Blue Cave and Hvar private tour from Split

Discovering the Blue Cave and Hvar: A Detailed Look at This Private Tour from Split

Imagine a day spent exploring some of Dalmatia’s most iconic sights, all while relaxing on a private boat with your own small group. That’s precisely what the Blue Cave and Hvar tour promises — a mix of unforgettable natural beauty, cultural charm, and leisurely moments. Offered by Blue Shark Day Boat Tours, this 9-hour adventure caters to up to 12 people, giving it an intimate, personalized feel that large group excursions often lack.

What we love most about this tour is its carefully curated itinerary, balancing awe-inspiring sights like the glowing Blue Cave with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and walk through historic towns. The inclusion of free time on Hvar and the Pakleni Islands makes it flexible for exploration and relaxation. A second highlight is the boat itself — a Colnago 35 open, designed for comfort and stability, ensuring smooth sailing along Dalmatia’s shimmering waters.

One potential consideration is the price: at over $2,200 per group, it’s not the cheapest day out. However, for what you get—private transport, multiple stops, and a small group—the value can be justified, especially when shared among friends or family. This tour suits travelers who value comfort, privacy, and unique experiences, and are willing to invest in a memorable day exploring Dalmatia’s highlights.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience ensures a personalized, intimate day.
• Multiple stops include Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Island, Hvar town, and Pakleni Islands.
• Includes snorkeling gear and drinks, adding value and fun to the day.
• Flexible exploration with free time in Hvar and at the beaches.
• Duration of about 9 hours makes for a full, yet manageable day out.
• Booking in advance—typically 24 days ahead—helps secure your preferred date.

The Itinerary in Detail: Why Each Stop Matters

Stop 1: Cave Bisevo – The Glowing Blue Cave

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the Blue Cave, located on the island of Bievo. This natural wonder is famous for the magical blue glow that appears at certain times of day, caused by sunlight passing through an underwater opening and reflecting off the cave’s white seabed. Expect to spend about an hour here, with admission tickets included, giving you enough time to marvel at the ethereal light show and snap some photos.

From reviews, we see that visitors often describe it as “such a beautiful experience,” and the glowing effect truly lives up to its reputation. Keep in mind that the tour’s timing is crucial — the best light occurs midday, so the schedule is designed to maximize this natural spectacle.

Stop 2: Stiniva Cove – A Natural Seaside Gem

Next, you’ll head to Stiniva Cove, a secluded beach accessible only by foot or boat. This picturesque spot is famous for its narrow entrance and sandy beach, perfect for relaxing or swimming. The steep, winding track down to the cove is a bit of a hike, so travelers should be prepared for a short walk if they want to explore on foot.

The cove’s natural beauty receives high praise, with visitors noting it as “a favorite for many.” It’s a great opportunity for a quick swim or to simply enjoy the stunning scenery from the boat. Since the stop is just 15 minutes, you’ll want to make the most of this brief visit.

Stop 3: Budikovac Island – The Blue Lagoon

Continuing the water-based adventure, the tour takes you to Budikovac Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the so-called Blue Lagoon. Here, you can swim, snorkel, and take in the tranquil atmosphere for about 45 minutes.

Many reviews emphasize how ideal this stop is for snorkeling — the calm, transparent water makes it easy to spot fish and marine life. The free snorkeling equipment included makes this a fantastic value, ensuring you get the most out of your aquatic exploration.

Stop 4: Hvar Town – A Historic Walk and Free Time

After a morning of sea adventures, you’ll arrive in the charming Hvar. The town is known for its picturesque harbor, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. You’ll have about 2 hours of free time for sightseeing, strolling through the narrow streets, or visiting the Hvar Public Theatre (free entry).

One reviewer mentions, “enjoy your free time in sightseeing,” highlighting the town’s appeal for relaxed exploration. It’s the perfect chance to visit local shops, enjoy a coffee, or soak in the view from the fortress if you choose. The stop allows you to connect with Hvar’s authentic vibe away from the crowds.

Stop 5: Pakleni Islands – Relaxation and Swimming

The final stop is at the Pakleni Islands, a chain of small islands known for their beautiful beaches and clear waters. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a cocktail on the boat.

This part of the tour is highly praised for its relaxing atmosphere, with many guests mentioning the enjoyment of cocktails and swimming in calm waters. It’s a great way to wind down before heading back to Split.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda/pop, and alcoholic beverages — a nice touch that enhances the day without extra costs. The admission to the Blue Cave is included, but keep in mind that Blue Cave tickets are not included, so you should budget for that separately if you wish to visit.

Not included is lunch, so you might want to plan for a snack or meal on your own, especially if you’re hungry after a busy morning. The tour’s flexibility in free time allows for local dining options in Hvar or at other stops.

The Boat and Group Size

Traveling on a Colnago 35 open boat, the experience feels intimate and comfortable, especially with groups limited to 12. This smaller size means you won’t be part of a large, impersonal crowd, and the captain can tailor the experience based on weather and your interests.

Guests praise the smooth ride and the personalized attention they receive, making the whole day feel special rather than rushed.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Booking usually opens about 24 days in advance, so plan ahead if this day trip appeals to you. The tour begins at 7:30 am from the Blue Shark meeting point in Split, so early risers will appreciate the start time. The tour ends back in Split at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear, especially since much of the day is spent on or near the water. Also, be prepared for some walking, particularly at Stiniva Cove if you choose to hike down.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour offers a well-rounded taste of Dalmatia’s natural and cultural delights. Its focus on stunning scenery, relaxed swimming, and authentic town visits makes it ideal for travelers who want an immersive yet comfortable experience. The small-group setting ensures that you get personalized attention and plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

For those who value excellent views, snorkeling, and a leisurely pace, this tour delivers impressive value. The inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear adds to the overall enjoyment, making it a day packed with memorable moments. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate private, intimate outings and want to see Dalmatia’s highlights without the hassle of large, crowded tours.

If you’re looking for a day that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and relaxing waterside moments, this tour from Split is a compelling choice—especially if you can secure a spot in advance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a variety of ages. However, some walking at Stiniva Cove involves a steep hike, so consider this if traveling with very young children or mobility concerns.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll stop for about 1 hour at the Blue Cave, 15 minutes at Stiniva Cove, 45 minutes at Budikovac Island, 2 hours in Hvar, and 45 minutes at the Pakleni Islands. These times allow for a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded, so plan accordingly.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages throughout the day, adding comfort and refreshment.

Do I need to buy Blue Cave tickets separately?
Yes, Blue Cave tickets are not included in the price, so you should budget for this if you want to visit the cave.

Is there any quality assurance or reviews?
Yes, the tour boasts a perfect rating of 5.0 from 12 reviews, with travelers praising the experience, boat quality, and overall value.

To sum it up, this Blue Cave and Hvar private tour offers an engaging mix of natural wonders, cultural exploration, and relaxation on the water, all within a small-group setting. It’s an excellent way to see Dalmatia’s highlights without the crowds, especially for travelers who appreciate comfort, authenticity, and beautiful scenery. A well-organized, memorable day awaits those ready to set sail from Split and discover the best of what Croatia’s Dalmatian coast has to offer.