Split/Podstrana: Blue Cave, Hvar & 6 Islands Speedboat Trip

Split/Podstrana: Blue Cave, Hvar & 6 Islands Speedboat Trip — A Practical Guide to Croatia’s Coastline

Imagine zipping across the sparkling waters of the Dalmatian coast on a fast, open speedboat, visiting iconic spots like the Blue Cave, Hvar, and six beautiful islands. That’s what this tour promises—and based on reviews, it often delivers a day packed with breathtaking scenery, fun-filled water activities, and plenty of local charm. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler craving a taste of Croatia’s coastal highlights, this trip offers a dynamic and authentic experience.

What we love most about this tour is its efficient itinerary—covering multiple islands and sights in just one day—along with the knowledgeable guides who bring the places to life with stories and tips. The scenery, from limestone caves to bustling Hvar streets, consistently impresses. A potential drawback? The seats on the speedboat aren’t the most plush, and the Blue Cave visit is very brief (less than five minutes), which might leave some wanting more. This trip is best suited for adventure lovers, water enthusiasts, and travelers eager to see Croatia’s best without spending days on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary covers Blue Cave, Hvar, and six islands, maximizing your time.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories, tips, and safety.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops provide ample opportunities to cool off and enjoy the sea.
• Fast, open-speedboat transportation makes for an exciting ride, but can be a little uncomfortable for some.
• Cost includes boat transport, gear, and several island visits, offering good value—be prepared for extra costs like Blue Cave tickets.
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy sightseeing, water activities, and scenic boat rides.

An Open-Boat Adventure in Croatia’s Coastal Paradise

This tour is a lively way to experience Croatia’s Dalmatian coast in a single day. It’s a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and island exploring—all from the deck of a speedy, open-air boat. The overall vibe is fun, energetic, and designed to pack in as much beauty and activity as possible.

What truly sets this experience apart is its pace. You’ll be moving fast, with constant new sights and opportunities. It’s not for those seeking a leisurely, sit-down day, but perfect for travelers wanting to tick off several highlights without multiple days of travel. The reviews consistently praise the friendly crew and expert guides, who make sure everyone stays safe, well-informed, and entertained.

The cost, about $128 per person, seems reasonable considering the number of stops and the length of the trip. Keep in mind that tickets for the Blue Cave are extra—about 18-24 euros depending on the season—and paid in cash on the day. It’s a small expense for what’s usually a brief but spectacular visit to this famous natural wonder.

An Itinerary Packed with Highlights

Blue Cave on Bievo Island

The Blue Cave is often the first stop, mainly because it’s a crowd-pleaser and offers a surreal experience. You’ll arrive just as sunlight hits the seafloor, bathing the cave in stunning aquamarine light—truly a sight to behold. The small window of time here (less than five minutes) might leave some wishing for more, but it’s still worth the visit.

Reviewers’ notes: Several travelers mention that arriving early helps beat the crowds. The ticket costs extra, so be prepared with cash. Some visitors feel the brief stay is a bit of a “tourist trap,” but most agree the cave’s spectacle still justifies the visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Komiža on Vis Island

Next, the trip takes you to Komiža, an old fishermen’s village famous for its charm and connection to the movie Mamma Mia!. Here, you get about an hour to walk its narrow streets, soak in the atmosphere, and grab a coffee or breakfast at an outdoor cafe.

Authentic moment: Reviewers praise guides for their local knowledge and friendly demeanor, making walks through these tiny streets both educational and relaxing. It’s a great chance to see a slice of traditional Croatian life.

Stiniva Bay and Limestone Caves

From Komiža, you cruise along scenic coastlines with views of jagged limestone caves. The highlight is the swim stop at Stiniva Cove—one of Croatia’s most iconic beaches, surrounded by towering cliffs. The water is calm and crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling with goggles provided by the crew.

Review insight: Many visitors find this swim stop a true highlight, often describing the bay as “surprisingly peaceful” and perfect for soaking up the sun. Do bring water shoes if you want to comfortably walk on the rocky beach.

Budikovac Island and the Blue Lagoon

Cruising past Budikovac Island, you’ll get a scenic view of its famed Blue Lagoon—a calm, turquoise spot ideal for photos and quick dips. The crew usually points out this stunning location as you glide by.

Snorkeling & swimming: The tour provides gear, and many reviews mention the excellent visibility and abundant marine life. It’s a chance for an underwater peek at Croatia’s vibrant sea life, especially with goggles and snorkels supplied.

Pakleni Islands

The next stop, the Pakleni Islands, offers a peaceful retreat with lush greenery, sandy beaches, and clear waters. Visitors have about an hour here to snorkel, relax, or enjoy a drink at a beachside bar.

Authentic experience: Several travelers comment on how relaxed and scenic this part of the trip is, making it an ideal spot to unwind after the more active stops.

Hvar Town

The longest stop is in Hvar, where you get roughly two hours to explore. This lively town combines history, architecture, and vibrant street life. You might walk up to the fortress for views or enjoy a leisurely lunch in the square.

Review highlight: Many reviewers say Hvar is a “must-see” for its stunning architecture and bustling atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a quick taste of Croatia’s glamorous side.

Milna on Bra Island

The final stop is Milna, a quiet village with traditional stone houses and a peaceful waterfront. You can relax on the nearby beaches or stroll through the village, soaking in the slower pace of island life.

Tip: Some reviews mention that Milna is a calm, less touristy alternative to other more crowded spots, ideal for unwinding before heading back.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses an open-speedboat with a maximum of 12 passengers, creating an intimate atmosphere. The skippers are experienced and safety-conscious, with many reviewers praising how confident and skilled their guides are at maneuvering through the waves. The ride is fast and bumpy at times, so pack a light jacket for the chilly mornings and water shoes for rocky beaches.

Duration & Pricing

The trip lasts around 11 hours, starting early and returning by evening (around 6 p.m.). The price of $128 includes boat transport, goggles, snorkels, safety gear, and visits to all major stops. However, the Blue Cave entrance fee (~€18-24) is paid separately in cash.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, water, and cash. A light jacket is recommended for early mornings when the air and water are cooler. Since seating on the boat can be tight and uncomfortable for some, bringing a small cushion or sitting sideways might help.

Food & Drinks

Food and drinks are not included, so you should plan to buy snacks, breakfasts, or lunches during the stops. Several reviews highlight the excellent recommendations from guides on where to eat or grab coffee.

Accessibility & Suitability

This tour isn’t suitable for small children under 4, pregnant women, or travelers with back problems or mobility issues. The boat ride involves some rocking, and the seats aren’t the biggest comfort. Still, the guides are attentive and happy to provide life jackets and snorkeling gear—just ask.

Flexibility & Weather

The guides reserve the right to change the itinerary if weather conditions aren’t safe, which is common in boat trips. Most reviews note that the crew communicates well and adapts plans thoughtfully, sometimes refunding or adjusting the stops if needed.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that what makes this tour special are the knowledgeable guides, who make the day informative and fun, and the stunning scenery—especially the Blue Cave, Hvar, and the limestone cliffs of Stiniva Bay. Travelers consistently comment on the good value for money, considering the number of islands visited and the variety of activities.

Many describe the trip as “the highlight of their trip,” emphasizing how the combination of scenic views, swimming opportunities, and local charm creates a memorable experience. The guides, like Luka, Nando, and Emil, are repeatedly praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and ability to enhance the day with stories and recommendations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventure seekers who enjoy boat rides, sightseeing, and water activities. It’s perfect for those who want to see multiple islands in one day without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves. If you’re comfortable with a little choppiness and short time in the Blue Cave, you’ll find this tour a fun, value-packed way to experience Croatia’s coast.

However, if you prefer more comfort or longer stays at each spot, this might feel rushed. It’s also ideal for travelers with a sense of humor and curiosity, eager to explore both natural wonders and lively towns like Hvar.

The Sum Up

This Blue Cave and 6 Islands speedboat tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural spots, and sea-based adventure. It’s a well-organized, lively way to cover Croatia’s highlights in a single day, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the fresh sea air. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude make the experience even more special.

While the boat seats and brief Blue Cave visit might not satisfy everyone, most travelers find the value and excitement outweigh the minor inconveniences. This trip suits active travelers who love exploring, sightseeing, and experiencing the Croatian coast from a boat.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and efficient way to learn about Dalmatia’s stunning island scenery, this tour is hard to beat—just be ready to get a little wet and a lot wowed.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave visit included in the price?
No, the Blue Cave entrance fee (~€18-24) is paid separately in cash on the day of the tour.

How long do we spend at each stop?
The tour is carefully timed to give you a good amount of time at each location, from about an hour in Komiža to two hours in Hvar. Some stops, like the Blue Cave, are very brief (less than five minutes).

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, cash for entrance fees and food, and a light jacket for chilly mornings.

Is the boat comfortable?
Seats are limited and can be uncomfortable, especially after a while. Sitting sideways or bringing a small cushion can help.

Are children allowed?
This tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old. Keep in mind the boat ride can be bumpy.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The crew can change the itinerary for safety. If the Blue Cave is closed or conditions are unsafe, you might get a partial refund.

How long does the whole trip last?
It lasts roughly 11 hours, starting early and returning around 6 p.m.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, goggles and snorkels are provided, and many reviews mention great visibility and marine life.

Is it suitable for people with back problems or mobility issues?
Probably not. The boat ride involves some rocking, and seats are not very cushioned.

Do I need to pay upfront?
Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

This speedboat tour truly captures the spirit of Croatia’s coast—beautiful, lively, and full of surprises. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see the best of Dalmatia in a single, unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: