Blue Cave and Hvar 5 Islands speedboat tour | from Split&Trogir

Exploring Croatia’s Coastal Treasures: The Blue Cave and Hvar 5 Islands Speedboat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and lively island towns, this Blue Cave and Hvar 5 Islands speedboat tour from Split and Trogir might just tick those boxes. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve spoken with travelers who have, and the feedback points to an experience packed with memorable sights and great value.

What really draws people in are two key highlights: the chance to see the famous Blue Cave, renowned for its incredible natural light display, and the visit to Hvar, a sun-drenched island with a vibrant harbor scene. Plus, the itinerary packs in several stops, from swimming in turquoise bays to exploring charming fishing villages.

One thing to keep in mind is the price, which hovers around $132 per person. For a full day of boat hopping, swimming, and sightseeing, many find it reasonable—especially since it includes snorkeling gear and entrance fees to some stops. But if you’re hoping for a laid-back, leisurely pace or a quiet, private experience, this might not be your best fit.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who want a mix of scenic boat rides, island exploration, and fun water activities. If you’re comfortable with a bit of a busy schedule and love the idea of ticking off several must-see Croatian locations in one day, you’ll find this a worthwhile adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning Highlights: The Blue Cave and Hvar are major draws, offering breathtaking visuals and vibrant atmospheres.
• Value for Money: At around $132, including snorkeling gear and some entry fees, it provides a comprehensive experience without breaking the bank.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Multiple stops allow for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring small towns.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, so it’s intimate enough to enjoy personalized attention but lively enough for social moments.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour is subject to weather conditions, with cancellations possible if the weather turns poor.
• Traveler Feedback: Mostly positive reviews, with many praising the scenery and overall value, though some mention missed stops or wish for more commentary from the guide.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off early in the morning, from either Trogir or Split, with most trips running between 7 am and 6 pm depending on the season. We love that the timing is flexible, catering to your plans. The entire adventure lasts around 11 hours, making it a full day but not an overwhelming one—perfect if you’re eager to see a lot without feeling rushed.

The Speedboat Ride

Traveling by speedboat is part of the fun. It’s a lively way to cover ground fast, bouncing over the waves and feeling the sea breeze. The boat itself is presumably comfortable, with space for snorkeling gear and room to move around. The small group size keeps things cozy, and you’ll get to chat with your guides and fellow travelers along the way.

First Stop: Bisevo and the Blue Cave

This is the star attraction, and it doesn’t disappoint. The Blue Cave is a natural wonder, famous for how sunlight filters through the water, illuminating the cave’s interior with a stunning blue glow. Visitors typically spend about an hour here, which is enough to admire the spectacle and snap plenty of photos. The tour includes the entrance fee, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs, but it’s worth noting that the cave can be quite busy, especially during peak season. One reviewer expressed some disappointment about missing a stop due to crowds, so flexibility is key.

Stop 2: Komiza

Next, the boat takes you to Komiza, a quaint former military base turned fishing village. Here, you get about an hour to stroll around, soak in the heritage, and maybe grab a quick coffee. The town offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the bustling Hvar, and it’s a great spot to appreciate local life away from the tourist crowds.

Stop 3: Stiniva Cove

Known as one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, Stiniva Cove is a breathtaking spot with a tiny, sheltered beach framed by high cliffs. We love that the tour includes 30 minutes here for swimming and relaxing. The clear water is perfect for a quick dip, and the scenery makes for memorable photos. The admission fee for this stop is included, which adds to the overall value.

Stop 4: Budikovac Island and the Blue Lagoon

This is where the tour really shines. The Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Island offers one of the clearest, most inviting waters you’ll ever see. Spending 90 minutes here allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the boat. The water quality is frequently praised, making it a highlight for water lovers. Since snorkel gear is provided, it’s easy to jump in and explore the underwater world.

Stop 5: Hvar

Finally, the boat lands at Hvar, the sunniest Croatian island. Travelers typically spend about two hours exploring its lively harbor, historic sites, or just soaking up the sunshine. We hear that Hvar’s vibe is energetic, with plenty of cafes and shops to browse. The free time here makes it a great chance to experience local life and maybe grab a drink overlooking the marina.

What We Love and What’s Just Okay

Travelers often mention that the scenery is stunning throughout—from the glowing Blue Cave to the turquoise waters around Budikovac. The boat’s speed and route allow for efficient visits to multiple spots, which is great for getting a taste of Croatia’s maritime beauty. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment is a nice touch, giving everyone a chance to explore beneath the surface.

That said, a few reviews note that one of the stops was missed due to pressure from other boats and crowds. It’s a reminder that, especially in high season, flexibility is key. The guide’s commentary seems to vary, with some wishing for more local stories or insights. If you’re after a deeply narrated experience, this might be more of a scenic ride with some sightseeing rather than a detailed cultural tour.

Price and Value

At around $132 per person, this tour offers reasonable value considering the stops, entry fees, and snorkeling gear included. For a full day of exploring multiple islands, it’s competitive, especially if you’re traveling with others and can split costs. Keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab a bite on Hvar.

Weather and Cancellation

The trip is weather-dependent. If the sea is rough or conditions are poor, the tour could be canceled, with a full refund or rescheduling offered. Most travelers appreciate the clear cancellation policy, which is free up to 24 hours before the activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Enjoy boat rides and water activities like snorkeling and swimming.
• Want a full-day tour that covers multiple islands and scenic spots.
• Appreciate the chance to explore famous sites like the Blue Cave and Hvar in one trip.
• Don’t mind a busy schedule and are flexible with slight changes due to weather or crowds.
• Are comfortable with a group setting but prefer small groups (max 12).

If you’re looking for a peaceful, relaxed day or prefer a private, slow-paced experience, this might not be your ideal choice. However, for those wanting an active, scenic adventure with a good mix of sightseeing and fun water time, it’s a solid pick.

FAQs

Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included?
No, the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay that separately if you want to go inside.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Most stops are about 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the location. This allows quick visits and time for swimming or exploring.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, which keeps things intimate and manageable for the guide.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, giving you the option to explore underwater at several stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may lead to a cancellation with a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the focus on boat rides and swimming means kids should be comfortable with water and small group settings.

Wrapping Up

All in all, the Blue Cave and Hvar 5 Islands speedboat tour offers a dynamic way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic and beautiful spots. It’s particularly well-suited for anyone eager to combine scenic views, water activities, and island exploration in a single day. The itinerary balances adventure with enough leisure time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the water.

For travelers who want a lively day on the sea, with the chance to see the famous Blue Cave and walk through lively Hvar, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember that spots can fill up early, so booking in advance is recommended. If you’re prepared for a day of sightseeing, swimming, and boat rides, you’ll likely find this to be a fun and memorable experience.

Enjoy your Croatian adventure, and I hope this helps you decide if this tour fits your travel style!