Dinner plates on a boat, swims included, and two islands in one day. This cruise out of Split is set up for maximum relaxation, with generous time anchored in the Adriatic so you can actually enjoy the water, not just watch it from deck chairs. You get the classic Dalmatian combo: island views from the sea and a real meal that keeps the day easy.

What I like most is how the schedule gives you two solid beach and swim windows. First you anchor near Brac for over two hours of swimming and snorkeling, then you do another stretch off Solta plus free time to explore Stomorska. A second big win is the all-inclusive feel, especially the open bar running during the cruise alongside a three-course lunch.

One thing to think about: this is built around being in the water. If you do not feel confident jumping or swimming off a boat, you may find the experience less comfortable than a shore-based tour, even though there are float options and water toys on board.

Key highlights at a glance

• Brac anchoring time so you can swim and snorkel without rushing
• All-inclusive lunch plus open bar so you do not spend the day hunting food
• Solta in Stomorska for an easy fishing-village walk or a second swim
• Water toys and paddleboards for more than one way to cool off
• Snorkeling equipment included for anyone who wants to try beneath the surface
• Spacious decks that make choosing a quiet spot actually feel possible

A 7-hour floating break from Split’s pace

If you are spending time in Split, you probably want at least one day that feels slower, warmer, and more watery. This cruise is designed for that. You leave the city port in the morning, then spend most of the day floating, swimming, and eating, with the scenery coming at you from the water instead of from a bus window.

I also like that it is not trying to cram in a dozen stops. You hit two islands, Brac and Solta, with long enough breaks that your day has a rhythm. That matters in summer, when short transitions just add stress and long breaks let you actually enjoy the sea.

And yes, the meal is a big part of the appeal. Grilled fish, meat, or a vegetarian option comes as a three-course lunch, and dessert is included. It turns the cruise into a full day out instead of a half day snack boat.

Getting on board: where to meet and how to plan your morning

You start at Obala Lazareta 3, at the Split city port area, in front of Gat Svetog Nikole. If you have luggage or you are meeting friends, arrive a little early so you can get settled before boarding gets busy.

From there, the day runs with a smooth flow. There is morning coffee and welcome refreshments, then you cruise out toward Brac. This is one of those trips where the first stretch sets the tone. You are not stuck in a line or waiting around while everyone else figures out what to do.

Practical tip: bring your essentials early, not later. You will want your swimwear ready, plus sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, because the sea time comes quickly. Also, if you plan to snorkel or use water toys, keep your towel and any anti-chafe items accessible. You do not want to be digging through a bag right after the boat anchors.

Brac Island: the best swim window and what you should do with it

Brac is where the day really turns into a swim day. About an hour after leaving Split, the boat heads out and then anchors for a planned bay stop. This is the point where the reviews consistently point: you get more than two hours to relax and swim in clear Adriatic water.

You can snorkel or just float and enjoy. Since snorkeling equipment is included, you have a low-effort option if the mood strikes you. But even if you skip snorkeling, this stop is still about time. Two hours is enough to do a real swim loop, dry off, then do it again without feeling like the anchor time is always running out.

What makes Brac special here is not just the island name. It is the practical format: you are stationary on open water at a bay, so you get calmer conditions for swimming. The boat setup also helps. There are water toys, plus paddleboards and snorkeling gear included, so the stop supports multiple comfort levels.

One more thing to consider: jumping off the boat is part of the fun for many people, and the boat has higher points you can use if you feel confident. If you are more cautious, lean into the float options and paddleboards, and keep your pace slow. This is not a tour where you have to prove anything.

Lunch on the move: how the midday timing keeps the day easy

At around 1:00 PM, the boat departs for Solta and you head into the lunch block. The nice part of this timing is that it uses the cruise time well. Instead of being stranded hungry while the boat travels, lunch arrives during the onboard stretch.

You are looking at a three-course lunch with grilled fish, meat, or vegetarian, plus salad and dessert. That matters because a lot of boat tours keep food simple. Here, the lunch is structured, and you get the full meal feel rather than just snacks.

You also get an open bar during the cruise. The drink list includes soft drinks, beer, local wine, and hot drinks like coffee. In plain terms, it means you can pair your meal with something cold, then settle back without needing cash or a stop at a port shop.

Practical tip: if you are prone to sunburn, put sunscreen on again after lunch. The morning deck time and the afternoon swim time stack up, and you may not realize you have missed spots until you dry off.

Solta and Stomorska: the second swim plus a simple fishing-village walk

After lunch and the cruise across the water, you arrive in Stomorska on Solta at about 1:45 PM. The boat docks in a small, charming fishing village. You get free time to explore the port area or swim near the boat.

This stop is more about options than pressure. You can keep it relaxed with another swim session, or you can step off the boat and take a slow walk. Many people prefer the swim, because the contrast between boat shade and bright water is part of what makes the day feel like vacation.

If you do walk, keep expectations practical. This is not a big city. It is a working fishing village atmosphere, and you will likely focus on the waterfront, small streets, and the general vibe. That said, Solta often feels like the kind of place you remember because it is quieter and more local than the headline destinations.

One tip I would follow: pack or use sea shoes if you plan to step into rocky areas. Even when there is a close swim spot, Solta style shorelines can be a little less barefoot-friendly. If you do not want to think about it, sea shoes are cheap comfort.

At 3:30 PM, you depart Stomorska and cruise back to Split, arriving around 4:30 PM. That return timing is another smart choice. It gives you a full afternoon back in Split without feeling like you missed dinner or nightlife entirely.

The boat and included extras that make this feel truly all-inclusive

The cruise includes a lot of the small things that turn a boat outing into a full day. You are not just buying transport and a view. You get the gear and the onboard options that support a swim-focused day.

Here is what is included that I would actually use:

• Snorkeling equipment for a try-at-it adventure without renting
• Paddleboards for a calmer, slower way to move on the water
• Air water toys and float options, so you can hang out comfortably
• An open bar with soft drinks, beer, local wine, and coffee
• The three-course lunch with dessert
• Croissant in the morning as a simple add-on before you head out

One thing I love about this style of setup is that it does not force a single activity. Some people snorkel. Some jump. Some float and talk. Some paddleboard. The included toys make it easier to switch plans halfway through the swim window without buying anything extra.

Also, the boat deck matters. Multiple accounts describe it as not overcrowded, and plenty of room for seating. That is huge for comfort. When boats feel packed, you spend the day jostling and squeezing. Here, you can actually choose a spot and keep your stuff where you want it.

If you like music, it is another small detail that can shift the vibe from quiet to fun. Keep in mind there are rules: no smoking indoors, no speakers, and no party groups. The trip is built for people who want a relaxed summer day rather than noise and chaos.

Value check: is $121 per person a good deal?

At about $121 per person for a roughly 7-hour cruise, the value is strongest if you compare what is bundled. You are getting:

• Boat transport plus time on the water
• Two island stops with free time
• A full three-course lunch with dessert
• An open bar with multiple drink options
• Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and water toys

If you try to recreate this independently, you usually end up paying separately for boat seats, lunch, and then renting gear or buying drinks. Even when you find cheaper boat tickets, the food and drinks often turn into additional costs quickly in summer.

This price also makes sense for the time. You are not just out for a couple hours. You are anchored long enough to swim and still have time to explore Stomorska. That is the difference between a quick sightseeing cruise and a day that actually feels like a getaway.

My advice: if your goal is swimming plus a proper lunch, this is one of the more straightforward ways to do it from Split. If you only want sightseeing, or you do not plan to get in the water, you may want to compare with other island-focused tours that emphasize shore time more than boat time.

Who should book this cruise, and who should skip it

This trip is best for people who want a low-stress day with a swim-first mindset. You get what you came for: boat time, swimming in clear water, and an easy lunch with drinks included.

It is also a great fit if you want a social day without awkward logistics. The crew is described as friendly and attentive, and the onboard service style sounds smooth. The open bar also helps keep the mood relaxed.

You might think twice if:

• You do not feel comfortable swimming or jumping off a boat
• You prefer long, land-based exploration over water time
• You want a destination with many shops and restaurants

On the flip side, it is ideal for couples, small friend groups, and families who like swimming activities. The format is flexible: you can stay in the water with toys and floats, or step off to stroll in Stomorska when you feel like it.

Should you book the Split to Brac and Solta swimming cruise?

If you are looking for a summer day that feels like a vacation without extra planning, I say book it. The strongest reasons to choose it are simple: two islands, real lunch with dessert, and a schedule built around swimming time. It is also a smart value when you factor in the open bar and the included water activities.

Before you commit, do a quick self-check. Are you happy spending hours on a boat and then in the water? If yes, you will probably love this day. If you want mostly beaches and wandering on land, you might prefer a more shore-centered option.

If you do book, pack the basics and a little extra thought: swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and consider sea shoes for Solta shore steps. Arrive early at the port, grab a spot on deck, and let the day run on island time.

FAQ

How long is the cruise from Split to Brac and Solta?

The tour lasts about 7 hours.

Where does the cruise depart from in Split?

The meeting point is at Obala Lazareta 3, at the Split city port area in front of Gat Svetog Nikole.

Is lunch included, and what options are available?

Yes. Lunch is included as a three-course meal, with grilled fish, meat, or a vegetarian option, plus salad and dessert.

What is included for drinks during the cruise?

There is an open bar during the cruise, including soft drinks, beer, local wine, and hot drinks like coffee.

What water activities or gear are provided?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with paddleboards and air water toys.

Do I need pickup from my hotel?

No. Pickup service is not included.