Explore Drvenik Veli Island on a scenic three-island tour through the Dalmatian archipelago
Situated in the heart of the Dalmatian archipelago, Drvenik Veli is home to some of the Adriatic’s most pristine swimming spots. Largely untouched and unspoiled, the island gives you a rare glimpse of traditional Mediterranean life, with minimal crowds, authentic village charm, and preserved natural beauty.
How to reach Drvenik Veli Island?
You can reach the island independently via ferry, but the easiest and most rewarding way is on a full-day tour. This allows you to explore neighboring islands and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in some of the Adriatic’s clearest waters.
Why visit Drvenik Veli Island?
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Famous for the Blue Lagoon (Krknjaši bay)
The island is famed for the Blue Lagoon (Krknjaši Bay), a protected cove of crystal-clear turquoise water and a soft sandy seabed. Nestled between the uninhabited islets of Krknjaš Veli and Krknjaš Mali, it’s a serene spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Postcard-perfect setting
Encircled by the islets of Mali and Veliki Krknjaš, Drvenik Veli offers postcard-perfect views of calm sea and breathtaking golden skies at sunrise. Its rocky coves, stone houses, and charming harbor lined with wooden boats create a picture-perfect setting for photography.
Explore Dalmatian culture
Visit Drvenik Veli for an authentic taste of Dalmatian island life. Its main village has that Mediterranean charm of slow living with stone houses, a tranquil harbor, and a rhythm shaped by the sea and small-scale farming.
Easy day tour from Split
Easily reachable from Split and Trogir, Drvenik Veli is perfect for a day trip. Many tours offer full-day cruises around the islands of Šolta and the Blue Lagoon, including lunch and activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and exploring the stunning Adriatic landscape.
Things to know before booking Drvenik Veli Island tours
The full-day tour starts from Split around 9:30am and lasts about 9 hours. Come prepared for lots of outdoor activities and a day full of island exploration.
You’ll visit three islands: starting with Šolta, then a private beach at Maslinica, and ending at the Blue Lagoon on Veli Drvenik.
Meals are included, with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian.
You’ll board a cruise ship that will take you around the islands near Šolta.
Swimming is possible at all three stops, so it’s ideal to wear your swimwear underneath for easy access.
Unlimited juice and water are provided onboard, along with snorkeling equipment and inflatables. Just bring yourself and enjoy a full day of fun!
Book Drvenik Veli Island tours
From Split: Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Solta Cruise with Lunch
Vivid turquoise waters, sandy seabed, and protection by two small islets make the Blue Lagoon a perfect stop for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. You’ll be swimming in crystal-clear waters surrounded by white pebble beaches and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
Secluded beaches
Drvenik Veli’s coast features many unspoiled coves, sand and pebble beaches, and hidden inlets accessible by boat or hiking. You’ll find olive groves and carob trees dotted across the landscape, providing serene walking routes and plenty of photo opportunities.
Historical importance
Discover Drvenik Veli’s rich history at the 16th-century Church of St. George, famed for its Venetian altarpiece and Baroque furnishings. The unfinished façade of St. Nicholas Church is also worth a visit, alongside traces of ancient settlements and the legendary tale of 80 women defending the island against the Ottomans.
Outdoor and water activities
Drvenik Veli is a hub for outdoor and water adventures, from island-hopping tours and kayaking to sailing, fishing, and nature photography. Its close proximity to Drvenik Mali and Šolta makes it an ideal base for day trips and coastal exploration.
Know before you go
Departure times:
From Split: The tour starts at 9:30am
Duration: 9 hours
Note: In case of bad weather, your tour may be rerouted or canceled. You can either reschedule for another day or receive a full refund.
Cancelation: You can cancel your tour up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to carry: Pack essentials for a comfortable day on the islands: your swimsuit, sunhat, towel, and sunscreen.
Crew & dining: English-speaking captain and crew, with lunch options including beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers served with fries.
Drinks: Alcoholic beverages (wine from 1pm), soda, and unlimited juice and water.
Water activities: Stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and snorkeling equipment.
Frequently asked questions about Drvenik Veli Island
The island is easily accessible via day tours and cruises from Split and Trogir, making it perfect for a full-day trip.
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for fewer crowds and stunning views of the turquoise waters and surrounding islets.
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, island-hopping, fishing, and nature photography.
Tours may be rerouted or canceled in case of bad weather. You can reschedule for another day or get a full refund.
Yes, the island offers postcard-perfect scenery with rocky coves, stone houses, wooden boats, turquoise seas, and breathtaking sunrises, ideal for photography and relaxation.
While Drvenik Veli is primarily a day-trip destination, there are a few accommodations available, including private villas and apartments. However, the island's limited infrastructure means it's best suited for day visits.
Yes, the village of Borak has a few local shops, a bakery, and several restaurants (known as konobas) serving traditional Croatian cuisine, including fresh seafood.