From Hvar: Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Private Boat Tour

This experience made our article of 12 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Hvar City.

From Hvar: Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Private Boat Tour

Planning a day on the water around Hvar? This private boat tour offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most captivating natural sights — the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and beautiful beaches of the Pakleni Islands. It’s an experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on a comfortable speedboat, designed for groups up to 10 people. Whether you’re after an adventure-filled day or just want to unwind in stunning surroundings, this tour has plenty to offer.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the expert guides and skippers receive high praise for their knowledge and attentiveness, turning a sightseeing trip into a personalized experience. Second, the spectacular natural sights like the Blue Cave and Stiniva Bay are genuinely unforgettable. On the flip side, it’s important to note that entrance tickets for the caves aren’t included in the base price, and you’ll need cash for those, which can be a slight inconvenience if you’re not prepared. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a flexible, private day on the water, especially those keen on exploring Croatia’s famous coastal caves and beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You decide which spots to visit, making for a tailored experience.
• Expert guides: Skippers like Vinko, Davor, and Tin are praised for their local knowledge and friendliness.
• Stunning natural highlights: The Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Stiniva Bay are the main attractions.
• Good value for a private tour: Cost per group includes up to 10 travelers, offering a relatively affordable luxury.
• Be prepared for cash expenses: Entrance tickets for caves are not included, and you’ll need cash to buy them.
• Ideal for active and relaxed travelers: Offers swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the boat.

The Itinerary: A Day at Sea

This tour begins in Hvar town’s main pier, right next to the post office, where your skipper will meet you and set the tone for the day. The vessel is a comfortable speedboat, spacious enough for your group to relax and enjoy the ride. As you cruise toward your destinations, you’ll feel the salty breeze and hear the rhythmic splashing of waves — a reminder that you’re about to enjoy some of Croatia’s best coastal scenery.

Exploring the Green Cave and Stiniva Bay

Your first stop is the Green Cave on the island of Vis. This cave is a natural wonder, and your skipper will help you enter to see its luminous green waters and rock formations. Swimmers will love the chance to dip in, and those who prefer to stay dry can admire the view from the boat. The Green Cave’s entrance is accessible, and many travelers comment on how striking the color contrast inside.

Next, you’ll anchor at Stiniva Bay, famed for its unusual, narrow entrance and the crystal-clear water inside. This cove is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling, offering both natural beauty and a chance to cool off. As one reviewer pointed out, “This bay has an unusual shape and is a gorgeous location for swimming and snorkeling.” You can jump in directly from the boat or take a smaller rubber boat to explore. There’s also a bar at the beach if you want to buy a drink and relax.

The Highlight: The Blue Cave

By late morning or early afternoon, you’ll head toward the Blue Cave — the star attraction of this tour. The Blue Cave is a natural marvel that draws visitors from around the world. The tour operators do not include the entrance fee in the package, so be ready with cash (roughly 70 to 100 Croatian kuna per person depending on the season). While waiting for your turn, many guests enjoy grabbing a cold drink from the nearby bar, escaping the sun’s intensity.

Once inside, you’ll witness the magical light phenomenon as sunlight filters through underwater openings, illuminating the cave’s interior with a glowing blue hue. This spectacle is truly breathtaking and worth the small extra expense and effort to see. Just remember, the cave can get crowded, and access might be limited during peak season.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Stops and Personalization

After the Blue Cave, the boat may make additional stops based on your group’s interests. Options include:

• Green Lagoon on Budikovac Island, for a peaceful swim in calm waters.
• Seal Monk’s Cave, a lesser-known but intriguing geological feature.
• Stoncica Beach or Korčula Town, if you desire a taste of local life.
• Visiting a WWII submarine garage for history buffs.

Many guests appreciate the flexibility here. A reviewer notes, “Our skipper Davor was attentive and took us to different spots around Hvar, making the day very personalized.” This ability to tailor your trip adds real value, especially if you have specific interests or want to skip certain spots.

Pakleni Islands and Palmizana

The afternoon typically includes a visit to the Pakleni Islands, renowned for their palm-lined beaches and relaxed vibe. You’ll have time to explore Palmizana Beach, walk along the marina, or grab a drink at a local bar. The beaches are sandy and inviting, ideal for a final swim or sunbathing. For those who prefer a quieter moment, a stroll through the nearby botanical garden provides a peaceful end to the day.

Sunset Return

As the tour winds down around 6 PM, your boat begins the gentle cruise back to Hvar, just in time to see the sky turn gold and red. Many travelers find this sunset cruise to be a perfect way to end a day of natural beauty and adventure.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses a speedboat that comfortably fits your group of up to 10 people. This small group size makes for a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and customize your route.

Price & Value

At $1,118 for the entire group, this tour offers solid value for a private experience. It enables you to enjoy Croatia’s coast without the hustle and bustle of larger boat tours. Remember, this price does not include the cave entrance tickets, which you’ll need to buy separately — budget around 70-100 kn per person depending on the season.

Duration & Schedule

The tour starts in the morning and returns around 6 PM, providing roughly 8 hours on the water — enough time to see the main sights, swim, and relax. The day is paced with flexibility, giving you a good balance of activity and leisure.

What to Bring

Bring cash for your cave tickets and any additional purchases, such as drinks or lunch. You might also want sunscreen, a hat, and your snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

Considerations & Limitations

• Weather dependent: Bad weather or strong winds can lead to cancellations or route changes, so check the forecast.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or babies under 1 year.
• Health & safety: Share any medical issues beforehand to ensure safety.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Feedback

Guests consistently praise the guides for their expert knowledge and friendly attitude. One reviewer said, “Vinko was an amazing skipper. His expert knowledge was a wonderful addition,” while another raved about Tin’s professionalism and adaptability. Such personalized attention makes a big difference, especially when navigating busy or popular spots.

The natural sights themselves are often described as “beyond beautiful,” with the Blue Cave being a must-see for visitors to Croatia. Many travelers appreciate the chance to swim and snorkel in these pristine waters, making the experience both visually stunning and physically refreshing.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the value is clear when considering the private group setting, flexible itinerary, and the chance to explore multiple unique sites in one day. It’s a good investment for those seeking a personalized adventure rather than a large-group tour.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat tour from Hvar is ideal for travelers who want the freedom to craft their perfect day at sea, whether they’re into natural wonders, swimming, or simply relaxing on a boat with friends or family. The knowledgeable guides and flexible itinerary make it a stand-out choice for those who prefer a more intimate, tailored experience. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate the stunning scenery of Croatia’s coastline, and who are comfortable with a bit of extra expense for added comfort and exclusivity.

If you’re looking for a memorable, private day that balances sightseeing, water fun, and relaxation, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories.

FAQ

Are the cave entrance tickets included in the price?
No, the Blue and Green Cave entrance fees are not included. You’ll need cash to buy tickets on-site—roughly 70-100 kn per person, depending on the season.

What makes this tour different from other boat trips?
It’s a private, customizable experience, with a small group size and expert guides who personalize stops based on your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The entire day runs from morning until around 6 PM, providing about 8 hours on the water.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for cave tickets, sunscreen, water, snacks, and possibly your own snorkeling gear if preferred.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Not recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those with back problems. Always inform the tour operator of medical issues beforehand.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions prevent safe travel, the tour may be canceled or routes changed, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Can I customize my stops?
Yes, the skipper can adapt the route to your wishes, choosing from options like the Green Lagoon, Seal Monk’s Cave, or visits to other small beaches or towns.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 10 guests, which ensures a more personal experience and easier communication.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Spring and early fall (May, June, September) are ideal, with fewer crowds and lower ticket prices. July and August are busier and more expensive.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can buy food and drinks at the stops or bring your own.

This private boat tour from Hvar offers an inviting way to see Croatia’s coast with the comfort and flexibility most travelers crave. Whether you’re after natural beauty, a relaxing day on the water, or a bit of both, it’s an experience worth considering for your Croatian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: