BLUE CAVE & 5 islands tour from Hvar

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s famous sea caves and island hideaways, the Blue Cave & 5 Islands tour from Hvar offers an appealing way to do it. Promoted as a more personal experience than the usual big tour boats, this small-group speedboat ride promises a balance of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and fun swimming stops—all wrapped into a roughly 7.5-hour adventure.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its intimate setting. Limiting groups to just 12 people means you won’t be jostling with crowds, and your experience can feel more relaxed and engaging. Plus, the friendly, professional guides seem to make all the difference, adding local insights and a warm vibe.

That said, a possible downside is the nature of speedboat travel—expect some bumps and a choppier ride at times. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring some motion sickness remedies just in case. Also, while most stops are free, some attractions like the Blue Cave and Green Cave require additional entrance tickets, which can add to your overall cost.

This tour works best for travelers looking for a more personalized, fun-filled day on the water—especially those who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and seeing iconic sights without the mega-tour crowd. It’s a good pick if you’re after a balance of adventure, scenery, and some laid-back island hopping.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Only 12 travelers on board for a more intimate trip.
• Includes snorkeling gear and a welcome drink: Convenience and fun added perks.
• Multiple stops at stunning locations: Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Green Cave, and more.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable skippers who make the trip informative and friendly.
• Cost includes boat, fuel, and safety gear: Value for money, but some extras are paid separately.
• Challenging sea conditions at times: Expect some bumpy rides and plan accordingly.

The Experience in Detail

When considering a tour like this, understanding the itinerary helps clarify what you’re signing up for—and what you might miss or want to prepare for.

Starting Out: Meeting in Hvar

The adventure kicks off at Fabrika 26 in Hvar at 10:30 am. From here, you’ll board a small, well-sized speedboat, and you’ll immediately notice the difference from larger tour boats. The vessel feels comfortable and spacious enough for 12 people, providing enough room to relax, chat, or just enjoy the views as you cruise along.

The Blue Cave on Bisevo Island

Your first major stop is the Blue Cave. This spot is the star of the tour and, many say, the highlight. The cave’s glow, created by sunlight reflecting off the water, produces a surreal, almost otherworldly blue illumination that photographs simply cannot do justice.

One reviewer describes it as “simply cannot be put into words, you have to see it to believe it exists.” That’s pretty much the consensus—people are often awestruck by its beauty. The small water-logged sea cave is a natural marvel, and the limited time (about 45 minutes) is enough to take photos and soak in the scenery.

Note that the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included, with tickets costing around 12 EUR in high season or 8 EUR in low season. The tour’s timing makes it possible to skip long queues, especially if you book early or go at the right time. As one traveler notes, “Tickets can have long queues, but we were lucky with a shorter 25-minute wait overall.”

Stiniva Cove: Nature’s Masterpiece

From Bisevo, you’ll head to Stiniva Cove, a stunning bay formed when a sea cave collapsed, resulting in a unique, secluded beach surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s often regarded as Europe’s most popular bay, and once you see it, it’s easy to understand why.

Most travelers agree this is a highlight. One review called it “an amazing bay,” and the clear, turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and photos. You won’t be able to dock here, but the boat will stop so you can take in the views or jump in for a quick swim. You get about 45 minutes here, which is enough to relax and snap some pictures.

The Green Cave

Next, your skipper will pull up in front of the Green Cave. You’ll have a quick 5-minute stop, just enough time to see the outside of the cave and perhaps snap a few photos. Entrance isn’t included, and given the short time, it’s a quick peek rather than a full exploration.

Budikovac Island: Natural Lagoon

The next stop is at Budikovac Island, a tiny paradise with a sheltered lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The water here is so clear and calm, it’s easy to understand why it’s called a “natural turquoise lagoon.” You’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the water, unwind, and take in the scenery.

Many reviews highlight how relaxing this part is. It’s a chance to cool off and enjoy some quiet time away from the busier spots.

Paklinski Otoci and Palmizana Botanical Garden

Your journey continues to Paklinski Otoci, a group of islands with a name that’s often misinterpreted. It actually refers to pine resins used historically for waterproofing boats, not a hellish place. You won’t be stopping here long, just enough to appreciate the scenery and perhaps take some photos.

Finally, you’ll visit Palmizana Botanical Garden, where you get a generous 2 hours. This is a great spot for a leisurely lunch, relaxing by the crystal-clear sea, or wandering through pine forests. It’s a peaceful end to your island hopping, with many travelers mentioning how idyllic this stop is.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers the speedboat, fuel, a skipper/guide, snorkeling masks, life vests, bottled water, and a surprise stop (which keeps things spontaneous and fun). It’s good value, considering you get so many stops at iconic locations and the company provides the gear you need for snorkeling.

However, the Blue Cave entrance fee (~8-12 EUR) and the Green Cave ticket (around 8 EUR in low season, 12 in high season) are extra costs. If you plan to visit these, budget accordingly. The tour does not include lunch, so bringing your own snacks or planning for a nearby meal might be wise, especially since some reviews mention that lunch is scheduled later in the day.

Group Size, Timing, and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 people, this tour tends to feel friendly and relaxed. Many travelers comment on the knowledgeable and friendly guides—some praise the crew’s local insights and fun attitude. One review even raves about the friendly skipper “Bojo,” and another mentions how their guides were “very welcoming and knowledgeable.”

Starting at 10:30 am and ending back at the meeting point, the day is well-paced. While the boat ride can be bumpy, especially in choppier seas, most reviews say the experience is worth it, and the guides warn you beforehand about possible seasickness.

Pricing and Value for Money

At roughly $113 per person, this tour offers a lot. You’re paying for a well-organized day filled with multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a friendly crew. The small-group vibe enhances the experience, making it more intimate and less rushed than larger tours.

Some reviews mention that paying extra for the Blue Cave tickets is manageable and worth the visit, given how stunning it is. Considering that the tour includes many activities and expert guides, most travelers feel they get good value.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This tour is perfect for those who want a more personal, relaxed experience of Croatia’s stunning islands and caves. It suits travelers who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing but prefer avoiding the crowds of larger tour boats.

If you’re okay with a few bumps and want a day filled with beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and some adventure, this trip should fit the bill. It’s especially good if you want to make the most of the Blue Cave without waiting in long lines or feeling crowded.

However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely, less speed-driven experience or are very sensitive to sea conditions, you might want to consider your comfort level before booking.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee (~8-12 EUR) is paid separately and isn’t included in the tour price.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Expect about 45 minutes at the Blue Cave, 45 minutes at Stiniva Cove, 5 minutes at the Green Cave, 30 minutes at Budikovac Island, and 2 hours at Palmizana Botanical Garden.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the tour includes snorkel masks and life vests for your use during the stops.

What should I bring?
A hat, sunscreen, water shoes (recommended for certain beaches), snacks, and drinks if you prefer your own. The tour provides bottled water, but food and extra drinks are up to you.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. You’ll get a full refund if canceled within this window.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
The boat can be bumpy at times, especially in choppier seas. If seasickness is a concern, consider bringing motion sickness remedies and being prepared.

Does this tour suit families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the small boat, manageable stops, and casual pace make it suitable for most travelers, including families with older children.

Final Word

All in all, the Blue Cave & 5 Islands tour from Hvar delivers on its promise of an authentic, less crowded Croatian sea experience. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and well-chosen stops makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting a memorable day on the water. It’s especially recommended for those who value intimacy and personalized service over the hustle of larger tours. Just remember to prepare for some bumpy rides and extra costs for certain cave entries—but if that sounds like a good adventure, you’re in for a treat.