From Split: Blue cave & 5 Islands tour

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and want to experience its incredible coastline and island life, this Blue Cave & 5 Islands tour from Split might catch your eye. It promises a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with some of the most iconic sights in the region all packed into roughly 11 to 12 hours. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for those who love boat trips, picturesque landscapes, and a bit of adventure.

What really draws us in about this experience are two things: the chance to see the famous Blue Cave—that glowing, shimmering water is truly a bucket-list sight—and the small group size capped at just 12 participants, which suggests a more personalized, less crowded experience. Plus, with snorkeling gear included and a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way, it offers good value for the price (around $143 per person).

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency; some reviews mention cancellations or bumpy rides if the wind picks up. This is quite common with sea tours, but it’s worth considering if you’re a light boat rider or visiting during windy seasons. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out on the water, enjoy scenic boat rides, and are comfortable with a full day of exploring multiple islands and sights.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points:

• Small Group Experience: Max 12 people, offering a more intimate trip.
• Diverse Stops: Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Island, Hvar, and Pakleni Islands.
• Included Equipment: Snorkeling gear and safety equipment.
• Weather-Dependent: Stop cancellations or changes can happen if conditions are rough.
• Full Day Excursion: Expect around 11-12 hours of activity, with plenty of sightseeing.
• Value for Money: Includes travel insurance and Blue Cave entry tickets (if selected), making it a convenient all-in-one package.

A Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

Visiting the Blue Cave

The tour kicks off early, leaving Split at 7:30 am, heading toward the island of Bievo to see the famous Blue Cave. This natural marvel is known for its glowing blue waters, caused by sunlight filtering through a submerged opening. The guide will take you on a wooden boat for about 15 minutes inside the cave—swimming isn’t allowed in the cave itself, but you’ll get plenty of time for photos and to marvel at the glow from the boat’s vantage point.

Based on reviews, the Blue Cave is a real highlight, with many travelers describing the shimmering water as surreal. However, some mention that the admission ticket to the cave costs extra if you didn’t select that option in advance, so check whether that’s included when booking. One reviewer pointed out that the experience inside the cave is quite brief—about 15 minutes—so don’t expect long hours underwater here.

Exploring Stiniva Cove

After the Blue Cave, the boat glides along the southeast side of Vis Island to the famous Stiniva Beach. Voted one of the most interesting beaches, its dramatic, narrow entrance makes it a favorite for travelers seeking a beautiful swim or a quick photo stop. You’ll have roughly 40 minutes here—enough time to dip your toes in the water, relax on the pebbles, or snap pictures of the striking landscape.

Some reviews note that the stop can be somewhat rushed, but overall, visitors find Stiniva to be worth the visit. It’s an ideal spot for a quick break in nature’s beauty, and the calm waters make it a good place to cool off.

Visiting Budikovac Island

Next, it’s a short trip to Budikovac Island, inhabited but tranquil. The island is home to a charming beach bar and a fabulous swimming spot. Here, you’ll spend about 40 minutes enjoying the scenery, taking pictures, or just relaxing with a drink at the beach bar.

Reviewers mention this stop as a wonderful, laid-back moment, perfect for those who love to unwind at a peaceful island setting. If you’re not keen on swimming, you can simply have a drink and enjoy the views—a bonus if you’re traveling with someone who prefers relaxing to active swimming.

The Highlight: Hvar

The tour’s most famous stop is Hvar, where you’ll have approximately 2 hours of free time. The island is well-known for its lively atmosphere, historic sites, and beautiful harbor. During this time, you can explore on your own—whether that means wandering the streets, grabbing a bite, or soaking up the sun.

One review describes Hvar as “a place that needs no introduction,” and with good reason. The town offers a mix of charming alleys, bustling cafes, and stunning views over the marina. It’s worth noting that some travelers have found the free time limited but sufficient to get a good taste of what Hvar has to offer.

The Pakleni Islands

The last stop on the tour is the Pakleni Islands, just off the coast of Hvar. These islands are known for their natural beauty and secluded coves. You’ll have around 40 minutes here to either swim, relax, or explore some of the small, uninhabited islands.

Many reviews praise the islands for their serenity and scenic beauty, making this a perfect way to end the day. Keep in mind that these islands aren’t inhabited year-round, so don’t expect any town amenities here—just nature at its best.

What Does the Experience Feel Like?

Expect a full day on the water, with several stops that balance sightseeing, swimming, and leisure. The boat is described as comfortable and fast, allowing you to cover all these sites efficiently. The guides and skippers earn praise for their professionalism, punctuality, and friendly attitude—an important factor when you’re spending many hours on a boat.

You’ll be in a small group, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. The snorkeling equipment included is a bonus, especially if you love exploring underwater. Reviews highlight that the crew is knowledgeable about the areas visited, enriching the experience with interesting facts and tips.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Many travelers point out the jaw-dropping beauty of the locations, with some calling this the best tour from Split they’ve taken. The scenery, especially the Blue Cave and Hvar, tend to stand out as truly memorable moments. The boat ride can be bumpy if the weather is windy, and some reviews reflect discomfort during the return leg, with passengers holding on tightly.

Another aspect to consider is the timing—with about 11-12 hours, it’s a long day, but most find the journey worthwhile. Some mention that certain stops are a bit rushed or changed without much explanation, so don’t expect a perfectly laid-out schedule without some flexibility.

Cost and Value

At $143.02 per person, including travel insurance and optional Blue Cave tickets, this tour offers a lot for the price. When you factor in the variety of stops, guided commentary, snorkeling gear, and the convenience of a packed itinerary, it seems to be a solid value for those wanting a comprehensive day out in Croatia’s Dalmatian islands.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see multiple sights in a single day without the hassle of organizing their own boat trips. It’s good for those comfortable with boat rides and looking for a mix of scenic stops and exploration. If you’re visiting during a season when weather might be unpredictable, be aware that cancellations or changes can happen. It’s also suited for people who enjoy small-group experiences rather than large bus tours.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention children, the boat ride can be bumpy, especially if windy, so consider the age and comfort level of young travelers. Snorkeling gear is provided, but swimming in the Blue Cave isn’t allowed, which might be a consideration for families with young kids.

Do I need to book the Blue Cave separately?
You can opt to include Blue Cave entry tickets when booking, but if not selected, you’ll need to pay for tickets on-site. The Blue Cave itself is a highlight, so including the ticket might be worth considering.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Most stops are around 40 minutes to 2 hours, with the longest being Hvar. The itinerary aims for a balance, but expect some quick visits and potentially limited time for extensive exploring at each location.

What should I bring with me?
A light jacket (it can be windy on the boat), a towel, suncream, water, and a swimsuit are recommended. Since snorkeling gear is included, you may want to bring a waterproof camera or phone.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can lead to cancellations or modifications, especially with the Blue Cave, which is sensitive to wind and sea conditions.

How big are the groups?
The group size is capped at 12, making for a more relaxed, personalized experience compared to larger tours.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Cave & 5 Islands tour from Split offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. The combination of stunning scenery, small group intimacy, and the chance to see the Blue Cave and Hvar makes it appealing for many travelers. While weather can affect the experience, most reviews agree that it’s a worthwhile adventure, especially if you enjoy boating and outdoor exploration.

It’s most suited for those who want a hassle-free way to see multiple islands in a day, appreciate natural beauty, and enjoy a small-group vibe. If you’re comfortable with a longer day on the water and want to maximize your island experience, this tour could be a great choice.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you value intimate groups, scenic stops, and included snorkeling gear. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for a full day of adventure. Happy sailing!