From Hvar: Blue Cave and 5 Islands Boat Tour

The From Hvar: Blue Cave and 5 Islands Boat Tour offers an engaging day exploring some of Croatia’s most captivating coastlines and islands. Priced at $120 per person, this tour is perfect for those who want a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and visiting iconic caves. It departs from Feeling Hvar’s office, located next to the Carpe Diem bar, making access straightforward for visitors staying in or near Hvar town.

This tour stands out because it includes visits to the Blue Cave, a natural attraction renowned for its magical blue reflections, plus five other islands or bays. Notable stops include Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon, Green Cave, Stiniva Beach on Vis, and a surprise destination, all coupled with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax. The tour’s flexible itinerary means that if the Blue Cave is closed due to high tides or winds, alternative sights are visited, and refunds are not possible for cave closures.

While the tour offers plenty of highlights, it’s important to note that entry to caves is paid onsite if visitors choose to go inside, and lunch is not included. The boats used are rubber or plastic boats, which can be between 8.5 and 11 meters long depending on availability. Each vessel has shaded areas in the stern and a sundeck for comfortable cruising. Travelers should bring essentials like comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and cash for optional cave entry fees.

Key Points

• Includes visits to the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Stiniva Beach on Vis Island.
• Swim and snorkel opportunities in crystal-clear waters, especially at Budikovac and other bays.
• Flexible itinerary allows for alternative stops if the Blue Cave is closed.
• Boat options include rubber or plastic vessels, with shaded sterns and sun decks.
• Tour duration is approximately a full day, with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.
• No lunch included, but there is a refreshing drink or light meal at the final stop in Palmiana Bay.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Blue Cave’s Magic

The Blue Cave on Bievo Island is the highlight of this tour, thanks to its spectacular lighting effects. Around noon, the sunlight passing through an underwater opening causes the white sandy bottom to reflect a brilliant blue glow. This natural phenomenon creates an enchanting atmosphere that draws visitors from around the world. The tour operator emphasizes that entry to the cave can be payable onsite and is subject to weather conditions, especially high tides or winds.

If the Blue Cave is not accessible, the guide will visit other destinations instead. This flexibility ensures a full day of sightseeing, though refunds are not available for cave closures, as the decision depends on weather and natural conditions beyond the operator’s control.

The Charm of Budikovac Island and Blue Lagoon

The tour’s first stop is Island Budikovac, home to the Blue Lagoon bay. This spot is only reachable by boat, making it a special place to refresh in turquoise waters and enjoy midday sun. The water’s clarity is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the scenic beauty makes it an ideal introduction to the day’s adventure.

Following this, the Green Cave on the same island is a natural spectacle created by sunlight passing through an opening and reflecting on algae, producing a bright green glow. The magical lighting effects in the Green Cave make it a popular feature, especially for photography fans.

Visiting Stiniva Beach, a Natural Wonder

One of the day’s most celebrated stops is the beach of Stiniva on the southern side of Vis Island. Surrounded by prehistoric rocks, this crescent-shaped cove was formed thousands of years ago when a cave collapsed. Its secluded location and natural beauty have led it to be declared one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

Access to Stiniva is only by boat, which helps preserve its pristine environment. The rock formations and cove shape make it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing, away from crowds that typically gather at other beaches.

The Blue Cave Experience on Bievo Island

The Blue Cave on Bievo Island is known for its unique lighting effect, which occurs around midday when sunlight filters through an underwater opening. The reflection off the white sandy bottom intensifies the blue hue, creating a magical atmosphere that many find unforgettable.

Visitors are given the chance to explore the cave and take photos of the stunning light display. However, the tour emphasizes that cave access depends on weather conditions and cave opening times, so flexibility is part of the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Tour Features and Amenities

The tour includes a host and skipper, snorkeling gear, and water onboard to stay refreshed. As a bonus, music plays during cruising, adding to the relaxed vibe. Guests are offered a welcome drink at the start, making for a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Ice boxes are available for keeping drinks cold, and the tour ends with a refreshing drink or lunch in Palmiana Bay on the Pakleni Islands. Although lunch is not included, the final stop provides a chance to relax and enjoy a drink at a popular bar or restaurant.

Logistics and Practical Tips

Meeting at the Feeling Hvar office makes it easy to join the tour, and the activity lasts roughly a full day, departing early and returning later in the afternoon. The small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility in the itinerary.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, sun hats, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, and cash for optional cave entry fees. The boats are either rubber or plastic, with options depending on availability, and each provides shaded and sunbathing areas.

Suitability and Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for children under 4 years, wheelchair users, or people over 80 years. The boat rides and stops involve some physical activity, so travelers should be comfortable with swimming and moving around on boats.

The Skipper’s Role and Tour Flexibility

Review highlights consistently mention the helpfulness and knowledge of the skipper, who is responsible for navigating the itinerary and ensuring guests get the best experience possible. The skipper also manages the timing of each stop to avoid crowds and maximize the experience.

In case the Blue Cave is inaccessible, the skipper will adjust the tour to visit other sights, maintaining a smooth and engaging day.

Visiting Croatia’s Coast with Confidence

The From Hvar: Blue Cave and 5 Islands Boat Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic day exploring Croatia’s best-known islands and caves. The combination of natural beauty, crystal waters, and stunning caves makes it particularly appealing for travelers seeking memorable outdoor experiences.

While cave closure and weather conditions can affect the itinerary, the tour’s flexibility and friendly guides help ensure a satisfying adventure. Pricing at $120 is reasonable considering the inclusions, and the overall positive reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially for scenery, guide expertise, and swimming opportunities.

Anyone who appreciates crystal-clear waters, spectacular caves, and relaxed cruising will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Hvar holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at the Feeling Hvar office, located next to the Carpe Diem bar.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately a full day, with a flexible schedule depending on weather and cave accessibility.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included, but a refreshing drink or light meal is available at the final stop in Palmiana Bay.

Can I visit the Blue Cave if it’s closed?
If the Blue Cave is closed due to high tides or winds, the tour visits other destinations instead, with no refund for the cave closure.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, cash for optional cave entry fees, and sun hats.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for children under 4 years, wheelchair users, or people over 80.

What boats are used for the tour?
The boats are rubber or plastic, with lengths between 8.5 and 11 meters, depending on availability, featuring shaded sterns and sun decks.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming is encouraged at stops like Blue Lagoon and Stiniva, non-swimmers can remain on the boat or watch from the deck.

How does the guide enhance the experience?
The skipper is known for being helpful and knowledgeable, ensuring that guests enjoy the best possible sights and experiences, adjusting stops to avoid crowds.

Is booking flexible?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby