50 Shades of Blue: Blue Cave & 5 Islands Boat Tour from Hvar

Setting out on a boat tour like the 50 Shades of Blue from Hvar promises a full day of spectacular sights and memorable moments. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of a vibrant, water-filled adventure through Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

What truly stands out are the stunning cave visits, especially the glowing Blue Cave, the beautiful beaches, and the chance to meet the “king” of an uninhabited island—an experience that feels both authentic and playful. We also love the small-group size, which ensures a more intimate, engaging experience.

A potential consideration is the dependence on weather conditions—particularly the Blue Cave’s accessibility, which can be affected by tides and wind. This makes the tour somewhat unpredictable, so flexibility with dates might be necessary.

This tour would suit travelers who crave visual splendor, enjoy water-based activities, and appreciate a well-organized, lively day of island hopping. If you’re looking for a fun, colorful, and relatively affordable adventure in Croatia, this tour hits many high notes.

Key Points

• Exciting itinerary covering 5-6 locations in a single day and multiple islands.
• Spectacular cave experiences, including the glowing Blue Cave and green cave used as WWII hideouts.
• Beautiful beaches with excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
• Small group size (max 14), ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexible itinerary depending on weather and sea conditions.
• Includes safety gear, snorkeling equipment, and water, adding value and convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the #vitaminSEAhvar pop-up stand beside Carpe Diem Bar in Hvar’s port, where your hostess Marina awaits with a friendly smile and a big colorful sign. The tour typically begins at 10:30 am and ends between 5:30 and 6:30 pm, offering a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Participants choose between three types of boats—standard (€80), comfort (€90), or deluxe (€100)—to match their comfort preferences. It’s worth noting that the cost of the boat ride is separate from the tour price, which is quite reasonable considering the amount of territory covered and the inclusions like insurance, safety gear, and snorkeling equipment.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour always includes visits to 2-3 caves—primarily the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and the Monk Seal Cave—and at least 3 beaches, notably Stiniva, Blue Lagoon, and a beach on the Paklinski Islands. The exact sequence and duration depend on weather conditions and sea currents, which can influence accessibility.

Travelers will visit five islands: Vis, Bisevo, Ravnik, Budikovac, and Paklinski, with possible extras like Komiža or Vis town if time allows. Each stop promises a different flavor, from tranquil lagoons to dramatic caves.

Cave Encounters: Blue and Green

The Blue Cave is the star of the show, with its glowing light and luminescent blue waters that seem to shimmer from within. The tour description emphasizes how pictures won’t do it justice, and many reviews confirm this. One review mentions, “feast your eyes on the incredible glowing shades of blue,” which highlights how captivating the experience can be.

The Green Cave is equally intriguing; it’s known for its emerald green waters, once used as a hideout by WWII battleships, now a favorite snorkel spot. Travelers can expect to swim into the cave and marvel at its natural beauty, with some reviews noting the peaceful, almost secretive atmosphere.

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Beaches and Lagoon Swim Stops

The Blue Lagoon and other beaches included in the tour are often described as pristine and perfect for swimming or relaxing. The Sapphire blue waters are said to be among the best in Europe, with many guests describing the experience as feeling like stepping into a movie scene.

One reviewer, Nikola, mentioned how he felt like a “movie star” while enjoying the crystal-clear waters, especially at Stiniva Beach, a voted top European beach. The beaches offer snorkeling opportunities, with goggles provided on board, and plenty of chances to splash, float, and soak up the sun.

Meeting the “King” of an Uninhabited Island

A unique highlight is meeting the “king”, a playful nickname for the owner or mascot of an uninhabited island. You can relax in his cozy beach terrace, sip colorful drinks, and enjoy the serene lagoon environment. According to reviews, this segment adds a touch of humor and charm, making the tour feel more personal and memorable.

Wildlife and Extra Touches

Occasionally, the boat might encounter dolphins, adding a spontaneous, exciting element to the journey, although sightings can’t be guaranteed. The tour also includes music on board, creating a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after each stop.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour is limited to 14 guests, ensuring more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, water shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection.
• Tickets for caves are not included in the price—Blue Cave (€24) and Green Cave (€12)—so be prepared to purchase these on-site if you choose to enter.
• Weather sensitivity means some destinations may be inaccessible if sea conditions aren’t safe, so flexibility is key.
• The meeting point is easy to find, right next to a bright sign at the port, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

Value and Overall Impression

At $12 per person, the base price for the tour is incredibly affordable considering the amount of area covered and experiences offered. The additional costs for boat type and cave entrance tickets are reasonable and reflect the actual expenses involved.

Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide, Marina, whose local insights and friendly demeanor elevate the experience. One review describes her as “wove local tales and secrets into our journey,” making the tour feel both informative and fun. The small group size ensures that everyone can stay close, ask questions, and truly enjoy each stop.

The full-day format allows for a relaxed pace, giving you ample time to swim, snorkel, explore caves, and admire the scenery. The tour’s flexibility to adapt to weather conditions is a plus, but it does mean some days might have limited cave access.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who love water-based activities, stunning scenery, and small-group experiences. It’s ideal if you want to visit multiple islands and dive into Croatia’s famous caves without booking separate excursions. Given the cost-effectiveness and diverse stops, it offers great value for anyone wanting a well-rounded day at sea.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems or mobility issues, or wheelchair users, due to the boat ride and physical nature of some activities.

The 50 Shades of Blue tour from Hvar offers a vivid, colorful day exploring some of Croatia’s most iconic sights—caves, beaches, and islands—on a comfortable, small-boat adventure. The combination of stunning natural features, friendly guides, and flexible itinerary makes it a top choice for travelers eager for an authentic, memorable experience with a splash of fun.

Whether you’re chasing photo-worthy scenery, seeking a relaxing swim, or just looking to escape into the sea, this tour delivers on all fronts. Its affordability and intimate atmosphere make it especially appealing for those wanting a personalized, scenic adventure without the hefty price tag.

If you’re in Hvar and craving a day filled with colorful views and island charm, this tour might just be your perfect escape.

How much does the tour cost?
The base price is $12 per person, but you need to pay separately for the boat ride (standard, comfort, or deluxe) and cave entrance tickets if desired.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers the guide, safety gear, snorkeling goggles, bottled water, icebox, and music on board. The boat ride and cave tickets are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, water shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection.

How long is the tour?
The tour runs from approximately 10:30 am to between 5:30 and 6:30 pm, giving you a full day of exploring.

Can I see dolphins?
Dolphins are a possibility during the boat ride, but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is the Blue Cave included?
No, cave entrance tickets are paid separately. The Blue Cave costs €24, and the Green Cave €12, paid directly at the entrance.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if sea conditions are unfavorable, the guide may modify the itinerary or reschedule.

How many people are on each boat?
Maximum 14 guests per boat ensure a cozy, personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for families, but consider the boat ride and physical activities for young children or those with mobility issues.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve your spot online and pay later—just secure your place and pay the boat and cave tickets on-site if you choose to visit the caves.

In short, this boat tour offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to discover Croatia’s stunning islands and caves. Perfect for photo lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a vibrant taste of the Dalmatian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: