From Trogir or Split: Full-Day Blue Cave & Hvar Island Tour

Planning a day to explore Croatia’s spectacular Adriatic coast can feel overwhelming with so many options, but this full-day Blue Cave & Hvar Island tour from Trogir or Split hits many of the right notes. It’s a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural charm, all wrapped up in a single day. We’ve reviewed this experience based on extensive feedback and details from the tour provider to give you an honest look at what to expect.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines several highlights into one trip. You’ll get to see the famous Blue Cave, known for its magical blue glow, and visit five different islands, each offering its own unique vibe. Plus, the speedboat ride means you’re zipping between spots comfortably and quickly, making the most of your day without feeling rushed. One consideration? The Blue Cave ticket isn’t included in the price, so it’s an extra expense, and weather conditions can affect your plans—something to keep in mind if you’re counting on visiting the cave.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of scenic views, quick island visits, and a bit of adventure on the water. If you’re someone who enjoys lively boat rides, exploring charming villages, and swimming in clear waters, you’ll likely find this trip a highlight of your Croatian holiday. It’s not ideal if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, but for anyone comfortable with a full day on a boat, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Scenic Island Hopping: You’ll visit five islands, each with its own character, from hidden caves to lively towns.
• Blue Cave Experience: This natural phenomenon is a major highlight, with visitors admiring the blue glow—weather-dependent.
• Expert Guides & Skippers: The crew’s experience ensures safety, good navigation, and a friendly, informative atmosphere.
• Time at Each Stop: You get enough time to swim, explore, or relax—around 30 minutes to 2.5 hours per location.
• Comfort & Safety: The tour uses a high-quality RIB speedboat with safety gear, and snorkel equipment is provided.
• Cost Consideration: The price covers most of the experience, but you’ll need to pay extra for Blue Cave entry and food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

Your adventure begins at one of four convenient meeting spots in Trogir or Split. This flexibility helps if you’re staying in either town, making pickup straightforward. The tour lasts around 10 to 11 hours, so it’s a full day of activity but not overly exhausting, especially if you love being on the water.

The boat is a best-in-class RIB speedboat, designed for comfort and speed. From the start, you’ll notice the crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude, which many reviews praise. They also provide all essential safety gear, including life jackets upon request, windproof jackets, and snorkeling equipment, turning the boat into a safe, comfortable floating base.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

The Blue Cave on Biovo Island is often the star of this trip. As one review describes, “the cave is awesome,” and travelers are captivated by the way the sunlight creates this glowing blue effect. Be prepared for queues, though, since multiple boats often arrive simultaneously. The tour lasts about 30 minutes there—long enough to marvel at the cave’s beauty but not so long that it drags.

One thing to remember: the Blue Cave entry fee is not included in the price, costing around €18-€24 per person depending on the date. Some reviews mention that if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the cave might be inaccessible. Fortunately, the provider offers alternative stops, so your day isn’t wasted.

Exploring Komia & Vis Island

Next up is Komia on Vis Island, which many find charming. It’s a place to see traditional Dalmatian culture and perhaps try some local food (though not included in the tour). The reviews highlight the authenticity of this stop, with some travelers noting that the local customs add to the experience.

You’ll also visit Stiniva Bay, famed for its dramatic shoreline carved by waves. Your stop here lasts around 30 minutes, enough to enjoy a swim or snap some photos of the caves and cliffs. Reviewers love the scenic beauty of these spots, often calling Stiniva Bay “stunning” and “a must-see.”

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Blue Lagoon & Swimming Time

After exploring the caves and villages, it’s time to cool off. The Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Island is the perfect spot. Many reviews mention this as a favorite part—crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and relaxing. You’ll have about an hour here, which feels just right for a swim, sunbathe, or even enjoy a cold drink from the beach bar (note: food and drinks aren’t included). The water’s clarity makes snorkeling especially enjoyable, and equipment is provided, making it easy to see the vibrant marine life beneath.

Hvar Town: The Final Stop

The last major stop is Hvar, often called the “jewel” of the Croatian islands. The tour allows about 2.5 hours to explore this lively town on your own. You can stroll through its historic streets, enjoy panoramic views from the fortress, or grab a bite at the many cafes and shops. Many reviews mention that Hvar is a highlight, with some describing it as “beautiful” and “perfect for relaxing or sightseeing.”

Returning & Overall Group Experience

The return journey takes about an hour, giving you time to unwind, reflect, and soak in the scenery. The smaller group sizes, or private options, mean you’re less likely to be in a crowd, which reviewers consistently appreciate. Many mention their guides and skippers by name, praising their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of fun—especially those who played great music or shared amusing stories.

What’s the Value?

At $92 per person, this tour offers excellent value if you consider the number of stops, the boat quality, and the variety of experiences. The price includes snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and a guide. The main extra expense is the Blue Cave entry (about €18-€24), which many find worth paying for given its reputation.

Travelers consistently mention that the tour is “well-managed,” with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling hurried. The crew’s local knowledge enhances the experience, offering tips on what to see, eat, or do at each island.

The Challenges

Some reviews note that the boat can be quite bumpy, especially in choppy waters, which might be uncomfortable if you’re prone to motion sickness or have back problems. Also, the Blue Cave is weather-dependent, so if you’re visiting during poor weather, you might miss this highlight or need to settle for alternative sights. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, so be mindful if you’re traveling with more sensitive travelers.

What to Bring & Tips

Pack plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Because large bags are not permitted on the boat, bring only essentials. Swim shoes might be helpful for rocky beaches or caves. Arriving on time is crucial— the tour moves quickly, and they won’t wait more than five minutes past the start time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who love being on the water, exploring multiple islands, and taking in scenic views all in one day. It’s especially good for those who enjoy lively boat rides, swimming, and small-group atmospheres. If you’re looking for a relaxing, low-key boat trip or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options.

It’s also ideal for those who want a well-organized adventure with lots of photo opportunities and the chance to sample some of Croatia’s most iconic spots without too much hassle.

FAQs

Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
No, it depends on weather conditions. If the Blue Cave is inaccessible, the tour provider offers an alternative stop.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers the speedboat ride, guide, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and windproof jackets. Food and drinks are not included.

How much extra does the Blue Cave entry cost?
About €18-€24 per person, payable in cash on the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

How long is the boat ride between locations?
Typically around 1 hour, with some sections longer depending on the travel distances between islands.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, swimming and sunbathing are encouraged at the Blue Lagoon, Stiniva Bay, and other stops.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, waterproof camera, and a towel. Large luggage isn’t allowed on the boat.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled or rerouted, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

How much time do I have in Hvar?
About 2.5 hours, enough to explore the town or relax at a café.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, small-group or private options are available, generally keeping the group intimate.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Blue Cave & Hvar Island tour is a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The combination of stunning natural phenomena, charming island villages, and fun on the water makes it a strong choice for those who want an adventure-packed day.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially if you’re sensitive to boat movement or weather-dependent attractions—it offers good value and memorable experiences backed by enthusiastic guides and well-maintained boats. If you’re staying near Split or Trogir and want to cover a lot of ground in one day, this trip could become a highlight of your trip.

For travelers eager to explore the beauty of Croatia’s islands, enjoy some swimming, and see the Blue Cave in all its glory (weather permitting), this tour is worth considering.

Remember: Book early, arrive on time, and keep an open mind—adventures like this are often what make travel memories special.

You can check availability for your dates here: