Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split

Planning a day on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast? This Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split promises a full day of stunning scenery, bustling island life, and unforgettable water experiences. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a popular choice thanks to its focus on both natural beauty and comfort—plus the promise of exploring some of Croatia’s most iconic spots by speedboat.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the coverage of several islands in one day, the knowledgeable guides who offer insights, and the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The Blue Cave is a highlight, with its mesmerizing blue glow, but it’s also worth noting that weather can sometimes impact the experience, as some reviewers have pointed out. The value for money seems generally good, especially when compared to the variety of stops and activities packed into the 10 hours.

However, a potential drawback to consider is the timing and the Blue Cave entrance fee—it isn’t included in the price, and the visit can be cut short if conditions aren’t ideal. Still, for those who love island-hopping, scenic boat rides, and exploring Hvar, this tour is likely to hit the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of adventure and relaxation without having to plan each stop themselves.

If you’re keen on a packed day of sightseeing, water activities, and discovering Croatia’s island charms, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just be prepared for weather-related adjustments, and bring your sense of adventure—and sunscreen!

Key Points

• Multiple island stops allow a variety of scenic experiences in one day.
• Blue Cave visit offers a unique, glowing photo opportunity, weather permitting.
• Snorkeling and swimming are included, giving you chances to enjoy the Adriatic’s clear waters.
• Hvar Fortress offers a chance to explore Croatia’s historic towns, with free time in Hvar town.
• Guides and equipment are provided, making the experience accessible and comfortable.
• Price point provides good value considering the number of stops, activities, and expert guides.

An In-Depth Review of the Tour

Booking and Overall Pricing

At $170.94 per person, this tour sits at a mid-range price point for a full-day adventure in Croatia. You get around 10 hours of boat cruising, sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, with most costs for entrance fees and equipment covered. The tours are typically booked about 11 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular and worth planning ahead for.

While the price doesn’t include the Hvar Fortress entrance (about 12 euros), it does include bottled water, a professional skipper, snorkel gear, and life jackets—important for a smooth, safe experience. Some reviews mention that the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included, costing around 12-15 euros depending on the season, so be prepared for that extra expense.

Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off early, with check-in at Riva Harbor at 7:15 am, followed by departure at 7:30 am. This means you’ll need to be ready and organized for an early start, but it also leaves plenty of time for the full itinerary.

Riva Harbor

The starting point is in Split’s lively riva, making it easy to find, especially if you’re already in the city. The initial check-in process is straightforward, and most travelers report a friendly, organized start.

Blue Cave

The Blue Cave visit is the star of the show. Setting sail around 10 am, the boat takes about 1 hour to reach Bisevo Island where the cave is located. The 45-minute window inside the cave offers enough time to take photographs and marvel at the glowing blue light. However, weather and sea conditions can influence whether the tour can enter the cave at all, as some reviews mention. When the cave is accessible, it’s a surreal experience—an Instagram-worthy moment everyone should see.

Visitation of Vis Island and Stiniva Bay

Next, the boat heads to Vis Island, with a quick stop to see a “hidden cave” and take a swim. The review notes that swimming is not allowed at Stiniva Bay due to safety concerns, but the view from the boat still impresses. This makes the stop more about sightseeing than relaxing on the beach, which can be a disappointment if you’re eager to swim.

Budikovac Island & Blue Lagoon

Around midday, you arrive at Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon for another swim and snorkeling opportunity. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a leisurely dip, and snorkel gear is provided, making it easy to explore underwater life.

Pakleni Islands

Late afternoon, the boat explores the Pakleni Islands, a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of Croatia’s coastline. These islands are known for their secluded coves and lively atmosphere, and you’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to relax, eat, or explore on your own.

Hvar

The final stop is in Hvar, where you get about 2 hours of free time. Reviewers love this part for wandering the streets, visiting the fortress, or just soaking in the lively vibe. The fortress (not included in the ticket price) offers panoramic views of the city and harbor—definitely worth a quick visit if time permits.

The Experience on the Water

Most travelers emphasize the speedboat ride as exhilarating, though it can sometimes get a bit wet or bumpy, especially if wind conditions aren’t perfect. One reviewer notes that at times, the boat can be quite a bit of time waiting at certain stops—particularly at the Blue Cave—due to weather or high tide, which can feel a bit rushed at other stops.

Guides are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with some reviewers mentioning they provided helpful insights and managed the group well despite the small size (max 12 travelers). Snorkel gear and life jackets are standard, making water activities accessible even to novices.

Weather and Unpredictability

Weather is a common theme. Several reviews mention that the Blue Cave visit can be canceled or cut short if the sea is too rough or conditions are unsafe. This is outside the tour operator’s control, but it’s good to be prepared with flexible expectations. Some travelers have expressed disappointment when the cave was closed, but most appreciated the other stops and the overall ride.

Food and Refreshments

Light refreshments, including bottled water, are provided, but lunch is on your own. The tour stops at a restaurant during the Hvar free time, with reviews pointing out that some found the included food at the designated stop to be subpar, suggesting bringing your own snacks or planning meals in advance.

Timing and Group Size

The group size is limited to 12 travelers, which makes for a more intimate experience and easier communication with guides. The early start ensures you beat the crowds and maximize your day, but be prepared for an early wake-up.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who are excited about island hopping, water-based activities, and seeing Croatia’s coast from the water. It’s ideal if you want to cover multiple stops in one day without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. The small group size and guided experience make it friendly for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

It’s especially appealing to those who value stunning scenery—like the Blue Cave—and enjoy snorkeling or swimming in clear waters. If you’re interested in Hvar’s lively town and don’t mind a quick visit rather than a full day of sightseeing, this tour offers a good balance.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, longer beach visits or want to explore Hvar more thoroughly, you might want to consider a different option or plan your own day there.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s island life, with highlights like the Blue Cave, the Blue Lagoon, and the lively town of Hvar. It’s an excellent choice if you want a short, action-packed day with plenty of water activities, guided insights, and scenic views.

The small group size and professional guides are key benefits, making the experience more personal and manageable. The pricing is reasonable, especially considering the number of stops and included equipment, though it’s wise to budget for the additional entrance fees.

Weather can sometimes affect the Blue Cave experience, but most travelers find the other stops captivating and fun. The tour offers great value for those eager to see multiple islands and enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline without the hassle of organizing it all independently.

This adventure is best for active travelers who love the sea, scenery, and small-group tours, and who are flexible with weather-related changes. It’s a day of fun, discovery, and scenic beauty—definitely worth considering for your Croatian itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included in the tour?
No, the Blue Cave entrance fee is additional, typically around 12-15 euros depending on the season. It’s paid directly at the site or during booking if available.

What are the start and end times?
The tour begins at 7:30 am with check-in at Riva Harbor and concludes back at the meeting point around 6:15 pm.

How many people are in each group?
The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers, making it more personal and less crowded than larger tour boats.

What should I bring?
You should bring a towel, hat, swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen, spare clothes, and possibly snacks if you prefer a meal outside the included options.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, making it easy to explore underwater.

Can I visit Hvar Fortress?
The fortress entrance is not included in the ticket price, and you’ll need to buy the ticket separately if you wish to explore it.

In the end, the Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split delivers an exhilarating way to experience Croatia’s stunning islands, especially if you’re seeking a fun day packed with scenery, water adventures, and charming towns. Just keep in mind the weather and plan accordingly for an unforgettable trip.