Blue cave and Hvar – 5 Islands speedboat tour from Split

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Croatia, a speedboat tour from Split that hits all the major sights sounds pretty tempting. This particular experience offers the chance to see the Blue Cave, explore lush islands, and enjoy plenty of swimming and sunbathing—all in one day. As someone who’s spent plenty of time exploring Croatia’s coast, I’ll give you the real scoop on what this tour is about, what you can expect, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

First off, I really like that this tour is small-group, limited to just 12 people. That tends to mean a more relaxed vibe, better interaction with the crew, and fewer crowds at the popular stops. The boat is equipped with some handy amenities like Wi-Fi, a bathroom, snorkeling gear, and a fridge—meaning you can stay comfortable and connected during the day. The price of around $180 per person isn’t cheap, but for a full day of exploring so many locations in one go, it can feel reasonable, especially when you weigh how much you’re packing into those 10 hours.

A couple of caveats are worth mentioning. While most reviews praise the trip, some mention the boat’s basic facilities—no real guide service or onboard refreshments beyond the snorkeling gear and a fridge. Also, the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included and costs around 18-24 euros depending on the time of year, which can add up. And if you’re hoping for a luxurious experience with onboard drinks and showers, this might fall a bit short.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time and cover multiple sites without the hassle of organizing separate trips. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a small, intimate group and don’t mind a full day on the water. If you’re after a relaxed, action-packed adventure with friendly guides and stunning scenery, you’ll probably find this worth considering.

Key Points

• Multi-stop experience allows you to see several islands, caves, and beaches in one day.
• Small-group size (limited to 12) offers a more personal vibe.
• Comfortable amenities like Wi-Fi, bathroom, and snorkeling gear enhance the day.
• Cost includes fuel, crew, and snorkeling equipment, but extras like food and cave entry are additional.
• Timing is tight but well-paced, with about 2 hours to explore Hvar and 45 minutes at other stops.
• Reviews are mostly positive, praising the crew’s professionalism and the Blue Cave’s beauty.

The Itinerary: What’s on the Menu for Your Day

Starting Out: The Blue Cave

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 AM from Split’s Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda. This allows you to beat some of the crowds and get to the Blue Cave on the island of Bievo. The cave is famous for that glowing blue light that flickers when the sunlight hits the water at just the right angle. It’s one of those sights that’s hard to forget.

However, keep in mind that admission isn’t included, and tickets cost about 18 euros from April to June 19 and September 11 to October 31, rising to 24 euros during peak summer months. Many travelers find that the cave is worth the extra expense, especially since it’s a highlight of the day. That said, one reviewer mentioned the Blue Cave was closed during their visit, so always check in advance.

Stiniva Cove: Hidden Beach Paradise

Next up, the boat heads toward Stiniva Cove, a tiny, secluded beach only accessible by boat or a steep hike. We loved the way it felt like discovering a secret spot, perfect for some quick swimming or just soaking up the scenery. The stop here lasts about 15 minutes, which is enough for a quick dip or snapping photos. Be aware that there’s no entry fee, making it a budget-friendly highlight.

Budikovac Island: The Blue Lagoon

Then, it’s off to Budikovac Island, home to a picture-perfect Blue Lagoon. It’s a favorite for many guests, mainly because of the calm, clear waters—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You get around 45 minutes here, so you can relax, paddle around, and take in the tranquil surroundings. Many reviewers mentioned that this stop was one of the best for unwinding and enjoying the water.

Hvar: The Island Buzz

After a busy morning, it’s time for a longer break—about 2 hours on Hvar. You’ll have free time to grab lunch, wander the charming streets, or explore on your own. The town offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a good spot to soak up the local vibe. Many travelers appreciate the time here, but some found it a little rushed, especially if they wanted to explore more deeply.

Pakleni Islands: Sunset for the Last Stop

The final stop is the Pakleni Islands, a string of small, lush islands just off Hvar. You’ll have around 45 minutes to swim, relax, or take in the scenery. The reviews rave about these islands as a peaceful, beautiful place to wind down after a full day. It’s a fitting way to wrap up the tour—enjoying the water and sunshine before heading back to Split.

What to Expect on the Boat

The boat itself is described as comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi, a bathroom, and snorkeling gear. While some reviews mention the boat’s basic facilities, most find it perfectly fine for a day trip. The crew, including the captain and sailor, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making sure everyone feels taken care of.

Note that the snorkeling gear is just the basic masks—no snorkels—so if you’re a serious snorkeler, you might want to bring your own gear.

Pricing and Extras

The cost of the tour is about $180, which covers fuel, the crew, and the snorkeling equipment. However, keep in mind that lunch is not included, and you’ll need cash to buy your Blue Cave ticket and any meals. Some reviews mention the cost of food and drinks can add up, so plan accordingly.

Timing and Group Size

The tour starts early at 7:30 AM and lasts around 10 hours. The limited group size of 12 makes the experience cozy and more personal, which many travelers appreciate. It’s perfect if you’re looking to avoid large crowds and want a more intimate adventure.

The Honest Bottom Line

This speedboat tour offers a full day of exploring Croatia’s most iconic spots. The variety of stops—from caves and beaches to vibrant towns—means you’ll get a taste of many different environments. If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates friendly crew members, and wants to see as much as possible without organizing everything yourself, this trip can be a solid choice.

However, if you’re expecting a luxury experience or detailed guided commentary, this might fall a little short. The facilities are basic, and some stops may feel rushed depending on the day’s weather and crowds. Still, the stunning scenery and the Blue Cave alone often make this worth it for many travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip works best for adventurers, water lovers, and those with a flexible schedule who want to see multiple sights in one day without fuss. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with a full day on a boat, and those who don’t mind paying extra for Blue Cave tickets. If you’re traveling with friends or in a small group, you’ll likely find the experience more personal and relaxed.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a day with all-inclusive amenities or a leisurely pace—here, it’s about experiencing as much as possible. Families with older children could enjoy it, provided everyone is comfortable on a boat for several hours.

FAQs

Is the Blue Cave tour worth the extra cost?
Most say yes, especially because the cave’s glow is so unique. Just remember, the cave entrance isn’t included in the base price, costing about 18 to 24 euros depending on the time of year.

How long is the entire tour?
It’s about 10 hours from start to finish, beginning early in the morning and returning by late afternoon.

Is there Wi-Fi on the boat?
Yes, the boat has Wi-Fi, which is handy if you want to share photos or check messages during the trip.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, but it’s basic—mainly masks without snorkels. If you’re serious about snorkeling, consider bringing your own.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 12 guests, making it feel more intimate and less crowded.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so bring cash or plan to buy food on Hvar.

Can children join?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the full day on a boat might be more suitable for older kids.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final thoughts

This Blue Cave and Hvar speedboat tour is a solid pick for travelers eager to see the highlights of Croatia’s coast without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. The mix of caves, beaches, and vibrant towns, combined with the small-group vibe, makes for a memorable day. While facilities are basic and some costs are extra, the scenery and the experience of zipping around the islands are often worth it.

If you’re after a well-organized, quick-paced adventure that captures the essence of Croatia’s islands, this tour ticks many boxes. Just go with realistic expectations, bring some extra cash, and prepare for a day full of beautiful sights and salty sea air.

Enjoy your trip, and happy sailing!