From Hvar: Blue cave group speedboat tour full day

Exploring the Blue Cave Group Speedboat Tour from Hvar: A Deep Dive

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Croatia’s breathtaking coastline, this full-day speedboat tour from Hvar might just be the adventure you’re seeking. We’ve looked into what makes this tour popular—and honestly, it sounds like a pretty fantastic way to see some of Dalmatia’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

What really caught our eye? First, the visit to the Blue and Green Caves offers a chance to witness nature’s underwater artistry—an experience that’s both awe-inspiring and photo-worthy. Second, the small group size of up to 12 people promises a more intimate experience, which is often a welcome change from crowded tours.

Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. The cost for entrance to the Blue Cave isn’t included in the base price, so you’ll need cash and some patience—lines can be unpredictable depending on the weather and crowds. Also, if you’re not comfortable with boat rides or prone to seasickness, this might be a less ideal choice. Still, if you’re after a flexible, scenic day with knowledgeable guides and the chance to swim at stunning locations, this tour could be perfect.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, appreciate natural beauty, and enjoy a bit of exploration at their own pace. It’s especially appealing if you value personalized service and want to tick off multiple highlights in one trip.

Key Points

• Beautiful locations: The tour covers top spots like Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, and the Blue Lagoon, ensuring a variety of scenery.
• Swim and snorkel: Most stops offer opportunities for cooling off and exploring underwater, except inside the Blue Cave.
• Flexible itinerary: The order of visits varies based on weather and crowd levels, with the Blue Cave often visited either first or last.
• Expert guides: Reviewers praise the guides for their professionalism and friendliness, making the experience enjoyable and informative.
• Small group vibe: Limited to 12 people, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized day.
• Cost considerations: The tour price is $118 per person, but cave entrance fees are additional and should be paid in cash.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Day on the Water: What to Expect

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for more than just a boat ride—you’re stepping into a well-organized adventure that packs in some of Croatia’s most jaw-dropping sights. It all kicks off in the morning, typically starting with a refreshing swim in Budikovac Blue Lagoon. This spot is praised for its clear, inviting water—perfect for cooling off after a quick breakfast or just admiring the view.

Next, your boat will head to either Stiniva Bay or the Green Cave. Both are fantastic, but they require a little ingenuity since boats aren’t allowed inside the caves themselves. Usually, a small dinghy will be available for you to row into the Green Cave, adding an extra element of fun. If the group prefers to skip the entrance fee, which ranges from 8-18 EUR per person, the guide can arrange an outside viewing. This flexibility is a nice touch and keeps the day enjoyable for everyone.

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island. Here’s where the real magic happens. Upon arrival, you’ll disembark from your speedboat and head to the cave in a small boat, as larger vessels aren’t permitted inside. The entry is quite narrow—many describe it as a little claustrophobic at first—but the moment you see the glowing blue waters inside, it’s all worth it. The guide will take you around, explaining the history and the geology, giving you enough time to snap some incredible photos. Reviewers mention the 5-10 minute visit feels just right—long enough to soak in the beauty without losing patience.

After the cave, you’ll return to your boat for the next stop—Palmizana Bay on the Pakleni Islands. This is usually the tour’s grand finale, and it’s no wonder. The bay’s sandy beach and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for a long lunch, swimming, or just relaxing with a drink in hand. The extended break—about two hours—gives you the freedom to explore or unwind at your own pace before heading back.

Finally, the boat takes a scenic ride back toward Hvar, with views that make the entire day feel like a postcard. It’s a relaxing, visually stunning way to end a full day of adventure.

The Details that Make a Difference

What’s included? The tour provides a speedboat ride, visits to the Blue and Green Caves, stops at Stiniva Bay, Budikovac Blue Lagoon, and Palmizana Bay. Plus, you get opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at all the locations except inside the caves, which are protected areas.

The live guide is often highlighted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and patient—crucial when managing a small group and coordinating the many stops. Alongside a bottle of water, a cooler, and snorkeling masks, the tour aims to keep everyone comfortable and prepared.

What’s not included? Mainly, lunch and cave entrance fees. You’ll want to carry cash (8-18 EUR per person) for the Blue Cave entry, and many travelers suggest packing snacks or drinks to keep energized between stops.

The meeting point is at Mario Rent office or More Beachwear, and the activity concludes back at the same spot. Flexibility is key, so if weather conditions shift, the itinerary might move around slightly—your skipper will do their best to optimize the experience.

Real Travelers’ Takeaways

From reviews, it’s clear this tour consistently delivers memorable moments. One traveler called it a “great experience with super professional guides,” while another appreciated the “breathtaking landscapes” and the fact that the guide was “patient and helpful.” Many reviewers mention how much they loved the stunning views and appreciated the personalized attention provided by the small group size.

A standout comment from a family-oriented traveler praised how the boat felt “great, very fast, and comfortable,” making the trip enjoyable for all ages, including children. This suggests that, while not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s nature lends itself well to those traveling with kids who are comfortable on boats.

Some reviewers did mention a small hiccup—an optional restaurant in Komiza that wasn’t up to snuff—but overall, the feedback is glowing, especially about the guides’ professionalism and the jaw-dropping scenery.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love being on the water, enjoy exploring caves and bays, and want a guided experience that goes beyond just boat riding, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially great if you’re after a small-group atmosphere where you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and if you’re flexible with the schedule to maximize your photo ops.

However, if you or your travel companions are prone to seasickness or aren’t confident swimmers, you may want to consider other options or prepare accordingly. Also, since the cave entrance fee isn’t included and can involve lines, patience and cash are necessary.

This tour is a solid choice for travelers looking to combine adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance in one memorable day. It offers a perfect blend of active exploration and relaxing downtime, with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos along the way.

FAQ

Do I need to buy cave tickets in advance?
No, but it’s recommended to buy them as soon as you arrive to avoid long waits, especially since the cave visit can be affected by weather and crowd conditions.

Is swimming allowed at the Blue Cave?
No, swimming inside the Blue Cave is strictly prohibited as it’s a protected area. You’ll enter in a small boat, and there’s no swimming during the cave visit.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, your camera, snacks, and sunscreen. Since there’s a long break at Palmizana Bay, packing some snacks or drinks is a good idea.

How long is the Blue Cave visit?
The tour inside the cave lasts about 5 to 10 minutes, which is enough to experience the view and get some photos.

Can I join if I’m not a confident swimmer?
Most stops involve swimming or snorkeling, so if you’re not comfortable in the water, you might find some parts less enjoyable, but the boat ride and viewing spots are accessible.

What’s the group size?
Up to 12 people, which many find more personal and less crowded than larger tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the small group size and scenic nature make it suitable for children comfortable on boats, but always check with the provider beforehand if you have younger kids.

In summary, this speedboat tour from Hvar offers a well-rounded day exploring Croatia’s stunning coastlines, caves, and bays. With knowledgeable guides, a small-group setting, and enough flexibility for your preferences, it’s a wonderful way to see the highlights while soaking in the natural beauty. Just remember the cave entrance fee and to bring your sense of adventure—and your camera.

You can check availability for your dates here: