Split Three Islands Boat Tour: Honest Review with Lunch & Drinks
So, you’re thinking about doing the Three Islands boat tour from Split, Croatia? It is, without doubt, a super choice! I mean, island hopping along the Adriatic coast does sound just a bit dreamy, right? I took this tour, like, last summer, and I figured I’d give you the lowdown, no filter. We will cover the boat itself, the destinations, the food situation, and really, just about everything else you’d want to know before you book. Get ready to discover the gorgeous Dalmatian islands! Prepare for those blue seas, beautiful coastlines, and just a lot of sun.
What to Anticipate From The Boat
OK, first up: the boat! The one I was on was, just a bit, like, a medium-sized tourist boat. Nothing super-flashy, I’d say, but, like, comfy enough. There were a couple of decks – an inside cabin that had some seating (more on that later), and, obviously, an outside area. The outside deck is, clearly, where everyone wanted to be, and really, where you should be too, if the weather is playing nice. Grab a spot early-ish, for a better view, especially if you’re someone who wants to snap a million pictures. If you burn easily, then perhaps grabbing a seat inside will serve you a bit better; it is fully shielded from the sun.
Space-wise, it’s really more or less like fitting puzzle pieces; getting to know your neighbor may actually be a must! If the boat is, literally, crammed (which is usually the case during peak season), then moving about freely might actually feel more like an Olympic sport. A little tip, in fact: maybe bring a small backpack instead of, say, a massive suitcase as it is really more than you would expect for an excursion on a cruise.
The Destinations: Brace Yourself For Visual Awesomeness!
Here comes the fun part – the islands! Typically, the tour hits three key spots: Šolta, Brac (usually Bol, known for Zlatni Rat beach), and Hvar. Now, the amount of time you get on each island really is different, usually, between like an hour to two-and-a-half hours, that’s all, so bear this detail very close to you.
Šolta: The Chilled-Out One
First off, there’s Šolta. That is a spot to ease you into island mode. It’s so much quieter, like so much, compared to Hvar, and, just perhaps, perfect for taking it all in at a relaxed pace. Often, we docked in Maslinica, a pretty bay area, that, apparently, had a castle that got turned into a fancy hotel. You might wander about the town, grab a gelato (there were countless places!) or, honestly, just lounge near the water to, that is, catch some rays. If you like peaceful, local feels, then it could be that Šolta will actually be your thing.
Brac: Home to the Famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn)
Next stop: Brac, and the absolutely iconic Zlatni Rat beach. This spot actually lives up to the photos. What is special about this beach is its shape. Like, it sticks out into the sea and changes direction just depending on the current; it’s seriously really very fascinating. Swimming there? Definitely recommended. But be armed; like many of Croatia’s beaches, this is also a pebble beach, not sand, so bring suitable footwear; beach shoes that are inexpensive will actually do.
Expect to see a crowd, though, particularly if it’s the middle of the summertime. That spot really is very famous! You can walk along the beach, swim, maybe try some windsurfing, or chill at one of the beach bars. By the way: it’s a bit of a walk from where the boat drops you off to reach the actual tip of Zlatni Rat, keep that very detail in mind! And another tip: if you plan on swimming or really going for a full-on beach experience at Zlatni Rat, maybe keep your valuables in a locker; just keep an eye on it at all times as is commonly smart.
Hvar: Get Ready for Some Buzz
Last up, Hvar. Hvar is where the energy really steps up. In a way, it’s completely different than Šolta. It is clearly bustling, there are places where you can grab your lunch at the harbour. What is interesting is that even celebrities frequent the town, Hvar is very much considered a ‘party’ island. You could climb up to the Spanish Fortress for seriously knockout views of the town and surrounding islands. Wander around St Stephen’s Square; it’s actually like the heartbeat of Hvar town. Also, take some time for yourself! Grab that Instagram worthy shot! Oh, you can see some amazing views here; just, you know, pace yourself, it can get pretty darn crowded.
It’s actually crucial to remember the time when on Hvar. Boats typically don’t wait, you know, so don’t get stuck there! A simple, practical tip to remember; that being, the boats that make up this specific day tour generally speaking depart on time.
Lunch and Drinks: Are you gonna need snacks?
Right, let’s chat chow. “Lunch and drinks included,” the tour descriptions tend to boast. But, in my humble experience, it pays, without a doubt, to manage your expectations. In many ways, the food that comes included is usually somewhat basic. The lunch could be, for example, a grilled fish or chicken with salad and bread. The fish could have, just maybe, more bones than you bargained for; that could be one very practical consideration. There is typically an option of choosing your meal – but remember, that if you’re very particular about food, you should order in advance. Like a day or two beforehand to give time for all the cogs to do their magic!
Drinks-wise, expect, possibly, unlimited wine, water, and juice. That doesn’t mean they are of the really high shelf product; however, it is generally a steady flow to help you keep hydrated throughout your exploration! A word to the smart, it would be wiser to have an occasional sip of water because, seriously, under that sun you dehydrate faster than you think.
So, I mean, would I actually recommend that you take your own snacks? Yes, possibly. If you have certain cravings or desire variety, just packing a little something additional could make a real difference, and a positive one. This is one sure way of keeping you energised; and trust me, with everything happening on these tours, you may actually be expending a bit of energy.
Some things I believe You Should Know
Alright, it would be ideal if you considered several more items to simply know about before taking the trip:
- Sunscreen is really essential: The Croatian sun is very fierce, mainly in the summertime. Just slather on that SPF like there’s no end and reapply religiously. Seriously.
- Footwear Counts: Think practical. Again, there are some pebble beaches, so beach shoes are a superb decision. As Hvar has got uneven pavements; maybe really consider what type of shoes will keep you most secure and comfortable.
- Swimsuit under clothing: To do this trick you really save some precious changing time as it enables that spontaneity!
- Cash is often your best option: Although loads of the spots take card payments, there could easily be several smaller vendors and places where cash is really better. Also, there’s generally an odd ATM charge from cash points; or occasionally, simply no ATMs at all!
- Be prepared for Crowds: These trips do get, sometimes very overcrowded, specifically in the summer season. Consider this specifically if, for example, you’re not so great at coping with masses of people.
Is the Three Islands Tour Actually Worth Doing?
So, is it something that is worth doing? Yes, you! 100%! Seriously! While perhaps not something that is described as all singing, and all dancing, what it actually represents is an opportunity to experience many lovely Dalmatian coastlines in one day. You are to explore three completely various island experiences all rolled up in to one fantastic day trip! Sure, a trip on such boats at its busiest periods might be a bit congested but think about the destination you get; it is something that really has a feel-good vibe.
If I could actually make a few changes they would, probably, actually be as follows; perhaps extend the duration on Brac – Zlatni Rat to possibly spend even more hours or possibly make that spot even less packed. Maybe include an additional drink; possibly something local or traditional! Nevertheless, for someone who actually has got limited time when staying at Split – it’s actually a really great way to witness as much in a single day. It is the actual reason that I totally really recommend it.
FAQs about the Three Islands Tour From Split
How much will it probably cost?
Prices tend to be roughly around 40 to 80 euros, yet, obviously, just may differ a little when considering peak seasons and just which trip you’re going with. Consider all possibilities before agreeing to anything or anybody. Don’t rush, check several and do some price comparisons just before selecting one.
Is lunch normally served, or will I need to get it on my own?
Usually lunch may be incorporated, as pointed out, with meals typically somewhat fundamental like that classic fish, or a poultry dish along with salads. People could be best advised even when bringing specific foods you may like. I’m saying the meals are ok but it’s not really a food and drink tour if people are gourmand food lovers – more sustenance than something really impressive. Have things just how you wish it by bringing your own preferred treats in to combine what may have been planned!
Could you potentially have vegetarian or any other dietary dishes?
Yes actually, people would actually more often than not easily organize this, when it’s possible to inform ahead. I always alert them on my booking process itself, that is always actually crucial as it has always got me just what I had wanted. So actually it is advisable.
Does actually the purchase price actually incorporate pickup from your accommodation?
Not always, no! Quite a lot are commonly starting right from Split harbor. Therefore it can probably simply better ensure that if transportation has previously been considered to avoid just any form confusion; always really verify specifically just before that boat leaves! Always really have everything in order.
Can boats possess loos and where will it often be to place baggage?
Okay then, absolutely certain; generally any boat trip may possess sanitation units yet when considering things like travel luggage; consider taking that tiny handbag. Typically the available area might be fairly confined – avoid coming with just an actual bag of items that potentially take up places and affect additional persons convenience! Be really considerate of room especially!
Enjoy exploring those gorgeous Adriatic pearls!
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