If you’re dreaming of a day on the Croatian coast filled with sparkling waters, hidden caves, and lively island towns, this 5-island tour from Split might just be your perfect escape. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to see the best of Dalmatia in one day, combining natural wonders with a touch of vibrant island life.
What we love about this trip is how it balances stunning scenery and authentic moments. You’ll get the opportunity to marvel at the famous Blue Cave, relax in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, and stroll through the lively streets of Hvar. Plus, the boat ride itself is smooth and well-organized, making it suitable for most travelers.
However, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind. The tour’s itinerary is packed, so if you’re looking for a completely relaxed day, it might feel a bit rushed. And, it’s worth noting that the Blue Cave entrance fee is not included, which means an extra expense on the day.
This tour is a great pick for those eager to experience the highlights of Dalmatia with knowledgeable guides, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of opportunities to swim and unwind. It’s ideal if you love a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and island hopping in a lively, social atmosphere.
This experience made our article of 12 Of The Best Tours & Experiences In Vis.
Key Points
- Complete Island Hopping: Visit 5 distinct islands, each offering unique scenery and experiences.
- Iconic Sights: Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Hvar bring some of Croatia’s most famous views.
- Balanced Schedule: Plenty of free time for swimming, photos, and relaxing at each stop.
- Inclusive Price: Covers boat, crew, fuel, insurance, water, and snorkeling gear.
- Extra Costs: Entrance fee for Blue Cave is paid on-site, not included.
- Experience Quality: Well-rated, with a 4.8/5 from four reviews, praised for stunning views and friendly guides.
The Itinerary in Detail
Our journey begins near the Riva promenade in Split, right in the bustling heart of the city. Meeting your group next to the iconic “Split sign,” you’ll immediately sense the excitement — this is a day designed for adventure and discovery.
Planning more time in Vis? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
First Stop: Blue Cave on Bievo Island
Your boat speeds through the shimmering waters toward Bievo Island, home to the world-famous Blue Cave. This natural wonder is famed for its glowing blue light, created by sunlight filtering through the underwater opening. While the Blue Cave entrance fee is paid on the spot, the experience of entering this illuminated chamber is well worth it. The cave’s magic is best appreciated when the sun is high — so timing can matter.
Second Stop: Vis Island and Stiniva Bay
Next, you’ll make your way to Vis Island, specifically to Stiniva Bay. This beach has earned a reputation as one of the top beaches in the world, thanks to its dramatic cliffs and secluded cove. Expect around 30 minutes of free time — enough for a quick swim, a photo, or simply soaking up the scenery from the boat.
Third Stop: Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Island
From Vis, the boat heads to Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon. The lagoon’s calm, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just drifting in the gentle waves. It’s an untouched piece of nature that feels like a secret, quiet paradise. With ample free time here, you can relax and enjoy the pristine environment.
More Great Tours NearbyFourth Stop: Pakleni Islands
Continuing through Pakleni Islands, you’ll see how nature has crafted a series of tiny, beautiful islands dotted with coves and crystal-clear waters. The crew will share insights about this area’s natural beauty, giving you a sense of the landscape’s artistry. This segment is ideal for appreciating the raw, unspoiled character of Croatia’s coastline.
Final Stop: Hvar Town
The last leg brings you to the renowned Hvar Island, famous for its lively atmosphere and historic charm. You’ll have roughly 2 hours of free time — perfect for grabbing lunch, a coffee, or a cocktail in the lively harbor. This is a great chance to stroll through the cobbled streets, explore the historic sites, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of Croatia’s most famous island.
What to Expect from the Experience
This tour is all about variety and natural beauty. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering stunning views of Croatia’s rugged coastline. The stops are well-paced, giving you enough time to appreciate each location without feeling overly rushed.
The Blue Cave is undoubtedly the star attraction. It’s a short visit but one that lingers in your memory thanks to its otherworldly glow. The stopping points at Stiniva Bay and the Blue Lagoon are perfect for swimming and taking photos — don’t forget your waterproof camera or phone!
The inclusion of snorkeling equipment is a nice touch, allowing you to explore beneath the surface if you wish. The crew, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often enhances the experience with local insights and helpful tips.
The Value of the Tour
At $162 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It includes boat rental, crew, fuel, insurance, and water, making it a hassle-free way to explore multiple islands without worrying about logistics. The price is reasonable considering the number of stops and the scenery encountered.
However, keep in mind that the Blue Cave’s entrance fee isn’t included; this adds a small extra cost, paid on-site. This is common in tours of this kind, but it’s worth budgeting for ahead of time.
What Past Travelers Say
Reviews highlight the stunning vistas and knowledgeable guides. One traveler noted, “Great trip, great crew. Even when the weather disturbed our plans, we still had a great time.” This underscores the flexibility and professionalism of the team.
Another pointed out a potential issue: “They should warn that the tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems, which isn’t mentioned. It said they’d give water, but they didn’t offer it either!” This reminds us that boat trips can be bumpy and that packing essentials like water and sunscreen is important.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel for comfort and sun protection.
- Swimwear and beachwear are essential for enjoying the water stops.
- A camera is a must for capturing the incredible scenery.
- Cash is needed for the Blue Cave entrance fee.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, so plan accordingly.
- Book in advance and remember you can reserve and pay later if your plans aren’t set yet.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a full day of island scenery, swimming, and natural beauty without the hassle of navigating themselves. It’s especially suited for those eager to visit Croatia’s most iconic spots in one go, with a friendly crew guiding the way.
If you love stunning coastal views, lively island atmospheres, and a bit of adventure, this tour offers a great mix. But if you prefer a slow-paced day or are concerned about boat movement, you might want to prepare accordingly.
The Sum Up
This Split-based five-island tour blends natural wonders with vibrant island life. It’s a well-organized, value-packed option for anyone wanting a taste of Croatia’s best without the stress of multiple bookings. The stops at Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Hvar offer unforgettable scenery, and the included snorkeling gear makes it easy to enjoy the water.
While the pace can be a bit brisk, the flexible schedule and friendly guides help ensure a positive experience. It’s especially great for those who want to combine sightseeing with swimming and socializing in a stunning setting.
This tour is a fantastic way to see several of Croatia’s most celebrated islands in one day, offering a memorable adventure for a reasonable price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a great way to maximize your time along Croatia’s spectacular coast.
FAQ
Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fee for Blue Cave is paid on-site, just before entering.
How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 30 minutes at Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon, and about 2 hours at Hvar. The remaining times are arranged to keep the schedule smooth.
What should I bring on the tour?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for Blue Cave entrance.
Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year old, mainly due to the boat ride and activity pace.
Are meals included?
No, but there will be free time in Hvar for lunch, coffee, or cocktails.
What if the weather is bad?
The trip is somewhat flexible, and guides will do their best to adapt. However, adverse weather might affect certain stops or the Blue Cave visit.
How many people are on the boat?
The specific group size isn’t stated, but reviews suggest a friendly, manageable group.
Can I book the tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can keep your plans flexible by reserving now and paying later.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price.
How do I find the meeting point?
Meet near the Riva promenade in Split, next to the “Split sign”. The tour starts and ends at the same spot.
This tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Croatia’s coastal beauty, perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights and enjoy some swimming and relaxing time along the way. Well-rated and thoughtfully organized, it’s a day that’s likely to leave you with plenty of stunning photos and unforgettable memories.
📍 This experience made our list of the 12 best Tours & Experiences in Vis
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