Blue cave tour with speed boat from town Hvar

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on crystal-clear waters, discovering hidden grottos, and soaking up the best of Croatia’s islands, this Blue Cave tour from Hvar might be exactly what you’re craving. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the information available paints a picture of a lively, scenic adventure perfect for those who want a taste of the Dalmatian coast’s most photogenic spots.

What we love about this experience is its small-group intimacy—a maximum of 12 travelers means you won’t be lost among crowds. Plus, the variety of stops from caves to beaches promises a well-rounded day. One potential consideration is the overall value, especially given the price point, but if you’re keen on exploring multiple islands in one day, it could be worth it. This tour is ideal for travelers who value personalized experiences, stunning scenery, and a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Small-group tour offers a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.
• Multiple island stops including caves, beaches, and scenic spots ensure variety.
• Snorkeling gear and on-board drinks add comfort and fun to the trip.
• The price reflects a full day of exploration, but travelers should consider whether the value matches their expectations.
• Timing and duration make it suitable for those with a full day available.
• The tour is reliable, but reviews suggest that weather and boat issues can occasionally impact plans.

An Introduction to the Experience

This full-day speedboat tour from Hvar covers a good chunk of Croatia’s beautiful islands. It’s designed for travelers eager to see iconic sights like the famous Blue Cave and the Green Cave while enjoying the thrill of fast, open-water travel. The excursion offers a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on beaches—perfect for those who want a versatile day on the water.

What’s especially appealing is the small-group setup, which promises a more intimate vibe and personalized attention from crew members. The tour includes several stops, each with its own unique flavor—crystal lagoons, dramatic cliffs, and legendary caves. For those who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this could be a highlight of any Croatian trip.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at about $215 per person, it’s a significant investment. While reviews mention friendly guides and enjoyable service, it’s wise to weigh whether the price matches your idea of good value. This tour seems best suited for travelers who prioritize scenic beauty and a hassle-free way of exploring multiple spots in one day.

What You Can Expect: The Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point and Start Time

You’ll gather at the Big Blue Tours agency in Hvar (Kroz Burak 12) at around 10:15 am, ready for a day of adventure. The tour officially kicks off at 10:30 am, giving you a little time to settle in and meet your fellow travelers. The group size is limited to just 12 people, which should make for a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

The First Stop: Budikovac Island

Your first taste of the water comes at Budikovac Island, a tiny, peaceful spot on the southeastern side of Vis Island. Expect a relaxing hour on a small pebble beach, where you can swim in a beautiful turquoise lagoon. This island is described as a serene escape from noise, a welcome start to your day of exploration. The admission fee is included here, so you just need to enjoy the scenery.

The Green Cave Experience

Next, you’ll head to the Green Cave, famous for its light beams filtering through cracks in the ceiling, creating a shimmering effect on the water. It’s quite spacious, with depths of around 3-5 meters, making it a great photo opportunity and a fascinating natural wonder. Keep in mind that admission to the Green Cave isn’t included, so you might need to pay on-site if you wish to enter.

Stiniva Cove: Nature’s Dramatic Amphitheater

The tour continues to Stiniva Cove, a spectacular spot known for its narrow entrance and wide pebble beach. Flanked by towering cliffs, it feels like being in a natural amphitheater. You’ll have about an hour here to relax on the beach or take a swim in the clear waters. It’s a favorite among visitors, with one reviewer praising the beautiful pebble beach and perpendicular rocks that surround it.

Bisevo and the Blue Cave

Arguably the highlight is the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island. Only accessible by small rowboats, the Blue Cave is renowned for its vivid blue waters caused by sunlight reflecting inside. The tour includes a one-hour stop, giving time to admire the cave’s shifting hues and snap photos. Be prepared for a short ride in a small boat—sometimes crowded, but always worth the effort.

Pakleni Islands and Return

The last leg of your day takes you to the Pakleni Islands, known for their gorgeous beaches and gourmet restaurants. You’ll cruise through these islands, enjoying sea views and a pleasurable boat ride. The tour includes about two hours here, providing ample time for swimming, relaxing, or grabbing a meal at one of the local eateries. One reviewer mentions having a brilliant experience and a tasty, reasonably priced lunch during this part of the trip.

Return to Hvar

You’ll head back to Hvar in the late afternoon, arriving around 6:30 pm, just in time to unwind after a full day on the water.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the friendly crew and knowledgeable guides that make the day enjoyable. One traveler described the crew as “very friendly,” and appreciated the extra touches, like water, shots, and even champagne—though these weren’t officially advertised. The relaxed atmosphere and personal attention stood out as major positives.

Another guest enjoyed a relaxing solo day, praising the staff for their kindness and the reasonable lunch options they found on one of the islands. The stunning views and variety of stops are repeatedly mentioned as highlights, along with the smooth execution of the trip.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One critical review from 2021 describes an experience where the boat was initially said to be “in panne” (broken). While rare, such issues underscore the importance of weather and operational reliability.

Analyzing the Value

At over $214 per person, the tour isn’t cheap. But considering it includes transportation, multiple stops, snorkeling equipment, and the chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic natural attractions, it can be seen as a convenient all-in-one package. For travelers who want to maximize their island experience without the hassle of organizing separate trips, this tour offers good value.

That said, travelers should be aware that some of the caves require additional fees for entry, and weather conditions can influence the experience—particularly at sea and in the caves. The close-knit group and small boat setup also mean a more personal experience, but it might be cramped if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer larger, more luxurious vessels.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Blue Cave speedboat adventure is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy fast-paced, scenic outings and want to see as much as possible in one day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, value authentic natural beauty, and are comfortable with a bit of boat motion.

If you’re looking for a relaxed day on a large yacht or prefer more time in each individual spot, you might find this tour a bit rushed. However, if you’re excited by the idea of hopping between caves, beaches, and islands all in a single day, this trip offers a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s coastal highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour?
You’ll meet at Big Blue Tours, Kroz Burak 12 in Hvar around 10:15 am, with the tour starting shortly after at 10:30 am.

How many people are on each boat?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, snorkeling gear, and on-board drinks. You’ll also get to visit several notable spots, though some cave entry fees (like the Green Cave) are not included.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary, but generally, you’ll have about an hour at each major site—enough time to explore, swim, and take photos.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour’s active nature and boat rides make it suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or seasickness concerns should consider their comfort.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled later, a full refund is not available.

What should I wear and bring?
Dress smart casual, and bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel for swimming or relaxing on beaches.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
You might need to pay extra for the Green Cave entry, and lunch or drinks at local restaurants are not included in the tour price.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Verdict

This small-group speedboat tour from Hvar offers a compact but comprehensive taste of Croatia’s most scenic and iconic spots. The combination of caves, beaches, and island hopping makes it a memorable experience, especially for travelers eager to maximize their time on the water. The friendly guides and stunning vistas are big pluses, though the price and occasional weather-dependent issues are worth considering.

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and active day on Croatia’s coast, this tour delivers plenty of value. It’s perfect for those who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty—all wrapped in a fun, intimate setting. Just pack your sense of adventure and a camera, and you’re set for an unforgettable day exploring the Dalmatian islands.