Blue Cave, Hvar Island & Paklenjaci Speedboat Tour from Split

Discover the Croatian Coast: An Honest Look at the Blue Cave, Hvar Island & Paklenjaci Speedboat Tour from Split

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Croatia’s famous sights and secret corners by boat, this Blue Cave, Hvar Island & Paklenjaci Speedboat Tour is worth considering. It’s a full-day adventure that promises a mix of natural wonders, charming towns, and secluded beaches—all accessible only by water. While the price tag might seem steep at over $1,200 per group, the experience’s exclusivity and the variety of stops make it stand out.

We particularly appreciate how this tour handles the logistics—everything from safety gear to onboard comforts is well-arranged, letting you focus on soaking in the views. The itinerary includes some truly iconic spots like the Blue Cave, with its mesmerizing blue glow, and Hvar, with its lively yet relaxed aura. One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the water—so it’s best for those who enjoy boat trips.

If you prefer a more flexible or budget-friendly day, this might not be the best fit, especially considering additional costs like tickets for the Blue Cave or meals. But if you’re after a seamless, all-in-one boat adventure with personalized service, this tour is likely to delight. It’s particularly suited for travelers wanting a luxury experience with a smaller group, and those eager to explore multiple sights in a single day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: The tour provides bottled water, safety gear, a fridge, Bluetooth music, and even a shower onboard.
• Stunning Stops: Highlights include the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, and Budikovac Island, offering a mix of natural beauty and tranquility.
• Flexible Itinerary: Each stop offers time to relax, swim, snorkel, or explore at your own pace.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, making it more personalized and less crowded.
• Cost Consideration: The price covers private boat rental, fuel, guide, and most amenities, but tickets for attractions like the Blue Cave are extra.
• Timing & Duration: Starting early at 7:30 am, the day is approximately 11 hours—perfect if you’re looking for a full, immersive experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off in Split, where your day begins with a scenic speedboat ride to Bievo—a gentle way to settle into your adventure while enjoying views of the coastline. The first big highlight is the Blue Cave, where the natural light creates a surreal, glowing blue interior. It’s a brief stop—about 10 minutes—but enough to snap some photos or simply marvel at the phenomenon. Do note, tickets for the Blue Cave aren’t included, and they typically cost between 12-18 EUR for adults, less for children, so plan for that extra expense.

Next, you’ll cruise to Stiniva Cove, often called one of Europe’s best beaches. Behind towering cliffs, this secluded spot offers a peaceful setting with clear waters perfect for swimming. The one-hour stop here gives you time to wade into the water or relax on the pebble shore. As one reviewer put it, “every stop was breathtaking,” and Stiniva Cove definitely lives up to that description.

Following that, the boat takes you on to Budikovac Island, known for its calm turquoise lagoon and shallow waters. It’s ideal for snorkeling and floating around in the tranquility. You’ll have about 75 minutes here—plenty of time to soak in the serenity or explore the island’s tiny beaches. It’s a quieter, less crowded spot, appreciated by travelers looking to escape the more touristy areas.

Afterward, the journey continues to the Pakleni Islands, a cluster of islands famed for their beauty and culinary delights. Here, the tour offers a three-hour break, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local tavern or simply relax on the boat, enjoy the music, and take in the scenery. This is often highlighted by travelers as a chance to unwind and indulge in Croatian flavors.

Post-lunch, you’ll arrive on Hvar, a lively yet charming island known for its historic streets and vibrant atmosphere. An hour here is enough to stroll around, take photos, and get a taste of Hvar’s unique vibe. The town’s blend of culture and laid-back beach life makes it a perfect pit stop before heading back to Split.

Finally, the return to Split offers a relaxed end to your day, with about an hour on the water back to your starting point. The whole experience wraps up around sunset, giving you a chance to reflect on a busy, beautiful day on the sea.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on the glowing reviews, a couple of things shine through. One is the stunning nature of the stops. The Blue Cave’s illuminated interior seems to captivate everyone, and the secret beaches like Stiniva Cove feel like discovering your own slice of paradise. As one reviewer noted, “from the mesmerizing Blue Cave to the hidden paradise of Stiniva Cove, every stop was breathtaking.”

The other is the personal touch of the guide. One reviewer mentioned, “Our family went out yesterday on a boat, and we had the most beautiful soul as our skipper, Roco. He made our experience the best day ever.” That kind of service really elevates the trip from just a sightseeing outing to a memorable adventure.

The value for money is also a recurring theme. While $1,210 might seem steep, keep in mind that the price covers a private boat, all fees, fuel, snacks, and amenities like Bluetooth music and a shower. The flexibility to swim, snorkel, and explore at each stop without the hassle of organizing transport or meals adds to its appeal.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour is designed for those who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and a full day of exploring. Starting early at 7:30 am, you’ll be on the water for most of the day, so bringing sun protection, swimwear, and a towel is advisable. Although food and drinks aren’t included, the three-hour stop at Pakleni Islands allows for a relaxed lunch—many travelers recommend trying the local taverns, which are praised for their delicious food.

The boat itself is well-equipped with safety gear, a fridge, and a sound system, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable. The group size is limited to eight people, which helps keep things intimate and allows for personalized attention from your skipper.

The tour is suitable for most travelers who can handle a full day on the water, but it’s worth noting that the Blue Cave is a quick visit, and additional tickets are required. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer less time on the water, this might be a consideration.

Cost Analysis and Value

At just over $1,200 for a private experience, it’s a premium option. But considering it includes all fees, fuel, guide, safety gear, and amenities, it offers good value if you’re after a hassle-free, tailored adventure. You’re paying for exclusivity and convenience—no crowded groups, no organizing multiple transport links, just one seamless day.

Keep in mind, the Blue Cave ticket isn’t included, and that’s an extra expense. Depending on your interests, paying for these tickets might be worth it for the experience, especially since the cave’s glow is a visual highlight that’s well worth a small additional fee.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want an all-in-one day of exploring Croatia’s famous sights in comfort and style. If you’re looking for a relaxed, private experience with quality amenities, the small group size and personalized service will appeal. It’s ideal for those who enjoy boating, beautiful scenery, and a mix of cultural and natural attractions.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer a more flexible or shorter day, there are other options. Also, if you’re sensitive to long periods on a boat, make sure you’re comfortable with the 11-hour schedule.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Blue Cave, Hvar Island & Paklenjaci Speedboat Tour offers a well-rounded, high-end experience of Croatia’s coast. It combines the thrill of speedboat travel with the wonder of natural sights and charming towns, all wrapped in the comfort of a private, guided trip. Travelers who love a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and personalized service will find it hard to beat.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the seamless organization and the variety of stops justify the price for many. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a day that feels exclusive and tailored to your group’s pace. Just remember to plan for additional costs like cave tickets and meals.

For anyone wanting to tick off Croatia’s top attractions with ease and style, this tour stands out as a memorable way to do it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a full day on a speedboat and swimming stops, so it’s more suitable for older children and teenagers comfortable with boat rides.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and beverages are not included, but there’s a long stop at Pakleni Islands where you can find local taverns to enjoy lunch.

How much are tickets for the Blue Cave?
Tickets typically cost between 12-18 EUR for adults and less for children; these are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly a waterproof bag for your belongings.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a more exclusive experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 11 hours, starting at 7:30 am, with most of the day spent on the water exploring various sites.

What amenities are onboard?
The boat has safety gear, a fridge, Bluetooth music, a shower, and storage for your belongings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

If you’re after a day of spectacular sights, relaxed cruising, and personalized service, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Croatia’s coast that’s hard to find elsewhere.