This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see myĀ full disclosureĀ for further information.

11 Best Split Boat Tours (LOCAL’S GUIDE)

Looking for the best Split boat tours? You’re in the right place!

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Croatia’s dramatic cliffs, azure lagoons, centuries-old stone villages, and mesmerizing coastlines than by setting sail. A boat tour from Split is your golden ticket to experiencing Croatia’s Mediterranean brilliance—all condensed into an unforgettable day trip.

Having called Croatia home since 2014, I’ve crisscrossed this stunning country to find the most epic spots. Split is on my annual must-visit list, and I’ve sampled my fair share of island-hopping adventures. Thanks to these firsthand experiences and a little insider info from my local friends, I’ve curated the ultimate list of Split Croatia boat trips to make your choice a breeze.

All of these Split boat trips will give you the chance to cruise around some of the most beautiful islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll get the chance to snorkel, take a refreshing dip, or simply bask in the golden Croatian sun.

Whether you’re looking to mingle with fellow travelers on a group excursion or you’re after a more private, personalized experience for just your group, rest assured, there’s a boat tour on this list tailored just for you.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the best Split boat tours!

Quick Guide: Best Split Boat Tours

#1 TOP PICK
Croatia Island Hopping Guidebook

Luxury Private Split Boat Tour ⛵

ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø
āœ”ļø Private luxury boat for your group of up to 12
āœ”ļø Fully customizable route
āœ”ļø Pickup from your chosen location

#2 Pick
The blue cave in Croatia illuminated in a stunning bright blue light. Inside the cave, a small white wooden boat is visible.

Best Bang for Your Buck šŸ’ø

ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø
āœ”ļø Small group feel without the high price tag of a private tour
āœ”ļø Includes skip-the-line ticket to Blue Cave
āœ”ļø Visit Komiža, Stiniva Cove, Blue Lagoon, and Hvar Island.

# 3 Pick

Best for Families

ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø
āœ”ļø Explore Croatia on a pirate ship
āœ”ļø Lunch included in the price
āœ”ļø Visit an underwater museum and shipwreck

11 Best Split Boat Tours (LOCAL’S GUIDE)

1. Private Luxury Boat Tour for 12 From Split

Friends jumping off of a sailboat into the Adriatic Sea in Croatia while on a boat tour from Split.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 10 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? This is a totally private tour, which means that you and your group will have a private luxury speedboat all to yourselves. The tour includes visiting some of Croatia’s most incredible highlights like the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Palmizana island, and Hvar’s most beautiful beaches, but you can entirely customize the trip to your liking.

The Private Luxury Boat Tour for 12 From Split includes:

  • Private luxury speedboat just for your group
  • Customizable route
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Pick up at meeting point or accommodation
  • Bottled water

Between island hopping and sightseeing, your knowledgable skipper and host will guarantee that you get the most out of your day at sea with plenty of time carved out for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. If you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, this tour is a no brainer.

Thank you so much to Marco & Naomi for the boat trip a couple days ago!! They adapted our route to how we wanted and were very accommodating to all of us. We all genuinely had the best time and wouldn’t have asked for anything more!! Thank you guys again!!

Maria w. (read more reviews)

>> See all of the private boat tours Split has to offer <<

2. Group Tour with Blue Cave Entry Ticket

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 11 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? Unlike other tours that advertise a visit to a Blue Cave, this tour actually includes entry to the Blue Cave as part of the tour price (usually it is an add-on which is disclosed in small writing). Another great thing about this tour is that it’s a small speedboat that holds up to 12 people, so you’ll get that small group feel without having to pay the hefty price tag for a private tour.

This Small Group 5 Islands Tour includes:

  • Small speedboat for up to 12 people
  • Entry ticket to the Blue Cave (you don’t have to worry about carrying extra cash)
  • Skip-the-line entry into the Blue Cave
  • Skilled drivers (super important in case you’re prone to motion sickness)

We had an absolutely fantastic day and was the highlight of our holiday.

Mark (Read more reviews)

Probably the biggest benefit of this tour is that you get skip-the-line entry into the Blue Cave which is HUGE! If you didn’t already know, Croatia’s Blue Cave is one of the most popular places to visit and can get very busy, leaving you waiting in the hot sun. This tour will get you in fast, meaning you can get back to sightseeing and swimming ASAP.

After visiting the Blue Cave, you’ll also go to Komiža, Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Blue Lagoon, and Hvar Island. Personally, I think this tour is the best bang for your buck.

3. Three-Island Tour On a Pirate Ship

Close up of a wooden steering wheel on a pirate ship with the sea visible in the background.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 8.5 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour: This tour is great for travelers of all ages including kids. If you’re a family with children, rest assured they’ll have an awesome time on the inflatable theme park and at the underwater museum. On top of being budget-friendly, this trip also includes lunch with an open bar.

This Three-Island Tour On a Pirate Ship includes:

  • Great for kids
  • Lunch + drinks included
  • Affordable
  • Use of snorkeling equipment
  • Unique boat (you get to explore the Croatian coast on a pirate ship!)

The route takes you to the main highlights of the Split area including Blue Lagoon, Necujam, Maslinica, and Ciovo, allowing you to get a good feel for the islands.

Would recommend this trip to anyone! Absolutely brilliant, great swimming stops, amazing staff and the boat is something unique and fun! Absolutely great day all round would do it again!

hollie s. (read more reviews)

3. Private Blue Lagoon and 3 Islands Tour

A birds eye view of the shipwreck of Kontesa on a Blue lagoon tour from Split, Croatia.
Blue Lagoon trip from Split with a stop at the Shipwreck of Kontesa.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 10 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? Out of all the Split sea tours, this one will take you to some of the most incredible swimming spots in all of Croatia, including the Blue Lagoon at KrknjaŔi Bay and mysterious Shipwreck of Kontesa. I visited the shipwreck last year (see my drone shot above) and it was such a cool experience! The shipwreck is so shallow, that you can even stand on parts of it while keeping your head above water.

If you’re searching for an intimate, private day out on the water, then this tour is for you. The boat can only accommodate up to 4 people, making it ideal for small families or couples wanting an authentic experience of the Croatian coast.

The Private Blue Lagoon Tour Split With 3 Islands includes:

  • Private speedboat with a skipper
  • Bottled water + light refreshments
  • Use of snorkeling equipment

Your skipper and guide will take you to Trogir, a gorgeous medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll have time to grab some coffee or breakfast (I recommend Chi Coffee for you specialty coffee lovers out there!).

You’ll also explore the darling fishing village of Maslinica. This is a place that I visit every year with my family. We love stopping here and having a coffee on the waterfront promenade while watching the ships come in and out of the harbor!

Finally, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch on the island of Å olta before swimming around a shipwreck. This is the perfect tour for capturing some incredible underwater shots, so be sure to bring a GoPro with you!

Our day trip was amazing, we had the best time. Josip, our skipper, was extremely nice, flexible and knowledgeable. Because it was a private tour, he tailored it right there for us and took us to many quiet places with very few tourists.

Antonio (Read more reviews)

4. Private Blue Cave and Hvar Town – 5 Islands Tour

View of Hvar Town from the sea with boats in the harbor.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 10 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? This 5 island boat tour Split combines the best islands into one unforgettable experience. You’ll get to visit the Blue Cave, one of Croatia’s most stunning natural wonders, along with Stiniva Cove, pronounced one of the best beaches in Europe!

This Private Blue Cave and Hvar Town – 5 Islands Tour includes:

  • Private charter + skipper for just you and your party
  • Fully customizable experience
  • Snorkeling gear
  • WiFi on board so you can stay connected
  • Fuel charges are included
  • Bottled water

Journey from Split to Hvar starting with a visit to the Blue Cave to experience the unbelievable natural phenomenon that illuminates the cave in a splendorous blue hue. Afterwards, your skipper will take you for a dip at the nearby Sea Monk Cave before heading over to Stiniva Cove (one of my favorite beaches in Croatia!).

End the morning with one last swim in the Blue Lagoon and enjoy lunch on the flower-covered island of Palmizana, part of the Pakleni Island archipelago near Hvar (and my personal favorite!). Finally, you’ll have free time in the charming Hvar Town before sailing back to Split.

We had such a wonderful private cruise around multiple islands in Croatia. We stopped for lunch at a beautiful restaurant ocean views and delicious food! We were picked up near the port of our hotel and dropped of in the same spot. Hanni even gave us great recommendations for the rest of our trip as well! Highly recommend this tour. We will definitely be choosing them again for our next trip to Croatia!

Kayla (read more reviews)

7. All-Inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour from Split

The inside of the Blue Cave in Croatia on a Split boat tour.
Blue Cave Split Croatia Tour from Split

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 10 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour: This tour will allow you to avoid the overcrowded beaches and discover Croatia’s lesser-known hidden gems. Plus, unlike other Blue Cave tours, this excursion offers guests a luxury experience at a great price (and no hidden fees!). Not only will you visit the majestic Blue Cave, but you’ll also sample some delicious Croatian cuisine including freshly-caught grilled fish, as you enjoy lunch in a private bay.

The All-Inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour includes:

  • Bottled water, breakfast and lunch
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Driver/guide – a captain and a hostess
  • Live commentary on board allowing you learn more about the places you visit

This tour has everything you need for a memorable day at sea while on holiday in Split Croatia. If you are looking for Split tours that go above and beyond the norm and ensure you have the chance to visit beautiful islands with ample time to sightsee, swim and eat, then look no further than this All-Inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour.

I cannot say enough good things about this tour!!! There are so many Blue Cave tours that it was difficult to choose, but I am so glad I chose this one. It shows the hospitality of the Croatian people at its highest level. The owner has created an experience that is more like a high end private tour than a bulk rate experience. You definitely get a luxury experience on this tour compared to the other tours I observed.

Eleanor Paige (read more reviews)

8. Hvar, Brač & Pakleni Islands Cruise

A beautiful bay filled with boats taking visitors to Hvar, Brac and the Pakleni Islands.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 9.5 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? This is a great budget-friendly boat tour from Split that will take you on a scenic cruise through the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea (so clear you can even spot sharks in Croatia!). You’ll have plenty of free time to explore the islands, relax on deck, go snorkeling, and take advantage of the SUP and inflatables.

The Hvar, Brač & Pakleni Islands Cruise includes:

  • Use of stand up paddle, inflatables, snorkeling gear (additional deposit)
  • English speaking captain and crew
  • Lunch + soda and alcoholic beverages
  • Hotel pick up/drop off

Lunch is served on board this boat tour from Split, so you don’t have to worry about anything other than having fun and enjoying your day at sea. After lunch, you’ll end your speedboat tour with a dip in a beautiful bay off of Brac Island (home to the famous golden horn beach).

We had a beautiful day and wonderful time! Special thanks to the crew, especially Robert, on making us feel welcome. Our family had a terrific experience!

elizabeth (read more reviews)

9. Catamaran Cruise to Hvar & Pakleni Islands

A catamaran cruising around Hvar and the Pakleni Islands from Split.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 10 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour: Explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful destinations including Hvar, Pakleni Islands, and Solta on this all-inclusive luxury catamaran Split boat tour. On this full-day adventure, you’ll get to swim and sunbathe at your leisure, visit the famous town of Hvar, and enjoy a delicious local lunch with wine.

The Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to Hvar & Pakleni Islands includes:

  • All inclusive drinks: beer, red/white wine, still water, soft drinks
  • Professional guided tour of town Hvar (get much more out of the experience than if you were just wandering around on your own)
  • 3 swimming stops: Hidden bays of Brač, Hvar & Pakleni Islands and Å olta
  • Free Wi-Fi on board so that you can stay connected all day

Raise a glass and celebrate with your fellow travelers on deck to conclude one of the most remarkable Split boat excursions! Enjoy the open bar’s selection of drinks as you return to Split while the sun sets on the horizon.

A fabulous day out on the Catamaran. Kia and the crew were very friendly with lots of energy and nothing was too much trouble. Beautiful scenery and swimming stops. Lunch was tasty and the drinks were flowing all day. The boat was a full on party once we docked into Split. A lovely group of fun people. Highly recommended trip.

michele (read more reviews)

9. Half-Day Cruise From Split

The blue lagoon at Krknjasi Bay on a boat tour from Split.
Blue Lagoon Split Croatia Tour

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 4.5 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? This half day Blue Lagoon tour from Split is a fantastic budget-friendly choice for visitors wanting to get a taste of Croatia’s islands (and most breathtaking swimming spots!). In just 4.5 hours, you’ll get to stroll around the historic town of Trogir and snorkel in shockingly blue waters when you visit the Blue Lagoon at KrknjaÅ”i Bay.

Trust me when I say that this is the most stunning place to swim! I visit KrknjaÅ”i Bay every summer and am blown away by the color of the water each time. Let’s just say it’s the Maldives of Croatia!

This Half-Day Cruise From Split includes:

  • All fees and taxes, including fuel surcharge
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Towels

As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll end your day at sea at Laganini Beach Bar (a cool beach hangout popular among locals). I personally visit this beach every summer and can definitely say that it is one of the best swimming spots on the island of Čiovo.

I don’t usually leave reviews but this tour was simply so good I had to write something 😃 From our skipper Duje, to amazing weather, clear sea and beautiful islands it was the best day for my son and I. Thank you!!

Anita (read more reviews)

10. Split Sunset Cruise

A sailboat cruising along the Adriatic Sea at sunset.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 5 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 2 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour? If you don’t have time for an entire day tour or perhaps want to end your day with relaxing views of Split from the water, then this sunset boat trip from Split will hit the spot.

Meet your skipper at the Split harbor and climb on board for a 2 hour journey around the Split coastline. You’ll cruise past Marjan Hill Park and admire Split’s sparkling riviera from a distance as the sun casts a summer glow over the town.

The Split Sunset Cruise includes:

  • Live music band
  • Open bar (unlimited champagne, wine, beer and soft drinks)
  • Alcoholic beverages

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or a group of friends, this Split sightseeing cruise at sunset is a delightful activity to do after dinner. Enjoy free-flowing drinks during the 2 hour ride along with a live cover band providing entertainment and good vibes as you cruise around the Adriatic.

The live singers were fantastic! This trip was definitely a highlight of our holiday to Croatia. Quick service on the drinks and the sunset was stunning.

Amy c. (Read more reviews)

11. Best Party Boat from Split with DJ

Young people in bathing suits partying on a boat with raised red solo cups in the air.

ā­ļøĀ RATING:Ā 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ā³Ā TOUR LENGTH:Ā 8.5 hours | āœ… Book it!

Why choose this tour: Let’s be honest, this is less of a tour and more of an excuse to party on a boat in one of Croatia’s most stunning locations. This is the biggest boat party in Split featuring live DJs, free shots, and even a dance floor on the boat itself!

This Split Party Boat trip includes:

  • Swimming at the famous Blue Lagoon for a fraction of the price of other boat tours
  • Live DJ on the boat
  • Free priority access to one of Split’s best night clubs for an afterparty

I mean…how much more can I say? If you’re in Croatia and looking to party, you need to book this boat trip!

The cruise party was amazing, no doubt one of the best cruise parties I have experienced with. I wish if it could have lasted few hours more. I recommend this trip for anyone coming to Split.

Debasish (read more reviews)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can you go from Split on a boat?

You can reach many places from Split on a boat. Popular destinations include Hvar, Brač, and Šolta.

How do I get to the Blue Lagoon from Split?

The easiest way to get to the Blue Lagoon from Split is to hire a private boat and skipper or join a day tour.

Is Split Croatia worth visiting?

Yes! Split is definitely worth visiting. In fact, Split makes for a great base for exploring other parts of southern Croatia including the islands.

Best Boat Tours Split Croatia Wrap Up

We’ve finally made it to the end of the best Split boat tours! Hopefully this list has helped you narrow choose the perfect boat trip from Split to add to your Croatia itinerary.

As I mentioned earlier, boat tours in Split Croatia are one of the best ways to see the best of the Croatian coast. I highly recommend this Private Luxury Boat Tour from Split, especially if you are traveling with family or a group of friends. There is simply no better way to experience the coast than on a boat exclusive to your party, with your own private skipper who will customize the entire day to your liking.

No matter which tour you choose though, rest assured that all of these day trips will all provide you with the opportunity to experience swimming in the crystal clear waters and to explore some of the most beautiful islands in Croatia.

Don’t wait too long to book! These trips tend to fill up fast during summertime, so make sure to secure your spot well in advance.

Before you go… If you’re using Split as a base for exploring the rest of southern Croatia, be sure not to miss the best beaches in Split!

You Might Also Like

Croatia Travel Planning Guide

šŸ’ø What is the currency in Croatia?
As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia).

šŸ‡­šŸ‡· What language do they speak in Croatia?
Croatian is the official language of Croatia. Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app!

šŸš‘ Should I buy Croatia travel insurance?
10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it. You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day.

šŸ“± Will my phone work in Croatia?
Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo. Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia!

šŸØ What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations?
For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site.

šŸ›« What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights?
I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.

šŸš—Ā  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia?
Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here)

šŸ’¦ Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia?
Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink, so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up!

🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia?
Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Similar Posts