Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split

If you’re eyeing a day of island-hopping and scenic wonders near Split, Croatia, this Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour could be just what you’re looking for. It promises a mix of natural beauty, sea adventures, and a glimpse into historic Hvar, all in a streamlined 10-hour package.

From what we’ve seen, two things really stand out: the chance to see the Blue Cave’s captivating glow and the variety of islands and coves you’ll visit, offering plenty of swimming and sunbathing opportunities. However, it’s worth mentioning that some travelers have expressed concerns about the long boat ride to the Blue Cave and occasional weather-related cancellations.

This tour best suits those who appreciate a well-organized, all-in-one day trip that combines scenery, light adventure, and a touch of history. It’s ideal for first-timers in Split wanting to tick off multiple sights without the hassle of planning, but be prepared for a busy schedule and, depending on the day, possible delays or weather hiccups.

Key Points

• Stunning sights: The Blue Cave’s unforgettable blue light is a major highlight, along with visits to six nearby islands.
• Balanced mix: Combines sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and a free afternoon in Hvar.
• Professional guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience with helpful information and a friendly attitude.
• Cost considerations: The tour costs around $176 per person, with additional fees for the Blue Cave entrance and Hvar Fortress.
• Weather dependency: The Blue Cave visit can be affected by weather, leading to cancellations or shortened visits.
• Group size: Limited to 12 travelers, making it more personal but still popular among many travelers.
• What’s included: Snorkel gear, light refreshments, bottled water, and a skipper ensure comfort and safety.
• What’s not: Entrance fees for Hvar Fortress and the Blue Cave, plus lunch, are on your tab.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Out in Split

The tour kicks off early, with meeting at the Riva Harbor around 7:15 am for voucher checks, followed by departure at 7:30 am. The early start means you’ll get a full day of island hopping, but it also means hitting the water before the heat of the day. The group size is capped at 12, which helps keep the atmosphere more intimate and manageable.

The Blue Cave: The Main Attraction

The main draw is, of course, the Blue Cave. We loved the way the guides help you appreciate this natural marvel—inside, the water and light create a surreal, glowing effect. It’s a quick visit, usually about 45 minutes, but many travelers find that the experience is worth the long boat ride (roughly 1.5 hours each way).

Some reviews highlight that the Blue Cave visit can be cut short or even canceled due to weather or high tide. One reviewer noted, “the experience was awesome… but I did not receive my bottle of water.” It’s common that the cave entrance fee ($12 in pre/post season, $18 in high season) is extra, so budget accordingly.

Visiting Vis and Stiniva Bay

Next, the tour moves to Vis Island, with a quick stop at a hidden cave and a swim opportunity. This is a quieter, less touristy spot that offers a different vibe than the busy Blue Cave. The boat can’t swim in Stiniva Bay for safety reasons, but you can view it from the boat and appreciate its dramatic cliffs and cove.

Relaxing at Budikovac & the Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island becomes a favorite for many. It’s a designated swim stop, where you can snorkel and soak up the sun. The water is clear, and the setting is peaceful—perfect for a quick dip, and many reviews mention the beauty of the water here. The free snorkeling gear and bottled water provided help make this a comfortable stop.

The Pakleni Islands and Hvar

After a busy morning, the tour pauses at the Pakleni Islands for about an hour and 15 minutes. You can explore, swim, or just relax on the boat. Many find this time valuable for a quick refresh, although some report that the lunch break at Carpe Diem Beach is underwhelming and overpriced—so consider bringing snacks or eating in Hvar instead.

Later, the group has about two hours free in Hvar. This gives plenty of time to stroll the charming streets, snap photos of the fortress, or grab a coffee. Several reviews rave about Hvar’s charm, but they also note that if you want to explore deeply, you might need a full day, as two hours can feel a bit rushed.

Returning to Split

By late afternoon, the boat heads back, arriving around 6:15 pm. The return journey is scenic, often with the sunset adding to the already picturesque views.

The Realities of the Tour: Pros and Cons

What travelers love:

• The guides are often praised for their friendliness and helpful commentary. Multiple reviews mention the “great staff” and “helpful crew,” making the day smoother.
• The scenery is undeniably stunning—crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and the famous Blue Cave leave a lasting impression.
• The opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in various spots is a highlight; many reviews talk about the “great swimming options” and “beautiful water.”

What travelers find challenging:

• The long boat ride to the Blue Cave can be uncomfortable, especially if the sea is rough or you’re prone to seasickness. Some reviews note that the trip took longer than expected or that you’re sitting in a boat that’s sometimes quite wet.
• The Blue Cave itself is small and quick to visit; some felt the time there was too brief for the price paid, especially with the entrance fee.
• The lunch spot at Carpe Diem Beach on Hvar is considered overpriced and not impressive, so bringing your own snacks might be a wise choice.
• Weather can be a disruptor—cancellations or shortened visits happen, which can be disappointing if your trip hinges on seeing the Blue Cave.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price, at around $176 per person, it’s a fairly significant commitment, but many feel it offers good value considering the variety of stops, guided commentary, snorkeling gear, and a full day on the sea. If you’re keen to see the Blue Cave and explore several islands without the hassle of organizing transport yourself, it could be a solid choice.

However, if your main goal is to spend ample time inside the Blue Cave itself, be aware that many reviews mention the visit is rather brief, and weather conditions can affect the experience. Also, if you’re after a relaxing, less hectic day, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want an organized, all-in-one day trip that covers multiple islands, offers plenty of swimming, and includes the chance to see Hvar’s historic sights. It’s great for those who enjoy boat trips, appreciate guided tours, and don’t mind a packed schedule. Keep in mind, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are highly sensitive to weather, you might want to look for alternative options.

FAQs

How early do I need to arrive for the tour?
You should be at the Riva Harbor stand (number 5) by 7:15 am to check in and gather your voucher. The tour departs promptly at 7:30 am.

What is included in the tour?
The tour price covers bottled water, a professional skipper and sailor, snorkeling masks, and life jackets. Light refreshments are also provided during the day.

Are there extra costs?
Yes. The entrance fee for the Blue Cave is extra—around €12 in the offseason and €18 in peak season. The Hvar Fortress entrance fee is not included, so plan for that if you wish to visit.

Can I bring my own snacks?
While the tour provides bottled water, many reviewers suggest bringing snacks or a packed lunch, especially since the included lunch at Carpe Diem Beach has received mixed reviews.

What if the weather is bad and the Blue Cave can’t be visited?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor conditions cause cancellations, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long boat rides and the speedboat nature of the trip. If your children are comfortable with boats and water, it can be a fun adventure.

How long is the boat ride to the Blue Cave?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours each way, depending on sea conditions. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and potential splashes.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for refunds.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split offers a well-organized way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. Despite some weather-related uncertainties and the brief Blue Cave visit, most travelers leave with fantastic memories of shimmering waters, scenic islands, and a fun boat trip.

If you’re looking for an efficient way to tick off multiple highlights in one day and don’t mind a little hustle, this tour is worth considering. Just be sure to bring your sense of adventure—and some snacks!