50 Shades of Blue: Blue Cave & 5 Islands Boat Tour from Hvar

If you’re looking for a way to experience Croatia’s spectacular coastal scenery and vibrant waters, this boat tour from Hvar promises an adventurous and visually stunning day. The 50 Shades of Blue tour is marketed as an island-hopping escapade that visits multiple caves, beaches, and islands in a single day, with enough time to soak in the scenery, snorkel, and relax.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the chance to see the famous Blue Cave—a natural highlight that’s worth every penny—and swim in crystal-clear waters that many travelers find transformative. Second, the itinerary takes you to five different islands within the Croatian archipelago, including the remote and charming Vis and Paklinski Islands, giving a sense of authentic seafaring adventure.

A minor consideration is that entry to the Blue and Green Caves requires buying separate tickets—something to budget for—and the entire experience depends on good weather. Wind, high tide, or rough seas could restrict access, which is common in this part of the world. That said, if you’re a traveler eager for beautiful scenery and a lively day on the water, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy short guided excursions combined with free time for swimming or relaxing on beaches.

This experience made our article of 12 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Hvar City.

Key Points

• Limited Group Size: Only 14 people per boat, making for a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visits 5-6 destinations depending on weather and conditions.
• Includes Safety & Comfort: Skipper, guide, safety gear, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments are provided.
• Optional Cave Tickets: Entrance fees for Blue and Green Caves are extra, paid on-site.
• Full-Day Adventure: Starts at 10:30 am and returns between 5:30 and 6:30 pm.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit uninhabited islands, meet a “king” in a lagoon, and snorkel in famous beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the pop-up stand at the port of Hvar, conveniently located next to the Carpe Diem Bar. It’s a straightforward check-in process where you’ll meet Marina or the crew, who are known for their friendly, engaging attitude. The tour operates in English, and booking is flexible—you can reserve your spot and pay later, which is great for last-minute planning or comparing options.

The boats used are small, with a maximum of 14 travelers, which ensures a cozy atmosphere and personalized attention. You choose your preferred type of boat—standard, comfort, or deluxe—which affects the price ($80-100 per person). The price of the boat ride is separate from the tour itself, and you pay this before departure.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

The Caves: Blue, Green, and Monk Seal

One of the main highlights is entering the Blue Cave. Its glowing blue waters are a major draw, and you’ll get to marvel at the spectacular shades of blue that make it a top photo spot. The Green Cave, on the other hand, offers a different experience with its emerald-green waters—and it’s fascinating to know that WWII battleships once used this cave as a hideout, adding a layer of history to the scenery.

While entrance tickets for these caves are not included in the tour price (about €24 for the Blue Cave and €12 for the Green Cave), most travelers find the cost worthwhile for the chance to see these natural wonders firsthand. The guides often share interesting stories and historical tidbits, enriching the experience.

Beaches and Lagoons

Next, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, including a highly-rated spot on the Blue Lagoon. The waters here are sapphire blue, and the beaches are perfect for a relaxing swim, snorkeling, or just stretching out on the sand. The tour often includes stops at Stiniva Beach, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and pristine sands, and other beaches on Paklinski Islands.

The tour’s flexibility means you’ll also spend time in a breathtaking lagoon, where you can meet the “king” of an uninhabited island. This is not a literal monarch but a local legend—an amusing highlight where you can relax on a cozy beach terrace, sip colorful drinks, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. As one reviewer said, “chill in the shades of his cozy beach terrace, sip on some colorful liquid delights, and snorkel the crystal-clear royal blue seas,” making it clear this is a fun, laid-back part of the day.

Island-Hopping and Local Encounters

The tour visits five islands—Vis, Bisevo, Ravnik, Budikovac, and Paklinski—each offering its own charm. Some days, the crew might add extra destinations like Komiza or Vis towns, depending on time and weather. The highlight for many is the chance to meet the “king” in the lagoon, which adds a quirky, almost fairy-tale element to the trip.

What to Expect Throughout the Day

The day kicks off at 10:30 am and lasts until about 5:30-6:30 pm, giving plenty of time to explore and relax at each stop. The pace is relaxed but lively, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. The music onboard adds to the fun, and complimentary bottled water helps stay hydrated.

The tour’s small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. They weave stories, offer tips, and ensure safety, making the experience informative as well as enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At just $12 per person for the tour, it’s an impressive deal considering the variety of destinations and experiences packed into a single day. The extra costs—boat type and cave entry tickets—are transparent and allow you to tailor your experience.

The experience offers great value, especially if you’re eager to see the caves and beaches that make Croatia’s coastline famous. The small group size means a more personalized experience, and the many photo-worthy moments are highlights you’ll want to capture.

From reviews, we learned that Nikola called it a “delightful adventure,” emphasizing the breathtaking scenery and passionate guide. The personal stories and beautiful vistas combine for a memorable trip.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Since most of the tour depends on sea conditions, the crew will assess the weather before setting out. If conditions aren’t safe—such as high winds or high tide—the tour may be modified or rescheduled. That’s a smart safety protocol, but it means flexibility is key if you’re traveling at a busy time of year.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see multiple islands in one day without sacrificing comfort or intimacy. It’s perfect if you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and exploring caves, and don’t mind paying a little extra for cave entrance tickets.

Family groups, couples, and solo travelers will all find value here, especially those who appreciate friendly guides and picturesque scenery. However, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider the potential challenges of boat rides and cave visits.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, local history, and fun group vibes, the 50 Shades of Blue boat tour offers an exceptional value. The stunning landscapes and knowledgeable guides make every moment worthwhile, and the small group setting ensures a personalized, memorable experience.

While it’s weather-dependent and cave tickets are extra, the overall package delivers a taste of Croatia’s most iconic sights in a way that feels authentic and relaxed. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Croatia’s coast, this tour is a lively, colorful way to connect with the sea and the islands.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour starts at 10:30 am and ends between 5:30 and 6:30 pm, so you’ll enjoy a full day on the water with plenty of stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially since the group size is limited to 14 people per boat. Booking ahead ensures your spot.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the reservation, the skipper and guide, safety gear, snorkeling goggles, bottled water, icebox with ice, and onboard music.

Are cave tickets included?
No, tickets for the Blue Cave (€24) and Green Cave (€12) are paid separately at the entrance.

Can I choose the type of boat?
Yes, options include standard (€80), comfort (€90), or deluxe (€100) boats—payable before the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for active travelers; however, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider the boat rides and cave conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, long-sleeved shirt, and water shoes for comfort and safety.

What if the weather is bad?
Safety is the priority. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

Is this a good value for the price?
Absolutely; for just $12, you get to visit multiple islands, caves, and beaches with expert guides—making it a very cost-effective way to see Croatia’s highlights.

Whether you’re after stunning photographic sights, a fun day of swimming, or just a break from the usual sightseeing routine, the 50 Shades of Blue tour offers a colorful, memorable taste of Croatia’s coast that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: