Blue cave and Hvar – 5 Islands speedboat tour from Split

Taking to the water in Croatia offers a sense of freedom and discovery that’s hard to match. This small-group speedboat tour from Split promises to pack a whole lot of Croatia’s coastal highlights into one day. From the glowing Blue Cave to the lively atmosphere of Hvar, it’s designed for travelers eager to see the best without spending days hopping between islands.

What we love about this tour? First, the speedboat makes it easy to cover extensive ground quickly – perfect for those on a tight schedule. Second, the personal touch of a small group limited to 12 travelers ensures a more intimate experience compared to large tour buses or crowded boats. On the flip side, some reviews mention that certain expectations, like onboard amenities, might not always match the descriptions, so it’s worth going in with an open mind.

This tour appeals most to those who enjoy an active day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on beautiful beaches, with a bit of adventure thrown in. If you’re craving a comprehensive, fun-filled day on Croatia’s stunning waters, it could be just what you’re after. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, luxury experience with gourmet meals onboard, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Efficient and comprehensive: Covers multiple islands, beaches, and the famous Blue Cave in just one day.
• Small-group intimacy: Limits to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• All-in-one adventure: Combines sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and free time for lunch.
• Value for money: At around $179, you get a full day of diverse activities, with many reviews highlighting the crew’s professionalism.
• Age and accessibility: Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Weather-dependent: The Blue Cave visit is weather-sensitive, and tickets are paid separately on the boat.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting the Day: Early Morning Departure

The tour kicks off at 7:30 am from Split’s Obala Hrvatskog naroda, a convenient central location near public transportation. Expect to meet your captain and crew, ready for a full day at sea. The boat is equipped with amenities like a bathroom, Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, and a fridge, making the journey comfortable and entertaining.

First Stop: The Blue Cave

The highlight for many is visiting the Blue Cave on Bievo Island. The cave’s glow at certain times of day is famous, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly experience. However, entrance tickets are not included and cost between €18 and €24 depending on the season – paid in cash onboard. Some reviews, like one from Vina_P, describe the Blue Cave as “spectacular” and worth the wait, though others note it was closed during their visit.

Second Stop: Stiniva Cove

Next, the boat heads to Stiniva Cove, a secluded beach accessible only by boat or a steep hike. The cove’s dramatic cliffs and clear waters make it a favorite among visitors. It’s a quick stop, about 15 minutes, and free of charge. Some travelers, like Caren_J, mention the cove as “amazing,” though it’s often quite crowded in high season.

Third Stop: Budikovac Island and the Blue Lagoon

A short sail takes you to Budikovac Island, home to the tranquil Blue Lagoon. This spot is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with calm waters and scenic surroundings. The 45-minute stop allows plenty of time to cool off and explore. It’s free to access, making this one of the more budget-friendly highlights.

Lunch and Free Time in Hvar

The tour offers two hours in Hvar, giving you the chance to grab lunch, explore the town’s lively streets, or just relax in a café. Many reviews praise the captain for arranging a good restaurant, enhancing the experience. Hvar’s reputation as a vibrant, historic port makes it a worthwhile stop, though some travelers note that their time can feel rushed.

Final Stop: Pakleni Islands

The last stop is the Pakleni Islands, a string of small islands with pebbly beaches and coves. Here, you’ll have around 45 minutes to swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the scenery. Some reviews mention this as a relaxing way to end the day, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy the peace of the Adriatic.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are snorkeling equipment, use of a toilet, a fridge for drinks, and the services of a captain and sailor. The tour covers fuel costs as well, so no hidden surprises there.

Extra costs include lunch, which you’ll need to buy in Hvar, and the Blue Cave tickets—payable in cash onboard. Be prepared for additional expenses if you want to visit the Blue Cave, especially during peak season when prices are at their highest.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The Pros

• The speedboat makes it easier to visit multiple locations efficiently.
• The small group ensures more personalized attention and less waiting.
• Many travelers rave about the knowledgeable crew—friendly, professional, and attentive.
• The Blue Cave remains a major draw, with some describing it as “spectacular.”
• The variety of stops caters to different interests — from swimming and snorkeling to sightseeing and dining.

The Cons

• Some reviews suggest the boat lacks certain amenities like Wi-Fi, shower, or adequate snorkel gear.
• The Blue Cave tickets are not included and can be costly, especially during busy months.
• The timing can be tight at certain stops, leaving little room for extended exploration.
• Weather can impact the Blue Cave visit, and if it’s closed, some travelers might find the trip less satisfying.

Real Traveler Insights

Vina_P raves, “This tour is a must-do! The boat exceeded expectations, and the crew ensured we had an amazing day,” highlighting how well-executed the experience can be. Conversely, Charlene_B points out that “no toilet on board” and “very expensive Blue Cave tickets” were downsides, reminding future travelers to be prepared.

Caren_J describes the Blue Cave as “spectacular,” and notes it was worth the wait. Others mention the friendly, professional crew as a highlight, making the day more enjoyable and smooth.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This speedboat adventure offers a fantastic way to see a lot of Croatia’s coastline in one day, especially if you value efficiency, small-group intimacy, and diverse scenery. If your goal is to tick off several must-see spots while enjoying some swimming and sunbathing, this tour delivers good value.

However, it’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule and may need to manage extra costs like Blue Cave tickets. Those seeking a super-luxurious experience with gourmet food or onboard amenities might find this tour a bit too basic.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and well-organized day that showcases Croatia’s stunning waters and islands, this trip offers an authentic and memorable adventure.

FAQs

Is the Blue Cave visit included in the tour?
No, the Blue Cave tickets are not included; you pay €18–€24 cash onboard depending on the season.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning to Split around 5:30 pm.

What amenities does the boat have?
The boat is equipped with a bathroom, Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, and a fridge, though some reviews suggest that some features like Wi-Fi or showers might be limited or unavailable.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to just 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment is provided, but some reviews mention that gear might be basic, so consider bringing your own if you prefer higher quality.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included; you’ll need to purchase it in Hvar or bring your own snacks.

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This 5-island speedboat tour from Split offers a lively, picture-perfect taste of the Croatian coast. Whether you’re marveling at the glowing Blue Cave, relaxing on secluded beaches, or exploring Hvar’s lively streets, it’s a day packed with highlights. Just come prepared for a somewhat fast-paced adventure, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and possibly a tan—to take home.