From Split: Blue Cave and Hvar by Luxury Boat

A practical look at the Split: Blue Cave and Hvar by Luxury Boat tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Split to explore some of Croatia’s most iconic spots, this Blue Cave and Hvar tour offers a tempting mix of natural beauty, island culture, and a touch of luxury. It’s a full-day adventure on a brand-new, well-appointed boat, which makes getting around both comfortable and stylish.

What we like about this experience is the scenic cruising—you’ll spend much of your day on the water soaking up stunning views—plus the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. However, the long lines at the Blue Cave can be a bit of a downer, and some reviewers have found the guide’s communication lacking, which may affect your overall vibe. Still, this trip works well for those who love a mix of leisure, picture-perfect moments, and exploring islands with a bit of a luxurious touch.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, want to see the Blue Cave without fuss, and appreciate a guided day with time for swimming and wandering. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but if you value comfort and scenic stops, it might just fit the bill—and if you’re okay with some unpredictability during peak season, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfort & Style: You’ll be on a brand-new, luxury speedboat providing a more comfortable experience than standard tours.
• Variety of Stops: From the Blue Cave to Stiniva beach and Hvar, the itinerary offers a good mix of natural beauty and charming towns.
• Flexible Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, exploring islands, or just relaxing on the boat—your choice.
• Potential Waits: Long lines at the Blue Cave are common in high season, and the captain might adjust plans accordingly.
• Price & Value: At $175 per person, it’s on the higher end, but the included safety, water, and guide service add to the experience.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers praise the scenery and guide, while others mention issues like long waits, lack of information, or feeling pushed towards certain restaurants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Departure & Setting Sail

Your day begins at a meeting point near the restaurant Gentille in Split. From there, you’ll hop onto a sleek, luxurious speedboat ready to whisk you away along Croatia’s stunning coastline. The boat buzzes with anticipation, and the modern setup promises a comfortable ride. Expect a good amount of time on the water, taking in views of the Dalmatian islands, which is arguably one of the best parts of this tour.

Visiting the Blue Cave

Bisevo Island is the star here, mainly for the Blue Cave. It’s a natural wonder, and you’ll enter with a guide who shares some interesting facts. You get about 5-10 minutes inside—enough to snap photos and marvel at the glowing waters that give the cave its name. Keep in mind, during the high season, the lines for entry can be quite long. The captain might choose to take you to another beach if the wait is too lengthy, which is a sensible move but might mean missing out on the cave’s interior on that particular day.

One reviewer noted: “The long waiting times (more than an hour) on the island caught us off guard, especially since we didn’t bring enough water or snacks.” This highlights the importance of bringing essentials if you’re spending a lot of time waiting.

Stiniva Beach and Blue Lagoon

After the cave, the boat heads to Stiniva Beach, a stunning cove with a unique, narrow entrance and clear, turquoise waters. It’s perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the sandy or pebbly shore. The scenery here is striking enough to make your camera happy.

Next up is the Blue Lagoon, where you can jump into the water for a swim or a snorkel. The water is refreshingly cool and clear, offering great opportunities to see beneath the surface. You can stay on the boat if you prefer, or venture onto the island for a bit of exploration. From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers appreciated the chance to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.

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Hvar & Surroundings

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Hvar Island, specifically the town of Hvar or nearby villages like Milna or the Pakleni Islands. Here, you’ll have free time to walk around, explore the picturesque streets, or relax at a waterfront café. The town of Hvar is known for its charming old town, lively atmosphere, and fabulous views across the harbor.

Many reviewers mentioned enjoying a leisurely lunch, often at places recommended by the guide. One traveler said: “The guide persuaded us to eat at a ‘cheaper’ restaurant, but it turned out to be touristy and not very authentic.” This is something to keep in mind if you’re looking for genuine local food—be prepared to explore on your own if that’s your preference.

Return to Split

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Split in the late afternoon, tired but full of memories—and hopefully lots of great photos. The return trip provides one last chance to appreciate the coastline and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s included amenities are quite straightforward: bottled water, safety and snorkel equipment, a dedicated captain and host, insurance, and all taxes. That means you don’t have to worry about extra costs during the trip, apart from lunch and entrance fees for the Blue Cave.

You’ll need to bring your own lunch or snacks, especially if you plan to spend time waiting at the cave or onshore. Also, cash is recommended for additional expenses like food or souvenirs.

The Price & Its Value

At $175 per person, this tour is on the pricier side. It’s probably justified by the luxury boat experience, professional crew, and the convenience of multiple stops packed into one day. But some reviews point out that the experience doesn’t always match expectations, especially during peak season when lines are long and guides may not share as much background information as you might hope.

Tips & Considerations

• Be prepared for long queues at the Blue Cave during high season. The captain’s flexibility can help, but patience might be needed.
• Bring essentials—water, sunscreen, towels, and cash—since you might spend extra time waiting or exploring.
• Choose your timing wisely: early departures might mean shorter waits, but check the schedule.
• Manage expectations regarding guides’ commentary; some travelers noted a lack of detailed background info.
• Consider your comfort level with boat travel—although the boat is luxury and well-maintained, it’s still a day on the water.
• Be aware of restaurant recommendations: some reviews mention that certain suggested eateries are touristy or linked to the tour company, so explore on your own if you prefer authentic local flavors.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love beautiful scenery, relaxing swims, and a comfortable boat ride, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of island-hopping without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. The luxury boat ensures a smoother ride, which is especially appreciated during peak season when other tours might feel crowded or rushed.

However, if you’re after a deep historical or cultural experience, or if you want detailed commentary, be aware that some reviews suggest the guide’s info may be limited. Also, if long waits at the Blue Cave could dampen your mood, you might want to consider alternatives or plan to arrive early.

This experience is best suited for those who prioritize scenic beauty, swimming, and comfort over detailed storytelling or gourmet food. It offers a nice balance of nature, island charm, and leisure in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, starting from around morning and returning in the late afternoon, with several stops along the way.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash are recommended. It’s smart to carry water and snacks, especially if you’re waiting at the Blue Cave or exploring onshore.

Is the Blue Cave worth visiting?
Most travelers find the cave stunning, but be prepared for possible long queues in high season. The experience inside is brief but memorable.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to bring your own or buy at stops, with some reviews warning about touristy restaurants linked to the tour.

What is the boat like?
It’s a brand-new, luxury speedboat that provides comfort and style for the day’s journey.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkel gear is provided, and the Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for snorkeling.

Are children suitable for this tour?
While not explicitly aimed at families, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops could suit older children and teenagers. Always check if your family is comfortable with boat trips and waiting times.

To sum it up, this Blue Cave and Hvar tour offers a well-rounded taste of Dalmatian island beauty, especially if you value comfort, scenic stops, and a smooth ride. Keep expectations aligned—long lines and variable guide commentary are some of the trade-offs you might encounter. If you’re after a day of natural wonders, swimming, and island exploration in style, this trip can definitely be a highlight of your Croatian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: