Blue Cave & Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands Group Tour from Split & Trogir

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with dramatic coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, a boat tour from Split to the Blue Cave, Vis, and Hvar promises a scenic adventure. While we haven’t experienced this particular trip ourselves, the reviews and itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture for travelers eager to explore Croatia’s famed island jewels.

What we love about this tour is how it combines iconic highlights like the Blue Cave—the star of the show—and relaxed island stops where you can unwind, swim, and soak up local vibes. Plus, the expert guides seem to make all the difference, sharing insights and keeping the day fun and organized.

However, there’s a key consideration: the Blue Cave’s opening depends on weather conditions, which can lead to waiting times or even cancellations. That’s worth keeping in mind if seeing the Blue Cave is your top priority. This tour suits those who love boat rides, scenic landscapes, and a good mix of guided sightseeing with free time to explore on their own.

If you’re someone looking for a well-rounded day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim and take in the scenery, this trip could be a fantastic choice. It might not be perfect for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, land-based experience or have mobility restrictions, but for most, it’s a lively day full of memorable moments.

Key Points

• Iconic sights and island hopping: The tour covers some of Dalmatia’s most stunning locations, from the Blue Cave to Hvar’s vibrant town.
• Speedboat comfort: Traveling by speedboat means more stops and less time in transit, which enhances the overall experience.
• Weather-dependent Blue Cave: The Blue Cave’s opening is not guaranteed; weather can cause delays or cancellations.
• Time for swimming and exploring: Most stops include swimming in clear waters and free time to wander local villages or relax on beaches.
• Guides and crew: Reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly staff who keep the trip engaging and organized.
• Cost versus value: At around $118 per person, it’s a worthwhile experience, especially considering the number of stops and activities included.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island

The adventure begins early, with a 90-minute speedboat ride to the UNESCO-protected Vis Archipelago. The Blue Cave is the highlight here, breathtaking with its bold blue hues created by sunlight reflecting through the tiny opening. But it’s important to remember, admission isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring cash for the entrance fee, which varies seasonally, from around €9 to €24 per person.

Many travelers, like one who described the Blue Cave as “amazing,” feel the wait can be lengthy—up to two hours during busy summer months—mainly due to weather and tides. Some reviews mention that delays are common, but most agree that the spectacle inside the cave is worth the wait. Keep in mind, if the weather isn’t suitable, the cave may be closed for safety reasons, which can be disappointing if that’s your main goal.

Stiniva Cove and Budikovac Island

Next, the boat cruise takes you around Vis Island to Stiniva Bay, renowned for its striking narrow entrance and rocky surroundings. It’s a favorite for swimming, with clear waters ideal for soaking up the sun. One traveler described it as “what a beach,” with plenty of time to relax and catch some Vitamin D.

From there, the boat heads to Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon, a scene straight out of a travel magazine—turquoise waters and white sands perfect for snorkeling. Gear is provided, and many reviews mention how swimming here felt like a highlight, with some spending an hour just enjoying the water. The lagoon, in particular, is praised for its beauty and calmness, although some note that it can get crowded during peak times.

Moving onto Hvar and the Pakleni Islands

After a few hours exploring Vis, the journey continues to the Pakleni Islands, a chain of wooden isles offering lovely spots for swimming or grabbing lunch. The boat anchors here for about two hours, giving you a chance to unwind, explore, or enjoy a meal. Many travelers loved this part, citing it as a perfect mix of scenery and relaxation.

Finally, the tour concludes with a stop at Hvar Town, often called “the Croatian St. Tropez” for its lively atmosphere and picturesque harbor. Here, you’ll have nearly two hours to stroll through the historic streets, admire the fortress, or sip coffee in a scenic café. One reviewer called it a “cultural highlight,” and many enjoyed wandering the charming lanes, soaking in the vibe, and snapping photos of the fortress views.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers transportation on a spacious speedboat, an English-speaking captain and crew, fuel, snorkneilling gear, and insurance—a good deal for a full day on the water. The main expense not included is the Blue Cave entrance fee; it’s payable in cash at the meeting point and varies seasonally.

It’s worth noting the tour is limited to just 12 travelers, making it feel more personal and allowing the crew to attend to everyone’s needs. The small group size often translates into a more enjoyable experience, with plenty of room on the boat and more time at each stop.

Timing and Practicalities

The tour kicks off at 7:30 AM with check-in 30 minutes prior, including a safety briefing. If you’re staying in Trogir, be prepared for an early start—pickup is at 6:15 AM—but most travelers agree it’s a worthwhile way to maximize your day.

Given the weather-dependent nature of some stops, particularly the Blue Cave, travelers should be flexible and prepared for possible changes in the plan. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the crew aims to offer alternative stops or reschedule. Be sure to bring cash for entrance fees and possibly some snacks or water, as options on the boat are limited.

The tour isn’t recommended for children under three, mainly because of the bumpy ride and boat size, so keep that in mind if traveling with young kids.

The Real Traveler Experience

Reviews reflect a mix of highs and lows, but overall, most guests leave satisfied. Many praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the day moving smoothly. A few mention delays waiting for Blue Cave access, which is outside the operator’s control, and some highlight the boat ride’s bumpy nature—so if you’re prone to seasickness or have back issues, pack accordingly.

One guest summed it up well, saying, “The crew kept the trip timely but allowed enough time to swim and relax at each stop,” emphasizing the balance of activity and downtime. Conversely, some reviews voiced frustration about long waits or service shortcomings, reminding us that weather and tide play big roles in this kind of tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy boat rides, island scenery, and swimming. It’s a good choice if you want to see the Blue Cave without committing to a longer, more expensive trip or if you love small-group excursions. The tour’s pace is lively, and the stops are well spaced, making it suitable for those who can handle a full day on the water.

If your goal is strictly relaxing or if you have mobility concerns, you might find the boat ride a bit bumpy or the waiting times for the Blue Cave frustrating. It’s also less suitable for families with very young children, given the early start and boat conditions.

In sum, this tour offers a rich mix of sights, swimming, and local flavor—delivered with a friendly crew and a focus on capturing the best of Dalmatia’s islands. It’s a solid choice for those who want a full, active day that combines scenic beauty with a taste of island life.

FAQs

Do I need to pay for the Blue Cave entrance separately?
Yes, the Blue Cave admission isn’t included in the tour price. You’ll need to bring cash to pay at the meeting point—fees range from roughly EUR 9 to EUR 24 depending on the time of year.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for kids under three, mainly because of the boat’s size and the early start. If traveling with kids older than three, consider their comfort with boat rides and weather conditions.

What happens if the Blue Cave is closed?
If the Blue Cave is closed due to weather or tides, the guides will likely adjust the itinerary. Many reviews mention visiting other beautiful spots, so you’ll still have a memorable day, just without the cave experience.

How long is the boat ride to the Blue Cave?
The initial ride from Split is about 90 minutes. The ride to other stops varies from 30 to 40 minutes, making the day quite active but manageable.

How much time do we get in Hvar Town?
You’ll have nearly two hours in Hvar, enough to explore the town’s sights, enjoy a coffee, or stroll along the harbor, depending on your pace.

Is there Wi-Fi or amenities on the boat?
The reviews don’t mention onboard Wi-Fi or amenities, so don’t rely on internet connectivity. Bring snacks, water, and sun protection to stay comfortable throughout the day.

To sum it up, this Blue Cave & Islands tour from Split offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Dalmatia’s stunning islands. While weather can impact certain highlights, most guests find the experience rewarding, especially given the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to swim in turquoise waters. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy small-group boat adventures and are flexible with timing. If you’re looking to tick off some of Croatia’s most iconic spots in one day, this tour is likely to give you plenty of memorable moments—and maybe even some new favorite beaches.