From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour – A Detailed Look
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, this 5-island tour from Split promises a full day of memorable sights, crystal-clear waters, and colorful local culture—all packed into about 10 hours. With a reputation backed by over 2,400 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, it’s clearly a popular choice for travelers craving authentic island life, stunning scenery, and a splash of adventure.
What we love about this tour is how it combines diverse highlights—from the famous Blue Cave to the film-famous town of Komiza, and the lively vibe of Hvar—all in one day. Plus, the fact that it’s a small-group experience ensures you get plenty of personalized attention and flexibility. On the downside, some travelers note that the Blue Cave visit depends heavily on weather conditions, which might mean a missed opportunity if the weather turns sour. Still, if you enjoy a well-organized, lively trip with knowledgeable guides, this tour is likely to suit you perfectly.
It’s ideal for those who want value for money—considering the length, variety, and inclusions—and who are comfortable with a bit of boat riding. If you’re after a laid-back pace with time to swim, explore, and soak up the sun, this tour has your name on it. However, travelers with mobility issues, small children, or pregnant women should note some restrictions and the need for advance communication about health concerns.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- All-in-One Experience: Visit five islands and seven locations in one day, covering major highlights.
- Blue Cave: See the stunning, naturally lit cave, weather permitting, for a unique photo opportunity.
- Swim & Snorkel: Multiple breaks at beaches like Stiniva and Budikovac Blue Lagoon make this trip perfect for water lovers.
- Authentic Towns: Explore the charming fishing village of Komiza and the vibrant, historic town of Hvar.
- Expert Guides & Good Vibes: Skippers are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and music playlists.
- Value & Flexibility: At $97, it offers a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and culture.
Planning more time in Split? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour
Starting Point & Timing
The adventure kicks off in Split, with a meeting point in front of the south steps to Trg Republike (Prokurative). Arriving 15 minutes early is wise, especially as departure times may shift slightly the day before, depending on weather and operational needs. Expect a 90-minute boat ride to reach the Blue Cave—so pack your sunglasses, a jacket for the early morning chill outside July and August, and some snacks or drinks for the ride.
Blue Cave – The Moment of Magic
The Blue Cave on Bisevo Island is the star of the show for many. The play of sunlight creates a surreal, glowing effect inside, making it a photographer’s paradise. But keep in mind, the Blue Cave’s accessibility depends on weather conditions, and an entry ticket isn’t included in the price. Many reviews highlight how fortunate they were to visit on a good day—”we managed to get inside the cave, although it’s a short visit”—but some travelers face cancellations if the sea’s choppy.
More Great Tours NearbyFishers’ Village of Komiza & the ‘Mamma Mia’ Connection
Next, the tour heads to the fishing village of Komiza, famous as a filming location for the “Mamma Mia 2″ movie. This village offers a glimpse into traditional life, with narrow streets, local eateries, and a laid-back vibe. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated this stop for its authenticity and scenic charm—”Luka, our skipper, was kind and attentive, sharing info about every attraction.” It’s an ideal spot to stretch legs, soak in the views, and maybe snap a few photos.
Stiniva Beach & Blue Lagoon
The highlight for many water enthusiasts is the stop at Stiniva Beach, voted Europe’s best beach, with a narrow, rocky entrance opening up to a pebble cove. Swimming here is often described as a highlight—crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and a peaceful vibe.
Another popular swim spot is the Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Island, with its turquoise waters and tranquil surroundings. Many reviews praise these quiet spots, emphasizing how leisurely and relaxed the swimming breaks are—”enjoyed plenty of time to relax on the pebbled beach and soak up the sun.”
Hvar Town & Free Time
The tour’s final major stop is the lively city of Hvar, where you receive approximately 2.5 hours for lunch, exploring, or just lounging on the beaches. The town’s architecture is stunning—think old stone buildings, lively piazzas, and beautiful forts—perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick drink. Reviewers frequently mention how they enjoyed the time to explore at their own pace or indulge in local cuisine. Others simply basked on the beaches, soaking up the Croatian sunshine.
Return & Reflection
After a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, the boat heads back to Split with plenty of daylight left. The return ride offers more chances to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, or listen to the music playlist that many travelers rave about.
What’s Included & What’s Not
For $97, the tour includes a skipper/guide, speedboat ride, snorkeling masks, a Bluetooth speaker for music, and safety equipment. All of these contribute to a comfortable, fun experience. The entry ticket to the Blue Cave isn’t included, so be prepared for a possible extra cost if you want to go inside, though many travelers mention the Blue Cave as the trip’s highlight.
Not included are beach towels and food—though you’ll have plenty of opportunities for lunch on Hvar, and some reviews mention how guides often recommend local spots. Bringing your own towels and snacks can add to your comfort.
Practical Details & Tips
- Meeting Point: Front of Trg Republike, arrive early.
- Timing: Expect a 10-hour day, with the boat departing around the scheduled time.
- Weather Dependence: The Blue Cave visit can be canceled or shortened due to weather; a full refund is available if canceled for weather reasons.
- What to Bring: Sunglasses, swimwear, towel, drinks, a jacket for early mornings, and comfortable clothes.
- Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues—always alert the tour provider about medical concerns.
Authentic Experiences & Common Praise
Many reviewers emphasize how guides like Luka, Simon, Tomas, or Viktor make the day special through their knowledge, friendliness, and playlists. “He shared some interesting, easy-to-digest history,” one review mentions, highlighting that these guides go beyond just pointing out sights—they aim to make the experience engaging.
The quality of the boat, the timing, and the variety of stops contribute to a feeling of value—”for 11 hours touring over 100 miles, it’s worth every penny,” according to one traveler. The combination of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural stops makes this tour appealing for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Croatia’s islands without the fuss of multiple bookings.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for water lovers, curious explorers, and island-hopping fans. If you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local culture, you’ll find plenty to love. Families with older children, groups of friends, or couples looking for a full day of Croatia’s best scenery will appreciate the balance of activity and relaxation.
However, if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility concerns, be sure to check the boat size and weather forecast; some reviews mention choppy waters, especially early mornings. It’s also a good choice for travelers who enjoy being part of a small group rather than large tours—most reviews praise the intimate atmosphere.
FAQs
Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
Not entirely—its accessibility depends on weather conditions and sea safety. If the cave is closed due to bad weather, the tour may skip it or replace it with other caves or sites.
How long is the time spent on each stop?
You get about 2.5 hours in Hvar, with shorter visits at other stops like Komiza and swim breaks at beaches. The itinerary balances sightseeing with plenty of water and relaxing moments.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towel, drinks, and comfortable clothes are recommended. A jacket helps for the early morning ride, especially outside peak summer months.
Are meals included?
No, but there’s ample time for lunch on Hvar, and guides often suggest good local restaurants or cafes. Bringing snacks or drinks is also a good idea.
Can children join?
Not suitable for children under 4. Always inform the provider of medical issues or special needs beforehand.
What about price and value?
At $97, the tour offers a full day of diverse experiences—water activities, cultural sights, and scenic cruising—making it a solid value for a memorable adventure.
The Final Word
This 10-hour speedboat tour from Split is tailor-made for travelers eager to see as much as possible in a single day. The combination of spectacular natural sights, authentic towns, and fun water breaks makes it a well-rounded experience. Many reviewers are quick to praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, turning an already beautiful journey into a memorable story.
While weather can influence the Blue Cave experience, the overall package offers enough flexibility and value to justify the price—especially when you consider the variety of stops, the personalized attention, and the fun atmosphere onboard. If you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and immersive Croatian island adventure, this trip is a strong contender.
In brief, this tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, lively, and well-organized day out on the Dalmatian waters. It’s perfect if you love swimming, exploring charming villages, and soaking up the sun while learning about Croatia from friendly, knowledgeable guides. Just be prepared for a full day at sea and the possibility of weather-dependent cave visits. Overall, a fantastic way to see Croatia’s islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or long stays.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Split
- Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
- From Split: Krka Waterfalls Tour with Boat Cruise & Swimming
- Blue Cave & Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands Group Tour from Split & Trogir
- Secret Marjan Park Hiking Tour in Split
- From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
- Split & Diocletian’s Palace Walking Tour
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More Split experiences we've covered
- Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
- From Split: Krka Waterfalls Tour with Boat Cruise & Swimming
- From Split: Catamaran Cruise to Bol, Golden Horn & Bra
- From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour
- From Split: All-Inclusive Horse Riding and Jeep Exploration
- All Inclusive Brac and Solta islands swimming cruise
- Blue Cave & Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands Group Tour from Split & Trogir
- Secret Marjan Park Hiking Tour in Split
- From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
- Hvar, Bra & Pakleni islands cruise with lunch & drinks from Split & Trogir
- Private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik with side-trip to Ston
- Split & Diocletian’s Palace Walking Tour