Split: Blue Cave, Hvar, and 5 Islands Boat Tour

Thinking about a full-day adventure on the Croatian coast? This Blue Cave, Hvar, and 5 Islands Boat Tour promises an unforgettable way to see some of the Dalmatian region’s most stunning sights. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the reviews and details suggest this tour hits many of the right notes for travelers craving scenic views and a taste of the islands’ charm.

Two things we really like about this tour are the small-group setting—which means more personalized attention—and the chance to visit multiple iconic spots all in one day. You’ll get a real taste of the diverse beauty Croatia has to offer, from crystal waters to historic streets. A potential consideration is the full 10-hour duration, which might be long for some, especially if you’re not used to a packed, activity-heavy day. But if you love being out on the water and exploring, this tour likely suits you well.

This experience is particularly well-suited to those who enjoy beach days, snorkeling, and scenic boat trips. It’s not designed for very young kids or travelers with mobility issues, but for anyone looking for a comprehensive island-hopping adventure, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, Hvar, and more, making it perfect for seeing many highlights in one day.
• Small group: Limited to 12 participants, offering more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Includes snorkeling gear and Wi-Fi: Handy for capturing underwater moments and staying connected.
• Flexible cancellation and payment options: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Weather-dependent: The tour relies on good weather; a full refund is available if canceled due to bad weather.
• Price: $93 per person offers a decent value for the extensive itinerary and all-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning

Meet at the Silver (East) gate of Diocletian’s Palace—a central, easily accessible spot in Split. From there, you’ll transfer to your boat, which is probably a speedboat, given the description. The tour begins with a scenic drive to the Blue Cave, which is often the highlight for many travelers.

The Blue Cave

Arriving at the Blue Cave is like stepping into a natural light show. The cave is a world-famous spot where sunlight hits the water at just the right angle, turning the interior a hypnotic shade of blue. We love this part for its visual impact—standing inside and witnessing the shimmering water is genuinely mesmerizing. Your guide will offer a guided tour, explaining the cave’s formation and what makes its glow so special.

Keep in mind that Blue Cave entry is not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase tickets separately. This is common for tours in the area, but it’s worth planning ahead. The tour lasts about an hour here, giving you enough time for photos and soaking in the scene without feeling rushed.

Stop at Komiža and Stiniva Bay

Next, you’ll have a chance to snap photos at Komiža, a charming village with traditional stone houses and laid-back vibes. You get about an hour here—enough for quick exploration or a swim.

From there, your boat will head to Stiniva Cove on Vis Island, often lauded as one of the world’s top beaches. The scenery here is striking—cliffs encircle a narrow inlet, creating a secluded feel. The 30-minute stop allows for pictures, some sightseeing, and a quick dip if you wish. Reviewers mention that the scenery is truly breathtaking, making this stop a favorite.

More Great Tours Nearby

Blue Lagoon and Snorkeling

One of the tour’s standout features is a stop at the Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island. The turquoise waters make it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. With snorkeling masks included, you’ll get to observe vibrant fish and the colorful underwater scenery. The one-hour stop provides enough time to relax, explore the underwater world, or just float in the warm waters.

Hvar Town

Next up is Hvar, perhaps the most famous island in Croatia. The two-hour stay here includes free time for exploring, grabbing a coffee, shopping, or just lounging on a beach. The town’s lively vibe and historic streets are a nice change of pace from the quiet bays. Reviewers often mention how beautiful and charming Hvar is, making this a highlight for those who love a good mix of relaxation and culture.

Pakleni Islands and Scenic Drive

After lunch or a quick walk through Hvar, you’ll visit the Pakleni Islands—a scenic archipelago known for rugged beauty. The 10-minute stop isn’t long, but it’s enough for some photos and to appreciate the coast’s wild charm.

Return Journey and Final Stops

The last leg includes a speedboat ride back, providing a quick, exciting finale to the day. Expect to arrive back at the starting point in Split around evening time, tired but full of memories.

Practical Details and What You’ll Need

The tour includes a skipper/guide, speedboat ride, snorkeling masks, Wi-Fi, safety gear, and insurance—pretty comprehensive for the price. You won’t need to worry about the basics, but make sure to bring sun protection like sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a towel. Also, pack a change of clothes and your camera to capture those incredible vistas.

Food and drinks aren’t included, so consider bringing some snacks and water. The meeting point at Diocletian’s Palace is central, with just a short transfer to the boat, making the start seamless.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re into spectacular scenery, snorkeling, and island exploring, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a small-group experience over large, crowded tours. The 10-hour duration might be long, but it packs in a lot of variety. It’s perfect for those looking to see many of Croatia’s best spots in one go, especially if you’re short on time.

However, it’s not suited for young children under 4, pregnant travelers, or those with mobility issues, given the boat rides and walking involved. The tour relies heavily on good weather, so it’s best suited for the warmer months when the sea and sky cooperate.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Blue Cave, Hvar, and 5 Islands Boat Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic adventure that captures the essence of Croatia’s stunning coastline. The mix of nature, charming towns, and vibrant underwater life makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to explore the Dalmatian archipelago from the water.

The tour’s value for money is solid considering the number of stops and activities packed into a single day. If you’re looking for a way to see several highlights without the hassle of arranging multiple trips, this could be just what you need.

The experience’s main draw is undoubtedly the stunning views—from the glowing Blue Cave to the rugged cliffs of Stiniva Bay—and the chance to relax in turquoise waters. If that sounds like your kind of day, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of special memories.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave entry included in the price?
No, the Blue Cave entry ticket is not included, so you’ll need to buy it separately. The tour itself covers the boat ride and guided parts.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, camera, drinks, sunscreen, and a light jacket for the morning boat ride.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 4 years, pregnant women, and people with mobility issues are not suitable for this tour.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting from Split and returning there later in the day.

Is Wi-Fi available on the boat?
Yes, Wi-Fi is included, so you can stay connected or share your pictures instantly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, making for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included, so you might want to bring your own or plan to buy food at Hvar or other stops.

What kind of boat is used?
The boat type and model can vary depending on weather and availability, but it’s a speedboat designed for comfort and safety.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
No, due to boat rides and walking involved, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

If you’re craving a day packed with stunning vistas, charming towns, and crystal waters, this Croatian island-hopping tour could be just the thing to add to your travel story.

You can check availability for your dates here: