Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, Pakleni Islands Group boat tour from Hvar

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, spectacular caves, and sun-soaked beaches, the Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, and Pakleni Islands boat tour from Hvar promises a day full of unforgettable sights. As a seasoned traveler myself, I’ve researched this trip to give you an honest, detailed look at what’s on offer—without any fluff.

What I love about this experience? First, the stunning variety of locations, from caves to secluded beaches, means you’ll never feel bored. Second, the expert guidance ensures you get the most out of each stop, especially at the Blue Cave. And third, the value for money is surprisingly good for a 7.5-hour tour with all these highlights.

That said, a potential consideration is that ticket prices for attractions like the Blue and Green Caves are separate, so budget a little extra if you want to go inside. Also, the tour is weather-dependent, meaning if conditions aren’t great, some stops could be canceled or altered. This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, want diverse experiences, and enjoy relaxing on the water.

Key Points

• Wide Range of Stops: From caves to beaches, the itinerary offers a variety of scenic spots.
• Expert Skippers: Knowledgeable guides who adapt the route to avoid crowds and bad weather.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Includes Snorkel Gear and Water: Free use of goggles and life vests for water activities.
• Extra Costs for Caves: Entry tickets for Blue and Green Caves are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Flexible Itinerary: The order of stops can change based on weather and crowds for maximum enjoyment.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Trg Sv. Stjepana 4 in Hvar at 10:30 am, right in the heart of Hvar’s lively port. After a brief welcome and safety briefing, your small group boards a comfortable, well-equipped speedboat. With a maximum of 12 travelers, it feels intimate enough to ask questions and chat with your guide—who, based on reviews, is often very knowledgeable and accommodating.

The First Stop: Green Cave on Ravnik Island

Your first adventure is entering the Green Cave. Known for its dazzling emerald hue, this cave gets its color from sunlight reflecting off the seaweed-covered stones at the bottom. You have the option to buy a ticket and swim inside, which many find a highlight, though it’s not included in the tour price.

One reviewer, Allie_P, described it as “breathtaking,” emphasizing the “absolutely unforgettable” experience of swimming in such an unusual, glowing environment. Expect around 30 minutes here, giving you enough time to marvel at the vivid color and maybe snap some photos.

Exploring the Hidden Treasure: Stiniva Cove

Next, the boat anchors near Stiniva Cove, voted Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2016. This secluded lagoon is surrounded by impressive cliffs, creating a perfect backdrop for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing at the beach bar. You can enter by swimming 20 meters or with a small boat, which is particularly handy if you’re traveling with kids or prefer not to swim.

One reviewer, Maureen_P, mentioned how long they spent enjoying the area—highlighting that the itinerary depends on the guide’s decisions and the weather. The one-hour stop allows ample time to soak in the views or grab a drink, with the possibility of snorkeling or just lounging.

The Blue Cave Experience: A Must-See

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave. After about 1 hour of cruising, the boat docks at Bievo Island. Here, you can buy tickets—around 18-24 EUR—to enter the cave via shuttlecraft. Inside, you’ll spend approximately 15 minutes marveling at the blue reflection on the water and the shimmering silver on the cave walls, a truly surreal sight.

A reviewer, Andreas_B, pointed out that the guide adapts to your requests, making the experience feel personalized. Although the entrance fee isn’t included, the spectacle inside the cave makes it worth considering the extra expense.

The Tranquility of Veliki Budikovac and the Blue Lagoon

After the caves, the tour moves to Veliki Budikovac, often called the Blue Lagoon. This protected bay boasts turquoise waters and a charming pebble beach. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for swimming, relaxing, or taking photos. The clear, calm waters make it an ideal place to unwind.

Later, you’ll head to Vinogradice or Palmiana Bay, where plenty of restaurants and beach bars await. This two-hour stop is ideal for lunch or simply soaking up the sun. Think fresh seafood, cold drinks, and panoramic views—what more could you want?

Final Stretch: Relaxing at Pakleni Islands

The last part of the tour is spent at the Pakleni Islands. You can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a drink at one of the many beach bars. The flexible schedule here, as noted by the guides, means you can customize your time—whether it’s more swimming or relaxing on deck with music.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Pricing: The tour costs $117.50 per person, which covers fuel, snorkel gear, life vests, bottled water, and an ice box. It’s a solid value considering the length and variety of stops.
• Additional Costs: Remember, ticket fees for caves aren’t included, so budget around €18-24 for the Blue Cave and €10-12 for the Green Cave if you want to go inside.
• Weather Dependency: If weather conditions are poor, the Blue Cave might be closed, or the route can change. The tour provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if canceled.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 people, ensuring a more personal, relaxed atmosphere. This smaller group size also improves the overall experience, avoiding the chaos of larger tours.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

What makes this tour stand out is not just the sights but the combination of professional guidance, flexible routing, and access to some of Croatia’s most iconic spots. The fact that reviewers mention “great guide” and “adapted to our requests” shows a level of attentiveness that travelers appreciate.

Plus, with stops at both famous caves and quiet beaches, you’ll get a well-rounded day—relaxing and exploring in equal measure. The inclusion of snorkel gear and bottled water adds convenience, while the optional cave tickets give you control over how much you want to spend on attractions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and witnessing spectacular natural phenomena. It suits small groups, friends, or couples who want a more intimate and flexible tour. If you’re seeking beautiful scenery, diverse locations, and good value, this boat trip hits the mark.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to weather changes or want guaranteed access to every attraction, keep in mind that some elements are weather-dependent and require extra fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, providing plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers fuel, snorkel goggles, life vests, bottled water, and an ice box. It does not include food or attraction tickets like the Blue Cave or Green Cave.

Are the caves included in the tour price?
No, tickets for the Green and Blue Caves are paid separately—around €10-€24—so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the small group size and water-based activities make it family-friendly, but always consider your children’s swimming abilities.

Do I need to bring extra money?
Yes, for cave tickets, meals, drinks, or souvenirs. Some stops have beach bars and restaurants where you can purchase food and drinks.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the Blue Cave might be closed, and the route could be altered or canceled. In such cases, full refunds or alternative dates are offered.

Can I swim at all stops?
Absolutely. Swimming and snorkeling are encouraged at several stops, including Stiniva Cove and Veliki Budikovac.

Is the tour customizable?
The guide can adapt the itinerary to avoid crowds and unfavorable conditions, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Hvar offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and diverse stops make it a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s coastline. While there are extra costs for cave entries, the overall value and memorable sights justify the expense.

Ideal for active travelers, small groups, and anyone eager to see Croatia’s famous caves and beaches with a flexible, personal touch, this tour delivers a lot for its price. Whether you’re eager to snap photos, swim in clear waters, or just soak up the sun, it’s a day packed with highlights that won’t disappoint.

In summary, if you’re after an authentic, scenic adventure that combines natural wonders with the chance to relax in beautiful spots, this Hvar-based boat tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for weather changes and extra ticket costs, and you’re set for a memorable Croatian sea day.