From Split: Private Blue Cave & 5 Islands Snorkeling Cruise

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of the Dalmatian coast on a sleek speedboat, exploring some of Croatia’s most iconic sights—sounds appealing, right? This private cruise from Split offers travelers a chance to see the Blue Cave, five distinct islands, and countless hidden spots, all tailored to your schedule and interests. It’s a great option for those who want flexibility, personalized service, and a taste of authentic island life.

We love the combination of access and intimacy this tour provides—being able to avoid crowds and take your time at each stop makes a real difference. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a professional skipper means you can focus on enjoying your surroundings without fussing over logistics. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this experience is on a speedboat, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calm waters, that’s worth considering before booking.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers, couples, or small groups eager for a personalized day on the water. Keep in mind it’s not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems. If you’re looking for a flexible, scenic, and somewhat exclusive way to see the Dalmatian islands, this cruise could be a highlight of your stay.

This experience made our article of The Top 12 Split Snorkeling Experiences.

Key Points

• Private & customizable schedule for a relaxed, personalized experience
• Includes snorkeling gear and all necessary safety equipment
• Visit the Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, Hvar, and other scenic spots
• High customer satisfaction with a 5/5 rating based on one review
• Good value for a private group, with a price that reflects exclusivity and comfort
• Not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with back problems

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This private cruise from Split is designed for travelers who want to explore the Dalmatian coast without the hustle of larger group tours. For about $1,765 per group (up to 12 people), you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and soaking in some of Croatia’s most photogenic spots—without the crowds and with plenty of opportunities to relax or explore at your own pace.

The tour typically starts early, around 7:30 AM, to beat the crowds at the Blue Cave and on popular islands. While the exact start time is flexible, arriving early is a smart move if you want to enjoy the Blue Cave with fewer travelers. The 90-minute ride on a speedboat is smooth and comfortable, with lifejackets and wind jackets provided, making it suitable even if you’re new to speedboating.

The Itinerary in Detail

Blue Cave: The Highlight

The Blue Cave is undoubtedly the star of this cruise—it’s one of Croatia’s most famous natural sights. Thanks to its unique light reflection, the cave glows a vibrant blue, creating a surreal atmosphere that’s worth the early start. Our review highlights that booking in advance can help avoid long lines, thanks to the skipper’s connections, which is a huge plus.

Porat Beach on Bievo Island

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to Porat Beach, a hidden sandy spot beneath a cliff on Bievo Island. What makes it special is its seclusion and the soft sand—perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing in the sun. There’s also the option to explore the island or grab a snack at one of the two cafés. Travelers have found this part of the trip charming, with the added bonus of natural beauty and tranquility.

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Stiniva Bay on Vis Island

A secret favorite for many is Stiniva Bay, located on the west side of Vis Island. The bay’s cliffs frame a small, pebble beach that’s perfect for swimming. The bay’s dramatic cliffs are the result of a collapsed cave ceiling, giving it a wild, untouched feel. The review quotes that it’s “one of the most beautiful beaches in the world,” and swimming here is a must-do. Accessible only by boat, it’s a true hidden gem.

Snorkeling at Budikovac Lagoon

Another highlight is Budikovac Lagoon, part of a small chain of islets forming a vivid blue lagoon. The clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, which is included in the tour. The marine life and calm waters make for an enjoyable experience, especially since snorkeling equipment is provided. The lagoon also features a beach bar and restaurant, so you can decide whether to relax with a drink or explore the area further.

Hvar: The Sunshine Capital

The final major stop is Hvar Town, renowned for its sunny days and lively atmosphere. The old town is walkable and dotted with historic sites like the Cathedral of Saint Stephen, Bishops Palace, and the oldest public theatre in Europe—Hvar Theatre. For panoramic views, a short hike up to the fortress offers a stunning vista of the archipelago. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to stroll through Hvar’s charming streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch; the crew is happy to recommend local restaurants.

Return Ride

After a full day exploring, the return journey takes around an hour, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The boat ride back is comfortable, and the scenic views make the journey part of the adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers the essentials—boat, tickets, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, cooler, bottled water, licensed skipper, and insurance—making it straightforward and hassle-free. However, food and drinks at the various stops are not included, so bringing some snacks and cash for meals is wise. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in Split.

The Meeting Point & Practicalities

The starting point is at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 12, on the promenade across from Coffee Bar Fro. The tour provider will send a photo of the exact meeting spot. The experience ends back at the same location, so plan your transportation accordingly.

The tour is available in several languages, including Croatian, German, and English, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers. Booking is flexible—pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance—adding peace of mind to your planning.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Michelle’s review encapsulates the overall sentiment—describing the experience as “worth every penny,” especially thanks to the skipper’s connections and knowledge. She highlights the benefit of avoiding long lines at the Blue Cave and appreciating the “picturesque villages and beautiful sea,” which adds to the authentic feel of the trip.

From the perspective of value, many find that this private tour balances cost with exclusivity, allowing for a more relaxed and tailored experience that larger group tours often can’t provide. The ability to extend the tour and avoid crowds makes it stand out.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat cruise from Split offers a well-rounded, intimate way to explore the Dalmatian islands and coastline. The combination of natural beauty, personalized service, and flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want to see Croatia’s highlights without the typical tourist crowds. Whether you’re snorkeling in a quiet lagoon, snapping photos of the Blue Cave, or strolling through Hvar’s historic streets, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.

It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic, scenic moments and don’t mind a bit of sea movement. The price reflects the exclusivity and comfort of a private group, making it a worthwhile splurge for a special day on the water.

The only real consideration is the speedboat ride—if you’re not comfortable with open water or have mobility issues, it might be worth seeking alternatives. Otherwise, this tour promises a memorable, picture-perfect adventure along Croatia’s stunning coast.

FAQ Section

Is the tour private or a group experience?
This tour is private and tailored to your group, up to 12 people, offering flexibility and personalized attention.

What is the start time?
You can choose your start time, but beginning around 7:30 AM is recommended to avoid crowds at the Blue Cave.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can enjoy exploring the underwater life around the lagoons and bays.

How long does the boat ride take?
The boat ride lasts approximately 90 minutes each way, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery and arrive at each destination.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include the Blue Cave, Porat Beach on Bievo Island, Stiniva Bay on Vis, Budikovac Lagoon, and Hvar Town.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are cafés and restaurants at some stops, plus a cooler with bottled water on board.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 4 years old. For older children, consider their comfort with speedboat rides and open water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, cash for meals or souvenirs, and any personal items you may need.

Can I book the tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

In essence, this private Blue Cave and 5 Islands cruise from Split is a fantastic way to see Croatia’s coast with ease and comfort. It offers the chance to experience iconic sights with a personal touch—ideal for travelers craving memorable, scenic moments away from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: