From Split: Private Day Trip to Blue Cave and Islands

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands: A Look at the Private Day Trip from Split to Blue Cave and Islands

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising through crystal waters, exploring remote beaches, and discovering iconic sights like the Blue Cave, this private boat tour from Split might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for those craving a personalized adventure along Croatia’s stunning coast.

What draws us to this experience are the flexibility it offers—you can customize how long you stay at each spot—and the chance to visit less accessible beaches and islands that you might not reach on standard tours. Plus, the chance to see the Blue Cave in all its glowing blue glory is always a highlight.

That said, there’s a bit to consider—such as the price which, at nearly $2,000 for a group of up to 12, isn’t exactly budget-friendly. Also, keep in mind that entrance to the Blue Cave isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately if you’re eager to go inside.

This tour seems best suited for those who value privacy, personalized attention, and a flexible schedule. It might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a cheaper, more structured group experience, but if you’re traveling with a group or family and want a tailored day on the water, it could be just right.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your preferences.
• Visit multiple islands and beaches, including the famous Blue Cave, Stiniva Beach, and Hvar.
• Snorkeling gear and bottled water included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the marine life.
• Remote beaches and hidden spots accessible only by speedboat—perfect for those seeking exclusivity.
• Flexibility in timing allows you to spend as much or as little time at each stop.
• Additional costs include entrance to the Blue Cave and fuel, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This private day trip is designed to give you a sense of freedom. The departure time is flexible, which means you can choose when to set out, and you decide how long you linger at each location. That’s a real plus if you prefer a relaxed pace or want to skip certain stops.

The journey begins with your boat and crew greeting you at the meeting point in Split. From there, it’s a scenic cruise along the Dalmatian coast. The boat itself is described as comfortable—an important detail because most of your day will be spent on the water. You’re provided with bottled water and snorkeling gear, which suggests a laid-back vibe and an emphasis on fun and relaxation.

The Blue Cave of Bisevo is a major highlight. Once you arrive, you’ll get to see the famous blue light dance on the cave walls—an experience that’s often described as mesmerizing. Your guide will share interesting details about this natural wonder, enhancing the visit. Keep in mind, entrance is not included, so you’ll need to purchase a ticket separately.

Next, you’ll head to Stiniva Beach on Vis Island. Its high cliffs and pebble shores are praised in reviews for their beauty and seclusion. It’s a sheltered spot perfect for snapping photos, relaxing on the sand, or taking a swim. The water here is shallow and exceptionally clear, making it ideal for snorkeling. Guests often mention how much they enjoyed the marine life and the tranquility of the location.

The Blue Lagoon on another island offers shallow, crystal-clear waters—think perfect for floating or snorkeling. The shallow nature of the lagoon means it’s accessible for most swimmers, and the marine life makes snorkeling worthwhile. Guests note how refreshing and peaceful this stop is, especially on a warm day.

Budikovac Island is almost uninhabited, giving visitors a rare chance to step onto a quiet, pristine spot that’s only reachable by boat. It’s a good opportunity to stretch, take photos, or just enjoy the unspoiled environment.

Lunch is on your own, with the captain providing recommendations for local places, so you can tailor your meal experience. This flexibility is nice, especially if you’re picky or have dietary preferences.

Finally, the tour includes a stop in Hvar Town, famous for its 13th-century walls and charming streets. It’s a lovely place for a quick stroll, some sightseeing, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere of one of Croatia’s most popular islands.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight some of the best parts of this tour. Julio raved about it, calling it “incredible” and “one of the best things we did,” emphasizing the private, personalized nature of the trip. For families or groups, this setup seems to be a real plus, as it allows for more relaxed and flexible exploration.

Carrie shared that Eva and Marco went above and beyond to accommodate her family, making the experience especially enjoyable for her children. She called it her favorite excursion of the week, which speaks volumes about the kind of personalized service you might expect.

The common thread in reviews is that the guides are knowledgeable and genuinely helpful, enhancing the experience with interesting stories and local tips. The views, particularly at the Blue Cave and the high cliffs surrounding Stiniva Beach, are consistently praised.

What to Expect: The Practicalities

This tour is priced at $1,988 for a group of up to 12, which averages out to roughly $165 per person—actually quite reasonable considering the private nature and the number of stops. You get a boat and crew, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and insurance included. However, fuel, entrance fees, and food are extras you’ll need to budget for.

The departure times are flexible, and you can choose how long to stay at each spot, which makes this experience highly adaptable. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a tailored, leisurely day rather than a rigid schedule.

The meeting point is straightforward, with guides approaching you once you’re there. The end point is back at the meeting location, so no worries about complicated pickups.

What to bring? Think comfortable clothes, swimwear, a camera for those stunning views, and some cash for lunch or entrance fees. Changing clothes afterward is also recommended if you plan to go swimming.

Benefits for Different Types of Travelers

This experience seems especially suited for groups or couples who want privacy and flexibility. If you’re traveling with friends or family and prefer a more intimate vibe, this tour offers that personalized touch.

It’s also a good pick if you’re into snorkeling or exploring lesser-known beaches, since the tour includes gear and gives you the chance to customize the time spent swimming or relaxing.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, the price might be a bit steep, especially considering some costs aren’t included. Also, if your main focus is visiting the Blue Cave, remember that entry isn’t included, and lines or delays could impact your plans.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

In the end, this private boat trip offers a comfortable, personalized way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. Its strength lies in the flexibility—allowing you to spend more time at your favorite places and skip what doesn’t appeal.

You’ll love this experience if you’re after quiet beaches, exclusive scenery, and a relaxed pace. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding value to the trip. And for those who enjoy snorkeling, the Blue Lagoon and other shallow waters provide a great chance to see marine life up close.

On the downside, the cost is higher than group tours, and some must-know details like entrance fees are extra. If budget is a concern, you might want to compare with other options.

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a private, customizable day on the water. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, you’ll likely find it a memorable way to see Croatia’s stunning coastline—and, with a bit of planning, it can be a highlight of your Dalmatian adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly targeted at families, the private boat setup and snorkeling might appeal to older children or teens who enjoy water activities.

How long is the trip?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s a full-day experience with flexible stops, typically allowing ample time at each location.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You can choose where to eat based on captain’s recommendations, so it’s flexible to your preferences.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you should reserve your spot ahead of time. The tour offers a “reserve & pay later” option, which keeps your plans flexible.

What’s not included in the price?
Entrance to the Blue Cave and fuel are extra. Be sure to budget accordingly if you’re eager to visit the cave.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, camera, beachwear, comfortable clothes, and some cash. It’s a good idea to have waterproof gear for snorkeling.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, like all boat trips, it’s best to check the weather forecast beforehand. If conditions are rough, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled.

How many people will be on the boat?
Up to 12 guests per group, making it a relatively intimate experience, especially compared to larger group tours.

This private day trip from Split promises a relaxed, customizable way to see Croatia’s stunning islands and caves, with enough flexibility to tailor your perfect day on the water. If you’re after a tranquil, scenic adventure with personalized service, it’s worth considering—just keep in mind the extra costs for entrance fees and food.

You can check availability for your dates here: