Traveling along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, there’s something undeniably appealing about hopping from island to island with a small group of fellow explorers. This 5-island tour from Split offers a chance to see some of the most iconic sights, including the famous Blue Cave and the vibrant city of Hvar. It’s a lively, scenic way to spend a day on the water, especially if you’re keen to experience Croatia’s crystal-clear seas and stunning coastal scenery without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple trips.
What we really like about this tour is the combination of nature’s artistry—like the Blue Cave—and lively island atmospheres such as Hvar. The small group setting means you’ll get a more personal experience, and the boat ride itself promises plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and snapping photos. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some boat travel that might be bumpy for sensitive stomachs or those with back issues. Plus, the Blue Cave entry isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget extra for that.
This experience suits travelers who love being on the water, enjoy sightseeing at a relaxed pace, and want a good mix of nature, culture, and beach time. If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic day out with knowledgeable guides, this could be a great fit. However, if you have mobility concerns or prefer a more leisurely, less crowded experience, it’s worth considering whether the tour’s pace and boat trips align with your preferences.
Key Points

- Includes visits to Blue Cave, Hvar, and other scenic islands
- Offers plenty of swimming, sunbathing, and photo opportunities
- A small group experience enhances personal attention
- Price covers boat rental, crew, fuel, insurance, water, and snorkeling gear
- Blue Cave entrance fee is paid separately on site
- Not suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year
Let’s walk through what this tour entails, what you can expect at each stop, and why it might be just what you’re after. We’ll break down each part of the day to give you a clear picture of whether this tour fits your travel style.
You can check availability for your dates here:Meeting Point and Overall Logistics

Starting near the Riva promenade in Split, the meeting is straightforward — just next to the “Split” sign. The tour ends back at the same spot, which is convenient for those planning to explore more of Split afterward. The full day runs with a boat rental, crew, fuel, and insurance included in the $162 price, plus snorkeling equipment and fresh water, making it a good value for a full-day adventure.
You’ll want to bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, beachwear, and some cash for extras like the Blue Cave ticket or a snack. The tour offers flexible booking options, including the ability to reserve now and pay later, which helps if you’re finalizing your plans.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, and participants should be comfortable with boat travel, as movement can be lively on open water. Also, keep in mind that alcohol and drugs are not permitted onboard, and alcohol in the vehicle is not allowed either.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

First Stop: Blue Cave on Bievo Island
The highlight for many is visiting the Blue Cave (Bievo Island). This natural wonder is famous for its shimmering blue light, created when sunlight filters through an underwater opening, illuminating the cave’s interior. It’s a brief but enchanting visit—just enough time to marvel at the colors and take some photos. The Blue Cave ticket isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay on-site, which is a common practice on tours like this.
A note from a reviewer: some travelers mentioned that the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included, so don’t forget to budget a few extra euros. The cave itself is a unique photo opportunity and a memorable highlight of your Croatian trip.
Island Vis: Stiniva Bay and Beach
Next, the boat heads to Island Vis, where you’ll explore Stiniva Bay. This beach has earned recognition as one of the world’s top beaches, thanks to its dramatic cliffs and secluded vibe. Expect about 30 minutes of free time to swim, relax on the sand, or take photos of the striking scenery.
One traveler pointed out, “They should warn that the tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems,” which hints at the boat ride’s sometimes bumpy nature. If you’re prone to discomfort, this is worth considering.
More Great Tours NearbyBudikovac Island: Blue Lagoon
Afterward, it’s off to Budikovac Island for the famous Blue Lagoon. This spot is a true postcard—clear waters, peaceful surroundings, and plenty of space for swimming and sunbathing. The tour allows for enough free time here, so you can truly soak in nature or just float in the water.
A reviewer shared, “You will enjoy with enough free time for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the sun’s rays,” which pretty much sums up what most travelers find appealing about this stop.
Pakleni Islands: Nature’s Artwork
From Budikovac, you’ll cruise through the Pakleni Islands, a chain of tiny, picturesque islets. The crew will show you how nature creates these breathtaking formations and crystal-clear waters. It’s a photo-rich part of the trip, and the scenery alone makes it worth the journey.
Hvar: The Famous Island
Finally, the boat arrives at Hvar, arguably Croatia’s most famous island. You’ll have about 2 hours of free time here, which is enough to grab a meal, sit in a café with a drink, or just wander through the charming streets. This is a lively, vibrant place, perfect for experiencing local life, enjoying some good food, or people-watching.
A traveler appreciated this part: “Even when the weather disturbed our plans, we still had a great time seeing so many sights,” highlighting the flexibility and overall positive vibe of the day.
The Experience: What You’ll Take Away

Throughout the day, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views, with knowledgeable guides providing context and commentary. The crew’s familiarity with the area and the local natural features makes the experience more engaging.
Snorkeling gear is provided, so if you love exploring underwater, you’ll find plenty of opportunities. The boat ride itself is a key part of the experience—expect some bouncing over waves, which adds a bit of adventure but might not be ideal for everyone.
The tour’s price includes everything needed for a smooth experience—boat, crew, fuel, insurance, water, and gear—meaning no hidden costs. But remember, the Blue Cave entrance fee is extra.
What We Think: The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The variety of scenery and destinations keeps the day lively and engaging
– Small group size enhances personal attention and flexibility
– Excellent value considering the inclusions and the full-day experience
– Ideal for those who enjoy being on the water and swimming in beautiful locations
– Knowledgeable guides help you get more out of each stop
Cons:
– The boat can be bumpy, which might not suit everyone, especially those with back issues
– The Blue Cave fee isn’t included, so budget extra on the day
– About 2 hours in Hvar might feel quick for some, especially if you want to explore more
from Split- ** 5 island tour with visiting Blue Cave, Hvar**
“They should warn that the tour isn't suitable for people with back problems, which isn't mentioned. It said they'd give water, but they didn't offe…”
Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves scenic boat rides, swimming, and exploring multiple islands in one day, this tour is likely to tick those boxes. It’s especially good for those who appreciate natural beauty, like caves and beaches, and want a worry-free way to see several highlights without renting a boat or planning logistics.
It’s a solid choice for anyone comfortable with boat travel and looking for a fun, active day. Keep in mind the potential for seasickness or discomfort from bouncing on the water, and plan accordingly.
In short, this tour offers a balanced blend of nature, culture, and relaxation at a fair price, with a friendly crew making it a memorable part of your Dalmatian adventure.
Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included in the price?
No, the Blue Cave ticket is paid on the spot before entering, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.
How long do we get at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 30 minutes at Stiniva Bay and about 2 hours in Hvar, with the rest of the stops offering enough free time for swimming and exploring.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t explicitly marked as family-friendly, but it’s generally suitable for travelers who enjoy boat trips and swimming. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, beachwear, and some cash for extras like the Blue Cave ticket.
What is included in the tour price?
The boat, crew, fuel, insurance, fresh water, and snorkeling gear are all included, making it a good value for a full day on the water.
How big are the groups?
It’s a small-group experience, which helps with personalized service and flexibility.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans are uncertain.
If you’re after a day filled with gorgeous scenery, charming islands, and a good dose of swimming, this Split to 5 islands tour might just be the adventure you’re looking for. It balances fun with scenic beauty, guided expertise, and a friendly vibe—perfect for travelers wanting a memorable day on Croatia’s coast.
You can check availability for your dates here:

