One of the most exciting and picturesque ways to explore Split and its surroundings is on a boat tour. The stunning coastline is brimming with fascinating places, and there are numerous small islands within easy reach. Depending on your boat trip, you will be able to visit a medieval town, drift inside a cave of blue light, sunbathe on exquisite beaches and view spectacular cliffs. Other must-do activities include overnight stays on beautiful islands and discovering the underwater world on a snorkelling adventure.

Take your pick from a variety of Split boat tours including speedboat trips, leisurely sunset cruises and even an excursion on a handmade wooden replica of Christopher Columbus's flagship.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Split.

What are the best places to visit with a boat trip from Split?

Brač Island

Brač is an island of spectacular natural beauty with sandy and rocky coastlines, gorgeous beaches and bays boasting crystal blue water. There are cultural and historical heritages that go back to prehistoric times. Popular activities include hiking and biking through the interior's hilly countryside, sunbathing on impressive beaches, visiting harbour towns, and exploring ancient sites such as Pustinja Blaca. This monastic complex developed from a cave in the 16th century and was in use for more than 400 years.

Hvar

Hvar is an island paradise in the Adriatic Sea and popular retreat of choice for the rich and famous such as George Clooney and European jet-setters. They are drawn to its many charms such as sun-drenched beaches, medieval towns, whitewashed homes, deserted lagoons and empty beaches.

Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is a natural wonder of awe-inspiring beauty. Light from the sun's rays penetrates deep into the cavernous space reflecting off its white sandy floor to bathe the grotto in aquamarine light. Another captivating feature of this must-see attraction is that objects in the water appear to be silver in colour.

Pakleni Islands

Pakleni Islands are a jaw-droppingly beautiful chain of islands off the southwest coast of Hvar, known for their hidden beaches and secluded bays shimmering with crystal-clear waters. The largest Pakleni island is Sveti Klement, a green oasis with white pebble beaches. Come here for water skiing, swimming and windsurfing.

Blue Lagoon

A favourite snorkelling and scuba diving destination, the Blue Lagoon is teeming with life such as sea urchins. The water is so clear that you can spy on the underwater world with your naked eye, being able to see right to the bottom. This idyllic location is also a top spot for swimming.

Trogir

This beautiful Dalmatian town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a wealth of historical treasures. They include parts of the city's 13th and 14th-century walls, the 800-year-old Cathedral of St. Lawrence and a 16th-century city gate. Other highlights include the impressive and imposing Kamerlengo Castle and the Benedictine Monastery of St. Nicholas which dates back to the 11th century.

Bol

This is the oldest town on Brač Island, a secluded harbour town on its southern coast with attractive beaches and a beautiful seaside promenade. According to historians, this area was inhabited as far back as Roman times. Among Bol's historical treasures are a 15th-century palace and a Dominican monastery also from the 15th century.

How much does a Split boat tour cost?

Prices of Split boat tours range from €40 per person for a 2-hour sunset cruise to €850 for a full-day private sailing adventure to the islands of Brač and Hvar. This is the most expensive boat tour, and the price is per group for up to six people.

Between these two price tags, there is a wide choice of tours such as a five island speedboat tour that costs €90 or a half-day all-inclusive trip to Brač and Solta islands for €70. Some boat tour rates include food and drink.

How long do Split boat tours last?

There are lots of different options from short-duration trips such as a 40-minute adrenalin-fuelled jet boat tour to three-day sojourns that include island stops with overnight accommodation. You can also pick up tours of 2-hour, 5-hour, 9-hour and 10-hour durations.

Where do boat trips from Split leave from?

Many of the boat tours start from Split's harbour, but this isn't the only jumping-off point for adventures in the Adriatic Sea. Boat tours also depart from the island of Vis and Trogir, a historic town and harbour that is approximately 30 kilometres west of Split.

When is the best time for a boat trip from Split?

If you are not tied to school holidays, the best times for a Split boat tour is between April and October. During these months the sea conditions are generally calmer although the temperatures and humidity levels can be high in July and August. Winter temperatures are mild, but it can be rainy and there are often bone-chilling winds which make it seem colder.

Travel Tips

Bring sunscreen with a high enough sun protection factor to protect your skin.
Pack a light windproof jacket with you in case it gets chilly onboard. Some boat tours will supply a jacket for you to wear so check with the tour operator beforehand.
If you suffer from motion sickness, take sea sickness tablets as directed on the package insert of the medication.
Consider wearing a lightweight long-sleeved shirt to protect your arms and shoulders from the sun.
Don't forget your camera and/or binoculars. You will be seeing some impressive sights from the water.

Boat Tours in Split