Blue Cave and Hvar island – five island tour from Split

The Blue Cave and Hvar Island – five island tour from Split offers an exciting way to explore Croatia’s coast in one day. Priced at $142.67 per person, this 10-hour small-group adventure departs from Split and takes you to some of the most beautiful spots along the Dalmatian coast. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share insights about each destination. The tour features several highlights, including the world-famous Blue Cave, snorkeling equipment, and visits to five distinct islands and beaches.

While the Blue Cave is the main draw, the tour also takes you to Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Island, the Pakleni Islands, and Hvar itself. With bottled water included and snorkeling gear available, the experience combines natural beauty with comfort. One notable aspect is the flexibility to explore these locations at a relaxed pace, making it suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and exploring islands without rushing.

The tour starts early at 7:30 am from a central meeting point in Split, making the most of the daylight hours. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to see several islands in a single day, especially if they appreciate smaller groups, informative guides, and gorgeous coastal scenery. However, it’s important to keep in mind that tickets for the Blue Cave are not included in the price, and the Blue Cave visit depends on weather conditions, which can affect the schedule.

Key Points

• Includes visits to five islands and the Blue Cave in one day, offering a broad taste of Croatia’s coastal beauty.
• Small group of 15 or fewer ensures a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Snorkeling gear and bottled water are provided, with ample time for swimming and exploring.
• Tour departs early at 7:30 am from Split, maximizing daylight and sightseeing opportunities.
• Blue Cave entrance fee is not included, so prepare for an additional cost if you wish to enter.
• The tour is most suitable for travelers aged 3 and up, with some limitations for very young children.

Starting Point and Timing in Split

The adventure begins in Split’s historic core, at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 23. The 7:30 am start time helps you beat the crowds and enjoy a full day of exploring. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making transportation logistics straightforward. The early start is ideal for travelers eager to pack in the sights without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island

The Blue Cave on Bisevo Island is a major highlight of this tour. Recognized worldwide as one of the most beautiful sea caves, it’s famous for its glowing blue waters and unique lighting. The cave is about 1 hour long during the visit, though access depends on weather conditions and timing, as tickets are not included in the tour price. The Blue Cave was made famous through a discovery by Baron Ransonnet, and it remains a must-see for its mesmerizing appearance.

Visitors can expect to see the cave’s luminous blue hues, created by sunlight passing through an underwater opening. However, the Blue Cave’s popularity sometimes results in long waits, and the tour guides do not include tickets in the fee, so travelers should budget extra for entry.

Stiniva Cove: Europe’s Most Beautiful Beach

Next, the tour stops at Stiniva Cove on the south side of Vis Island. This small, narrow beach gained fame after being voted Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2016. Its striking, enclosed shape and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming and relaxing. Visitors spend about 40 minutes here, with free access and no entry fee.

Despite its size, Stiniva Cove’s stunning natural formations and calm waters make it a favorite for those seeking a peaceful escape. Keep in mind, the limited time means you’ll want to enjoy the scenery quickly but thoroughly.

Marveling at the Crystal Lagoons of Budikovac Island

The next stop is Budikovac Island, famed for its beautiful lagoon. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy beach create a postcard-perfect scene. The 40-minute visit allows time for swimming and snorkeling, with free access and no additional entry fee.

This island is ideal for travelers who want to experience calm, pristine waters away from larger crowds. The lagoon’s transparency makes it an excellent spot for snorkeling, especially with the provided gear.

The Pakleni Islands: Paradise Beaches and Restaurants

The Pakleni Islands group in Hvar offers paradise-like beaches, hidden lagoons, and waterfront restaurants. The tour spends about 1 hour here, giving enough time to explore, swim, or enjoy a beachside meal. These islands are known for their scenic beauty and serve as one of the most attractive parts of Hvar.

The area is perfect for those who appreciate stunning coastal landscapes, and the abundance of restaurants provides options for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. The group size helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, even during busy periods.

Discovering Hvar Town and Its Sunny Climate

The final 2-hour stop is Hvar town, famously called “sunny Hvar” because of its 2726 sunshine hours annually. Here, visitors enjoy exploring the vibrant streets, historical sites, and lively harbor. The town is set in scenic surroundings and offers a mix of culture, history, and modern cafes.

This stop provides an excellent opportunity to walk around at your own pace, soak up the lively ambiance, and perhaps grab a coffee or a quick snack before returning to Split. Its location on the south coast provides stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes bottled water, snorkeling equipment, insurance, and safety gear for all participants. These amenities ensure comfort and safety during the day’s activities. The use of snorkeling gear allows you to discover the underwater world at each stop, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the trip.

Not included are lunch and Blue Cave tickets, meaning you should plan for additional expenses if you want to enter the cave or grab a meal. The Blue Cave ticket can vary in price and is subject to weather conditions, which can impact the schedule.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 23 in Split, easily accessible by public transportation. The activity is designed for groups of up to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from guides. It is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for children under 3 years due to the boat ride and activity nature.

The fast speedboat ensures quick transit between destinations, maximizing sightseeing time. The most travelers find the pacing comfortable, with enough breaks to relax and enjoy each location.

Recognized Strengths and Notable Limitations

The small group size and personalized guide are among the tour’s biggest advantages, as they ensure a relaxed atmosphere and opportunities to ask questions. The stunning scenery at each stop, especially the Blue Cave and Hvar, is frequently praised.

However, the Blue Cave entrance fee is separate, and weather can influence access to the cave. Some reviews mention long wait times for entry, which can impact the overall experience. A few travelers noted issues with pick-up times or schedule adjustments, so staying flexible is advised.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This five island tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that covers multiple scenic spots in a single outing. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small group experiences, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time in Split who want to see several islands without the hassle of multiple bookings.

Travelers should be comfortable with boat rides and prepared for weather-dependent cave visits. The tour offers a balanced pace, making it a good choice for active, curious, and nature-loving travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for children under 3 years due to the boat ride and activity requirements.

How much does Blue Cave entry cost?
The Blue Cave ticket is not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. Costs vary, and access depends on weather conditions.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and towels. The tour provides snorkeling gear and bottled water.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to buy food during the stops, especially in Hvar town.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Typically, 40 minutes at Stiniva Cove and Budikovac Island, 1 hour at Pakleni Islands, and 2 hours in Hvar. The Blue Cave visit lasts about 1 hour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling gear for exploring the underwater environment.

What is the overall rating?
The tour holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 31 reviews, praised for friendly guides and breathtaking scenery.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are made through Viator, and the tour is operated by Blue Cave Tours. Contact details are +385913534533 and [email protected].

This Blue Cave and five island tour from Split combines natural beauty with practical convenience, making it a memorable day for those eager to see Croatia’s coastline in a small-group setting.