Look, both types of boat tours from Split will get you to the islands. But the experience? Completely different. It’s like comparing a taxi ride with taking the bus – same destination, totally different journey.
Condor got boats leaving all day for the islands. Check our tours and you’ll see what I mean – tons of options. Private, group, half-day, full-day, the works. The Pakleni Islands are popular with both types, and honestly, a Pakleni island tour from Split is worth doing regardless of how you get there.
But here’s the thing – your choice between private and group changes everything about your day. Budget matters, sure, but so does what kind of person you are.
Group Tours: Cheap and Cheerful
Group tours pack 15-30 people onto bigger boats. Fixed schedule, fixed stops, fixed everything. Blue Cave at 10am, Hvar at noon, Blue Lagoon at 2pm, back by 6pm. Like clockwork.
Especially popular are the Blue Cave tour and the Blue Lagoon half day tour, which have become must-do experiences for first-time visitors. These tours give you a taste of Croatia’s island highlights without having to plan a thing.
The social side works for some people. Solo travelers love meeting others, couples enjoy the buzz. I’ve seen friendships start on these boats. Different countries, different languages, but everyone’s there for the same reason.
Money-wise, group tours win hands down. Split the boat cost 20 ways and suddenly that expensive fuel doesn’t hurt so much. You’re looking at maybe 70-100 euros per person for a full day. Can’t argue with that.
Private Tours: Your Boat, Your Rules
Private tours flip the script completely. Want to spend three hours at one beach? Go for it. Hate the Blue Cave crowds? Skip it entirely. Your boat, your call.
The space difference is huge. Instead of fighting for a spot on deck, you’ve got room to spread out. Kids can run around (well, as much as you can on a boat). No strangers judging your music choices or your terrible singing.
Special occasions work better private. Anniversary? Proposal? Family reunion? Hard to have intimate moments when there’s a hen party from Manchester getting loud at the other end of the boat.
The boats are usually nicer too. Newer engines, better sound systems, cushioned seats instead of plastic benches. Some even have fridges for your drinks.
The Money Talk
Here’s where it gets interesting. Group tours cost less per person, obviously. But if you’ve got 6-8 people, private tours start making sense. Do the math – 8 people times 70 euros each is 560 euros. A private boat for the day? Maybe 800-1000 euros. Split eight ways, that’s 100-125 euros each. Not much more for a completely different experience.
Couples and solo travelers stick with group tours unless money’s no object. Families and friend groups should definitely run the numbers.
Hidden costs bite both ways though. Lunch and drinks are not included – guests are responsible for arranging their own meals and beverages during the tour. Private tours sometimes add fuel surcharges or expect you to tip the skipper. Read the fine print.
Time and Flexibility
Group tours run like trains. Departure at 8am sharp, don’t be late or you’re watching from the dock. Every stop is timed, every activity scheduled. Efficient, but rigid.
Private tours? Leave when you want, come back when you want. Weather looking rough in the afternoon? Start early and beat it. Perfect sunset conditions? Stay out late and catch it.
The time at each stop matters too. Group tours give you just enough time to take photos and use the bathroom. Private tours let you actually relax somewhere if you like it.
Comfort and Space
Group tour boats prioritize capacity. Bench seating, shared everything, basic facilities. They work fine, but comfort isn’t the priority. You’re there to get from A to B.
Private boats focus on the experience. Proper seating, sun decks, shade when you need it. Better snorkeling gear that actually fits. Space to store your stuff without it getting mixed up with everyone else’s.
Which One’s Right for You?
Budget travelers and social butterflies should go group. You’ll save money and meet people. First-timers benefit from the structured approach – you’ll hit all the highlights without having to plan anything.
Families, couples celebrating something special, or groups of friends who want to do their own thing should consider private. Yes, it costs more, but the flexibility and privacy might be worth it.
Group size is the deciding factor for most people. Two people? Group tour makes sense. Eight people? Private tour probably costs about the same per person.
Your personality matters too. Like meeting new people and don’t mind crowds? Group tours are fun. Prefer your own space and want control over your day? Private tours are better.
Both options will show you Croatia’s beautiful coast. The difference is how you experience it – with a crowd or on your own terms. Neither’s wrong, just different.