Split: Blue Cave, Hvar, and 5 Islands Boat Tour

Exploring the Croatian islands by boat is one of those experiences that can define a trip. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, memorable day on the water. The Split: Blue Cave, Hvar, and 5 Islands Boat Tour offers a fantastic blend of natural wonders, charming towns, and pristine beaches—all within a single day.

What really catches our eye are the stunning views of the Blue Cave, the chance to swim in turquoise waters, and the opportunity to explore Hvar, one of Croatia’s most famous islands. Plus, the small-group vibe promises a more personalized experience. The only thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact the schedule, especially the Blue Cave visit, so flexibility is key.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving authentic scenery, plentiful swimming opportunities, and a taste of Croatia’s iconic islands without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you love spectacular vistas and a mix of adventure and leisure, this trip should be on your radar.

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Key Points

Breathtaking natural sights like the Blue Cave and Stiniva Bay
Small-group experience for more personalized attention
Variety of stops: from swimming in Blue Lagoon to exploring Hvar
Includes essential gear such as snorkeling masks and safety equipment
Flexible booking options with a full refund if canceled due to weather
Cost-effective at $93 per person considering multiple destinations and activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This luxury boat adventure promises a full day of exploring some of Croatia’s most visually stunning locations, all from the comfort of a speedboat. Starting at the historic Diocletian Palace in Split, the journey takes you across a spectrum of remarkable sights, combining natural beauty with cultural charm. The tour emphasizes small-group interactions, allowing for a more relaxed, tailored experience—something that’s often missing on larger, more crowded excursions.

While the itinerary may shift slightly with weather conditions, the core stops remain consistent, ensuring you’ll get a comprehensive taste of the Dalmatian islands. From the very start, the emphasis on safety and comfort, including safety gear and insurance, sets a reassuring tone.

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Transportation and Group Size

The boat itself varies depending on the weather, group size, and availability but generally is a speedboat designed for swift, comfortable travel. The tour is designed for small groups, which means less crowding and more room for your crew to cater to your needs. The meeting point at the East Gate of Diocletian’s Palace is a short walk from the green market, making it easy to find.

Duration and Timing

Spanning approximately a full day, the tour offers enough time at each stop to relax, swim, snorkel, and explore. Starting early, it typically concludes back where it began, giving you the afternoon free for other pursuits or rest.

Cost and Value

At $93 per person, this tour offers solid value given the inclusion of a guided speedboat ride, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, and safety equipment. Entry to the Blue Cave and beach towels are not included, which is worth noting so you can plan accordingly. Considering the number of destinations and the personalized guide service, it’s a reasonable investment for an action-packed day.

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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

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Blue Cave

The highlight for many is the visit to the Blue Cave, a natural formation that emits a captivating blue glow. While the cave entry ticket isn’t included, many guests find the experience worth the extra cost. As one reviewer mentioned, “Seeing the Blue Cave’s blue light shimmer through the water was truly mesmerizing.” The cave’s magic lies in the sunlight filtering through a submerged opening, casting an ethereal glow that photographers will love.

It’s worth noting that weather influences access, but the tour’s flexibility means your captain may alter plans to maximize the experience. The Blue Cave’s popularity is a double-edged sword—expect crowds if the weather is good and you might share the wonder with other boats.

Stiniva Bay

Next on the list is Stiniva Bay, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its secluded, rugged setting appeals to those craving privacy and scenic beauty. The water here is pristine, and the surrounding cliffs create a sense of intimacy. Guests have commented, “The views here are just stunning, and the water is so clear you’ll want to snorkel immediately.”

The beach is small and pebble-based, so bringing a towel or beach mat is handy if you plan to relax for a while. Swimming here is often described as a “must-do” activity, thanks to the calm, turquoise waters.

Snorkeling in Blue Lagoon

The tour then moves to the Blue Lagoon, a small island with vibrant underwater life. With snorkeling masks provided, you’ll be able to marvel at the colorful fish and coral formations. Reviewers mention that “the underwater scenery is surprisingly lively,” making it a favorite for underwater lovers. It’s a relaxed spot, perfect for a quick swim and some underwater photos.

Pakleni Islands and Hvar

After a swim and some downtime, you’ll cruise to the Pakleni Islands, a chain of rugged, lush islets. The group often has a brief stop for photos, or guests might opt to explore a bit if time permits.

Finally, the boat heads toward Hvar, where you can stroll through its charming streets, explore historical sites, or soak up the sun on its beaches. Hvar exudes a lively yet elegant vibe, with plenty of cafes and shops to enjoy.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of natural beauty and cultural charm is what makes this trip interesting. You’ll see some of the most photogenic locations in Croatia and get a taste of island life. Many guests appreciated the small-group setting, which allowed for more interaction and better photography opportunities.

The speedboat ride itself is a highlight, offering a thrilling way to cover multiple islands efficiently. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and Wi-Fi means you can share your experience instantly, and the safety equipment reassures even the nervous travelers.

Limitations and Considerations

While this is a well-rounded tour, the Blue Cave visit is weather-dependent. If the sea conditions aren’t ideal, the guide may modify the schedule or skip the cave altogether, with a full refund offered if canceled due to bad weather. Also, beach towels are not included, so packing your own makes sense for lounging or sunbathing.

The tour is not suitable for young children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, primarily because of the boat ride and walking on uneven terrain at stops.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat—the Croatian sun can be intense, especially during summer.
Pack a change of clothes and a towel for after swimming.
A waterproof camera or phone case is invaluable for capturing underwater moments or splashy photos.
Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the start.
Consider bringing some snacks or drinks since food and beverages are not included, though there are opportunities to buy along the route.
Long-sleeve clothes are recommended for the cooler mornings outside peak summer months.
Remember that pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and picture-perfect scenery, this tour offers an excellent way to see Croatia’s top island highlights in one day. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, and the overall value for the price is solid considering the number of stops and included gear.

If your goal is to witness the Blue Cave’s mystical glow, swim in crystal-clear waters, and explore the vibrant streets of Hvar, this trip checks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy natural landscapes, water activities, and a relaxed pace with some sightseeing thrown in.

While weather can influence the experience, the tour’s flexibility and safety measures make it a dependable choice for a memorable Dalmatian adventure. Be prepared for a fun, scenic, and sometimes exhilarating day on the Croatian seas.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave entry ticket included?
No, the Blue Cave entry ticket is not included in the price, so you might want to purchase it separately if you wish to visit inside.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, a camera, drinks, sunscreen, and a jacket for cooler mornings outside July and August.

Are there any restrictions on who can join?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments.

What is the meeting point?
Meeting is at the East gate of Diocletian’s Palace, next to the green market. The boat departs about 100 meters from there.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, a 100% refund is offered if the tour is canceled due to bad weather.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided for guests to share their experiences during the trip.

What about food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or purchase on the islands.

Will I see a lot of crowds?
The small-group format helps mitigate crowds, but popular locations like the Blue Cave may be busier during peak season.

This boat tour offers a fantastic slice of Dalmatia’s stunning coastlines and island charm. It’s a perfect pick for those who want a diverse, scenic, and fun-filled day on the water with some of Croatia’s most iconic sights.