Travelers looking for a memorable day exploring Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast will find this private boat tour offers an intimate, flexible way to see some of the most beautiful spots around Split. This tour, designed for small groups up to 10, combines the magic of the Blue Cave with charming villages, secluded coves, and the vibrant town of Hvar — all with the comfort of your own boat and skipper.
What we love about this experience is its customizable itinerary and personalized service. Unlike crowded group excursions, this private tour moves at your pace, allowing for spontaneous dips into crystal-clear waters or extra time in charming villages. Our second favorite aspect is how the tour balances nature, culture, and leisure — providing a full day of scenic beauty, authentic local flavor, and relaxation.
A potential drawback? The Blue Cave entrance fee is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for that. Also, given the seasonality of some stops, the experience can vary depending on weather and crowds, especially at popular spots like Stiniva Cove and Hvar during peak season. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a tailored, flexible day on the water rather than a rigid schedule — perfect for couples, families, or small groups eager for a personalized adventure.
Key Points
- Flexible, private experience tailored to your group’s interests and pace
- Includes multiple stops: Blue Cave, Komiza, Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Island, and Hvar
- Focus on authentic beauty and leisure rather than just sightseeing
- Cost reflects exclusivity — $1,611 for up to 10 people, offering good value for a private day
- Snorkeling gear and bottled water provided for added comfort
- Ideal for those seeking a personalized, scenic escape from crowded tours
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
This private boat tour is designed to give you a fuller, more relaxed experience of Croatia’s coast. Instead of a packed group rushing from one site to the next, you get your own skipper and the freedom to linger or move on according to your mood. For travelers who want to explore at their own rhythm, this is a solid choice.
The trip’s itinerary strikes a balance between world-famous sights like the Blue Cave and lesser-visited gems like Komiza village and Budikovac Island. It’s a thoughtfully curated route that highlights both the natural beauty and authentic local life of the area.
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The Itinerary Deep Dive
Starting Point
Your journey begins at a designated meeting point in Split, where you’ll meet your skipper and hop aboard your private boat. This initial gathering sets the tone for a personalized day, with the assurance that you can tweak the schedule to suit your interests.
The Blue Cave
The headline stop is the Blue Cave, a natural phenomenon celebrated for its glowing aqua blue light, created when sunlight filters through the underwater entrance. The small boat transit through the narrow entrance promises a sense of adventure, and the cave’s shimmering waters make for excellent photos. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to enter.
Komiza Village
Next, the tour takes you to Komiza, a charming, traditional Croatian village often overlooked by mass tours. Here, you’ll have around 45 minutes to enjoy a coffee and soak in the local atmosphere. The quiet streets, rustic architecture, and relaxed vibe make it a perfect spot to slow down and get a taste of island life.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Split
- Dubrovnik: Elaphite islands excursion with Catamaran XLine
- From Split: 6-Island Boat Tour with Hvar, olta, and Bra
- From Split: Islands & Blue Lagoon Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
- From Split: Private Sunset Boat Tour
- From Split: Blue Lagoon and 3 Island Boat Tour
- From Split: Catamaran Cruise to Bol, Golden Horn & Bra
Stiniva Cove
Depending on the season, Stiniva Cove offers a choice of swimming or just snapping photos of the dramatic shoreline. If visiting off-season, the calm waters provide an ideal chance to cool off with a swim, while in high season, the short stop helps avoid overcrowding and still captures the stunning scenery.
Budikovac Island
A highlight for many, Budikovac Island boasts a lagoon with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. You can relax on the beach or enjoy a drink at the bar, making it a perfect mid-morning break. The tranquil setting feels like a hidden paradise, away from the crowds.
Hvar
The final major stop is the vibrant Hvar town — known for its lively atmosphere, picturesque architecture, and historic fortifications like Fortica. You’ll have around two hours here for sightseeing, browsing shops, or enjoying a leisurely lunch. The town balances its reputation as a party hub with authentic charm, making it suitable for a variety of tastes.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour price covers bottled water, snorkeling equipment, the private boat, skipper, fuel, and insurance — ensuring your comfort and safety. Tickets for the Blue Cave are not included, so plan to purchase those separately if you want to enter.
Lunch is also not included, giving you the flexibility to choose a restaurant or picnic in Hvar, depending on your preferences. Personal expenses and any additional activities are on you, but the boat’s private nature means minimal extra costs during the day.
The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective
Reviewers have expressed genuine delight with this tour. One noted, “Such a beautiful day out on the water. Great scenic spots and so much fun! Our skipper, Frane, was so kind and helpful and very skilled at navigating the choppy waters.” The emphasis on professionalism and friendliness makes a big difference when you’re trusting someone to show you around.
The flexibility of the schedule truly sets this tour apart. If you love spontaneous swims, want to linger longer at a favorite spot, or prefer a quicker pace, your skipper can accommodate these preferences. The private nature ensures your experience feels tailored to your group’s energy and interests.
Why Choose This Tour?
This tour offers a genuine escape from crowds and a tailored experience that can adapt to your group’s desires. It’s best for those who value authenticity, comfort, and flexibility over rigid schedules. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a relaxed day on the water, this tour delivers.
The combination of stunning scenery, friendly service, and the chance to explore lesser-known spots makes it a good value, especially considering it’s a private experience. The price might seem steep at a glance, but dividing it among up to 10 people makes it quite reasonable for a day of personalized adventure.
Final Thoughts
This private boat tour to the Blue Cave and Vis highlights is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and customizable day on the Croatian coast. The small-group setting, flexibility, and scenic stops make it stand out from generic tours, offering a personalized taste of the area’s natural beauty and local charm.
If you’re willing to pay a bit more for comfort, flexibility, and the opportunity to craft your perfect day, this experience is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for those traveling in a family, a group of friends, or a couple who want a special day they’ll remember.
For travelers who appreciate stunning natural sights, a leisurely pace, and personal service, this tour hits the right notes. Just be sure to budget for the Blue Cave entrance fee and lunch separately, and you’ll be set for a memorable Croatian adventure.
FAQ
Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.
How many people can join? The tour is designed for up to 10 people, making it intimate and flexible.
What’s included in the price? The price covers bottled water, snorkeling gear, the private boat, skipper, fuel, and insurance. Tickets for the Blue Cave are extra.
Can I customize the itinerary? Absolutely. Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can adapt stops based on your interests and timing.
How long does the tour last? Approximately 10 hours, from start to finish, providing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Do I need to bring my own equipment? Snorkeling gear is provided, and you’re free to bring your own if preferred.
What should I wear or bring? Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and any personal items for a day out on the water. Remember to budget for Blue Cave tickets separately.
This private boat adventure offers a fantastic way to see Croatia’s coast in comfort and style, giving you flexibility and authenticity that larger group tours simply can’t match.
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- From Split: All-Inclusive Horse Riding and Jeep Exploration
- All Inclusive Brac and Solta islands swimming cruise
- Blue Cave & Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands Group Tour from Split & Trogir
- Secret Marjan Park Hiking Tour in Split
- From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
- Hvar, Bra & Pakleni islands cruise with lunch & drinks from Split & Trogir
- Private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik with side-trip to Ston
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