Five shades of blue in one day.

That’s what this Split cruise delivers as you hop from the coast to Čiovo’s coves, then straight to the Blue Lagoon near Drvenik, and finish with time in Šolta. I like that it mixes classic swim stops with real time on islands, so you’re not just speeding past postcard views.

Two things I especially appreciate: the Mediterranean-style lunch (grilled fish, veg, or meat in traditional Dalmatian fashion) and the onboard fun—especially the waterslide and the hydraulic ramp for jumping back in. One note to plan around: the whole day depends on good weather, and if conditions are poor you’ll need to switch dates or get a refund.

Key highlights at a glance

• Blue Lagoon time: Photo stop plus swimming and snorkeling in water known for serious clarity.
• Čiovo beach-bar lunch: Mediterranean BBQ-style meal steps from the shore.
• Snorkel over a sunken pirate ship: You’ll get in the water around the wreck at Šolta.
• Waterslide and a jump ramp: Built-in splash time, even if you just want a little fun between swims.
• Unlimited juice and water onboard: Easy to stay hydrated without thinking about purchases.

From Split to island time: how the day actually flows

This tour is built for one goal: getting you out on the water long enough to feel like you earned the swim stops. You start at the Riva promenade by the boat excursions stand (stand 7, opposite caffe bar Biberon), then hop onto a comfortable ex-military cruise vessel. Even the way the day is timed makes sense for people who want water time without racing their way across the Adriatic.

You’ll spend chunks of time moving between stops, with shorter cruise segments between islands and longer pauses for lunch, swimming, and snorkeling. Expect the day to feel active but not frantic. That’s a big deal if you’re traveling with friends or family, because everyone gets moments to relax on the boat too—shade and sundeck areas are part of the setup, and you’ll have unlimited juice and water onboard.

The host and greeter speak English, which helps when you’re gearing up for the water activities. I also like that the tour includes both “get in the water” options and “stay on deck and watch” options—so you can match your energy level to your mood.

Stop 1 to Stop 3: Čiovo’s cove break and Dalmatian BBQ lunch

Your first big island stop is on Čiovo, where you’ll start with beach-bar time at Borko. This is your breather after leaving Split, and it’s a good one: you can cool off, grab a drink, and settle in before lunch.

Then the restaurant is described as being just steps from the shore—so the meal doesn’t feel like an interruption. This is where the “Mediterranean feast” part matters. The lunch choices are kept very local in feel: grilled fish, grilled vegetables, or grilled meat, prepared in traditional Dalmatian style. In plain terms, it’s not a fancy, fussy tasting menu. It’s food that matches a day outdoors—hot, filling, and perfect after you’ve been in the water.

The schedule also gives you time to swim and snorkel here, not just eat. You’ll have around two hours at this stop, which is enough to do the “quick dip” and then come back for a second round if conditions are right. If you’re wondering whether you’ll get your money’s worth, Čiovo is where the day starts cashing in: beach time, water time, and a proper lunch on an island.

A small consideration: if you’re someone who needs big stretches of sand or long shore walks, this stop will feel more like cove time. It’s built around water access and barbecue lunch convenience, not long island sightseeing.

Stop 4 to Stop 6: Blue Lagoon near Drvenik—swim, snorkel, and pose

Next comes the headline stop for many people: the Blue Lagoon near Drvenik Island. You’ll get a photo stop, plus free time to swim and snorkel, along with marine-life viewing. This is the part of the itinerary that’s made for people who want that clear-turquoise water look you’ve seen in photos, but also want to experience it up close.

The key here is that you’re not stuck just looking from the deck. You get enough time to actually get in. And because the tour includes snorkeling gear for the broader day experience (and you’ll have snorkeling opportunities at multiple stops), you’re set up to explore the water world a bit rather than treating it like a quick swim.

The waterslide also comes into play around this section of the day. If you’ve ever watched adults hesitate before a water slide and then quietly agree at the last second, you already know what happens here. The presence of a waterslide on this kind of cruise is a sign the operator expects you to have fun, not just “visit” islands.

How to use your time well at this stop:

• If the water is calm, spend your first half hour swimming slowly and getting your bearings.
• Save snorkeling time for when you’re fully warm and ready to float.
• Bring sunscreen and reapply if you’re out there taking photos.

Stop 7 to Stop 8: Šolta’s Nečujam Bay and the pirate-ship snorkel

The final island stop is Šolta, with a focus around Nečujam Bay. This is where the tour turns from “pretty water” into “serious underwater interest,” because you’ll swim and snorkel around a sunken pirate ship (and the wreck is described as being surrounded by aquatic life).

This is one of the most valued parts of the whole experience because it adds a story you can see for yourself. A regular swim is nice. A swim where there’s a wreck and marine life nearby turns it into something you’ll remember when the day’s over. The included snorkeling element makes it feel planned rather than random.

You also get some additional time on the island itself—there’s mention of photo stops, a visit, free time, and a walk, with about one hour at this stop. That’s just enough to stretch your legs and get off the boat without turning the day into a land tour.

If you’re traveling with people who aren’t excited about snorkeling, Šolta still works. They can watch from the water access points, hang out in the bay atmosphere, and enjoy the island vibe. The tour balances active and relaxed moments so you’re not dragging everyone into the same activity.

One practical thought: if you’re not an experienced snorkeler, start with short sessions and stay close to where you can comfortably surface. The included setup and the overall pacing make it easier to manage your comfort level.

The food and drinks: why the lunch is more than just fuel

A lot of island cruises try to get away with “something to eat.” This one puts lunch in the center of the plan, which changes how the day feels.

You’ll have a traditional Dalmatian BBQ-style lunch on Čiovo, with choices based around grilled fish, grilled vegetables, or grilled meat. Since the restaurant is right by the shore, you get that simple island rhythm: swim first, then eat where you can still smell the sea.

The drink situation is also straightforward. Unlimited juice and water are included onboard. Alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you plan to have beer or wine with lunch, you’ll need to budget for that separately.

What you should take away from this: you’re not just paying for transportation to views. You’re paying for an actual meal experience that fits the day’s theme—water, sun, and grilled food you can eat without stress.

Onboard comfort: shade, sundeck, and the little extras that matter

The boat is described as comfortable and it has a shade and sundeck layout, which is a big quality-of-life detail on a sunny day. You’ll spend time cruising between stops, and those in-between segments add up. Having space to sit out of direct sun keeps you from feeling cooked by the time you reach the next swim spot.

The most fun extras are the water features:

• A waterslide for onboard splash time
• A hydraulic ramp that helps with jumping back into the sea

This matters because it’s not just about having a pool of water. It’s about giving you a safe, easy way to get in and out, especially when conditions shift. You’ll also be better off than you would be on a boat where everyone has to climb awkwardly in full swim gear.

Also, the crew is a highlight. The vibe comes through as friendly and helpful, and there’s even a memorable captain moment where he joined guests in the water. That kind of energy is more than entertainment—it usually means the trip is run with care.

Price and value: is $68 a fair deal?

At $68 per person for a full-day experience (around 8 hours, depending on departure timing), you’re basically paying for four things: boat transport from Split, multiple island stops, included water activities, and a lunch.

Here’s how the value holds up:

• You get multiple meaningful swim/snorkel moments rather than one quick dip.
• Lunch is included and described in a traditional Dalmatian style, not a minimal snack.
• The cruise includes snorkeling over a sunken pirate ship, plus waterslide and unlimited juice and water.

The main “value check” is what’s not included. Alcoholic beverages aren’t included, and extra lunch isn’t included. If you expect to drink alcohol all day, the final spend could climb. But if you’re there for swimming and the lunch, the price feels well aligned with the package.

So I’d call it a solid deal for people who want a structured day: real island time, real water time, and food that fits the day.

What to pack and how to prepare for a smooth swim day

This is a water-forward outing, so pack like it’s a beach day plus a little boat time.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Snacks
• Sunscreen
• Beachwear

I also recommend you think about comfort in layers. Even in warm months, time moving on the water can cool you off after you’re wet. A towel you can grab quickly and snack options that don’t melt will make the longer breaks feel easier.

If you want an even smoother day, plan your photo strategy too. With stops like the Blue Lagoon photo moment, you’ll want sunscreen and a phone case ready so you’re not hunting for it while everyone else is already posing.

Who this tour is best for (and who should skip it)

This cruise fits best if you want:

• A full-day plan without car hassles
• Multiple swim and snorkeling chances
• A meal that doesn’t feel like an afterthought
• A fun, active vibe with waterslide time

It’s especially good for families and groups of friends because the day has variety. Some people can be in the water, others can relax on deck, and everyone still gets something fun.

If you’re the type who hates boats or you only want dry-land sightseeing, this probably won’t be your best match. The experience is built around water activities, so your comfort level with swimming matters.

Should you book St.Damian Boat Tours from Split?

If you’re in Split and you want a day that mixes Blue Lagoon magic, island lunch, and a shipwreck snorkeling experience, I’d book this. The value comes from the combination: transport plus multiple swim opportunities plus a real Mediterranean meal, not just scenery.

Book it when:

• You’re traveling with friends or family who want an active beach-and-boat day
• You care about swimming and snorkeling more than long walking tours
• You want onboard fun like a waterslide and a ramp jump

Skip or reconsider if:

• You don’t want to spend time in open water
• You’re relying on alcohol to carry the day (it’s not included)
• You’re traveling during uncertain weather windows—this one needs good conditions to run nicely

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The tour is listed as 8 hours. Starting times vary by availability.

Where do I meet the tour in Split?

You meet at the Riva promenade, at the boat excursions stand 7, opposite caffe bar Biberon.

What lunch is included?

Lunch is included at the restaurant on the island, with grilled fish, grilled vegetables, or grilled meat in traditional Dalmatian style.

Is snorkeling included, and what are you snorkeling?

Snorkeling is included, including snorkeling on a sunken pirate ship. You’ll also have snorkeling time at other swim stops.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No. Alcoholic beverages are not included. Unlimited juice and water are included onboard.

What should I bring?

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

If you tell me your travel month (and whether you’re comfortable snorkeling), I can help you judge how likely the day will feel calm and easy—and which stop you’ll probably enjoy the most.