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It’s almost criminal to visit Split, Croatia, and not go on at least one of the many wonderful boat trips from Split!
If you’ve spent any amount of time on this blog, you’ve probably noticed that I have a LOT to say about the amazing destinations you can visit on day trips from Split via boat trip! When I visited Split, I went on not one, not two, but actually three boat day trips! I just couldn’t get enough! There are so many options, though, and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by choice.
Me being me, I did some serious research to weigh up my options when it came to boat trips from Split. After all, I wanted to make sure that I picked the very best ones! And I want to help you to pick the very best boat tour from Split – that’s why I’ve written up this comprehensive guide to the very best boat trips from Split.
Want me to cut to the chase, and just tell you which is the best one? Fine!
Top Pick: Best Boat Trip from Split
> 5 Islands Full Day Tour with Blue Cave
Includes: Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, Hvar, Komiža & Trogir, snorkel equipment
Whether you want to spend time snorkelling or fishing in secluded coves, explore hidden gems on land or just relax and soak up some sun on deck; there are plenty of options available for everyone.
Table of Contents
Best Split Boat Trips in 2024
1. 5 Islands Full Day Trip with Blue Cave
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
I could shout from the rooftops about how awesome this tour is! Seriously – if you’re looking for a boat trip from Split that has it all, this 5 islands tour is the solution! I have personally gone on this tour and I can vouch for how awesome it is!
Okay, so what makes it so great?
This amazing tour takes you on a 10-hour journey around some of Croatia’s most stunning islands and coves, giving you plenty of time to explore, swim, snorkel, fish and relax. From visiting the famous Blue Cave to swimming in the crystal clear waters of Stiniva Cove (once voted one of the best beaches in the world), this tour has it all!
If that wasn’t enough, you’ll also get to wander the charming cobbled streets of Komiža, where Mamma Mia 2 was filmed, and the Old Town of Hvar, one of the most beautiful places in Croatia.
It’s worth noting that lunch and snacks aren’t included in the price of this tour. This worked well for me, because I chose to enjoy lunch at a lovely restaurant in Hvar’s town square. However, if you’re on a tight budget, pack yourself some lunch and eat it on the beach for free.
You’ll also need to keep in mind that your entry tickets to the Blue Lagoon are not included – so make sure you bring cash for that (entry costs between 12 and 19 Euros depending on the season).
Click here to check latest prices and availability!
2. 3 Islands Speedboat Tour From Split Croatia
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5.5 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
I’ve also personally been on this 3 Island Boat Tour from Split, and it’s the perfect option for you if you’re on a time crunch. Stopping at the UNESCO town of Trogir, as well as the Blue Lagoon and the sleepy fishing island of Šolta, you’ll still cover some serious ground on this 5.5 hour tour.
There are two departure times – the morning, and the afternoon, so you’re able to stay flexible with your travel plans. Just like the 5 Island Tour, this boat trip doesn’t include food or drinks. However, since this is just a half-day tour that won’t be an issue.
Trogir and Šolta are stops not included on the 5 Islands Tour, and that’s why, if you want to do numerous Split boat tours, you can go on them both like I did! Sure, you’ll stop at the Blue Lagoon again, but nobody on Earth would complain about swimming and snorkelling at this gorgeous spot more than once.
3. Sunset Cruise from Split with Live Music & Unlimited Booze
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
Split has a reputation as one of Croatia’s best party destinations, so why not take that party to the water on this sunset party cruise! And no, don’t worry – this isn’t a party boat full of drunk 18 year olds. Almost everybody will enjoy this inclusive Split sunset boat trip.
It goes without saying that this 2-hour boat trip includes unlimited booze. This is a party boat, after all! What sets this boat trip apart from its competitors, though, is the fact that live music will accompany you as you sail along the waves.
The panorama of the mountains that surround the city is breathtaking, and you’ll get to see them drenched in sun as the evening arrives. Top tip: it gets chillier as the night goes on. Make sure to bring a sweater or jacket with you, and arrive early so that you can be on the upper deck to enjoy all of these spectacular views!
Don’t forget to bring some snacks along too; while there won’t be any food provided, once you dock back at Split, there are plenty of restaurants and bars for dinner afterward.
4. From Split: Brač and Šolta Island Cruise with Swimming
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
Are you looking for a unique way to spend your day in Split, Croatia? Look no further than this Brač and Šolta Island Cruise! This 7-hour boat tour from Split will take you on an unforgettable journey around two of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, complete with swimming, exploring the scenery, and plenty of time to relax.
With a free croissant in the morning and lunch on board including soft drinks, beer, local wine, coffee and more, this is the perfect boat tour if you just want to relax, with everything you’ll need included.
Starting off at Split, you’ll set sail for Brač Island. Once you arrive, the crew will moor in a secluded bay and provide snorkelling equipment, fun inflatables and paddleboards for two hours of fun in the water!
From there, it’s off to Šolta Island where you’ll dock at the charming fishing village of Stomorska! Explore the picturesque port or swim on the beach just close to the boat.
Whether you’re looking for a day away from Split or want to explore some of Croatia’s top attractions, this Brač and Šolta island cruise the perfect choice.
5. Split All-Inclusive Blue Cave Tour with Grilled Lunch
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
If you want to check out the gorgeous Croatian coastline around Split in a more luxurious setting, don’t miss this all-inclusive Blue Cave Tour from Split! On this 11-hour tour, you’ll get to soak up the sun’s rays as you cruise around some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands.
Plus, with free WiFi, a shower and a toilet on board your speed boat there’s no need to rough it!
From the moment you leave Split harbour, you’ll be taken on an unforgettable journey. Cruise around Veli Budikovac and Vis islands to experience untouched nature at its finest. Be sure to take some pictures of the dreamy beach views!
The highlight of this all-inclusive boat tour is a visit to the Blue Cave! Board a small fishermen’s boat and explore the Blue Cave with its famous blue light reflections before hopping back on your speedboat to check out other wonderful Dalmatian Islands.
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy grilled lunch, drinks, and baked snacks – all included in the price of your ticket. And, unlike the 5 Island Tour, your entry ticket to the Blue Cave is included in the price. Nice!
6. Split Full-Day Split Catamaran Tour to Hvar & Pakleni Islands
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
If you suffer with seasickness but want to enjoy one of the many boat trips from Split, this 10-hour boat tour to Hvar is perfect for you!
This is one of the best Split catamaran tours, and catamarans are great because they offer smoother sailing in choppy waters. You’ll find it much more comfortable than a speedboat. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the stunning views along the way.
So, what does the day include? The highlight of this boat trip a stop at Hvar Town for a guided tour of this stunning area with your local guide. As well as Hvar, you’ll make stops at Brač, the Pakleni Islands and Šolta, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to take a swim, snorkel or just enjoy the sun and the scenery.
As for the amenities, this boat tour is all-inclusive. The price of the ticket includes lunch and unlimited drinks, such as water, soft drinks, beer, wine, and snacks.
If you’re looking for a party, the return trip to Split won’t disappoint you. As the catamaran sets sail back to Split, the onboard team will turn up the music for a fun-filled dance party. You’ll be able to mingle with fellow travellers, soak in the sun, enjoy the views and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.
This Catamaran Cruise to Hvar & Pakleni Islands offers a perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and entertainment. With the guided tour of Hvar Town, the free lunch and drinks, and the party on the way back to Split, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience a bit of everything.
7. Krka Waterfalls Tour from Split with Boat Trip
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
Okay, this one isn’t exactly like the other Split boat trips on this list, but it’s unique, it’s cool, and it’s definitely worth considering. I have personally gone on this Krka waterfalls boat tour from Split and can highly recommend it! It combines a boat trip with one of Croatia’s top attractions – the Krka waterfalls!
This Krka Waterfalls are one of the most beautiful places in Croatia, consisting of a chain of 17 waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery perfect for hiking.
On this tour to Krka National Park, you’ll not only get a guided tour of the park’s best bits, but you’ll also get to enjoy a panoramic boat ride to Skradin, which is one of Croatia’s oldest coastal towns. It’s the best of both worlds!
Best Private Boat Tours from Split
Travelling as a group, or just prefer the luxury of your own space? Don’t want to have to follow anybody else’s schedule? Then a private boat tour from Split could be perfect for you. At first glance, these can look prohibitively expensive, with an average cost of around €800 per boat for a full-day tour.
However, that price covers a group of up to ten people. When you break it down like that, a Split private tour could actually work out cheaper for you.
Private boat tours in Split typically follow the same itineraries as the group tours, but you’ll get more flexibility with timings and stops. Here are your options!
- 8. Private 5-Island Tour from Split (including Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon & Hvar)
- 9. Private 3-Island Tour from Split
- 10. Private Sunset Boat Tour from Split
- 11. From Split: Hvar and Pakleni Islands Private Boat Tour
- 12. Split: Vis Island Cruise, “Mamma Mia” Locations & Snorkelling
Best Places to Visit on Boat Trips from Split
Trogir
The ancient town of Trogir is perched on the coast of mainland Croatia, just 25km away from Split. Trogir’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its stunning Renaissance, Baroque and Venetian architecture. There aren’t a million things to do in Trogir, so a short stop on a boat tour from Split is the perfect way to explore this tiny yet charming town.
Blue Cave
The Blue Cave is a natural wonder located on the island of Biševo, just a short boat ride away from Split. It’s called the Blue Cave thanks to the bright blue hue of the water inside. But wait, how does it get that incredible colour? It’s all thanks to the sun’s reflection on the white limestone bottom of the cave that creates a surreal and ethereal atmosphere!
Brač
Brač is one of the most popular Croatian islands to visit on boat trips from Split mostly all thanks to one town: Bol. This charming beachfront town is home to one of Croatia’s most famous beaches, Zlatni Rat. It’s also known as the Golden Horn. I bet you’ve seen aerial photos of this unusual beach before!
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is an absolute gem located off the east coast of the island Veli Drvenik. You won’t believe your eyes when you witness the water so clear that it could be mistaken for glass. And let’s not forget about the striking blue hue that gives the lagoon its name – it’s truly a paradise on Earth, and one of the best places to snorkel in Croatia.
Hvar
The stunning island of Hvar is just an hour’s ferry ride away from Split, meaning many people visit Hvar on a day trip from Split. Hvar boasts water so turquoise it looks like it’s been Photoshopped, but that’s not the only reason you should visit. Hvar Town, the island’s main hub, is a mediaeval wonderland with a history dating back to ancient times.
What to Pack for a Split Boat Tour
When it comes to packing for a Split boat tour, you might be wondering if there’s anything specific you need to bring that you wouldn’t for any other boat tour. While there’s nothing too out of the ordinary, I have a few suggestions that you might not have considered.
First and foremost, a dry bag is an absolute must. During my boat tours in Split, everyone’s belongings got soaked thanks to everybody jumping in the water and then clambering back on the boat soaking-wet. Well.. everybody’s belongings got soaked except for mine 💅! That’s because I had packed my trusty dry bag, which kept all my belongings completely dry throughout the day.
If you’re looking to capture some amazing underwater footage and photos during your Split boat tour, a GoPro would be ideal. But no worries if you don’t have one – there’s a great and affordable alternative: this waterproof phone lanyard. It’s clear so you can still take photos and videos underwater, and it keeps your phone safe and dry around your neck.
Last but not least, don’t forget to pack a quick-dry towel. This is my go-to towel for boat trips because it dries super fast and rolls up into a tiny ball. It’s the perfect towel to bring along for your Split boat tour.
Split Boat Tours: Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Split boat tours cost?
Split boat tours definitely aren’t cheap. On average, Split boat tours cost around €75 per person for a half-day group tour, €110 per person for a full-day group tour, and around €750 for a full-day private boat tour. When you consider that you can often have up to 10 people on a private tour, this could actually work out a lot cheaper for you if you’re travelling in a group.
What is the best time of year to take a boat trip from Split?
Most Split boat tours only run from May until the end of September, because it gets too cold and choppy to run these tours outside of the summer months.
The best time of year to take a boat trip from Split is June, July or August. That’s because you’re more likely to have warm weather, warmer water, and a wider range of boat trips to choose from, since this is the peak season.
With that said, if you’re planning a Split boat trip during the summer months, you need to book your place ASAP! Like, right now! Croatia is one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe, and the best tours sell out weeks in advance during this period. Don’t miss out!
What types of boats are available for Split boat trips?
The most common boats used for day trips from Split are speedboats and catamarans, although there are also some options for sailing tours.
How long do boat trips from Split usually last?
The duration of your Split boat trip will depend on whether you selected a half-day, full-day or sunset trip. Half-day boat trips from Split typically last around 6 hours, with full-day boat trips lasting around 10 hours. Split sunset cruises normally last between two and three hours.
Is food and drink provided on boat trips from Split?
Most boat trips from Split include snacks and drinks in the price. At the very least, you should get free water, but some Split boat trips even include unlimited alcohol or a free lunch! It’s always worth double-checking what’s included on your tour before you book it.
Can you go snorkelling on Split boat tours?
You sure can! There are plenty of wonderful snorkelling spots off the coast of Split, and many of these boat trips include at least one snorkelling stop. Usually, if there’s a snorkelling stop on the tour’s itinerary, snorkel equipment hire will be included in the price. Again, though, it’s always worth double checking this.
