Blue Cave and Hvar Island Trip from Split

The Blue Cave and Hvar Island Trip from Split offers an engaging full-day adventure through some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. For $132 per person, travelers get to explore the Blue Cave, visit the Pakleni Islands, and stroll through the sunny streets of Hvar. The tour is suitable for those eager to see stunning natural sights, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a lively historic town — though it’s not ideal for visitors with mobility limitations or pregnant women.

This tour highlights spectacular caves with sunlight filtering from above, beautiful lagoons, and pristine beaches. It includes a boat ride, safety equipment, a skipper, insurance, and a diving mask. Water is provided on the boat, but notably, entrance tickets for the Blue Cave are not included, so plan to purchase those separately. The tour departs from Trumbieva Obala 13, a central spot in Split, with the activity ending back at the starting point.

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Split exploring the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Hvar.
• Includes boat ride, safety gear, diving masks, and water, but Blue Cave entrance fee not included.
• Swim and relax at multiple pristine beaches and hidden bays.
• Visit Budikovac Lagoon, renowned for its beauty.
• Tour duration is designed to balance sightseeing, swimming, and exploring Hvar’s historic streets.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those using wheelchairs.

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Exploring the Blue Cave and Green Cave by Boat

The journey begins with a boat ride that takes you to the Blue Cave and Green Cave. These caves are positioned at the top and bottom, with sunlight streaming through their openings, creating spectacular colors that mesmerize visitors. The Blue Cave is a key highlight, though note that entrance tickets are not included, so it’s worth purchasing those in advance or upon arrival. The Green Cave offers a different perspective, with its own unique beauty.

The light entering from above makes the caves especially photogenic, and the boat ride itself is a major part of the experience. The skipper and crew are noted as pleasant and knowledgeable, guiding you through the caves and sharing insights about the area’s natural formations. While waiting to enter the Blue Cave can take around two hours, the boat ride and the scenery make it a worthwhile wait for most.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Pristine Islands and Hidden Bays

After exploring the caves, the tour takes you to several swimming spots with crystal-clear waters. The pristine beaches and hidden coves are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and snorkelling. One stop features the lagoon on the island of Budikovac, considered one of the most beautiful in the Adriatic, offering calm waters and stunning surroundings.

Travelers can enjoy plenty of opportunities to dive and take in the natural beauty of the area. The water equipment—including masks—is provided, making it easy to explore underwater life. Some beaches recommended for swimming cost €50 to enter, so consider choosing spots that are free if just looking for a quick dip, as suggested by some feedback.

Visiting the Historic Town of Hvar

The tour includes about two hours on Hvar, where the sunny island earns its nickname “sunny Hvar.” The town features a beautiful Mediterranean environment, with narrow streets, historic architecture, and lively cafes. Visitors can explore at their own pace, taking in the scenery and local culture.

Although the timing at Hvar feels somewhat limited—some reviews mention tight schedules—the views and atmosphere make it worth the visit. There are plenty of options for a quick lunch or coffee, but some travelers find there’s not enough time to explore all the sights or dine comfortably.

The Highlights of the Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands, a group of 20 islets, are another key feature of this trip. Known for their hidden coves and pristine beaches, these islands provide peaceful spots to swim and relax. The islands are ideal for photographers and those seeking a quiet escape amid stunning scenery.

The boat often stops at select islands where you can swim in the turquoise waters or walk along quiet beaches. The overall experience emphasizes natural beauty and tranquility, making it a favorite part of the tour.

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Practical Details: Logistics and What’s Included

This tour departs from Trumbieva Obala 13, near Barus car rental, making it easy to find in Split. The boat ride is a major component, with the skipper leading and ensuring safety. Safety equipment and insurance are provided, along with diving masks for underwater exploration.

Water on the boat is included, but be aware that Blue Cave entrance tickets are not included, so budget accordingly. The tour runs in English, and travelers should bring sunglasses, a towel, and a camera. Pets are not allowed.

Pacing and Duration: Balancing Sightseeing and Relaxation

The full-day schedule aims to balance cave visits, island stops, and free time in Hvar. The 2-hour wait at the Blue Cave is a common experience, but many find it manageable given the scenic boat ride and other stops. Some reviews suggest that more time at Hvar would enhance the experience, especially for those wanting to explore the town further or dine.

The tour is designed to give a taste of several highlights without feeling rushed, though the time at each stop can be somewhat limited, especially in Hvar.

What the Tour Does Well: Natural Beauty and Friendly Crew

Many reviewers praise the beautiful landscapes and the pleasant hosts guiding the trip. The stunning views of the caves, lagoons, and islands are the main attractions, and the boat crew’s friendliness adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

The spectacular lighting in the caves, especially the Blue Cave, earns consistent praise. The boat ride itself is enjoyable, with some noting it as a highlight of the day.

Potential Drawbacks: Waiting Time and Limited Inclusions

One common critique relates to the two-hour wait to access the Blue Cave, which some find frustrating. Plus, entry tickets for the Blue Cave are not included, and some reviews mention that water and diving goggles are not provided despite being advertised, which can lead to some disappointment.

The short stop in Hvar means that visitors might not have enough time to explore everything or enjoy a full meal, which is worth considering for those wanting a more leisurely experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Blue Cave and Hvar Island trip offers stunning scenery, pleasant boat rides, and a chance to swim at idyllic spots. The $132 price provides good value considering the inclusions and highlights. The friendly crew and beautiful natural sights make it a solid choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip from Split.

However, the timing at Hvar and extra costs for cave entry are important considerations. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy natural landscapes, photography, and a relaxed pace, but might not satisfy visitors seeking extensive exploration of Hvar or long cave visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included in the tour price?
No, the entrance ticket for the Blue Cave is not included, so travelers should plan to purchase it separately.

How long do we spend at Hvar?
The tour allows roughly two hours on Hvar, which provides a brief glimpse of the town’s scenery and atmosphere but may not be enough for extensive exploration.

What do I need to bring?
It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, a towel, and a camera. Water is provided on the boat, but pets are not allowed.

Is this tour accessible for everyone?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of the boat ride and stops involved.

What should I expect in terms of waiting times?
There is typically a two-hour wait to enter the Blue Cave, which some find worth the scenery but can be lengthy for those with limited time.

How do reviews rate this experience overall?
With a 4.6 out of 5 based on 9 reviews, most guests find the tour beautiful and well-led, though some express minor frustrations with timing and included services.

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