All-inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour from Split

Planning a day trip from Split that combines stunning scenery, good food, and relaxed sailing? This all-inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour promises just that—an easygoing, well-organized way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands and the famous Blue Cave, all without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

What we really like about this tour is how it simplifies a busy day by covering entrance fees, transportation, lunch, drinks, and even ice cream. Plus, the boat itself is comfortable and equipped with amenities like a restroom and safety gear suitable for children. One thing to keep in mind: the Blue Cave visits depend on weather conditions, so if the sea gets rough, you might miss out on the cave experience. But the tour’s flexibility and friendly crew often make up for it.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back, all-in-one day out that takes care of everything. It’s especially suited for those who prefer not to deal with multiple bookings, want to enjoy Croatian cuisine on the water, and like the idea of visiting lesser-known spots along with popular highlights. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy good scenery, good company, and good food, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience means no hidden costs—everything from entrance fees to lunch and drinks is covered.
• Comfortable boat with amenities like a restroom and safety equipment suitable for children makes the day more relaxing.
• Multiple island stops provide time for swimming, exploring, and tasting local cuisine, not just rushing through touristy spots.
• Weather-dependent cave visit can be a downside if sea conditions are rough, but the crew’s flexibility often ensures a memorable day regardless.
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides, delicious food, and a well-organized trip.
• Price point offers good value given the comprehensive itinerary and included amenities, especially for a full-day tour.

An Honest Look at the Blue Cave and Islands Tour

When we think about Croatia’s coast, the Blue Cave is often at the top of travelers’ bucket lists. This tour’s main draw is the visit to Cave Bievo, a natural wonder with its shimmering blue waters that look almost surreal. The experience is managed carefully to avoid the long queues that often plague the site, thanks to a ticketed entry system and a managed approach. Many reviews mention how smooth the process was, especially when the weather cooperated.

However, it’s good to know that if the sea is too rough, the Blue Cave might be closed for safety reasons. This isn’t unusual, and the crew is known for their transparency and flexibility. One reviewer shared that even when the Blue Cave was inaccessible, the crew still made the day special by extending time at other stops and providing excellent food and entertainment—something we appreciated.

What to Expect at the Blue Cave

Arriving at Bievo, the boat is managed by a government-approved company, ensuring safety and professionalism. You buy your tickets on-site, and then you’re taken inside the cave, where the water’s glowing blue hue makes for incredible photos. The experience lasts around two hours, which is plenty of time to marvel at the natural beauty and take in the unique atmosphere.

Visiting the Islands: Vis, Hvar, and Solta

After the Blue Cave, the tour moves on to other highlights. You’ll stop at Vis, where you might have some free time or a quick swim. One reviewer mentioned enjoying the “delicious lunch and drinks flowing all day,” highlighting how relaxed and enjoyable the stops are.

Hvar gets a longer stop—about an hour and a half—giving you time to explore a bit or just soak up the scenery. Some reviews suggest the time on Hvar is a bit limited, but that’s often a result of the tight schedule and weather conditions. Still, the crew makes sure to give you enough time for swimming, socializing, and exploring.

The final stop is Solta Island, where you get a short swim in a bay—just enough to cool off and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. One guest noted that this stop is “according to sea and wind conditions,” which means it might change, but the captain picks the best spot available that day.

The Boat, Crew, and Food Experience

The boat used for this tour is a 37-foot aluminum powerboat, which offers a stable and comfortable ride. Many reviews compliment the crew—often described as friendly, accommodating, and professional. The captain and hostess work hard to ensure everyone feels safe and relaxed, even when the seas are choppy.

The onboard amenities are a big plus: a restroom, microfiber and cotton towels, and snorkeling equipment. The included safety gear, available in children’s sizes, makes this suitable for families or travelers with kids.

The food is something many reviews rave about. You’ll start with pastries—doughnuts, croissants, or bagels filled with chocolate, vanilla, or cheese—perfect for energizing before the day’s adventures. The highlight, however, is the homemade grilled lunch served at a private summer house on Vis Island, cooked over a real fire by a chef. The lunch includes drinks, side dishes, coffee, and ice cream, making it a hearty, satisfying meal.

Drinks on board include bottled water, local beer, wine, soda, and iced tea—covering most tastes. Some travelers appreciated the included alcohol, which added to the relaxed, festive atmosphere.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

One guest shared, “The crew was very friendly and even though we couldn’t go to the Blue Cave due to the rough sea, we still had a great time at the locations they took us to.” This speaks volumes about the crew’s flexibility and dedication to a good experience despite weather hiccups.

Another wrote, “Lunch was exceptional, and there was a wide variety of drinks.” They also appreciated the comfort of the boat, noting it was unlike many other tours with more cramped spaces.

A Day Well Spent for Relaxed Travelers

While the tour is lengthy—about 10 hours—it’s designed for those who want a leisurely, all-in-one experience. Expect a full day of cruising, swimming, eating, and sightseeing. The group size caps at 36, so it’s small enough to feel personalized without being too intimate.

The departure is early—around 7:15 am—so it’s best to be prepared for an early start. But with the convenience of a well-organized itinerary and a friendly crew, most travelers find the effort worthwhile.

What the Reviews Say

Many reviews mention how smooth and enjoyable the trip was. Travelers loved the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, especially mentioning guides like Mia, Yellow, Lana, Andrea, and Captain B. Several reviewers highlighted how the staff went out of their way to make everyone comfortable, whether by providing blankets in cooler weather or adjusting stops based on sea conditions.

The negative moments mainly focus on weather-dependent issues—like missing the Blue Cave or rough seas making the ride less comfortable. But even then, guests often note that the crew’s professionalism kept the day enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value convenience and comfort. You’ll appreciate paying a bit more for an experience that’s inclusive—no hidden costs, no stress about booking separate activities. It’s perfect if you’re someone who enjoys good food, friendly service, and picturesque scenery without feeling rushed.

It’s also a good pick for those who want to avoid the crowds at the Blue Cave, thanks to a system that minimizes waiting times. But, if the weather is uncooperative, be prepared for possible changes or cancellations, as with any outdoor activity.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the amenities and safety equipment make it manageable for children, and the relaxed pace suits most travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, pickup and drop-off are only included for private tours. The meeting point is Trumbieva obala 14a, near the Ambasador hotel in Split.

What is the best time to join this tour?
The tour departs early, at 7:15 am, to maximize your time on the water and ensure you get in before crowds at the Blue Cave.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour can also be canceled due to poor weather, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Halal options are available if you advise at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the safety gear, amenities, and relaxed pace make it suitable for children, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

How long is each stop?
The Blue Cave visit lasts about two hours. Other stops—Vis, Hvar, and Solta—range from about 20 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on conditions and schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat transport, entrance fees, a hearty homemade lunch with drinks, pastries, bottled water, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and an onboard restroom.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive gastro boat tour from Split offers a fantastic way to discover Croatia’s coastal gems with minimal fuss. For travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and delicious local food, it delivers on every front. The crew’s flexibility and friendly attitude are often praised, making it a stress-free experience that’s more about relaxing and enjoying than navigating logistics.

While the Blue Cave’s visit depends on weather, the tour’s other stops are equally beautiful and worth exploring. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to avoid long queues, enjoy good company, and savor hearty Croatian cuisine in a relaxed setting. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, enjoyable day on the water—this tour might just be your perfect match.