Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour

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Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour

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  • From $130
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Operated by SMILE TRAVEL SPLIT · Bookable on GetYourGuide

Traveller rating 4.9 (57)Price from$130Operated bySMILE TRAVEL SPLITBook viaGetYourGuide

First thing, this day feels fast in the best way. You start in Split and spend about 10 hours bouncing island to island in a 12-person speedboat, with swims and snorkeling breaks that make the scenery do real work. I especially like how the plan includes time in Hvar Town (not just a photo stop) plus proper water time at the Blue Lagoon with snorkel gear.

One consideration: the whole route depends on sea and weather conditions, so plan for a bit of variability if conditions are rough.

Key things I’d watch for

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Key things I’d watch for

  • 12 people max on the speedboat means less jostling and more personal space.
  • Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, so you can travel lighter.
  • Hvar Town gets 1.5 hours, enough to walk Old Town and get up toward Fortica.
  • Pakleni Islands include a swim and snorkeling stop, plus free time to chill.
  • Multiple island villages (Milna and Maslinica) balance out the big-name spots like Hvar.
  • Blue Lagoon is the final water moment, with time to snorkel, swim, and relax before heading back.

A Small-Group Speedboat Day From Split

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - A Small-Group Speedboat Day From Split
Split is a great launch point because you’re already in the middle of the action. This tour takes you out quickly by speedboat, and the payoff is simple: you spend more of your time on the water and less time in transit. The boat is limited to 12 passengers, which matters more than you’d think in peak season. You’re not standing shoulder-to-shoulder at every stop.

Another big plus is that you don’t need to scramble for gear. Snorkeling equipment and safety gear (life jackets) come with the tour. That turns your “maybe I’ll snorkel” moment into a “okay, I’m doing it” moment, especially at the Blue Lagoon and again later on Šolta.

The vibe is also practical and fun, not stiff. Music is played on board, and the crew keeps the day moving while still allowing free time. You’ll get scenic views while you travel between islands, but you’ll also get actual downtime to swim, snorkel, and walk.

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Split

The Full Route: Milna, Hvar, Pakleni Islands, Šolta, Maslinica, Blue Lagoon

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - The Full Route: Milna, Hvar, Pakleni Islands, Šolta, Maslinica, Blue Lagoon
This is a classic island-hopping loop in Dalmatia, built to hit the headline sights while still giving you breathing room at each stop. The itinerary runs about 10 hours, starting from the meeting point in Split and returning there at the end.

Stop 1–3: Marmontova ul. 5 to Milna (Brač Island)

You meet in front of the Smile Travel office in Split (at Marmontova ul. 5). Then you head out by speedboat. The first real stop is Milna on Brač.

Milna is known for its scenic harbor, fishing boats, and stone-town character. You’ll get about 45 minutes there with a mix of free time, sightseeing, and photos. This is a nice early rhythm: you’re not thrown into a huge city right away. Milna lets you settle into the day, grab quick photos, and enjoy the Mediterranean feel before the tour goes more famous.

Potential drawback: This first stop is relatively short. If you want a slow café-and-walk kind of morning, set expectations for a lighter visit at Milna.

Stop 4–5: Hvar Town (about 1.5 hours on land)

Next comes Hvar Town on Hvar Island, and this is where the tour shows its smart balance. Hvar has the kind of streets where you can burn time just walking. You get about 1.5 hours to explore, including highlights like the oldest theater in Europe, Venetian-style palaces, and the Fortica Fortress viewpoints.

You can keep it simple: wander Old Town, shop for small souvenirs, and grab a drink or snack if you want. Or you can work a little for the views by heading toward Fortica. This stop is long enough that you can actually do one main thing instead of rushing through everything.

Reality check: Food options are not included in the tour price, so decide in advance whether you’ll buy something in town or keep it snack-level.

Stop 6–7: Pakleni Islands swimming and snorkeling break

After Hvar, you head toward the Pakleni Islands, a long archipelago about 10 kilometers with 16 islands. You get around 1 hour here, including photo time, a walk, and importantly, a swimming + snorkeling stop with the included gear.

This is one of the most fun sections because the day turns from walking to water. Even if you’re not a serious swimmer, the sheltered feeling of island-hopping waters usually makes it easy to float, cool off, and look around. You’ll also pass by well-known beach-club vibes (Carpe Diem is mentioned as famous locally), so the area feels like a mix of postcard beauty and real beach culture.

Potential drawback: It’s still a time-limited stop. If you’re the type who wants a long swim session, you’ll do best by staying flexible and jumping in when the group is ready.

Stop 8–9: Šolta (swimming and snorkeling time)

Then you’re off to Šolta, where you’ll get about 45 minutes with scenic travel between stops plus swimming and snorkeling. Šolta is less about big landmarks and more about the water and the feeling of being out on the islands rather than in a city.

This extra swim segment is valuable because it means you’re not relying on a single water stop. If you’re tired after Hvar, this portion still feels like a reset—get wet, look at the water life through the snorkel, and recharge.

Blue Lagoon: The Grand Finale Swim

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Blue Lagoon: The Grand Finale Swim
The last stop is Blue Lagoon, and it’s scheduled with about 1.5 hours. This is the moment most people remember because it’s both pretty and very practical: you’ll be able to swim and snorkel again, plus sunbathe and relax.

The setting is described as untouched nature with sparkling waters. In other words, this is not a “watch from the shore” kind of place. You’re expected to get in. Since snorkel gear is included, you can do a quick look-around even if you’re not planning to snorkel for long.

Tip for comfort: Bring a towel and change of clothes. You’ll want to be dry and comfortable on the return ride, and it makes the whole day feel less like you’re just moving from water to water.

Hvar Town Time: Old Theater, Venetian Streets, and Fortica Views

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Hvar Town Time: Old Theater, Venetian Streets, and Fortica Views
Hvar Town is the “walkable payoff” stop. You get about 1.5 hours, which is long enough to experience the character without turning it into a rushed checklist.

Here’s how I’d use your time:

  • Start with Old Town streets for the classic Hvar feel.
  • If you like viewpoints, plan part of the hour for Fortica Fortress. The climb is worth it when the light is good.
  • If you want something easy, pick a relaxed path and use the time for photos and people-watching from the streets.

What I like about this schedule is that it doesn’t treat Hvar like a drive-by. You’re not just dropped at a single point; you have time to choose your own pace, whether that means architecture, views, or just a calm stroll.

Milna on Brač and Maslinica on Šolta: The Calm Counterweights

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Milna on Brač and Maslinica on Šolta: The Calm Counterweights
Not every island stop is a headline city, and that’s a good thing. These calmer villages make the day feel balanced.

Milna: harbor charm and early-day breathing room

Milna’s harbor is scenic, and the town’s stone architecture and fishing boats give you that real-island texture. You get about 45 minutes here, so it’s enough to wander, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling trapped by a tight schedule.

Maslinica: olive groves, peaceful harbor, and simple relaxation

You also stop at Maslinica, a charming coastal village with a picturesque harbor, traditional stone houses, and nearby olive groves. The time here is about 1 hour, with sightseeing, a walk, and free time.

This is a great contrast to the busy feeling of Hvar. If you want quiet moments, this is where you’ll tend to get them. You can swim, unwind, and enjoy an area that stays calmer and more local-feeling.

Potential drawback: These village stops are not “destination museums.” If you want big indoor attractions, you’ll get more out of the walking and water than formal sights.

Snorkeling Gear and Water Time: What You’re Actually Getting

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Snorkeling Gear and Water Time: What You’re Actually Getting
The tour includes snorkeling equipment and safety gear. That’s not just a checkbox. It changes the experience because you don’t waste time figuring out what you need, and you’re more likely to try snorkeling at the right moments.

You’ll have snorkeling opportunities at the Blue Lagoon and during the Pakleni Islands and Šolta water stops. That creates a nice pattern:

  • One water stop to get comfortable.
  • Another to enjoy it properly.
  • The Blue Lagoon to cap it off.

Also, because it’s a small group, it’s easier for the crew to help with timing and keep things organized. You don’t feel like you’re being swept along by a huge crowd.

What You Get for $130: Where the Value Shows Up

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - What You Get for $130: Where the Value Shows Up
At $130 per person for about a 10-hour day, the value comes from the mix of transportation + included gear + multiple islands. You’re paying for speedboat fuel and operation, plus the work of getting you to several separate areas in one day without you having to coordinate your own transport.

Here’s where the value tends to show up:

  • Small-group size: 12 people means less hassle and more personal space.
  • Snorkeling gear included: that’s a real cost if you book separately.
  • Fuel and taxes included: you’re not piecing together multiple small fees.
  • Time on land in Hvar and villages: you’re not only doing water stops.

What’s not included is lunch and food and drinks. So if you tend to eat a lot, plan ahead. If you’re a light eater, this is easier to manage with snacks you buy along the way.

If you’re comparing options, this tour often makes sense when you want variety in one day: city streets in Hvar, beach time in the Pakleni Islands, quieter island villages, and a final Blue Lagoon swim.

Pace, Comfort, and Who This Tour Fits Best

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Pace, Comfort, and Who This Tour Fits Best
This is a speedboat tour. That means it’s active, sun-exposed, and generally best suited to people who don’t mind moving through the day.

A few practical comfort notes:

  • Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a change of clothes.
  • Pack towel and water. You’ll be out for hours, with multiple chances to get wet.
  • If you need to manage luggage, there’s luggage storage available by contacting the provider.

Who it fits:

  • You want a “big day” with both walking and swimming.
  • You like speedboat travel for covering distance.
  • You’re comfortable being on a boat for stretches at a time.

Who should think twice:

  • The tour is marked as not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, people with back problems, people with mobility impairments, and people over 65. The fast transport and active format explain a lot of that.

One more real-world factor: it may change with sea and weather conditions. If you’re very sensitive to rougher water days, pick your travel dates with flexibility.

Crew, Music, and the Day’s Tone

Split: Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 Islands Small Group Boat Tour - Crew, Music, and the Day’s Tone
The tour experience is shaped by the crew. English-speaking staff is included, and the skipper is licensed. The boat also has music onboard, and recent guide energy is described as friendly and safety-minded, with fun vibes that keep the day from feeling like a strict schedule.

On some departures, guides like David and Maren have been specifically mentioned for being funny and making the day feel organized but relaxed. Even if your exact guide is different, the key takeaway is the tone: you’re not just transported—you’re guided, with enough personality to keep long stretches enjoyable.

Quick Practical Tips Before You Go

  • Wear or pack water-friendly footwear if you don’t love getting in and out on slippery surfaces.
  • Bring cash in case you want to buy snacks or drinks during free time.
  • Use sunscreen early. You’ll be out in sun across multiple stops.
  • Bring a dry layer for the ride back—speedboat breezes can cool you down.

Should You Book This Blue Lagoon and 5 Islands Tour?

Book it if you want one day that hits multiple island moods: Hvar Town energy, Pakleni Islands beach vibes, quieter village time at Milna and Maslinica, and the big finish at the Blue Lagoon with swimming and snorkeling.

Skip it if you need a slower, fully land-based itinerary, or if speedboat travel won’t work for your comfort. Also think twice if you’re expecting a detailed full-day cultural program in every stop—this is built around sea time and practical sightseeing, not museum deep dives.

If you want a fast, scenic, small-group day that mixes city streets and clear water, this tour is a strong match for Split.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the tour in Split?

You meet in front of the Smile Travel office in Split, at Marmontova ul. 5.

How long is the tour?

The tour duration is 10 hours.

How many people are on the boat?

The boat holds up to 12 people, creating a small-group experience.

What snorkeling gear is included?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with safety gear/life jackets.

Which islands and stops are part of the route?

The tour includes Milna (Brač), Hvar Town, Pakleni Islands, Šolta, Maslinica, and the Blue Lagoon.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is listed as not included. Food and drinks are also not included.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, beachwear, and cash.

Who is the tour not suitable for?

It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, people with back problems, people with mobility impairments, and people over 65.

What if sea or weather conditions are bad?

The activity may be subject to sea and weather conditions.

Can I cancel, and what’s the refund policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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