Split or Trogir: Blue Cave, Vis, and Hvar Speedboat Day Trip

Split or Trogir: Blue Cave, Vis, and Hvar Speedboat Day Trip Review

Exploring the Croatian coast by speedboat sounds like a thrill, and this small-group tour promises a jam-packed day of sightseeing, swimming, and island hopping. Designed for travelers eager to see the highlights of Dalmatia without spending too much time on the ferry, this trip offers a chance to experience some of Croatia’s most iconic natural and cultural sites in one go.

What we love about this experience is how efficiently it covers multiple must-see spots—the Blue Cave, Hvar town, Vis, and Stiniva Bay—all in one day. Plus, the speedboat ride itself is a highlight, giving you a true sense of adventure as you zip between islands. On the flip side, the tour’s fast pace and short time at each stop might not suit those wanting a more relaxed or in-depth exploration.

This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of sightseeing, fun, and a bit of adrenaline. If you’re keen to tick off several major sights in one day and don’t mind a busy schedule, this could be just the tour for you. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or detailed culture, you might want to consider a slower-paced alternative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Fast-paced island hopping: Cover six sites in one day, making it a good value for those short on time.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and attentive crew enhance the experience with good commentary and friendly service.
• Stunning natural sights: The Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Budikovac Island provide jaw-dropping views and crystal-clear waters.
• Thrilling transportation: A spacious speedboat offers a quick, exciting ride along Croatia’s scenic coast.
• Limited time at key locations: Expect brief visits—often just enough to snap photos and enjoy a quick walk.
• Good value for the price: At around $116, the tour packs in a lot of highlights for the cost, but be prepared for extra expenses like the Blue Cave entry fee.

How the Tour Unfolds

This tour starts early, especially if you’re in Trogir—be prepared for an early pick-up around 6:15 am if you’re starting from there, or around 8:30 am from Split, depending on the season. The day kicks off with a thrilling 90-minute speedboat ride from Split or Trogir to Bievo Island, where the adventure begins. The boat is designed for island hopping—think spacious, fast, and built for fun—so you’ll be feeling the wind in your hair as you cruise along the sparkling coast.

Visiting the Blue Cave

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave. Its interior is famous for the surreal blue glow caused by sunlight refracting through a crack in the rock. It’s a brief stop—usually around 10 minutes—so you get just enough time to marvel at the magic and snap a few photos. Keep in mind, the ticket is payable in cash (around €18), and the cave can get crowded, especially in peak season, which can slightly affect the experience.

Snorkeling and Relaxing at Budikovac Island

Next, you’ll head to Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon. This quiet, picture-perfect spot offers calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach. The crew provides snorkeling gear, so if you’re keen to explore underwater, bring your enthusiasm. This stop is often praised as one of the best parts of the trip—a small paradise with a bar for drinks, though prices here are a bit high. Many reviews mention how nice it is to simply float in the pristine waters or lounge on the sand.

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Exploring the Pakleni Islands & Hvar

The Pakleni Islands, especially Palmizana, are next. This group of small islands around Hvar offers the chance to stretch your legs, grab some lunch, or explore. You’ll have a couple of hours here—enough time to walk around, swim, or sit in one of the charming cafes. Many travelers mention that the time at this stop is just right, giving a good balance of activity and relaxation.

The final leg takes you to Hvar town, a hub of lively bars, historic sites, and narrow streets. The fortress at the top offers sweeping views of the bay, and wandering through the town’s charming squares and alleyways is a highlight. Several reviewers loved the free time to explore and appreciated the opportunity to get a taste of local life, food, and sunsets.

Return Journey

The cruise back to Split is often described as scenic and bumpy but enjoyable. Watching the coastline fade behind you as you cruise along offers a fitting end to the day. The entire trip lasts about 10 hours, with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

Practical Considerations

Transportation: The tour is conducted on a spacious speedboat, which makes the day feel like an adventure. The boat handles well in the waves, but expect some splashing—so bring your sunscreen, hat, and a change of clothes if you want to stay comfortable.

Timing: Starting early is key, especially if you’re in Trogir. Be punctual—missed departures aren’t refundable—and consider the long day if you’re not an early riser. The Blue Cave’s short visit means you should keep your expectations realistic; it’s more about the experience than a full tour inside.

Cost & Value: At $116 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering six sites are covered. The Blue Cave entry fee (€18), snorkeling gear, and the boat ride are included, but food and drinks are extra—so bring snacks or plan to buy lunch at Hvar or the islands.

Group Size & Atmosphere: The tour is designed for smaller groups, which makes it feel less rushed and more personalized. The guides are praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, often allowing some input into the itinerary.

Restrictions: Not suitable for very young children (under 3), pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues. Safety is paramount, so expect crew to cancel or change plans if sea conditions worsen.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a clear picture of the tour’s strengths. Multiple travelers highlight the friendly guides, often described as “knowledgeable,” “attentive,” and “friendly,” who make the experience more engaging. Many rave about the scenery, calling the Blue Cave “breathtaking” and the islands “unbelievably beautiful.”

However, some mention the short time at each site, especially at key attractions like the Blue Cave, which can feel rushed. One reviewer noted, “The Blue Cave is very small, and the time of visiting is about 10 minutes,” emphasizing the short window but acknowledging it’s a worthwhile stop. Others praise the speedboat ride, calling it “so much fun,” and appreciate the opportunity to see multiple sites in one day.

A few reviewers express concerns about the boat’s speed—noting it moves very fast, and there are no safety belts, which might be unnerving for some. Also, some found the Blue Cave’s entry fee a bit steep for the limited time spent inside but still considered it a must-see for the experience.

The Sum Up

This Croatian speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the Dalmatian coast’s most stunning sights in a single, action-packed day. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy a mix of natural beauty, history, and lively island atmospheres. The guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, which helps make it feel more personal and enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic adventure with memorable stops like the Blue Cave and Hvar town, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour delivers excellent value. Just remember that the pace is quick, and each stop is relatively brief—ideal if you’re eager to see a lot but less so if you prefer slow, in-depth exploration.

For those with limited time in Croatia and a taste for adventure, this trip strikes a good balance between fun, sightseeing, and natural beauty. Pack your swimwear, bring your camera, and get ready for a day of sun, sea, and some of Croatia’s most iconic vistas.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, children under 3 years old are not permitted on the trip.

Do I need to pay for the Blue Cave separately?
Yes, the Blue Cave entry fee (€18) is payable in cash on the spot. It’s not included in the ticket price.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the waters around the islands comfortably.

How long is the visit to the Blue Cave?
Expect around 10 minutes inside the cave, enough for a quick look and photos but not a full tour.

Can I get food or drinks on this trip?
Food and drinks are not included. You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks, but there are also options available at Hvar and the islands.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour provider has the right to change the route or cancel the trip due to bad weather or rough seas. If canceled, you can reschedule or get a refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

This Croatian speedboat trip from Split or Trogir offers an energetic and scenic way to experience the Dalmatian coast. Whether you’re chasing the magic of the Blue Cave, exploring lively Hvar, or just enjoying the thrill of zipping across the sea, it’s a day packed with sights and fun—perfect for those who want to make the most of their Croatian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: