From Split: Private Blue Cave & 5 Islands Snorkeling Cruise

Planning a trip to Croatia and dreaming of crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches, and charming islands? If so, a private cruise exploring the Blue Cave and the 5 Islands sounds like a fantastic way to spend your day. While I haven’t experienced this tour firsthand, based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a well-balanced adventure that offers a mix of iconic sights and quieter, secret spots.

What drew us in? First, the flexibility of a private tour—you can choose your start time, which means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience. Second, the opportunity to snorkel and explore at your own pace with equipment provided, making it a great option for those who love being in the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that the price per group might seem a bit high, especially for those traveling solo or as a couple, but considering the private nature and included amenities, it can be seen as good value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a comfortable, guided experience with a dash of adventure, and those who enjoy exploring beautiful, less crowded spots in Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast.

Key Points

• Private tour gives you flexibility on the start time and a personalized experience.
• Includes snorkeling gear and safety equipment, making water activities more accessible.
• Covers popular sights like the Blue Cave and Hvar, as well as secret spots like Porat beach and Stiniva Bay.
• Longer ride for a more comfortable trip and fewer crowds, especially if starting early.
• Good value for a group of up to 12, with all tickets, insurance, and licensed skipper included.
• Not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, so check restrictions first.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

When considering a tour like this, it’s helpful to understand exactly what’s involved, what you’ll see, and how it might fit your travel style. From what we gather, this private cruise starts around 7:30 AM—an ideal time to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning on the water. The journey on a speedboat lasts approximately 90 minutes, meaning you’ll spend a good amount of time enjoying the sea without feeling rushed.

The Blue Cave

This is the star attraction. The Blue Cave is known for its mesmerizing blue light, caused by sunlight filtering through the water and reflecting inside the cave. Thanks to the tour’s private nature, you might avoid long lines, which are common at this spot. The review from Michelle highlights that the skipper, Petar, had connections that helped skip the wait, making the experience seamless and more enjoyable.

Exploring Bievo Island and Porat Beach

After the Blue Cave, the tour takes you to Porat beach, a small yet beautiful sandy beach hidden under a cliff. It’s perfect for relaxing, exploring, or grabbing a snack at the local cafés. The description paints a picture of a peaceful spot where you can soak up the sun and take in the stunning surroundings.

The Secret Spot: Stiniva Bay

Next, you’ll visit Stiniva Bay on Vis Island, often praised for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. It’s an iconic Croatian beach, famous for its secluded feel and the impressive cliffs that form a natural amphitheater around the bay. The fact that it was formed after the collapse of a cave ceiling makes it a fascinating geological feature. Most travelers love swimming here, and the opportunity to do so in such a scenic setting is hard to beat.

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Snorkeling at Budikovac Lagoon

Then, it’s time for snorkeling at Budikovac Lagoon, part of a small group of islets. The lagoon is described as a blue lagoon, and the water is so clear you’ll want to spend plenty of time exploring underwater. The tour provides snorkel gear, which is a nice touch, especially if you’re a water lover. The tiny islets surrounding the lagoon add to the sense of a private paradise.

Exploring Hvar

The tour’s final stop is Hvar, one of Croatia’s most popular islands, known for its sunshine and lively atmosphere. You’ll get a chance to walk through the old town, visit landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Stephen, Bishops Palace, and the historic Hvar Theatre—Europe’s oldest public theatre. If you’re up for a short hike, the Panjola Fortress offers panoramic views of the archipelago, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

The Return Journey

After a full day of exploring, the journey back to Split takes about an hour, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. The boat ride itself is described as comfortable, with lifejackets and wind jackets provided, which can make a difference if the weather isn’t perfect.

What We Love About This Tour

The flexibility of the private booking, allowing you to choose your start time, is a major plus. It means avoiding the crowds and customizing your day. The combination of popular sights and hidden gems offers a well-rounded experience—no one wants to spend all their time stuck in lines or in tourist-heavy spots.

Another highlight is the quality of snorkeling—equipment is provided, so water lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore beneath the surface. Plus, the skipper’s local knowledge and connections, as Michelle appreciated, can significantly enhance your experience, making it more personalized and efficient.

Things to Consider

While the experience sounds fantastic, it’s not without its caveats. The price point—$1,765 for up to 12 people—means this isn’t a budget activity. For solo travelers or couples, it could seem steep, but for families or groups, it might be a worthwhile splurge.

The length of the tour (around 8 hours) makes it a full-day commitment, so plan accordingly. If you’re not comfortable on speedboats or have mobility issues, this might not be ideal. Also, since it’s a private tour, hotel pick-up and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to coordinate your transportation to the meeting point.

Practical Details and Tips

Starting early around 7:30 AM helps you beat the crowds at spots like the Blue Cave. Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—as well as swimwear and a towel for swimming stops. The tour provides bottled water, a cooler for drinks, and safety gear, so you won’t need to pack much for hydration.

The meeting point is at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 12, right across from Coffee Bar Fro, with a photo provided for easy identification. Remember, this tour is conducted in English, Croatian, or German, so it’s accessible for most travelers.

Lastly, if your plans change, the booking is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour from Split offers a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s most famous and beautiful sights without the hassle of crowds. It’s ideal for travelers who want a flexible, personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. The inclusion of tickets, snorkeling gear, and a licensed skipper makes it a convenient option, especially if you value comfort and expert local guidance.

While the price might seem high at first glance, it’s reasonable considering the private nature, the length of the trip, and the range of sights covered. The small-group feel and early start make it a good choice for those seeking a more intimate adventure, away from busy tourist spots.

If you’re looking for a scenic, water-based adventure with a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, this tour could be just what you need. It’s perfect for seasoned travelers who enjoy water activities and want to experience Croatia’s stunning coast in style.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 4 years old or for pregnant women and people with back problems, so consider your group’s needs before booking.

How long does the tour last?
The total ride time is around 90 minutes on the speedboat, with the entire day lasting approximately 8 hours.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat ride, tickets, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, cooler, bottled water, licensed skipper, insurance, and VAT.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, though the tour provides a cooler and bottled water. You might want to bring snacks or a packed lunch.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 12, across from Coffee Bar Fro. The provider will send a photo to help find the spot.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility in case your plans change.

If you’re after a day of beautiful scenery, secret spots, and water adventures, this private cruise from Split looks like a memorable way to soak up Croatia’s stunning coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: