What to pack for a boat day out of Split

A full day on a private boat on the Adriatic has specific requirements that differ from beach days or land trips. Here is what actually matters.

What the boat already has

Every Nini Tours boat carries: life jackets for all passengers, first aid kit, snorkel masks and fins (adult sizes, fits most), a cool box (you fill it with your food and drinks), anchor and swim ladder for entry and exit, shade canopy or T-top over the steering area.

What to bring

Sunscreen, and more than you think you need. The Adriatic reflects UV upwards from the water surface. Apply before departure, reapply every 90 minutes. The reef-safe requirement is not enforced by Croatian maritime law but is good practice in the lagoon areas where sea biology is visible. SPF 50 for the first few boat days if you are arriving from northern Europe.

Seasickness: the route from Split to the Blue Lagoon crosses 12 km of open water. In normal summer conditions (light to moderate NW wind, wave height 0.3 to 0.6m), the crossing is comfortable. People who are sensitive to motion should take a non-drowsy antihistamine (dimenhydrinate or promethazine) 45 minutes before boarding. Ginger tablets also work for mild sensitivity.

Water shoes or sandals with strap: the swim ladder on every boat is metal rungs. Barefoot re-entry is fine but slippery on the ladder. Water shoes also help if the skipper anchors near a rocky shoreline for a swim.

A dry bag (10L minimum): your phone, documents, and any electronics should be in a sealed dry bag before you board. The Adriatic is predictably calm but waves and spray are not zero, and swimming with a phone in a shorts pocket ends boat days badly.

Reusable water bottle: boats carry cool boxes but not always pre-filled water. Bring 1 to 1.5 litres per person, plus whatever additional drinks you want.

Cash: if the itinerary includes a stop at a konoba (a traditional Croatian restaurant), most small island restaurants accept only cash. €30-50 per person covers a seafood lunch with wine.

What most guests regret not bringing

A hat with a brim: the shade canopy covers the stern seating area. The bow (front of the boat) where most guests spend swim time and get photographs is fully exposed.

A light long-sleeved layer: one or two hours on the bow in full sun is comfortable. Four or five hours sunburns northern European guests who underestimate cumulative exposure.

Waterproof phone case (not just a dry bag): for guests who want to photograph from the water or snorkel with a camera.

An insulated bag for food if you are bringing your own lunch: the cool box on the boat will keep drinks cold but is primarily for drinks.

What to leave at the hotel

Large suitcases and roller bags are not practical on a boat. A day bag (backpack or tote) maximum.

Valuables that cannot get wet or lost: passports, expensive jewellery, and anything that cannot be replaced easily. Bring a photocopy of the ID page of your passport rather than the original.