First, water that looks fake in the best way. This full-day Split cruise mixes Blue Lagoon swimming with two island stops, plus a proper Dalmatian BBQ lunch that feels more local than touristy.

I really like the mix of active time and downtime, especially the snorkeling on a sunken pirate ship in Šolta and the chance to swim in crystal-clear coves. The day also has an easy rhythm, with short cruise segments and real breaks to cool off and eat.

One thing to consider: this trip depends on good weather. If conditions are poor, you could be moved to another date or refunded, so build flexibility into your plan.

Key things to know before you go

• Blue Lagoon time near Drvenik for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing
• Čiovo lunch at Borko with grilled fish, vegetables, or meat in a classic Dalmatian style
• Šolta Nečujam Bay shipwreck snorkeling for a memorable underwater stop
• Waterslide and a hydraulic ramp for jump-in fun from the boat
• Unlimited juice and water on board, plus a Mediterranean lunch included
• Meet at the Riva, stand number 7, opposite caffe bar Biberon, Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 55

Split Departure Point: Stand Number 7 on the Riva

Your day starts at the Riva promenade area in Split, at a boat excursions stand. Look for stand number 7, opposite caffe bar Biberon, at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 55.

The vibe here is simple and practical. You’ll be boarding a comfortable ex-military cruise vessel with a shaded area and sundeck seating, so you can choose between sun and rest without feeling stuck below deck.

The host greets you in English, and the trip is wheelchair accessible, which helps if you want a smooth day without complicated transfers.

Čiovo at Borko Beach Bar: Lunch That Feels Like Part of the Day

The first major stop is Čiovo, with time at a beach bar called Borko. You’ll have drinks, scenery, and a chance to get into the sea early, which is a nice way to shake off the morning before the best water later on.

Lunch happens right near the shoreline, so you’re not fighting a long transfer after swimming. You’ll get a true Mediterranean spread, with a choice of grilled fish, vegetables, or meat, prepared in traditional Dalmatian style.

This part matters for value. Many boat days sell you a snack and call it lunch. Here, the lunch is built into the experience, and you also get time to linger, swim, and settle your stomach for the next sail.

What to watch for: if you’re the type who likes to snorkel for a long time, you’ll want to time your swim so you still get a comfortable lunch window. The day moves between stops, so planning helps.

Blue Lagoon Near Drvenik: Turquoise Water and Waterslide Fun

Next comes the star stop, the Blue Lagoon near Drvenik. You’ll get a photo stop, plus roughly 1.5 hours to swim, snorkel, and view marine life.

This is the moment people remember. The water there is described as crystal-clear and turquoise, and the whole setting works for quick swims or slower floating. If you want photos, bring sunscreen and be ready, because the light can turn quickly.

Here’s the practical advantage: the boat builds in fun without making you feel rushed. Along with swimming time, you get waterslide access, plus a hydraulic ramp for jumping back into the sea.

If you travel with kids, this stop can be the difference between a “we did it” day and a “this was actually fun” day. If you’re an adult who just wants calm water, you can skip the slide and focus on swimming and snorkeling while still having a good time onboard.

Šolta Nečujam Bay: Shipwreck Snorkeling You Can See Up Close

Your final island stop is Šolta, with time around Nečujam Bay. You’ll have a photo stop and sightseeing time, plus about one hour to walk and enjoy the area.

The highlight here is the underwater experience: you’ll swim and snorkel around a shipwreck. That shipwreck setting is a big deal because it adds structure to your snorkeling. Instead of drifting over plain water, you’re looking at something tangible underwater, and you can usually get a better sense of what you’re seeing.

Also, this is the kind of stop that makes the day feel bigger than a simple beach hop. Two different islands plus one famous lagoon means you’re not repeating the same scenery three times.

Quick consideration: shipwreck snorkeling can be more interesting than you expect, which is why it helps to arrive ready with swimwear and a towel. You’ll want to rinse off when you can, dry off, and keep sunscreen reapplied for the rest of the day.

The On-Boat Rhythm: Shade, Sundeck, and Unlimited Juice and Water

Between stops, you’ll be on the water for short cruising segments. That’s part of the charm. You get movement without the stress of constant sightseeing buses, and you can watch coastlines slide by while you rest.

On board, you’ll have shade and sundeck positions. I like trips like this because you’re not stuck in one spot. Take sun when you want it, switch to shade when you need it.

Food and drinks are also handled in a straightforward way. You get unlimited juice and water on board, which makes it easy to stay hydrated in Croatia’s summer heat without tracking down a separate purchase.

Mediterranean Lunch Details: What You Get and Why It’s Good Value

The included lunch is served at the restaurant during the Čiovo stop. Expect a grill-style menu with grilled fish, grilled vegetables, or grilled meat in traditional Dalmatian style.

The choice format is practical. Even if your travel group has mixed preferences, you usually don’t end up splitting attention trying to decide what’s available once you’re hungry.

This lunch is also where the tour earns its money. At $68 per person, you’re paying for more than a boat ride. You’re covering a full-day itinerary with multiple swimming stops, shipwreck snorkeling, onboard water/juice, and a real lunch rather than a snack.

One drawback to note: alcoholic beverages aren’t included. If you want beer or wine with lunch, plan on paying extra. The tour still includes plenty of non-alcoholic drinks, though.

What to Bring for a Smooth Day on the Water

This is a water-focused day, so pack like you’re going to swim multiple times. The essentials are clear:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Snacks
• Sunscreen
• Beachwear

I also recommend bringing something simple for comfort, like easy slip-on footwear for the times you’re walking around. The itinerary includes a walk and sightseeing time on Šolta, so shoes matter.

If you’re the type who hates overthinking, add a waterproof phone pouch if you have one. You’ll be taking photos at the Blue Lagoon and making use of free time at islands.

Also, if you’re tempted to over-pack, don’t. Space on boats can be limited. Keep the day light so you can actually enjoy the water.

Weather and Timing: How to Plan Around a Water-Dependent Trip

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

So plan it like a seaside activity, not a guaranteed museum slot. If you’re building a tight itinerary, treat this tour as the one piece you can flex.

Timing-wise, you’ll want to be at the meeting point early enough to feel relaxed. The start location is specific, stand number 7 on the Riva area opposite caffe bar Biberon, at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 55.

From there, the sailing schedule is paced with cruise segments and stop times. You’ll have free time and swimming windows built in, but it’s still a full day. Bring patience, not a stopwatch obsession.

Who This Boat Cruise Fits Best (And Who Might Want Another Option)

This is a great match if you want a mixed day: famous scenery plus real water time. It also suits groups who like variety, since you’ll hit different locations, not just one beach.

It’s especially appealing for:

• Families or friends who want a waterslide moment and multiple swims
• People who enjoy snorkeling and want the added wow factor of a shipwreck
• Travelers based in Split who want an island-hopping day without complicated driving

It might be less ideal if you hate boats or dislike water activities. Even though you can choose where to focus, the day is built around swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Also consider booking this when you’re comfortable with the weather risk. If you’re not, you might end up rescheduling your day anyway.

Value Check: Is $68 a Fair Deal for Blue Lagoon and Shipwreck Snorkeling?

At $68 per person, this tour is priced like a true day experience, not a bare-bones ferry add-on. Here’s what you’re getting that pushes value up:

• A full-day route from Split with multiple stops
• Blue Lagoon swimming and snorkeling time
• Šolta shipwreck snorkeling in Nečujam Bay
• Waterslide and a hydraulic ramp jump-in option
• Lunch in a Dalmatian BBQ style with grilled fish, vegetables, or meat
• Unlimited juice and water onboard

Most importantly, the included lunch is part of the schedule, and the day includes several activity types. That matters because it reduces decision fatigue. You’re not piecing together transport, meal plans, and separate tours.

The main costs you may add are simple: extra lunch isn’t included beyond what’s served, and alcoholic beverages are not included.

If you want one ticket that gives you the big highlights of Dalmatia’s “water day” experience, this is a strong option.

Should You Book St.Damian Boat Tours for Blue Lagoon and Šolta?

I’d book it if your priority is water time, not just scenery. The Blue Lagoon stop delivers the look, and Šolta’s shipwreck snorkeling gives you the kind of detail that makes the day feel special. Add the included Dalmatian lunch and onboard drinks, and you get a lot for one price.

I’d think twice if weather is a deal-breaker for you or if you prefer land-based sightseeing. This tour is built for swimming days, and it can shift if conditions are rough.

If your travel style matches active, relaxed, and scenic, this one is worth it. Just show up ready to swim, and you’ll have a genuinely fun, practical day around Split.

FAQ

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts at the Riva promenade boat excursions stand number 7, opposite caffe bar Biberon, at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 55. It ends back at the same meeting point.

How long is the tour?

The duration is listed as 8 hours. Starting times depend on availability.

Is snorkeling included?

Yes. Snorkeling is part of the experience, including snorkeling on a sunken pirate ship, plus snorkeling time at other stops.

Is there a waterslide on board?

Yes. The waterslide is included.

What kind of lunch is included?

Lunch is included at a restaurant, with grilled fish, grilled vegetables, or grilled meat, prepared in traditional Dalmatian style.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, snacks, sunscreen, and beachwear.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.