From Hvar: Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Group Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, this speedboat tour from Hvar to the Blue and Green Caves, Stiniva Bay, and Pakleni Islands offers a lively mix of natural beauty and memorable moments. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a compelling experience that can appeal to travelers craving both adventure and picturesque scenery.

What we love about this tour is its emphasis on unique natural sights—the Blue Cave’s magical light and the Green Cave’s enchanting glow—plus the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at Stiniva Bay. The inclusion of a sandy beach at Palmizana provides a relaxing break amidst scenic coves. However, you’ll want to be aware of potential weather-related changes, especially regarding cave access, which can affect the overall experience.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy water-based adventures, scenic island visits, and a flexible itinerary that adapts to weather and group preferences. If you’re up for a full day at sea, discovering Croatia’s hidden coastal gems, and enjoy lively boat trips, this experience likely suits you well.

This experience made our article of Pakleni Islands’s 12 Best Tours & Experiences (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

Highlights include the Blue and Green Caves and their spectacular lighting effects.
Swim and relax at Stiniva Bay, renowned for its distinctive shape and clear waters.
Visit the vibrant Pakleni Islands and enjoy the sandy Palmizana Beach.
Flexible itinerary allows optional stops based on weather and group interests.
Inclusion of snorkeling gear and safety equipment emphasizes safety and fun.
Price offers good value for a full day of exploration, especially considering the stops and scenic spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Hvar Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Tour

This full-day speedboat adventure offers a wonderful way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic coastal sights. The tour begins in Hvar’s main harbor, where you’ll meet your crew at the local office before stepping aboard a comfortable speedboat. From there, the day is a whirlwind of natural beauty, lively stops, and opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.

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The Journey Begins: Setting Out from Hvar

The tour starts with a short cruise from Hvar’s harbor, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the breeze. Your local skipper, well-versed in the area’s secrets, will navigate the route, which is designed to maximize the experience while adjusting for weather conditions. Expect a lively atmosphere with music and plenty of time to chat with fellow travelers.

First Stop: The Green Cave on Ravnik Island

The Green Cave is a favorite for many. Located on the islet of Ravnik, it’s a small, magical spot where sunlight filters through an opening in the ceiling, creating a glowing, emerald effect on the water and walls. You’ll anchor nearby, then have options: swim directly into the cave, jump off the boat, or explore from the outside. The experience of swimming into a glowing green-lit cave is genuinely memorable and offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Authentic travelers have noted the allure of this spot: “the sunlight filters through an opening in the cave ceiling, creating a magical green glow as it reflects off the seafloor.” The Green Cave is accessible only with an organized tour—making it a highlight for many.

Next: Stiniva Bay, Croatia’s Hidden Gem

Following the Green Cave, your boat will head to Stiniva Bay, a natural marvel with a narrow entrance and a spectacularly shaped cove. This is the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling, with clear waters and a sandy beach bar where you can purchase drinks, relax, and watch the world go by.

One reviewer shared, “The bay has an unusual shape and is a gorgeous location for swimming and snorkeling.” The calm waters and scenic setting make it ideal for a break from boat hopping, and it’s a spot where you can truly unwind.

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Visiting the Blue Cave: A Must-See Natural Wonder

The Blue Cave is the star of this tour—an extraordinary natural phenomenon where sunlight creates a glowing blue interior. Access to the cave isn’t guaranteed year-round, as it depends on tides and weather. Your skipper will help you purchase entrance tickets and coordinate timing, which are paid on-site.

Waiting for entry can be relaxing: you might hang out at a nearby bar or chill in the shade. The actual boat that takes you inside is operated by Blue Cave staff and is small, ensuring you get close to the cave’s stunning walls.

One reviewer mentions the experience as “a national natural wonder,” emphasizing how the sunlight plays with the water, creating an almost surreal effect. The cave is a highlight for many visiting Croatia.

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Additional Stops: The Optional Part of the Adventure

Depending on the weather, time, and your group’s interests, your skipper might suggest an extra stop—perhaps Vis Town, Komiza, or a scenic island like Bodikovac. Other options could include the WWII submarine tunnel or a quiet beach on Vis, providing a personalized touch to your trip.

The Relaxing Finale: Palmizana Beach on Pakleni Islands

The last major stop is Palmizana, known for its sandy coves, lush pine groves, and vibrant seaside restaurants. It’s a perfect place to relax, swim, or enjoy a leisurely lunch. The beach bars are well-regarded, and many appreciate the chance to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing.

According to a review, “Palmizana is the perfect spot to soak in the laid-back island atmosphere,” offering options for both active exploration and relaxing in the sun.

Return to Hvar and Sunset Views

By late afternoon, your boat will head back to Hvar, just in time to witness the sunset turning the sky into a canvas of gold and red. The cruise back is a scenic and peaceful way to end your day on the water.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes everything you need for a full day at sea: a local skipper, fuel, safety gear, life jackets, bottled water, snorkeling masks, and the music system onboard. Entrance tickets to the Blue and Green Caves are paid separately, and lunch/snacks are also extra—offered at seaside restaurants at Palmizana or nearby.

The price of $94 per person reflects a solid value, providing access to multiple iconic sites, guided navigation, and all safety considerations. Compared to the cost of renting a boat or doing independent trips, this organized tour offers convenience and safety—especially important given the sometimes unpredictable Croatian weather and sea conditions.

The Realities and Cautions

While the itinerary sounds ideal, a few reviewers have expressed concerns. Some report reckless skippers or unsafe behavior, which underscores the importance of choosing a reputable provider. Plus, access to the Blue and Green Caves can be affected by tides and weather—if conditions aren’t right, planned stops may be substituted or canceled.

You should also be prepared with cash for tickets and optional purchases, and understand that lunch and drinks are extra. The tour timing varies slightly depending on the season—earlier sunsets in September and October mean it may be a slightly shorter day, but fewer crowds could compensate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Croatia’s famous caves, love swimming in clear waters, and enjoy island-hopping with a flexible itinerary, this trip is a good choice. It’s especially suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full day at sea and are comfortable with a lively boat environment.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed, less adventure-focused experience, you might want to consider other options. Also, given some reviews of inconsistent skipper safety, it’s wise to research and select a reputable company.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour offers a lively, scenic, and truly Croatian way to explore the Dalmatian coast. The stops at the Green and Blue Caves are genuinely magical, and swimming in Stiniva Bay provides an authentic taste of the region’s natural beauty. The opportunity to relax on Palmizana’s sandy beaches and enjoy the sea breeze makes it a well-rounded day.

The value lies in the combination of diverse sights, the chance for spontaneous optional stops, and the scenic cruise back to Hvar at sunset. It’s best for energetic travelers who want a hands-on adventure, enjoy the water, and are looking for a guided experience that covers multiple highlights in one day.

This tour is a chance to create lasting memories of Croatia’s stunning coastline—so long as you’re prepared for some variability in weather and safety standards.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
You meet outside the HvarBoats office, next to the Post Office at Riva 13 in Hvar’s city center, about 15 minutes before the tour starts.

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or pregnant women, suggesting a focus on older children and adults.

Are entrance tickets to the caves included?
No, entrance tickets for the Blue and Green Caves are purchased onsite before entering each cave.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included in the price, but you can buy meals and drinks at seaside restaurants on Palmizana or nearby locations.

What if the caves are closed due to weather?
If access to the Blue or Green Cave is not possible because of high tide or wind, the route will be adjusted to visit alternative spots, or the tour may be canceled for safety.

How long is the tour?
The tour runs roughly from the morning until around 6 PM, with some variation depending on the season and weather.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, a change of clothes, cash for tickets and extras, and be prepared for sun and sea.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are available onboard for use, enhancing the swimming experience.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really—it’s not suitable for electric wheelchairs or people with recent surgeries, and it involves getting on and off boats.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

This speedboat tour from Hvar makes for an exciting, scenic day that captures many of Croatia’s coastal treasures. With a bit of planning and a sense of adventure, it can be a highlight of your Dalmatian trip.