Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split

The Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split offers an engaging day of exploration across Croatia’s iconic coastline. Priced at $176.24 per person, this 10-hour speedboat adventure takes travelers across the Adriatic Sea to visit the famous Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, along with six nearby islands and caves. The tour features professional guides, snorkel gear, and light refreshments, making it a comfortable and visually stunning option for those eager to see Croatia’s best coastal sights.

While the itinerary promises a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and island hopping, it’s worth noting that entry to the Blue Cave costs extra (around 12-18 EUR depending on the season). The tour concludes in Hvar, where visitors can enjoy some free time to explore the fortress and town. This tour is especially suited for travelers looking for a well-organized, all-included experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments, though weather can affect cave access.

Key Points

• Price: Approximately $176.24 per person, with some additional costs for the Blue Cave entrance.
• Duration: 10 hours, departing early in the morning from Split Riva Harbor.
• Stops: Visits include Blue Cave on Bisevo, Stiniva Bay, Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island, Pakleni Islands, and Hvar.
• Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing from a speedboat.
• Guidance: Professional skipper and crew lead the tour, with snorkel masks and life jackets provided.
• Limitations: The Blue Cave entrance fee is extra; weather conditions can prevent cave visits, and some reviews mention long travel times to certain stops.

Starting the Day at Riva Harbor in Split

The tour begins at Riva Harbor, with guests meeting at stand number 5 for voucher check around 7:15 am. The initial check-in takes just 15 minutes, and the departure occurs promptly at 7:30 am. From here, travelers board the speedboat, ready for a full day of island adventures.

This early start is designed to maximize sightseeing time, giving guests a chance to enjoy the islands before afternoon crowds. The boat ride itself is a notable highlight, with many appreciating the smooth, professional service of the skipper and crew as they set out across the Adriatic.

Visiting the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island

The Blue Cave is the main attraction, with sightseeing scheduled from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. This 45-minute stop allows visitors to witness the ethereal blue light illuminating the cave’s interior—a phenomenon caused by sunlight entering through underwater openings.

Access to the Blue Cave requires an additional entrance fee (around 12-18 EUR depending on the season), which is paid separately by visitors. Due to weather or tides, the cave may sometimes be inaccessible, as noted in some reviews. However, when open, the Blue Cave offers an unforgettable view that makes the early wake-up worthwhile.

Exploring Vis Island and the Hidden Cave

After the Blue Cave, the tour proceeds to Vis Island, with a 30-minute visit to a unique hidden cave and a swimming stop. This location provides a quieter, more secluded spot for swimming and relaxing. The adventure here involves no entry fees, and the lightwater around the island is known for its clear, inviting quality.

At 11:30 am to 12:00 pm, the boat visits Stiniva Bay for sightseeing. While swimming is not permitted here for safety reasons, the bay’s dramatic cliffs and secluded cove make it an ideal spot for photo opportunities from the boat.

Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island: Snorkeling and Sunbathing

The next highlight is the Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island, where the boat anchors from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm for a snorkeling stop. The calm waters and white sands make it a perfect place for swimming and lounging.

Snorkel gear is provided, allowing guests to marvel at the underwater life in the crystal-clear waters. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful lagoon and photograph the vibrant marine scenery.

Island Hopping at Pakleni Islands

From 1:30 pm to 2:45 pm, the tour visits the Pakleni Islands, a chain of islands known for their beautiful coves and excellent swimming and snorkeling spots. Here, guests have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore freely — options include lunch, sunbathing, or additional swimming.

Many reviews mention that the lunch stop at Carpe Diem Beach can be disappointing, with some describing the food as expensive and of poor quality. It’s advisable to bring snacks or a packed lunch if you prefer better options.

Free Time in Hvar and Fortress Visit

The tour’s highlight is Hvar town, where from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, guests enjoy free time. This allows for exploring the charming streets, visiting the fortress, or simply relaxing in cafes. The Hvar Fortress offers panoramic views of the harbor and island surroundings, making it a popular spot.

Hvar’s vibrant atmosphere and picturesque architecture provide a well-deserved break after a busy day on the water.

Return Journey and Overall Experience

The boat departs Hvar at 5:00 pm, returning to Split around 5:30 pm to 6:15 pm. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights while enjoying bottled water and the scenery.

This tour offers a well-structured schedule, ideal for those who want to see multiple islands efficiently. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere and personalized service.

Practical Tips and Considerations for the Tour

Travelers should bring a towel, hat, swimsuit, sunglasses, spare clothes, and sunscreen to stay comfortable. The Blue Cave entrance fee must be paid separately—around 10 EUR in preseason and 15 EUR in season—so budget accordingly.

Weather can impact the experience, especially the ability to visit the Blue Cave, which depends on sea conditions. Some reviews mention long boat rides to the cave, with about 1.5 hours each way, so expect to spend significant time on the water.

The lunch options may not satisfy all tastes, so consider bringing snacks or eating later in Hvar. The group size of 12 ensures a personalized experience, but it’s good to be prepared for some speedboat splashes and speedy stops.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Day with Cave and Island Highlights

The Luxury Blue Cave & 5 Islands Tour from Split offers a comprehensive snapshot of Croatia’s stunning coast, with visits to the Blue Cave, several islands, and the historic Hvar town. Its professional guides, snorkeling gear, and well-planned schedule make it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a full-day adventure.

While weather variability can limit access to the Blue Cave and some stops, the tour’s diverse locations and beautiful scenery generally make up for it. The extra Blue Cave entrance fee and lunch quality are points to consider, but overall, this tour provides excellent value for the chance to see Croatia’s coastline in comfort and style.

Ideal for those wanting a guided, all-in-one island-hopping experience, this tour combines stunning landscapes, marine activities, and the opportunity to explore historic sites. Just remember to pack wisely, especially in case of bad weather, and enjoy the breathtaking views that make this trip memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers snorkel gear, bottled water, professional skipper, and crew, with light refreshments. Entry to the Blue Cave is extra.

How much does the Blue Cave entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee is approximately 12-18 EUR, varying with the season—10 EUR in preseason, 15 EUR in season.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a towel, hat, swimsuit, sunglasses, spare clothes, sunscreen, and snacks if preferred, especially since lunch options may be limited.

Can I visit Hvar Fortress?
Yes, you have around 2 hours in Hvar to explore the town and visit the fortress, which offers great panoramic views.

What happens if the weather prevents cave access?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if the Blue Cave cannot be visited, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

How long is the speedboat ride to the Blue Cave?
The boat ride to the Blue Cave lasts about 1.5 hours each way, making it a long journey for some.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of most ages can participate, but speedboat rides can be rough and may not be suitable for very young children.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is food included during the day?
No, lunch is not included, and the recommended lunch spot may be expensive and limited. Many bring snacks or plan to eat later in Hvar.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 5 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.