From Split: Blue Cave, Hvar, Mamma Mia, 5 Islands boat Tour

Discover Croatia’s Coastal Gems on a 5 Islands Boat Tour from Split

This highly-rated tour offers a full day of island hopping, sightseeing, and swimming in some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. We’re here to share everything you need to know about this adventure—what makes it special, what to expect, and whether it’s the right fit for you.

What we love most? The small group size of only 12 people, which makes the experience more intimate and flexible. The luxury seats with shade on the boat ensure comfort during the long day, and the diverse itinerary includes everything from the Blue Cave to Hvar’s charming streets and hidden beaches. A possible consideration? Starting early means waking up a bit before sunrise, but the quiet mornings and avoidance of crowds make it worthwhile.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, and who appreciate well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a day that balances sightseeing with plenty of swimming and stunning views, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and easier movement.
• Luxury boat seats in shade make long hours on the water comfortable.
• Diverse stops include Blue Cave, Komiza, Hvar, and secret beaches.
• Early start helps beat crowds and maximizes sightseeing.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local stories and insights.
• Value for money with multiple stops, swimming opportunities, and free time in Hvar.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This 10.5-hour tour from Split is designed to hit all the high points of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, weaving together natural beauty, cultural highlights, and fun water activities. It’s operated by Speed Line, a provider with a reputation for professionalism and great reviews—rated 4.9 out of 5 by over 900 travelers.

Starting Point and Early Morning Ride

The tour begins in front of Trg Republike (Prokurative), a central and recognizable spot in Split. Expect to meet early, usually at a time that allows the boat ride to start around sunrise. The ride to Bievo Island, where the Blue Cave is located, lasts roughly 90 minutes. The speedboat ensures a quick, exhilarating journey—think of it as a scenic rollercoaster across the sea.

Many reviews mention the comfortable, shaded luxury seats, which stand out compared to the often tight, banana-style seats on other boats. This thoughtful setup means you won’t be cramped or baking in the sun during the journey. The onboard Bluetooth music adds a relaxed vibe, and the crew’s professionalism makes the experience smooth from start to finish.

Visiting the Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is the star of the show—and for good reason. The tour is timed so that you arrive early enough to beat the crowds, which many reviewers say is key. Some mention that arriving 15 minutes earlier can mean avoiding hours-long queues, especially in July or August.

Once there, you’ll get a guided explanation of how the cave was discovered, plus the chance to see the famous aquamarine light reflected inside. If weather conditions permit, your guide will recommend the best spots to marvel at this natural spectacle. If the cave isn’t accessible due to weather, the captain will offer a suitable alternative, ensuring your day isn’t spoilt.

Komiza and Mamma Mia Filming Location

Next, the boat heads to Komiza on Vis Island, where the movie “Mamma Mia 2” was filmed. The stop offers about 75 minutes for free exploration and swimming. Many travelers enjoy wandering this charming fishing village, known for its relaxed vibe and fresh seafood. Reviewers appreciate the informative guides like Mateo and Dino, who share local stories and historical tidbits that bring the area to life.

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WWII Bunkers, Scenic Drives, and Hidden Beaches

On the way to the next stops, expect some scenic drives past WWII military bunkers and limestone caves—states that offer excellent photo opportunities. The Stiniva Cove is a favorite among visitors, voted the best beach in Europe. You’ll pass by but can stop for photos, taking in the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Budikovac Blue Lagoon

One of the tour’s highlights is the Budikovac Blue Lagoon. This small, secluded island features a white pebble beach and turquoise waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Reviewers praise the longer swim stop here—many say it’s the most relaxing part of the day. You can enjoy drinks, snacks, and the scenic silence away from crowded beaches.

Final Stop: Hvar

The last major destination is Hvar, often called one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. The tour allocates at least 2 hours for exploring, shopping, and enjoying a local meal. Many reviewers mention that this free time is well balanced, allowing for a leisurely lunch and some sightseeing before heading back.

The Return Journey

The boat ride back to Split is about one hour, during which guides often stop at scenic spots or dolphin sightings, if lucky. The journey is a relaxed end to a packed day, with the option to enjoy music and conversation on board.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all taxes, fees, and safety equipment, plus a licensed guide, snorkel gear, and sun shades for comfort. You’ll also have storage for your belongings and insurance.

However, the Blue Cave entry fee isn’t included and needs to be paid in cash—something worth noting to avoid surprises. Food and drinks aren’t included, though there are stops with options to purchase snacks and beverages. Beach towels aren’t provided, so bringing your own is recommended.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash for the Blue Cave ticket and any extras.
• Pack snacks, water, and a towel to stay comfortable.
• Consider a windbreaker for the morning ride, as it can be chilly outside peak summer months.
• Arrive early to maximize time at Blue Cave and avoid lines, especially in high season.
• Wear sea shoes if you plan to swim at Stiniva or Blue Lagoon to avoid sea urchins and rocky bottoms.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Based on hundreds of reviews, guides like Mateo and Dino are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and fun attitude, making the long day feel engaging and personal. Many mention the comfortable seats and the shade canopy as a big plus, especially when spending hours on the boat.

Swimmers love the variety of spots, from the famous Blue Cave to the quiet, turquoise waters of Budikovac. The timing of the stops is generally well received, with reviewers appreciating the balance between sightseeing and relaxing.

Some mention the importance of starting early to beat the crowds, especially at the Blue Cave, which can get crowded and long-lined later in the day. The long free time in Hvar is consistently appreciated, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the town at their own pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value personalized service and want to see multiple highlights in one day. It’s perfect for those who enjoy adventure with comfort, thanks to the luxury seating and small group size. If you’re after stunning scenery, cultural stops, and swimming, this tour hits all those marks.

The tour is also excellent for day-trippers from Split who want a comprehensive, well-organized trip without the hassle of planning each stop. However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, given the early start and boat rides.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but always check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What is the duration of the whole tour?
It lasts approximately 10.5 hours, with most of the day spent on the water and exploring.

Do I need to pay for the Blue Cave separately?
Yes, the Blue Cave entry fee isn’t included and must be paid in cash onboard.

What should I bring?
Snacks, drinks, water, cash, a towel, windbreaker, and possibly sea shoes for rocky beaches.

Is the boat air-conditioned?
In the description, it mentions sun shade and luxury seats, but not air conditioning; the vessel is open-air with shade.

How many people are on the boat?
Maximum small group size of 12 ensures comfort and a more personal experience.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are knowledgeable and can suggest alternative spots if weather or conditions change.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund. The captain reserves the right to change the itinerary for safety.

Are there any age restrictions?
Not explicitly stated, but the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

Is food included?
No, but there are stops for lunch and snacks—just bring cash or buy at stops.

This boat tour from Split offers a well-rounded, memorable day of island life, natural beauty, and cultural highlights. With its small group size, thoughtful comfort features, and expert guides, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to make the most of their Dalmatian coast visit. Whether you’re swimming in turquoise waters, exploring historic towns, or marveling at the Blue Cave, you’ll come away with plenty of stories—and probably some new favorite spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: