From Hvar: Blue and Green Cave Day Tour

If you’re considering a day on the water in Croatia, the Blue and Green Cave tour from Hvar offers an exciting mix of natural beauty, fun swimming spots, and scenic island cruising. Based on a solid mix of traveler reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour can be a highlight of your Dalmatian journey—if you enjoy boats, beaches, and a splash of adventure.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines the spectacular Blue Cave with other less-crowded but equally gorgeous sights like the Green Cave and Stiniva Cove. The chance to swim in pristine waters and relax on beautiful beaches makes it feel more like a day with friends than just a ride on the sea. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that cave entry isn’t guaranteed—bad weather or high tides can sometimes prevent access, which might be disappointing for cave lovers.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural scenery, want a flexible, active day, and don’t mind a boat trip that’s more about scenery and swimming than heavy historical info. If you’re looking for a laid-back, fun-filled day on the water with plenty of chances to cool off and snap photos, this might be just right for you.

This experience made our article of We Rank Hvar City’s 12 Top Tours & Experiences.

Key Points

• Stunning Cave Experience: The Blue and Green Caves are the main attractions, offering unforgettable views and photo opportunities.
• Great for Swimming: Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing add a relaxing touch.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Stiniva Cove and Vinogradice Bay include beach time and optional local lunch, depending on your preferences.
• Knowledgeable Crew: Many reviews praise the guides and skippers for their friendliness and helpfulness.
• Value for Money: At around $106, the tour offers a full day of island hopping, swimming, and sightseeing.
• Weather-Dependent: Cave visits can be affected by tides or weather, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Route and What to Expect

The adventure kicks off at the Hvar seafront, where you’ll meet your skipper and fellow travelers. Expect a speedboat ride that’s swift and exhilarating, with plenty of sun and waves. The boat typically has about 12 seats, so it feels spacious but lively. This setup helps keep the experience intimate and fun, especially with a crew that’s engaged and eager to share stories.

First Stop: The Green Cave on Ravnik Island

This cave is famous not just for its vibrant color but also for its unique underwater glow. The light inside the Green Cave is a result of sunlight filtering through the water, creating an emerald effect that you can enjoy while swimming or snorkeling. Many reviews highlight how spectacular the green hue is, with some describing it as the highlight of their trip.

One reviewer, Gaurav, mentioned, “The guides very helpful and kept everyone engaged. They also helped the group in the water. Really enjoyed the day on the blue and green cave tour!”

Second Stop: The Blue Cave on Bievo Island

The Blue Cave is the star of this tour—a true natural wonder. To access it, you’ll transfer from your speedboat to a small shuttlecraft. Inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the silvery-blue light, cast from sunlight entering through a natural opening in the cave’s roof. It’s a place best enjoyed with your camera ready, as the reflections and colors are truly mesmerizing.

Some reviews mention waiting times—lines can be long in the high season, but your guide will do their best to keep you entertained. If weather conditions aren’t ideal, access might be restricted, so patience is key.

Third Stop: Stiniva Cove

This hidden gem is often praised as a “breathtaking” spot, with a small pebble beach surrounded by towering rocks. You’ll have the chance to jump off the boat into the clear waters, explore a narrow passage called “Stiniva Gates,” or simply relax on the beach with a drink or snacks.

Reviewer Terri shared, “Sunbathing on Stiniva Beach was a highlight. The scenery is breathtaking, and the water is refreshingly cold and clean.”

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Final Stops: Pakleni Islands and Vinogradice Bay

The tour concludes with a cruise through the Pakleni Islands, a chain of small islands opposite Hvar. Here, you might opt for a seaside lunch at one of the local restaurants—not included in the price, but worth considering if you want a proper Croatian meal. Many travelers, like Lucas, appreciated local restaurant recommendations, which added a personal touch to the day.

After lunch, there’s more time for swimming or just soaking up the scenery before heading back to Hvar at sunset. The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full but relaxed day.

The Experience: What You’ll Love

The real charm of this tour lies in its combination of scenic views and active relaxation. You’ll get to see some of Croatia’s most famous natural attractions without the crowds that often gather around the Blue Cave in peak season. Many travelers mention how the guides’ local knowledge and engaging stories add value, making the trip both educational and fun.

The value for the price is apparent—the trip offers a full day of island hopping, swimming, and sightseeing, with the boat comfortably accommodating about a dozen guests. Multiple reviews highlight how the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness made the day special, including assisting with water entries and providing plenty of snacks and drinks.

Cave Visit Tips

Keep in mind that the Blue Cave’s popularity can lead to long queues, especially in summer. Some visitors mentioned waiting around 30 minutes, while others worry it might be up to four hours in peak times. If cave access is your main priority, early start or flexible expectations are wise. Still, many found that the other stops, like Stiniva Cove and the Green Cave, more than compensated for any cave waiting.

Swimming and Sunbathing

The opportunity to swim in pristine waters, especially in the Green Cave and around the Pakleni Islands, is a major plus. Travelers report the water as “gorgeous” and “perfect for snorkeling.” The stops at beaches like Stiniva offer a chance to sunbathe in virtually untouched scenery—a true Mediterranean delight.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With about 12 guests on board, the tour feels intimate and relaxed. Many reviews describe the experience as feeling more like a day spent with friends than a typical tour. The crew’s friendly attitude and willingness to share tips—like restaurant suggestions—add a personal touch.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Price & Value: At roughly $106 per person, this tour delivers a lot—scenery, swimming, and local flavor—making it a worthwhile splurge for those who love the water.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and a sun hat are essential. Pack light, as the boat isn’t overly large.
• Weather Dependency: Cave visits depend on weather conditions. If the sea is rough or tides are high, access might be restricted.
• Timing: The tour typically lasts about 9 hours, with lunch on your own at Vinogradice Bay. Expect late lunch or early dinner.
• Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users: The tour is not designed for those with mobility issues.
• Booking & Cancellation: Flexible reservation options allow you to book now and pay later, with a 24-hour cancellation window for refunds.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who are active and enjoy the outdoors. If you love swimming, boat rides, and scenic sights, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also ideal for those who want a value-packed day that combines natural wonders with light adventure.

However, if you’re mainly interested in interior sightseeing or seeking a very quiet, less crowded experience, you might find this tour a bit busy or weather-dependent. Also, if you’re not comfortable on boats or cannot tolerate choppy waters, it’s worth considering other options or prepared with a seasickness remedy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, the tour price does not include cave entrance fees, which are payable on-site if you choose to go into the caves. The experience is mainly about the boat ride and outdoor stops.

How long does the Blue Cave visit last?
You get enough time to take photos and enjoy the cave’s beauty, but actual time inside can vary depending on queues and weather. Expect around 20-30 minutes inside the Blue Cave.

Can I swim inside the caves?
You can swim in the Green Cave and at other stops, but swimming inside the Blue Cave isn’t permitted. The Green Cave offers a natural underwater glow worth experiencing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by families, especially with children who like swimming and boating. The boat size and activity level are manageable, but always check for individual comfort with waters and boat rides.

Will I have time for lunch?
Lunch isn’t included, but there’s an opportunity to enjoy a seaside meal at Vinogradice Bay, or you can bring your own snacks. Many travelers recommend packing some food if you prefer an early or quick lunch.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect cave access and the overall experience. If the sea is rough or conditions are unfavorable, the crew might modify the itinerary or skip certain stops, but most reviews mention that the crew tries to keep everyone entertained and comfortable.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can enjoy viewing the caves from the boat and relaxing on beaches. Life jackets are usually provided, and guides are helpful in assisting less confident swimmers.

The Blue and Green Cave tour from Hvar offers a memorable way to explore Croatia’s stunning coastlines and natural wonders. It caters well to travelers who prioritize scenic beauty, swimming, and a laid-back boat experience. The mix of knowledgeable guides, picturesque stops, and the chance to see the famous Blue Cave makes it a compelling choice—just keep expectations flexible for weather and cave access.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines nature, swimming, and island hopping with friendly crew service, this tour will likely exceed your expectations. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, engaging, and visually stunning experience without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Happy sailing and swimming in Croatia’s crystal-clear waters. This trip promises plenty of fun and fabulous photo ops—enjoy every minute!

You can check availability for your dates here: