From Hvar: Blue Cave, Green Cave & 5 Islands Speedboat Tour

From Hvar: Blue Cave, Green Cave & 5 Islands Speedboat Tour

Imagine zipping across the sparkling Adriatic on a speedy boat, visiting vibrant islands, secret coves, and shimmering caves — that’s exactly what this Blue Cave and 5 Islands Tour promises. Perfect for anyone eager to see the highlights of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast in a single day, this trip balances fun, scenery, and the chance to swim in some of the clearest waters you’ll find anywhere.

What we really like about this experience is how it packs so much into one day — from colorful caves to tranquil beaches — without feeling rushed. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and smooth boats make a big difference in creating a safe and relaxed atmosphere. However, be aware that access to the famous Blue Cave depends on weather and tides, so plans might shift unexpectedly. This tour suits travelers who love adventure, scenic beauty, and don’t mind a bit of movement on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Multiple island stops offer a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coastline
• Blue and Green caves are natural spectacles worth seeing, weather permitting
• Swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in pristine waters are central to the experience
• Expert guides and skippers keep the day informative and safe
• Price at $112 provides relatively good value considering the variety of locations and activities
• Weather and cave access can influence the itinerary, so flexibility helps

An Excursion Packed with Highlights and Hidden Gems

This speedboat tour from Hvar is designed for those who want to maximize their day exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands and natural sites. The experience kicks off at 10:30 AM from the Gajeta Agency’s office in Hvar, giving you a chance to meet your guide and get briefed before heading out. With a group limited to around 10-12 people, the boat ride feels intimate, and you’ll often find yourself exchanging stories with fellow travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island (around 30 minutes) sets the tone for the day. This small, picture-perfect bay is ideal for swimming or snorkeling in waters that shimmer with shades of blue and green. As some reviews mention, this spot is a real highlight, with “crystal-clear waters” perfect for floating and photo ops. We loved the way the tour allows enough time here — you can relax on the beach or take a quick dip.

Next up is the Blue Cave, a true standout. The cave’s name comes from the stunning sunlight reflections that dance across the walls, creating a surreal, glowing effect. Visitors frequently describe this as “so cool” and “an experience of its own.” However, it’s important to note that the cave is sometimes closed due to weather conditions like high tides or wind, which can be disappointing if you’re set on seeing it. The tour provider advises that the Blue Cave may be inaccessible in such cases, but they often offer alternative stops nearby.

Onward to Stiniva Cove on Vis Island — a favorite among travelers for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes for swimming, sunbathing, or snapping photos from the cliffs. Many reviews mention that the cove’s beauty feels almost untouched, and some opt to swim ashore for a different perspective. Our guides are praised for their helpfulness, with one reviewer noting that the skipper “skilfully steered through the waves” to minimize bumpiness.

The Pakleni Islands provide a scenic cruise around smaller islands, with an optional stop at Palmizana, renowned for its sandy beach and casual eateries. This part of the trip offers a chance to stretch legs and soak in the views. Some travelers appreciate that the guides are attentive and share stories about each location, turning a boat ride into a mini maritime adventure.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxing

Throughout the day, you’ll have multiple opportunities to jump in the water — whether at the Blue Lagoon, Stiniva Cove, or a secluded private cove. Many reviews highlight the “crystal-clear waters” making snorkeling a must-do activity. If you’re not comfortable swimming, don’t worry — life jackets and snorkeling gear are provided, and guides are happy to assist.

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The Green Cave and Other Surprises

While some tours include a visit to the Green Cave, this particular trip offers an option to skip it if the weather isn’t suitable. One reviewer mentions that their guide replaced the Green Cave with a “special spot… an almost private cove with crystal waters,” which turned out to be a highlight. This flexibility is useful because the Green Cave’s opening depends heavily on weather conditions, and some find the entrance less spectacular compared to the Blue Cave.

Final Stops and Return to Hvar

After all the adventures, the boat heads back towards Hvar, making a final stop at the Pakleni Islands, including a quick cruise around the smaller islands. Many travelers enjoy this relaxed part of the trip, sipping water, listening to music, and reminiscing about the day. The return journey is smooth, with most reviews praising the boat’s comfort and the friendly crew.

Practical Aspects and Value

For $112 per person, this tour offers a good balance of variety, scenery, and fun. The cost includes a speedboat ride, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, bottled water, and a guide — essentials that make the experience seamless. Entrance fees to the Blue Cave are not included and are paid separately (around 18 euros), which travelers should budget for.

Timing-wise, the tour lasts roughly a full day, beginning at 10:30 AM and returning in the early evening. The boat is described as comfortable, with some reviews noting it’s larger than average, which helps smooth out rough waters — a definite plus if you’re prone to seasickness.

What to Bring

Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for cave entrance fees or snacks. The guides recommend bringing cash as cards aren’t accepted for cave entry. Also, a waterproof bag is handy for valuables while swimming.

Weather and Cave Access

The tour route is weather-dependent. High winds or tides can delay or cancel cave visits, especially to the Blue Cave. This uncertainty is mentioned in reviews, with some travelers expressing slight disappointment when the cave was closed but appreciating the guides’ efforts to find alternative spots.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With around 10-12 people, the boat feels cozy but not crowded, which many reviews praise. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention from guides, and the possibility to customize stops based on the group’s preferences.

Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

Many reviews reinforce the high regard for the guides, often highlighting their knowledge, helpfulness, and friendly vibe. One traveler states, “Our skipper Andrea was great and gave us knowledgeable information about each stop,” while others mention that the guides went above and beyond — even organizing birthday surprises or extra stops.

The scenery consistently gets high praise. Reviewers describe the waters as “the clearest I’ve seen,” and the caves as “unreal.” Several mention that the tour exceeded expectations, especially with the private coves and the chance to swim in almost untouched spots.

The value for money is often highlighted, especially given the number of stops and activities packed into a single day. Some note that the additional fee for the Blue Cave is worthwhile, as it’s the main attraction for many.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, exploring multiple islands in one day, and snorkeling in clear, turquoise waters, this trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of boat riding and are flexible with potential weather changes. It’s also a good choice for those wanting a guided experience that combines natural beauty with local insights.

However, if you have mobility issues, back problems, or are pregnant, this might not be the best fit due to the boat’s movement and the physical nature of swimming stops. It’s also worth noting that the Blue Cave is not always accessible, so don’t plan the entire day around seeing it.

The Sum Up

This speedboat trip from Hvar is a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to explore the Dalmatian coast’s highlights in a single day. With opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and discovering caves, it offers a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty without the need for multiple separate visits. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable boats, and stunning locations make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those eager to see the Blue Cave and enjoy a day on the water.

For travelers who value a good mix of adventure and relaxation, and who appreciate local guides sharing stories and tips, this tour delivers. Just remember to be flexible with the weather and cave access, and bring along some cash and a sense of curiosity.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave included in the tour price?
No, entrance to the Blue Cave costs about 18 euros and is paid separately. It’s advisable to bring cash for this fee, as cards aren’t accepted.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour departs at 10:30 AM from the Gajeta Agency in Hvar and typically returns in the early evening, making it a full-day experience.

How many people are on the boat?
Most boats accommodate around 10-12 travelers, providing a comfortable, intimate setting and more personalized guidance.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash, and possibly a waterproof bag for valuables. Some stops involve swimming or snorkeling, so be prepared with appropriate gear.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are core parts of the tour, with plenty of time allocated at each location for water activities.

What if the Blue Cave is closed?
The guides will usually suggest alternative stops, such as private coves or other scenic spots. Many travelers find these alternatives just as memorable.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on water activities and boat rides are generally suitable for older children and teenagers, but always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What is the weather dependence?
The route and cave visits depend heavily on weather conditions. High winds or tides can cause delays or cancellations of cave visits.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch is not included, but bottled water and snacks are provided on board. You might want to bring some cash for meals on islands.

Is the tour flexible regarding stops?
Guides aim to tailor the experience based on weather and group preferences, including optional visits to caves or private coves.

This detailed look shows that the From Hvar: Blue Cave, Green Cave & 5 Islands Speedboat Tour combines scenic adventure with practical convenience, making it a standout choice for exploring Croatia’s stunning coast in a day.

You can check availability for your dates here: