From Split, Croatia: Blue Cave & Hvar 5 Islands tour

Thinking about a day out on the water while in Split? This Blue Cave & Hvar 5 Islands tour promises a mix of incredible natural sights, lively island vibes, and some peaceful spots to relax. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see the highlights of Dalmatia without the hassle of organizing everything on their own.

What really draws people in are the stunning Blue Cave—a natural display of light and color that leaves visitors in awe—and the chance to explore Hvar Old Town with its charming architecture. You also get plenty of time to snorkel, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenery aboard a modern speedboat.

However, it’s worth noting that some guests have experienced issues like missing parts of the planned route, especially the lagoon, or feeling that the time spent inside the Blue Cave was limited. So, while this tour offers a lot, it might not fully match everyone’s expectations, especially if you’re after a very specific experience like entering the Blue Cave.

If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides, enjoys island hopping, and doesn’t mind a bit of unpredictability, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate shared adventures and are comfortable with group outings on a speedboat.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights like the Blue Cave and scenic islets make this a visually rewarding experience.
• Group tours foster a friendly, social atmosphere, which many travelers enjoy.
• Snorkeling equipment and safety gear are included, making it easy to enjoy the water.
• Price point offers value considering boat rides, guide service, and access to several islands.
• Limited Blue Cave entry time might be a downside for those hoping to spend extended time inside.
• Some reviews mention route changes or missed stops, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour kicks off from Split, with the exact meeting point varying depending on your booking. Once you’re all together, you’ll hop aboard a modern speedboat—a faster, more exhilarating way to see the coastline than a regular ferry. It’s a ride that’s as much about the views as the destination, so make sure to bring your camera and a hat for sun protection.

The Blue Cave at Bievo Island

Your first stop is the Blue Cave on Bievo Island, renowned for its almost supernatural lighting. The natural sunlight filters through an underwater opening, illuminating the cave in an almost surreal blue glow. It’s a photographer’s dream, but keep in mind that some reviews mention that time inside the cave can be limited, often only a few minutes. Visitors have expressed some disappointment, especially since entry tickets (around 12-18 Euros depending on the season) are not included in the tour price and must be paid in cash.

Vis Island and its Authentic Charm

Next, you’ll head to Vis Island, a quieter spot known for its genuine fishing villages and tranquil vibe. This stop is ideal if you’re looking to experience a slice of real island life away from the more touristy spots. From the reviews, we know that the boat crew is knowledgeable and friendly, which adds to the overall experience.

Budikovac Island and Snorkeling Time

Moving on, you’ll arrive at Budikovac Island, famed for its peaceful beaches and clear waters. Here, you’ll get some free time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach. The snorkeling gear included helps you get closer to the underwater life, and the calm waters make it a safe, enjoyable spot even for less experienced snorkelers.

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The Vibrant Hvar Old Town

The tour then brings you to Hvar, often called the “party island,” but it also boasts stunning architecture, historic sites, and a lively atmosphere. Most tours include some free time here, where you can explore the town’s charming streets, grab a coffee, or just soak in the lively vibe. This stop is a highlight for many, especially considering the reputation of Hvar as a well-preserved historical gem.

Paklinski Islands’ Scenery

Finally, you’ll cruise through the Paklinski Islands, a string of scenic islets with crystal-clear waters. This last stop makes for a picturesque finish to your day, perfect for taking photos and savoring the calm before heading back to Split.

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

The tour provides a speedboat ride, a knowledgeable skipper, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, bottled water, and insurance. This setup ensures you’re comfortable and safe on the water while enjoying your adventure. Plus, the bottled water is a thoughtful touch, especially in the Croatian sun.

However, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. Food and drinks aside from water are also on your own, meaning you might want to bring some snacks or cash for a quick bite during breaks. Tickets for the Blue Cave cost extra (around 12-18 Euros), payable in cash, so budget accordingly if you want to go inside.

The tour is run in English and caters to a group size that’s likely comfortable, but not specified, so expect a typical small to medium-sized group. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 5, or those with back problems, mainly because of the open speedboat ride and the physical demands of some stops.

The Experience: Real Feedback from Travelers

One traveler shared: “The boat was awesome, the captain and his companion were top-notch,” highlighting the high quality of the crew. However, they also mentioned that “the route wasn’t exactly as contracted, and they missed the lagoon and an island,” which points to some unpredictability—something to keep in mind when booking.

Another comment reflected disappointment: “We paid a lot to spend the most time on the boat and not be able to enter the Blue Cave,” indicating that entry inside the cave is not guaranteed or might be limited. This can be frustrating if that’s a major reason you’re taking the tour.

On the positive side, a traveler named Alexia rated the activity 5 out of 5, saying, “Our skipper Luka was great, I highly recommend it.” Good guides and friendly crew can make a big difference in the overall enjoyment.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price of $147 per person, this experience offers a solid value for those looking to tick off several highlights in a single day. The boat ride itself is exciting, and the stops provide a good balance of natural beauty and cultural exploration. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and safety equipment ensures you can enjoy the water comfortably, and the chance to visit multiple islands makes this a well-rounded adventure.

But, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. The limited Blue Cave entry time and the possibility of route changes mean this isn’t a tour for those who want a perfectly structured experience. It’s more about enjoying the scenery, the boat trip, and the relaxed island stops with some unpredictability thrown in.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re an adventurous traveler who enjoys group outings on speedboats, loves the idea of hopping between islands, and isn’t overly concerned about a strict schedule, you’ll likely enjoy this tour. Photographers and scenery lovers will find plenty to admire, and those wanting a relaxed day on the water will appreciate the stops.

However, if your main goal is to spend extended time inside the Blue Cave or if you prefer highly curated, predictable excursions, you might want to consider other options. It’s also not suited for very young children or pregnant women due to the nature of the boat ride and physical demands.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour is designed as a full-day experience, with the exact timing depending on the day’s route and stops. Expect a day filled with boat rides, sightseeing, and some free time on islands.

Is there a minimum age?
Yes, children under 5 are not suitable for this tour, mainly because of safety considerations aboard the speedboat.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, cash (for Blue Cave tickets and other expenses), and possibly some snacks or extra water since only one bottle is provided.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot online, and you have the flexibility to pay later, which is helpful if your plans are still uncertain.

Can I visit the Blue Cave if I have back problems?
Probably not, as the tour is not suitable for people with back issues due to the boat ride and the nature of the stops.

What happens if the Blue Cave is closed?
The tour may still proceed to other islands and scenic stops. The Blue Cave access is weather-dependent and can sometimes be unavailable, which is beyond the tour operator’s control.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Cave & Hvar 5 Islands tour from Split offers a lively, scenic way to experience some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. The boat ride is a highlight, and the stops at islands like Vis and Hvar provide a mix of tranquility and buzz. While some guests have noted route changes or limited Blue Cave entry, the crew’s friendliness, stunning views, and snorkeling opportunities keep many satisfied.

If you’re someone who enjoys a shared adventure on the water, appreciates flexible plans, and values beautiful scenery, this tour could be a good match. Just keep in mind that it’s not a meticulously paced or guaranteed experience—expect some surprises. Overall, it’s a decent option for exploring Dalmatia’s coastline with easy convenience.

Whether you’re seeking memorable photo moments, a relaxing day in the sun, or a fun group outing, this tour delivers, with a few caveats worth considering before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: