From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a dream for many travelers, and nothing beats the convenience and excitement of a full-day speedboat tour that hits all the must-see islands. This particular experience, offered by Valiant d.o.o, has earned a solid 5-star rating from over 2,450 reviews, making it one of the most popular ways to see the region’s highlights. Whether you’re after stunning natural sights, charming towns, or iconic movie locations, this tour promises an action-packed adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to visit five islands in just 10 hours is a real feat of logistics and fun. Second, the Blue Cave—a natural marvel—offers a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity, especially given the praise for early arrival to beat the crowds. Lastly, the expert guides and skippers get high marks for their local insights, making the day both educational and entertaining.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent. If the Blue Cave is closed due to storms, the guide will reroute to other caves or spots, but this could slightly alter the planned experience. Also, since the tour involves a fair amount of time on a speedboat, those who are prone to seasickness should pack accordingly. This tour is best suited for active travelers who love the sea, exploring, and a bit of adventure, plus those who value good value for money and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive island hopping in one day saves time and maximizes sightseeing opportunities.
• Blue Cave visits early morning are crucial for avoiding crowds and getting the best photos.
• Expert guides and skippers enhance the experience with local stories and safety.
• Multiple swimming stops allow plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and enjoy Croatia’s waters.
• Flexible itinerary based on weather ensures safety but might lead to some changes.
• Great value for around $97, considering the number of stops, guides, and activities included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour from Split is designed to cover five of Croatia’s most iconic islands: Hvar, Bisevo, Vis, Budikovac, and the Pakleni archipelago. It’s a packed 10-hour day that promises a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and free time—perfect for travelers craving variety without spending days in transit.

The Blue Cave Experience

The tour kicks off with an approximate 90-minute ride across the waves to the Blue Cave, located on Bisevo Island. The cave’s shimmering blue light is a natural phenomenon caused by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening, creating a surreal, glowing effect. It’s a major highlight, and guests are advised to arrive early (the guide will message you a day prior with updates) to beat the crowds and ensure smoother access. Several reviewers mentioned that arriving early made a big difference, with one noting, _“we got there bright and early and avoided the long queues.”_

Note that entry to the Blue Cave is not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase tickets on the spot, but the experience of seeing this glowing natural wonder is well worth the extra cost.

Exploring Vis Island and Komiza

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to Vis Island, home to the charming fishing village of Komiza. This spot is famous not only for its authentic Croatian charm but also as a filming location for the movie “Mamma Mia 2.” Guests often mention how it’s a great place to wander through narrow streets, enjoy local seafood, or just soak in the relaxed vibe. One reviewer shared, _“The town is lovely, and you get time to explore and take photos, which makes the visit more meaningful.”_

Stiniva Beach and Budikovac Blue Lagoon

Next, the boat makes a stop at Stiniva Beach—voted the best beach in Europe—famous for its dramatic, pebble-filled cove surrounded by towering cliffs. The clear water invites swimming and snorkeling, giving guests a chance to cool off and take in the stunning scenery.

The journey continues to the Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon, where the turqouise waters are perfect for relaxing. You’ll have sufficient time here to sunbathe, snorkel with provided masks, or simply float and enjoy the tranquility in an untouched part of the Croatian coast. One guest remarked, _“The Blue Lagoon was breathtaking, and we had so much time to just relax and swim.”_

More Great Tours Nearby

The Charm of Hvar

The tour wraps up with a 2.5-hour stop in Hvar, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, and historical sites. You’ll have options to grab lunch, explore the town, or lounge on Hvar’s beautiful beaches. Many reviews highlight the town’s elegance, with one stating, _“Hvar’s architecture is gorgeous, and I loved wandering its streets and soaking up the ambiance.”_

Return to Split

After a full day of exploration, swimming, and sightseeing, the boat departs back to Split, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The journey back offers excellent opportunities for photos, sharing stories, and unwinding after a busy day.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour’s price of $97 per person covers all the essentials: skipper-guided speedboat rides, snorkeling masks, Bluetooth speakers for music, and safety equipment. Extras like beach towels and entry tickets to the Blue Cave are not included, so plan accordingly.

Guests consistently praise the professionalism of the guides—with many highlighting names like Simon, Luka, Tomas, and Viktor—as being knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer said, _“Simon was fantastic, he shared local stories and kept the vibe lively with music.”_

The group sizes tend to be small, creating a more intimate atmosphere, and the boat models can vary depending on weather and availability, but all are described as sturdy and comfortable.

Timing and Practicalities

The meeting point is conveniently located in Split, right in front of the south steps to Trg Republike (Prokurative). Arriving 15 minutes early is strongly recommended, especially since the departure time may be adjusted the day before, based on weather conditions or other logistical factors. The team communicates via WhatsApp, so keeping your phone active on the app helps avoid missing updates.

Things to Bring

• Sunglasses and sun protection
• Swimwear and towel
• Drinks and snacks
• A jacket for early mornings or windy conditions
• Comfortable clothes for exploring the towns

The Experience in Practice

Travelers consistently mention how well-organized and fun this tour is. For many, it’s the highlight of their trip to Split, thanks to the combination of natural beauty, cultural spots, and lively guides. As one reviewer stated, _“Our guide Luka made the entire day memorable with his local knowledge and friendly attitude.”_

The swimming breaks at Blue Lagoon and Stiniva Beach are often described as the best part, with the crystal-clear water and peaceful setting providing a perfect escape from busy city life. Many guests appreciated the flexibility the guides showed—whether it was taking an extra swim or exploring a hidden cave.

The Blue Cave remains a major draw, especially for those who manage to arrive early, avoiding crowds and getting the perfect photos. However, those who follow the guide’s advice on timing and plan for weather variability generally have a seamless experience.

Authentic and Scenic

This tour does a fantastic job of balancing sightseeing with leisure. You get to see Croatia’s natural wonders and picturesque towns without feeling rushed. The guided narration adds a layer of context, making the experience richer and more engaging.

Value for Money

For $97, the tour covers a full day of exploring multiple islands, swimming in gorgeous spots, and enjoying local insights. Compared to the cost of independent boat rentals or multiple day trips, this offers great value, especially with the small group atmosphere and professional guidance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active, curious travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground in one day without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers will all find something to love here.

However, those with mobility issues or pregnant women might find the speedboat rides a bit uncomfortable, and guests prone to seasickness should pack accordingly. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, less structured day or prefer to explore at your own pace, a different tour might suit you better.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. With its stellar reviews, expert guides, and unforgettable sights, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Dalmatia’s best. It’s a great option for travelers who want to maximize island visits in a single day, enjoying natural beauty, local towns, and iconic sights like the Blue Cave—all while keeping things fun and lively.

For those who value authentic experiences, well-organized logistics, and good value, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to check the weather, arrive early, and pack your essentials. Whether it’s your first time in Croatia or a return visit, this trip promises memories that will last long after you leave the boat.

FAQ

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended since it’s popular and fills up quickly, especially in peak season.

Is there a minimum age for participants?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years, so check with the provider if you’re traveling with young kids.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, drinks, a jacket, and comfortable clothes. Be sure to pack your activewear for swimming and exploring.

How long do we stay at each location?
The itinerary includes enough time for swimming, exploring towns like Hvar, and sightseeing. For example, you get about 2.5 hours in Hvar and ample time for swimming at Blue Lagoon and Stiniva Beach.

Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
No, it depends on weather conditions and cave opening times. The guide will inform you if it’s closed, and they will reroute to other beautiful caves or sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll find options in Hvar for lunch or snacks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If cancelled due to bad weather, a full refund is offered.

Can I snorkel with the provided masks?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, and you’ll have the chance to snorkel at several stops.

How large are the groups?
The group size tends to be small, providing a more personalized experience.

What if I want to change the tour or cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. For itinerary changes due to weather, the guide will communicate updates the day before.

Final Word

If you’re after an adventurous, authentic way to see Croatia’s islands, this tour delivers on all fronts. Expect stunning scenery, lively guides, and a day packed with swimming, exploring, and good vibes. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time, see iconic sights, and enjoy the Croatian coast’s natural beauty in one go. Just remember to come prepared, arrive early, and enjoy every moment of this lively sea adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: