From Hvar: Blue Cave, Vis, Pakleni Islands Private Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots, this private boat tour from Hvar might be just what you’re after. It promises visits to iconic sites like the Blue Cave, hidden bays, and the lively Pakleni Islands — all in one day. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on the details and reviews, it looks like a solid option for travelers who want a flexible, scenic adventure at sea.

What we really like about this experience is how it packs so many highlights into a single day, giving you a taste of Croatia’s coastline without the need to move around too much. Plus, the ability to customize the itinerary is a big plus, especially if you have specific spots you want to see or skip. On the flip side, the price—$929 for up to nine people—might seem steep to some, especially since entry tickets for the Blue and Green caves aren’t included. This means you’ll want to weigh the cost against the value of the experience and what’s included.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, like caves and beaches, and appreciate a relaxed, private vibe rather than a big group tour. It’s a good choice if you’re traveling with friends, family, or a small group who want to explore at their own pace while soaking up Croatia’s stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Private and customizable itineraries allow you to focus on your favorite spots or explore new ones based on your interests.
• Visit iconic sites like the Blue Cave and Green Cave, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Beautiful scenery throughout, from towering cliffs to crystal-clear waters.
• Flexible timing and a small group size (up to 9 people) make the experience intimate and relaxed.
• Additional costs for cave entry tickets and food should be factored into your budget.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems, as boat trips can be bumpy or physically demanding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Dalmatian Coast from Hvar: What to Expect

This private boat tour is designed to give you a full day of exploring Croatia’s southern coast, blending natural wonders with leisurely time in picturesque bays and islands. We’ll walk you through what you can expect at each stop, and why these spots are worth the effort.

Starting with Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Island

The day kicks off with a refreshing swim in the Blue Lagoon of Budikovac Island. If you love clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, you’re in for a treat. The water here is noted for its incredible color and cleanliness, making it one of the best spots for a quick dip. It’s a lovely way to wake up and get comfortable on the boat before heading further out.

Cruising around Vis Island and Stiniva Bay

Next, you’ll cruise along Vis Island’s rugged coastline towards Stiniva Bay. This small bay is famous for its towering cliffs that form a natural entrance to the beach. It’s one of those sights that make you feel like you’re in a postcard. The cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, and many reviews mention how spectacular the view is from the boat or onshore.

The walk down to the beach might be a bit more challenging if you have mobility issues, but the view from the boat alone is impressive enough. Travelers often comment on the unique shape of the bay and how it feels like a secret hideaway.

The Blue Cave Experience (and the Green Cave)

The highlight for many is definitely the Blue Cave. This famous attraction is known for its stunning, glowing blue light that shimmers inside, caused by sunlight reflecting off the water. Visitors love the chance to see this natural wonder, although it’s important to note that entry tickets are not included, so plan for that additional expense.

Right after the Blue Cave, the tour takes you to the Green Cave. Here, you can enjoy swimming inside the cave and marvel at the underwater views. It’s a rare chance to experience being inside a cave where swimming is allowed, and many reviews rave about the feeling of floating in these surreal waters.

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Visiting Pakleni Islands and Onshore Time

Later in the day, you’ll head to the Pakleni Islands, a cluster of small islands just off Hvar’s coast. This is a great spot for more swimming and snorkeling, with plenty of secluded coves and beaches. Many travelers also choose to grab a meal at one of the seaside restaurants (note that lunch isn’t included), which adds a nice touch to the day.

The flexible nature of the tour means you can spend as much or as little time as you like here. Whether you want to relax and soak up the sun or explore the islands, this part of the trip offers a bit of everything.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the boat, your skipper, and drinks on board—so you won’t be thirsty while you’re out at sea. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized, which is a big plus if you have specific preferences or want to skip certain stops.

However, keep in mind that entry tickets to the Blue Cave and Green Cave are not included. Prices for these are usually paid on the spot, so budget accordingly. Lunch and snacks are also not included, so you might want to bring your own or plan to eat onshore during the Pakleni Islands stop.

The journey is guided by a knowledgeable skipper, but there’s no guide accompanying you onshore or inside the caves, which is typical for private tours. If you’re keen on learning more about the sites, you might want to do some research beforehand.

Important details:

• Duration: Full day, with flexible timing
• Group size: Up to 9 people, making it intimate
• Price: $929 per group
• Meeting point: Varies depending on your booking
• Cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

The Experience on the Water

Traveling with a small group in a private boat feels more relaxed than a crowded tour. You can chat with your skipper, take plenty of photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The boat itself is well-suited for a comfortable day, though actual comfort depends on weather conditions and the boat’s size.

Most reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable skipper who makes the trip more enjoyable. People also appreciate the ability to customize the day, whether they want to spend more time at certain spots or skip some altogether.

Water and Snacks

Having drinks on board is a nice touch, especially on hot days. Bring your own towels and swimwear — essentials for making the most of the swimming stops. The water is described as incredibly clear and inviting, perfect for snorkeling, so don’t forget your mask if you want to explore underwater.

Cost-Value Analysis

While $929 for a private boat tour might seem high at first glance, it actually offers a good deal for up to nine people. That breaks down to roughly $103 per person if you’re with a full group — which can be quite reasonable considering the exclusivity and flexibility. You’re paying for the convenience of a private trip, the comfort of personalized service, and the ability to see multiple sites without the hassle of coordinating different tours.

Keep in mind that the entry tickets to the caves are additional. If you’re keen on seeing the Blue Cave, be prepared for that extra expense, which can add to the overall cost. Still, many find the experience worth it, especially given the natural beauty and the chance to swim inside the Green Cave.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat experience suits travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and personalized service. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or friends wanting a day of exploring Croatia’s best spots on their own terms. If you’re eager to see the Blue Cave and enjoy swimming in pristine waters, this tour checks those boxes.

However, it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget or if you have mobility issues, as some sites involve walking or getting on and off boats in conditions that might be challenging.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s natural beauty — from the glowing Blue Cave to hidden bays and lively islands. The ability to customize your day means you can focus on what interests you most, whether it’s swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing. The small group size and friendly skipper make for a laid-back, intimate experience that many travelers will appreciate.

While the added costs for cave tickets and meals should be considered, the overall experience seems to deliver value for those looking to explore Croatia’s coastline in style and comfort. If you love the idea of a private, scenic day at sea with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, this tour might be a perfect fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is more suitable for older children or teenagers who can handle boat trips and swimming. It’s not explicitly marked as family-friendly, but many families with older kids have enjoyed it.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring swimwear, a towel, and possibly sunscreen or water shoes. The tour doesn’t include food, so consider packing snacks or planning to eat onshore.

Are the caves’ entry tickets included?
No, the Blue Cave and Green Cave tickets are not included. You’ll need to pay for these separately on-site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences, which is one of the tour’s biggest advantages.

What is the group size?
Up to 9 people, making it a private and intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Generally, no. The tour involves some walking and boat transfers that might be challenging for mobility-impaired travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience with flexible timing, typically lasting around 8 hours.

What language is the tour guided in?
The main languages are Croatian and English.

What is the price for the tour?
$929 per group of up to 9 people, providing good value for a private experience.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind in planning.

If you’re looking to combine the magic of Croatia’s coast with the comfort of a private boat, this tour offers a memorable way to do just that. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized adventure, enjoy swimming and caves, and prefer small groups over crowded excursions.

You can check availability for your dates here: