If you’re dreaming of cruising along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, admiring spectacular caves, and soaking in the turquoise waters, a Blue Cave private tour from Hvar might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed info and reviews suggest it offers a pretty memorable day out on the water. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with friends or family and want a flexible, intimate experience away from the crowds.

What we really like about this tour is that it promises an up-close encounter with some of the region’s most iconic sights, like the glowing Blue Cave, and includes perks such as a welcome drink and a surprise stop. The fact that it’s a private group of up to 10 people means you get a more personalized vibe, unlike larger, more crowded tours. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the extra cost for cave entrance tickets, which aren’t included in the base price, and that your schedule is somewhat weather dependent—something to consider if you’re planning a tight itinerary.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who love a mix of natural beauty, relaxed cruising, and some insider info from knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for those wanting a hassle-free day with all the logistics handled, and who appreciate a touch of spontaneity with a surprise stop thrown in.

Key Points

Private, intimate experience with a group of up to 10 people
Includes snorkeling gear and bottled water for a comfortable day on the water
Multiple stops at scenic spots like Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Green Cave
Extra entrance fees apply for Blue Cave and Green Cave, not included in the base price
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Guided insights from a knowledgeable skipper about the area

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Blue Cave Private Tour from Hvar

Imagine slipping onto a sleek speedboat, feeling the wind in your hair, and heading out into the shimmering waters of the Adriatic. That’s exactly what this tour offers from the start. The day kicks off at the Gajeta rent office, where your adventure begins, and ends back at the same spot—so no surprises about getting back on time.

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The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder You Must See

The Blue Cave is the star of the show—and for good reason. The tour describes it as a “cover-story,” because words don’t do justice to how otherworldly it is. This small, water-logged sea cave glows with a blue light around midday, a phenomenon caused by sunlight filtering through the water and reflecting off the cave’s ceiling. Expect to see a heart shape on the ceiling—an Instagram favorite and a moment you’ll want to cherish. Entrance to the cave costs around 12-18 EUR, depending on the season, and is paid separately.

We loved the way the guide explained the science behind the glow, making the experience both beautiful and educational. Keep your camera ready, but also take a moment to just breathe in the surreal atmosphere. Many reviews mention how unforgettable this sight is, with some saying, “It’s just one of those places you have to see to believe.”

Stiniva Bay: Nature’s Collapsed Masterpiece

Between the caves, you’ll see Stiniva Bay, which is often called Europe’s most popular beach. It’s a perfect example of what happens when a sea cave collapses—leaving a tiny, hidden cove with steep cliffs on each side. Because of its popularity, the boat can’t dock on the beach, but you’re free to swim ashore or enjoy the scenery from the boat. The water’s clear, and the views are jaw-dropping.

One reviewer mentioned, “Swimming into Stiniva was like entering a secret world,” highlighting the unique feel of this spot. It’s a great place to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the serenity of the turquoise waters.

Budikovac Island: A Perfect Spot for Swimming and Snorkeling

Next, your guide will take you to Budikovac Island, a tiny oasis with a natural turquoise lagoon shielded by two small islands. This protected area is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The calm waters and vibrant marine life make it a favorite stop for those who want to cool off and explore beneath the surface.

We appreciated that the tour includes snorkel gear—no need to bring your own unless you prefer your personal equipment. The bottled water and wine are nice touches, letting you hydrate and unwind as you soak up the sun.

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The Green Cave and Pakleni Otoci

The tour also stops in front of the Green Cave, another natural highlight. Though the details about what exactly you’ll do there aren’t exhaustive, you can expect to admire the cave’s reflective green light. The Paklinski Otoci, or Hell Islands, are also part of the route. Contrary to their intimidating name, these islands have a charming history tied to pine resin used for waterproofing boats—definitely more of a rustic charm than a hellish landscape.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the speedboat and fuel, a skipper/guide, snorkeling masks, life vests, bottled water, and bottled wine. The surprise stop adds a touch of unpredictability, which many travelers find fun. However, you’ll need to budget separately for entrance tickets—12 EUR for the Blue Cave and 8 EUR for the Green Cave during low season, with slightly higher prices in summer.

One downside to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour. Also, remember that tickets for the caves aren’t included in the initial price, so don’t forget to budget for those.

How the Day Plays Out

Expect the tour to last around 6 hours, depending on weather and how long you linger at each stop. The group size keeps things cozy but not crowded, fostering a relaxed vibe. The guide’s insights are generally praised—many reviews mention how their skipper was knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more engaging.

The boat’s speed means you get to see a lot of coast and islands without feeling rushed. The scenery whizzes by, but each stop allows enough time to swim, snorkel, or just take in the views.

Is This Tour Worth the Cost?

At $1,118 for up to 10 people, this works out as a good deal if you’re traveling with a group. It’s essentially around $112 per person, which includes the boat, guide, snorkeling gear, water, and wine. Considering private tours often cost more, and the convenience of having everything arranged, many find it quite reasonable.

Keep in mind, the entrance fees for caves are extra, so if you’re planning to visit the Blue Cave and Green Cave, that’s roughly 20 EUR per person extra. Still, the total experience feels like good value for a full day of exploring the stunning Dalmatian coast in comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. It’s particularly good for small groups, friends, or families who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and natural scenery. If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly trip with more of a bus tour vibe, this might not be the best fit—but if you prefer intimacy and flexibility, it’s a solid choice.

It’s also great for anyone who enjoys a bit of spontaneity, thanks to the surprise stop, and who values good drinks and relaxed cruising over rigorous itinerary schedules.

FAQs about the Blue Cave Private Tour from Hvar

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear? No, the tour provides snorkeling masks, so you can leave your own at home unless you prefer your personal equipment.

Are the cave entrance tickets included? No, you’ll need to pay separately—around 12 EUR for the Blue Cave and 8 EUR for the Green Cave, with prices changing seasonally.

What should I bring on the tour? Just bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for cave entrance fees or any snacks you might want. The boat supplies water, wine, and snorkel gear.

How long does the tour last? Expect about 6 hours, including stops at various sites, swimming, and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children? The info doesn’t specify, but given the focus on swimming and boating, it probably suits older kids comfortable with water activities. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with younger children.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your trip needs to adjust.

What’s the group size? Up to 10 people, making for a more personal experience compared to larger tours.

Will the weather affect the tour? Absolutely. As with most sea trips, rough weather might cause delays or cancellations. Always check the forecast and confirm with the provider.

Is lunch included? No, you’ll need to bring or buy your own food after the tour.

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Blue cave private tour from Hvar

Final Thoughts

The Blue Cave private tour from Hvar offers a balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and comfort. It’s a fantastic way to see Croatia’s coast with a small, friendly group, and you’ll come away with plenty of photos, stories, and memories. The highlights—Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Budikovac Island—are truly beautiful, and the guide’s insights add value to the experience.

While the extra costs for cave tickets and the lack of included lunch might be considerations, these are minor compared to the overall quality and intimacy of the tour. It’s perfect for those who prioritize a personalized, relaxed day out on the water, and who want to explore some of Croatia’s most stunning spots without the hassle of planning each detail.

If you’re after something that combines natural wonder, good vibes, and a touch of spontaneity, this private speedboat trip could be just the ticket. It’s a memorable way to see Croatia’s coast, especially if you prefer an experience tailored to your group rather than a big tour bus.