From Split: 5 Islands and Blue Cave Boat Tour

Exploring the Dalmatian Coast: A Look at the From Split: 5 Islands and Blue Cave Boat Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and want to experience its iconic island scenery and natural wonders, a boat tour like this one offers a great way to do it. This full-day excursion takes you from Split to explore five islands and the famous Blue Cave, all on a brand-new, luxurious speedboat. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on many reviews and the details available, it seems like a solid option for travelers eager to see the highlights without fussing over multiple bookings.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines comfort, variety, and scenic beauty in one package. The use of new, luxury boats suggests a comfortable ride even over a full day, and the itinerary includes a good mix of well-known spots and time for swimming. The chance to visit the Blue Cave—a must-see—really makes this trip special. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that, depending on weather or other factors, some stops might be abbreviated or altered, which has been noted by some travelers. Still, if you’re looking for a comprehensive day out in the Adriatic with knowledgeable guides, this tour could suit you well.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and island hopping, especially if you value comfort and guided experiences. While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the pace and activities generally suit most travelers who love the outdoors and scenic spots.

Key Points

• Comfortable, newer speedboats make for a smooth ride across the Dalmatian waters.
• Highlights include the Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, Hvar, and additional islands, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Time for swimming, snorkeling, and photos allows a relaxed pace at each stop.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay-later plans add peace of mind.
• The tour starts early in the morning and returns in the evening, giving a full 10-hour window.
• Guides and crew are praised for their friendliness and informative explanations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Meeting Point and Departure

Your day begins early at 07:45 at the designated meeting point at the main promenade in Split, specifically at stand number 14 on the Riva. The early start is typical for full-day tours like this and ensures you maximize your time on the water.

The Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is the star attraction, and you’ll visit it about an hour after departure (tickets not included). Once there, you’ll enjoy a photo stop, a guided tour, and a boat cruise through the cave’s famous glowing blue waters. The cave’s unique light phenomenon is what draws most visitors, and many reviews highlight how memorable this part is. However, some travelers note that on certain days, weather or closures may prevent access into the cave—one reviewer mentioned they didn’t get to go inside due to bad weather but appreciated the crew’s efforts to make the day still worthwhile.

Bievo Island and Sightseeing

Next, you’ll cruise to Bievo Island, often overlooked but part of the full experience. From there, the boat takes you past Stiniva Bay, a stunning cove known for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. Here, you’ll have some free time for photos and, in some cases, a quick stop for a swim.

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Budikovac Island and Blue Lagoon

On to Budikovac Island, home to the Blue Lagoon—an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the calm, transparent waters. Travelers report enjoying plenty of time to cool off, with some praising the clear waters for snorkeling and swimming. It’s a picture-perfect setting for a break from sightseeing and one of the highlights of the trip.

Pakleni Islands and Hvar Town

The afternoon features a visit to the Pakleni Islands for lunch, where you can stretch your legs, enjoy some local cuisine, and soak in the island views. After lunch, you’ll stop at Hvar Island, specifically the city of Hvar, for sightseeing and exploring on your own or just soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Return Journey

The boat heads back to Split around 6 or 6:30 pm, giving travelers an entire day packed with experiences. The return timing allows for a full day but might also mean a long day for some, especially if you’re not used to early starts or full schedules.

What to Expect in Practice

Comfort and Group Size

The boats are described as brand new and luxurious, making the long day more comfortable. With a relatively small group size, based on reviews, you likely get to enjoy a more personalized experience—guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often noted for their helpful explanations and good attitude, even when weather conditions change plans.

Timing and Pacing

The schedule is tight but flexible enough to allow time at each stop. We liked how the itinerary balances sightseeing with free time—this isn’t just a quick photo stop; you get to enjoy swimming and some exploration. The group size appears manageable, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the reviews suggest that the tour is considered worth the cost by many travelers, especially given the quality of the boat, the variety of stops, and the guided support. Notably, tickets to the Blue Cave are not included, so budget accordingly if you want that experience included.

Weather and Accessibility

Weather can influence the experience—some reviews mention that tours might skip certain locations if conditions are poor. Still, the crew is praised for their flexibility and efforts to offer alternative experiences, like visiting other islands if the Blue Cave is inaccessible.

Honest Feedback from Travelers

One review from June 2025 pointed out some discrepancies: “No one told us we would pass Vis,” and “a quick stop at Stiniva with no swimming,” which hints that itinerary details might shift or be brief. However, other travelers say they appreciated the friendly guides and the comfortable boat.

A French traveler noted that the tour was “conforme à ce qui est annoncé,” meaning it generally matched the description, reinforcing that expectations are usually met or exceeded.

An Australian reviewer emphasized that, even if the Blue Cave was closed due to weather, the crew compensated by taking them to other beautiful spots, which shows the crew’s flexibility and dedication.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a full day of scenic cruising, with plenty of swimming, island exploration, and the chance to see the Blue Cave without worrying about organizing multiple transport options. The quality of the boat, the guided experience, and the variety of stops make it suitable for travelers who value comfort and variety.

While it might be a bit long for those who prefer quieter, less scheduled days, most find the pacing manageable. It’s particularly good for those who are first-timers to the Dalmatian islands and want a rundown in one day.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys organized tours with friendly guides and is okay with a busy schedule, this experience should suit you well. It’s also a good pick if you want the convenience of a full-package day with the chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak season. The tour offers flexible options like free cancellation and pay later, so you can reserve with confidence.

Are tickets for the Blue Cave included?
No, the Blue Cave tickets are not included in the tour price. You’ll pay for those separately if you want to visit inside.

What should I bring?
Be sure to pack beachwear and cash for any additional expenses. Sunscreen, hats, and towels are also good ideas for comfort and sun protection.

What is the start time?
The tour begins early at 07:45 in Split. Expect to be back by about 6 or 6:30 pm.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the activities—swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing—are generally suitable for most travelers. Keep in mind the full-day schedule might be tiring for very young children.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the visit to the Blue Cave and some stops, but the crew is known for their flexibility and will make alternative arrangements if possible.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands with a comfortable ride, scenic stops, and friendly guides. If you’re looking for a day packed with natural beauty and island adventures, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: