand-up paddleboards and inflatables for water activities.

What should I bring for the day at sea?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes.

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users or pets?

No—it’s listed as not suitable for wheelchair users. Pets are not allowed.