Private Boat Tour from Hvar – Blue and Green cave, Vis, and the Pakleni islands

If you’re dreaming of cruising along Croatia’s shimmering Adriatic coastline, this private boat tour from Hvar is worth considering. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a truly memorable day on the water. It’s a flexible, personalized experience that caters to different tastes—whether you’re eager for adventure, scenic relaxation, or a bit of both.

What we love about this tour is its variety and intimacy. You’ll visit the famous Blue and Green caves—spectacular natural wonders you can explore inside or admire from outside—and enjoy swimming in tranquil spots like the Budikovac Blue lagoon. Plus, the chance to see the stunning Stiniva Cove or relax at the Pakleni Islands makes it a well-rounded day. The other highlight? The guide or skipper, who gets high praise for professionalism and local knowledge.

A possible consideration is that entrance tickets to the Blue and Green caves aren’t included, so there’s an extra fee if you want to go inside. Also, the tour duration can vary from 3 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences, which might mean some uncertainty about how long you’ll be out on the water.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate a flexible, private adventure—perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want to craft their own day on the water without the crowds. If you’re looking for a tailored, authentic Croatian seaside outing, this tour should fit the bill.

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Hvar? Our Top 12 Picks.

Key Points

• Customizable private experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Stunning natural sights like Blue and Green caves, Stiniva Cove, and the Blue lagoon
• Includes snorkeling gear, water, and a knowledgeable skipper
• Extra costs for cave entrance tickets and lunch
• Flexible duration from 3 to 8 hours
• Ideal for small groups seeking personalized adventures

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stiniva Cove: A Natural Wonder

Your adventure begins at Stiniva Cove, often voted one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, this secluded spot is a perfect introduction to Vis Island’s rugged beauty. The cove’s origins, shaped by geologists, add a layer of intrigue, and many visitors find the stunning cliffs and clear waters ideal for a quick swim or photo op. Since admission is free, the main expense here is time to soak in the scenery.

Budikovac Island and the Blue Lagoon

Next, you’ll head to Budikovac Island, home to the famous Blue lagoon. This tranquil waterway, blocked from the open sea, offers calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews mention how magical it is to float in the clear water, surrounded by rocks and small islands. It’s a highlight for those who love underwater sights or just relaxing in a peaceful setting.

Palmizana Botanical Garden and the Pakleni Islands

The tour then takes you to Palmizana, one of the prettiest bays in the Pakleni Islands. Here, you’ll have about two hours—ample time to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a bay-side restaurant, explore the lush botanical gardens, or just sunbathe and soak up the views. It’s a lovely spot for a break, offering both natural beauty and a chance to indulge in some local cuisine.

The Caves Experience

While the actual cave visits require purchasing tickets (12/24 EUR for the Blue cave and 8/12 EUR for the Green cave depending on the season), the tour’s flexibility means you can decide whether to venture inside. Many travelers rave about the chance to swim inside these caves and see their glowing interiors—an unforgettable sight. The Green cave, slightly less famous but equally intriguing, offers a different perspective with its lush surroundings.

Optional Cliff Jumping and Sightseeing

For thrill-seekers, some parts of the tour offer opportunities for cliff jumping—an activity that adds a splash of adrenaline. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the skipper can prioritize sightseeing, sunbathing, and swimming along the route, making it a personalized experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personal Skipper and Flexibility

One element that shines through reviews is the quality of the skipper, who is praised for professionalism and local knowledge. Many guests appreciated the individual attention, and some even secured reservations for lunch with a view. Because it’s a private tour, you can adjust the itinerary, spend more or less time at each stop, and ask your skipper for recommendations.

Spectacular Natural Sights

The Blue and Green caves are the star attractions. The Blue cave, with its shimmering blue light, offers an almost surreal experience—something you’ll remember long after your trip. The Green cave, lush and less crowded, provides a quieter, scenic alternative. The Stiniva Cove offers an almost cinematic backdrop, with towering cliffs framing a cozy beach.

Comfortable, Small Group Size

Limited to your group of up to nine, the tour fosters an intimate atmosphere. This means fewer crowds and a more relaxed, personalized day on the water. Many reviews mention how this makes the experience more enjoyable and tailored to individual interests.

Value and Cost

At $899.20 per group, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, considering it covers up to nine people, the per-person cost becomes more reasonable—especially when you factor in the inclusions like snorkeling gear, bottled water, and the expertise of a skipper. Compared to booking multiple individual excursions or joining larger, less personal tours, this private experience offers a lot of value.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Book

Duration and Booking

Availability is high, with most trips booked about 57 days in advance. The tour can last anywhere from 3 to 8 hours, so it’s flexible based on your schedule and interests. Confirmations are received within 48 hours of booking, and free cancellations are available up to 24 hours beforehand.

Meeting Point and End Location

You’ll meet at Trg Sv. Stjepana 38 in Hvar, a central spot easy to find. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.

Additional Costs

While the tour price covers the boat, skipper, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and fuel surcharge, cave entrance tickets and lunch are extra. Be prepared for about 12/24 EUR for the Blue cave and 8/12 EUR for the Green cave, and budget for a nice meal at the Pakleni Islands.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a good choice for families, couples, or friends who want a private, customizable day out.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One guest praised the skipper Vlad for being “incredibly accommodating,” going so far as to secure a lunch reservation with a fantastic view and great local seafood. Others highlight the professionalism of the crew and the “fabulous boat day,” emphasizing the smooth, well-organized nature of the trip.

Many reviewers mention how the tour balanced adventure—like cliff jumping and cave swimming—with relaxation—such as sunbathing and sightseeing—ensuring everyone found something to enjoy. The flexibility of the itinerary means you can tailor your experience, whether seeking thrill or tranquility.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private boat tour offers a well-rounded slice of Croatia’s coastal beauty without feeling rushed or crowded. Its personalized approach makes it ideal for travelers who want to craft their perfect day on the water, whether that means exploring caves, swimming in turquoise waters, or simply soaking up the sun in secluded bays.

If you value a knowledgeable skipper who can share local insights, and if you’re eager for authentic natural sights at your own pace, this tour stands out. Its cost is reasonable when split among up to nine people, giving good value for a bespoke experience in one of Europe’s most beautiful settings.

However, if your main priority is visiting the caves, remember there’s an extra cost for entrance tickets, and the overall experience depends heavily on weather conditions and timing. It’s best suited for those who appreciate both flexibility and intimacy and who want a memorable, personalized day on Croatia’s stunning coast.

FAQ

Are the cave tickets included in the price?
No, the Blue cave tickets range from 12 to 24 EUR, and the Green cave from 8 to 12 EUR depending on the season.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from about 3 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and weather conditions.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat use, a skipper, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and fuel surcharge.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s private, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet at Trg Sv. Stjepana 38 in Hvar, a central and easily accessible location.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can choose to dine at a bay-side restaurant during the stop at the Pakleni Islands.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your interests and adjust the stops and timing with your skipper.

To sum it up, this private boat tour from Hvar combines natural beauty, personalized service, and flexibility into a memorable Croatian adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the coast at their own pace, whether that’s swimming inside caves, lounging on secluded beaches, or enjoying a scenic cruise with expert guidance. The combination of stunning sights, expert skippers, and the option to customize makes it a worthwhile choice for a special day on the Croatian water.