Boat Tour From Hvar: Blue Cave, Palmiana, and Vis Island

Imagine setting sail from the lively port of Hvar to explore some of Croatia’s most breathtaking seascapes and hidden beaches. That’s exactly what this Boat Tour from Hvar offers—an opportunity to see the Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, and more, all in one day. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, memorable swimming spots, and a touch of adventure.

What draws many travelers? First, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and float inside the Green Cave, known for its luminous emerald glow. Second, the iconic Blue Cave, famous for its shimmering, silvery-blue interior—an image that sticks with you. On the flip side, a potential challenge? Weather conditions can impact certain stops, especially the Blue Cave, which relies heavily on sunshine. Despite that, flexible rescheduling options are on offer, which is a big plus.

This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of Croatia’s aquatic gems without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits travelers who enjoy water-based activities, scenery, and a lively boat atmosphere. Families, friends, and solo adventurers alike will find plenty to love here, especially if they’re keen to see multiple highlights in a single day.

This experience made our article of Discover 8 Great Cruises And Boat Tours In Hvar Island.

Key Points

• Natural wonders: The Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Stiniva Bay are among Croatia’s most memorable sights.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Plenty of opportunities in pristine waters, with gear provided.
• Flexible planning: Weather can influence the itinerary, but rescheduling is available.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides make the trip educational and engaging.
• Group size: Intimate groups mean more personalized attention and better chances to ask questions.
• Value for money: At $114, you’re paying for a full day of exploration, swimming, and stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Croatian Island Adventure

We loved how this tour packs multiple highlights into a single day, making it a practical way to see the best of the Dalmatian islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or transportation. From the moment you meet at Navis Tour Agency, you’ll step into a small boat that feels cozy rather than cramped—especially since reviews mention a capacity of around 12 passengers, which keeps things friendly and personal.

The Itinerary

The day begins on Ravnik Island, a tiny spot famous for the Green Cave, which is often called the “Emerald Sea.” Here, you’ll get your first swim of the day, diving into waters that glow with vivid green light—an experience that travelers describe as both peaceful and awe-inspiring. One reviewer noted, “We had so many opportunities to swim in the stunningly clear, blue waters,” which captures the essence of this stop.

Next, the route takes you to Stiniva Bay, a small beach enclosed by towering cliffs and a narrow entrance that looks like something out of a movie. It’s a favorite for its dramatic scenery and clean, inviting waters. Visitors enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and even relaxing at a beach bar—if they’re in the mood for a cocktail after a good dip. One traveler shared, “Stiniva swept you off your feet with its beauty,” highlighting how this natural work of art is a must-see.

The Blue Cave Experience

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, famous worldwide for its shimmering interior. The sun’s rays filter through an opening in the ceiling, illuminating the space with a silvery-blue glow—truly a sight to behold. The tour price includes the cave visit for about 10 minutes, with the option to pay for entry (around €24 per person). The guide will drop you off on the island, giving you some time to explore or simply take photos. Several reviews emphasize that the Blue Cave is worth the detour, with one saying, “That one is well worth the visit,” and another noting how impressive the photos look.

Weather plays a key role here; if conditions aren’t ideal, the cave may be closed. The tour offers the flexibility to reschedule, which reassures travelers concerned about unpredictable weather.

The Pakleni Islands and Leisure Time

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to the Pakleni Islands, a popular spot for lounging, swimming, and snorkeling. This is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the sun, and maybe have lunch if you’ve brought your own snacks or want to purchase something ashore. The review mentions that “you’ll have time to lounge, swim, snorkel and enjoy the Hvar sun,” as well as a chance to grab a meal in a charming setting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

The tour includes water, an icebox with ice, goggles, life jackets, and fuel—so the essentials are covered. Guides are fluently English-speaking, making navigation and explanations straightforward. The tour lasts roughly a full day, starting from Hvar town and returning in the late afternoon, just in time for sunset views.

Not included are the entrance fees for the Blue and Green Caves, lunch, drinks, and gratuities, so travelers should prepare accordingly. It’s advisable to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect both yourself and the environment.

What We Love

One of the best aspects is the personalized approach of the guides. Multiple reviews mention how adaptable the skipper was, adjusting stops based on the group’s preferences. For example, if some don’t want to stay long at a particular spot, the skipper will suggest alternatives. This flexibility enhances the experience, making it more enjoyable for everyone.

The stunning scenery is another highlight. From the jagged cliffs of Stiniva to the luminous Green Cave and the shimmering Blue Cave, each site offers something unique and photo-worthy. And the boat ride itself, a speedboat with capacity for 10-12 people, strikes a good balance between intimacy and adventure.

The Value Proposition

At $114 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the full day of exploration, guided commentary, snorkel gear, and transport. While the entrance fees for certain caves are extra, many feel that seeing these natural wonders in such a compact, well-organized package is worth the price. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for making the trip enjoyable and informative.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities and scenic vistas. Families with children over a year old, groups of friends, or solo explorers who appreciate a lively but relaxed boat trip will find it rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who want to see multiple highlights without the logistical hassle of separate excursions.

However, if you have back problems, are in a wheelchair, or have very young children, the tour’s boat ride and some stops may not be suitable. Weather can also be a factor, so flexible travelers will appreciate the option to reschedule if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave visit included in the price?
The Blue Cave is an optional stop, and the tour price includes a 10-minute visit. You can pay the entrance fee of about €24 if you choose to enter, but it’s not mandatory.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen. It’s also wise to have some snacks or drinks, especially since lunch isn’t included.

How long is the boat ride?
The full-day tour lasts approximately from morning until late afternoon, with stops at several sites, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each location.

Can the itinerary change due to weather?
Yes. Weather conditions can affect certain stops, especially the Blue Cave. The tour offers flexibility to reschedule, so you won’t miss out entirely.

Is the group size small or large?
It’s a small-group experience, with about 10-12 people, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more personalized trip.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Mornings are usually best for the Blue Cave, when the sunlight creates the most dramatic lighting. However, weather and availability may influence timing.

Final Thoughts

This Boat Tour from Hvar offers a comprehensive, water-filled adventure that showcases Croatia’s most famous natural sights. With knowledgeable guides, impressive scenery, and a flexible approach to weather, it makes for an engaging day out. Whether you’re keen on snorkeling, capturing stunning photos, or simply relaxing in beautiful surroundings, this trip delivers on all fronts.

The tour’s value is clear: a full day of exploration packed with iconic sites and memorable experiences. It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic taste of Croatia’s islands without the stress of detailed planning or multiple bookings. The combination of scenic beauty, friendly guides, and the chance to swim in some of Europe’s clearest waters makes it a worthwhile addition to any Dalmatian itinerary.

For travelers who prioritize natural wonders and lively boat rides, this tour is a smart choice. But keep in mind, weather can play a role, so flexibility and patience are key. Overall, it’s a fun, scenic, and well-organized way to see the best of Croatia’s coast—and create some fantastic memories along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: