Reviewed · BLUE LAGOON & 3 ISLANDS CRUISES

Private Full-Day 3 islands tour with snorkelling

★ 5.0 · 7 reviews From $1,031 Operated by Absolut Charter · Bookable on Viator
Book on Viator →

Split’s sea days feel different.

This private full-day tour is built for a quick escape from city streets: you get a fast speedboat ride to UNESCO-listed Trogir, then jump into the clear water at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling, with stops across Šolta and Brač. I especially like the way the day mixes classic sights (Trogir’s stone streets and cathedral doors) with water time that actually takes you off the main routes. One tradeoff: it runs on the sea, so you should plan for schedule shifts if conditions are rough.

What I really like is the attention to the fun details. You’ll get snorkeling equipment, towels, bottled water, fruit, soda/pop, and even a SUP board, plus there’s a shipwreck-style snorkeling stop near Šolta and a final wine tasting option on Brač. The main consideration is that lunch and the wine tasting aren’t included, so budget a bit extra if you want both.

Highlights at a glance

  • Private group, up to 11 people: one boat setup for your group, not a seat on a crowded schedule
  • Trogir UNESCO time: do the cathedral, promenade, and fortress areas at your own pace for about an hour
  • Blue Lagoon/Krknjaši Bay water time: swim and snorkel in a crystal-blue bay between islands
  • Šolta snorkeling near a shipwreck structure: gear provided, with a focused stop at Necujam
  • SUP board included: easy extra fun when the water is calm
  • Brač finale with wine or coffee: Milna wraps the day with an optional tasting stop

Private Full-Day 3 islands tour with snorkelling - A Private Boat Day That Links Split, Trogir, and Three Islands
This tour is basically a “hit the highlights and still have fun in the water” plan. You start on the Split side, then spend the middle of the day on Šolta’s beaches and snorkeling spots, and finish on Brač with wine tasting or coffee in Milna. The result feels like more than just sightseeing, because you’re not only looking at the Adriatic—you’re in it.

The best part, in my mind, is pacing. You get a real Trogir block (including time to walk), and then the water stops don’t feel like a token 20-minute swim. The snorkeling and shipwreck stop are timed as dedicated segments, not tacked on at the end like an afterthought.

The day’s tone is also practical. You’ll be out for about 8 hours, and you’ll want to treat it like a sea day: bring swimwear, expect saltwater, and plan to relax between stops.

Getting From Split: Meeting Point and What the Private Setup Changes

Private Full-Day 3 islands tour with snorkelling - Getting From Split: Meeting Point and What the Private Setup Changes
The start point is listed as Trumbićeva obala 1 in Split, and the actual boarding point lines up with the city’s central pier area near Matejuska pier under the Croatian flag. You’ll head out from there, and the tour ends back at the meeting point.

Because it’s private, your group isn’t mixed with strangers. That matters more than people think. You spend less time herding, waiting, and re-checking where everyone is, and more time actually enjoying each stop. In the feedback for this operator, guides like Toni and skippers such as Dino, Marsel, and Vinko are specifically praised for being flexible and for making boarding and getting off the boats feel safe and organized. That’s a big deal on a day when you’ll be in and out of the water.

One more “logistics you’ll feel” point: the itinerary is timed in pieces (about 1 hour in Trogir, ~1 hour at the Blue Lagoon, and so on), so you’ll get a rhythm. If you like schedules that are structured but not prison-like, this style fits.

Historic Trogir: Speedboat Arrival and Walkable UNESCO Free Time

Private Full-Day 3 islands tour with snorkelling - Historic Trogir: Speedboat Arrival and Walkable UNESCO Free Time
Trogir is the historical anchor of the day. After leaving Split, you’ll take a speedboat ride to the UNESCO-listed old town area and get around 1 hour of free time. This isn’t a long guided lecture. It’s a good window to orient yourself and pick your own priorities.

Here’s what you can actually aim for in that hour:

  • Cathedral of St. Lovre and its carved Romanesque doors by Master Radovan (the kind of detail you only notice when you’re close)
  • A stroll around the narrow streets and the stone-house feel of the old town
  • The promenade for sea-air views and a calmer moment than the streets

There’s also time you can use to get your bearings with a quick loop before you go back to the boat meeting point. I like this approach because it avoids the classic issue where you arrive, rush through everything, and leave with zero memory.

The one drawback is time pressure. An hour sounds generous until you add in changing footwear, finding shade, and taking photos. If you want deep museum-level detail, you’ll likely want a separate land day. For a boat tour day, though, it’s a solid taste.

Blue Lagoon and Krknjaši Bay: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Real Sea Color

After Trogir, you head to the Blue Lagoon / Krknjaši Bay, a crystal-blue area between islands like Krknjaši (large and small) and Drvenik Veli. You’ll have about 1 hour here—enough time to do the two things most people come for: swim and snorkel.

You’ll use provided snorkeling equipment, and you can choose either:

  • A pebbled-shore stroll to enjoy the view, or
  • Snorkeling in the water right from the stop

This is the part of the tour that tends to feel the most “vacation.” The water color is the star attraction, and the bay setup makes it easier to relax rather than constantly relocating.

Practical note: pebbly shorelines mean it helps to have swim shoes if you’re picky about foot comfort. The tour provides towels, but it doesn’t mean your feet won’t notice stones.

Also, the dolphins angle is more of a “watch and hope” situation than a promise. Keep your eyes open while you’re near the water, and enjoy it if you see anything.

Maslinica on Šolta: Coffee Break, Pebble Beach Time, and Archipelago Views

Maslinica is a village on island Šolta, known for being surrounded by several smaller islands, which is why it has that island-by-islands feel from the shore. You get about 1 hour here, including time for coffee and a swim.

What makes Maslinica work in a day like this:

  • You get a proper village break after the big-water swim time
  • The pebble beach is a comfortable spot to cool down
  • There’s a wooden bar setup at the popular beach area, so you can linger without it feeling like a rushed stop

You’ll also see why Maslinica draws repeat visitors: old stone and baroque restoration efforts have helped turn parts of the area into a more active waterfront hub, including a restored castle area and a marina. That’s why you can grab coffee and still feel like you’re in a place, not just at a docking point.

The only consideration is that this is a popular “nice beach + coffee” stop. If you love totally empty beaches, you might find moments of company. But even then, you’ll still likely get enough quiet time to enjoy the water.

Necujam Snorkeling Over a Shipwreck-Style Spot Near Šolta

Next up is Necujam on Šolta, with a snorkeling focus described as snorkeling above a shipping rack/shipwreck area on the north side of the island. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, which is a pretty focused chunk—enough time to suit up, do a slow swim, and not feel like you’re racing the clock.

This is one of the tour’s strongest selling points: it’s not only about pretty water. You’re snorkeling at a location tied to a wreck structure, which generally makes the water-time more interesting because you’re not just looking at fish-free empty blue.

I recommend approaching this stop with a calm mindset. Snorkeling speed is usually what decides whether it feels magical or annoying. Take it easy, keep an eye on your group, and treat it like a “watch and float” segment rather than an all-action swim.

Lunch Optional in Stomorska at Restaurant Turanj (Or More Swim Time)

You’ll continue to Stomorska, where the tour includes time for lunch at Restaurant Turanj right in front of the sea. Lunch is optional and on your cost, which gives you two ways to use this block of about 2 hours:

  • Sit down for lunch if you want the full sit-and-eat experience
  • Or skip lunch and extend your beach time with walking, swimming, and sunbathing

This flexibility is smart because not everyone wants the same kind of recovery after snorkeling. If you’re hungry, eat. If you’re just salty and relaxed, you can let the day stretch a bit longer.

One small warning that’s not dramatic but worth mentioning: after multiple water stops, you might feel hungry later than you expect. If that sounds like you, consider grabbing a light bite here even if you don’t do a full lunch.

Milna on Brač: Optional Wine Tasting Finale or a Coffee Stop

Private Full-Day 3 islands tour with snorkelling - Milna on Brač: Optional Wine Tasting Finale or a Coffee Stop
The final chapter is Milna on island Brač. You’ll have about 45 minutes for a wine tasting in a small family tasting room, or you can swap to coffee in the fishing village.

Wine tasting isn’t listed as included, so you should expect it to be a paid option. That said, the plan gives you a choice, and I like that. If you’re not a wine person, you still get a proper end-of-day village vibe and a place to sit while the sea calms down.

Milna works as a “soft landing” after snorkeling and beach time. By the time you reach Brač, you’ve already had the busy moments, so the finale feels more relaxed rather than rushed.

What’s Included, and How to Judge the Value of $1,031.75 per Group

For the price of $1,031.75 per group (up to 11), what you’re really buying is time plus water logistics: the boat day itself, gear, and a route that strings together multiple islands without making you plan connections.

Included items:

  • Bottled water
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Towels
  • Soda/pop
  • Fruit
  • A bottle of wine
  • And a SUP board

Not included:

  • Lunch
  • Wine tasting

That mix changes the math. If you’re the type who would otherwise pay separately for boat transport, snorkeling rental, and a paid beach day add-on, the bundled approach can start to feel fair. Also, private days often become expensive when you have to add every little “extra.” Here, the snorkeling gear, towels, and even a SUP board are already covered.

One caution for value: this price is per group, not per person. That’s excellent if you have enough people to share the cost. If you’re traveling as a couple and the group size is small, it’ll feel pricier. In that case, ask yourself whether you’d pay for the same day if you were doing it by land and ferry. If your goal is mainly water and snorkeling, this format can still make sense.

Skippers Who Care: The Role of Toni, Dino, Marsel, and Vinko

This tour’s vibe hinges on the skipper. In the feedback I reviewed, the names Toni, Dino, Marsel, and Vinko show up with a consistent theme: they’re personable, attentive, and focused on safety when getting on and off the boats.

That matters in a few places on this route:

  • In and out of the water at swimming stops
  • Timing between Trogir and the lagoon
  • Staying together as groups split across multiple boats (when needed)

One of the best signs for you as a rider is flexibility. If the skipper adjusts time spent at locations so your group experiences the stop properly, the day feels less like a checklist and more like a real excursion.

If you get a chance to meet your skipper at the start, ask a simple question like what sea conditions might affect snorkeling time. The better skippers explain the plan in plain language.

Weather, Timing, and Dolphin Chances: How to Set Expectations

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s normal for sea tours, but it’s worth planning around, especially in shoulder seasons.

Timing-wise, you should expect a full day at sea (about 8 hours). The stops are spaced so you’re active for most of the day. If you want a “one or two hours and back” trip, this may feel like a lot.

Dolphin spotting is mentioned as a chance. Treat it like that: a bonus. Your real wins are the set snorkeling segments, the Blue Lagoon water time, and the fact that you also get a solid historical stop in Trogir.

Should You Book This 3-Island Snorkel Tour from Split?

Book it if:

  • You want a private boat day with multiple islands and water time
  • Snorkeling is a top priority, and you like the idea of a shipwreck-style snorkeling stop near Šolta
  • You also care about an authentic town break, not just beaches
  • Your group can split the cost (up to 11)

Skip it or choose another option if:

  • You’re not comfortable with an all-day sea schedule
  • You mainly want a long guided cultural tour (this day gives you a taste, not a deep dive)
  • You travel solo or as a small group and budget is tight, since the price is group-based

My final take: this is a well-rounded Split-area day that balances history in Trogir with real Adriatic water time on Šolta and a relaxing Brač finish. If you want value, snorkeling gear, and a skipper who keeps the day running smoothly, this one fits the bill.

FAQ

How long is the private 3-island tour with snorkeling?

It lasts about 8 hours, based on the schedule.

Where does the tour start in Split?

It starts at Trumbićeva obala 1, 21000 Split, Croatia, and the boarding is described as near Matejuska pier in the center of town under the Croatian flag.

What is the maximum group size?

The price is per group up to 11 people, and it’s a private tour for only your group.

What snorkeling gear is included?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with towels.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No. Lunch at Restaurant Turanj in Stomorska is optional and on your cost.

Is the wine tasting included?

Wine tasting isn’t included. You can do it as an optional experience on Brač, or choose coffee in Milna.

What else is included besides snorkeling?

Included items list bottled water, soda/pop, fruit, a bottle of wine, and a SUP board.

What happens if weather is bad?

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