Split: Cruise on Columbo’s Pirate Ship “Santa Maria”

Split’s pirate ship cruise is a fun break from walking. You get a different angle on the coast right from the water, plus the laid-back onboard vibe of Columbo’s Pirate Ship, the Santa Maria. I also like that it’s not just sightseeing: you’ll get drinks and a real swim and snorkel stop in clear Adriatic water.

My one caution is the ladder getting in and out of the sea. One handy detail: it can feel a bit hard to climb, so if you’re not a confident swimmer, plan to take it slow and hold on.

Key things to know before you board the Santa Maria

• A 1.5-hour coastal cruise from Split with return to the same meeting point
• Wine, water, juice onboard plus included snorkeling equipment
• Views tied to Split highlights like Marjan Hill and the Kašuni and Bačvice areas
• A swimming and snorkeling stop in clear water near Split’s beaches
• Photo-friendly experience with the ship and Split in the same frame
• The captain sets the tone with calm pacing and time to enjoy moments on the water

From Split’s port to the Adriatic: what this pirate-ship cruise feels like

This cruise is built for people who want Split without another long bus ride or tight schedule. You meet next to the ship, show your ticket, then settle in as the Santa Maria heads out on the Adriatic. The pace is relaxed, and the setting does a lot of the work: sea air, open water, and a clear view of the shoreline as it slowly shifts behind you.

The onboard atmosphere matters here. It’s not a silent, formal boat tour. You’ll be around other people enjoying the ride, and you can keep things simple: find a spot, watch the coast slide by, then treat yourself to the bar offerings during the cruise.

And yes, the pirate ship theme is the point. It turns a regular “look at the coast” trip into something you’ll remember when you’re walking the next day. If you’re the type who takes photos for the story of the trip, this helps.

The best part: drinks on the water without making it complicated

For me, one of the best value perks is that the cruise includes drinks. You can expect water and juice, plus red and white wine. That’s a big deal on a short 1.5-hour outing, because it keeps the experience feeling complete. You’re not paying extra just to relax.

Practical take: think of the wine as part of the vibe, not the main event. You’ll still want your eyes on the water, the shoreline, and your timing for the swim stop. If you’d like to bring your own small snack, I’ve seen the captain respond well to some guests bringing items like fruit, as long as you’re not causing a mess and you follow crew instructions.

Also, check what’s offered when you board. The bar includes a simple set of drinks, so you can decide early whether you want a glass of white wine while you cruise out or something non-alcoholic before swimming.

The route highlights: Marjan Hill, Kašuni, and Bačvice from sea level

Even before the swim stop, you’re in a good position for photos. From the water, Split looks different fast. You’ll watch the city recede, then focus on the coast features that stand out from the shore.

Here’s what you can look for during the cruise:

• Marjan Hill: You’ll get a view of this overlook above the city. It’s a good visual anchor—once you spot it from the boat, you’ll recognize where you are in relation to Split.
• Kašuni Beach and Bačvice Beach: You’ll get a look at these areas as the boat moves along the shoreline. Even when you’re not swimming right there, seeing the beaches from a distance helps you understand why locals and visitors hang around these stretches.

You also get that classic Adriatic feeling: pebble edges along the coast, plus the water’s changing color as the light hits. That’s not just pretty—it helps you judge where the sea is calmer for swimming and snorkeling.

The swim and snorkel stop: your one real chance to get in the water

This is the main “do something” moment. Near one of the beaches around Split, the boat stops so you can swim and snorkel. The water is described as clear, which is exactly what you want for snorkeling—better visibility means more to see.

What’s included:

• Snorkeling equipment (so you don’t need to rent anything separately)
• A chance to swim, stay onboard, or snorkel depending on how you feel that day

On a short cruise, timing matters. Usually you get about a focused window in the bay rather than an all-day swim session. That can be a plus if you want a taste of snorkeling without turning your afternoon into a full activity.

One note I really want you to take seriously: the ladder for entering and leaving the water can be hard to climb. If you’re bringing kids, have limited mobility, or you’re not steady in water, plan carefully. Choose your entry spot, keep a firm grip, and take your time. The sea is tempting, but safety comes first.

Photos you’ll actually like: using the ship and the coast in the same frame

This is a cruise where you can get photos quickly, without thinking too hard. When you’re on a moving boat, the best shots usually happen in two windows:

1) The moment the coast starts to open up behind you

2) The period when the ship slows near the water

To help you get better results, do this:

• Take a few shots early while the city is still visible. It’s easier to frame Split when you have skyline reference points.
• When you spot Marjan Hill, use it as a background layer. It adds depth compared with flat shoreline.
• If the boat is near a beach, try angles that include both water and the pebbly coastline. Those textures read well in photos.

If dolphins are around, that can add a fun highlight. I’ve seen accounts of the captain slowing down so guests could enjoy dolphins close to the boat. That’s not something you can plan, but it’s a nice reminder that the cruise doesn’t feel robotic.

Who this cruise fits best (and who may want a different plan)

This Santa Maria cruise is a good match if you want:

• A short, satisfying outing in Split without a complicated schedule
• Coastal views from sea level
• A mix of relaxing onboard time plus one meaningful swim/snorkel session
• Included drinks so you can settle in right away

It also works well for couples, friends, and solo travelers. If you like light activities with a social feel but not a party vibe, it fits that sweet spot.

You may want to consider another option if:

• You strongly dislike steps or ladders for water entry
• You’re looking for a long snorkeling session or a full-day sea tour
• You want a strict, detailed narration style. This experience is more about the atmosphere and views than a heavy lecture

Price and value: why $32 can make sense for your itinerary

At about $32 per person, the value depends on what you’d otherwise pay for in Split. This cruise packs in three things that usually cost extra on a separate outing:

• Boat time with a scenic route along Split’s coast
• Included drinks (water, juice, and red/white wine)
• Snorkeling equipment plus an actual stop to use it

If you’re building a day around the city—maybe walking the waterfront, checking a viewpoint, then wanting something lighter—this price can feel fair because it replaces multiple small expenses. Instead of paying for a rental snorkel set or taking a separate swim transfer, you’re getting it bundled into a simple 1.5-hour plan.

One more angle: the short duration is part of the value. You get a sea experience without using your whole day. That’s handy when your schedule is tight or you want energy left for dinner.

Practical details that affect your day

Here are the small things that can change how smooth your cruise feels:

• Meet next to the ship, and plan to be there a bit early so you’re not rushing.
• The cruise returns to the same meeting point.
• Bring swimwear. You’ll want to be ready when the boat stops.
• Expect starting times to vary if schedules shift; you should get contacted if that happens.
• English host/greeter is available, so you can get answers quickly.

Since you’re on a boat, think about comfort too. Layers can help if the wind picks up after leaving the harbor. And if you’re snorkeling, keep your focus on being comfortable with the gear before the swim window gets started.

Should you book the Santa Maria pirate ship cruise?

If your ideal day includes sea views, a little onboard relaxation, and a quick swim/snorkel stop, I think this is a smart booking. The included drinks plus snorkeling gear make it feel like you’re paying for an actual experience, not just a photo ride.

Book it if:

• You want Split’s coastline from a unique perspective
• You’re happy with a short, guided-style outing (1.5 hours)
• You’d enjoy white wine onboard and want time to swim

Skip it or swap it if:

• Climbing a ladder into the water sounds like a dealbreaker for you
• You’re chasing a long snorkeling session or a deep dive into underwater life (the tour is short, and the main goal is the swim window)

If you’re on the fence, choose this cruise when you want a break from streets and stairs, and you’d rather spend your time on the water than planning the next transport step.

FAQ

How long is the cruise on Columbo’s Pirate Ship Santa Maria?

The duration is listed as 1.5 hours. Starting times depend on availability.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

The meeting point is next to the ship, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

What drinks are included on board?

Drinks included are water, juice, and red and white wine.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Do I need to bring anything besides a ticket?

You should bring swimwear since there’s a swim and snorkel stop.

Is the cruise in English?

Yes, the host/greeter is English.

What if the start time changes?

Starting times are subject to change, and you will be contacted if this happens.