From Hvar: Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Group Tour

The From Hvar: Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Group Tour offers a full-day adventure across some of Croatia’s most breathtaking coastal spots for just $94 per person. Departing from the main pier in Hvar city center, this speedboat trip takes you to four main stops, including the famous Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Palmizana Beach on the Pakleni Islands. With a local skipper leading the way, you’ll experience crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and vibrant seaside villages, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a mix of scenery, swimming, and island exploration.

While this tour provides many highlights and a flexible itinerary, it’s worth noting that access to the Blue and Green Caves depends on weather conditions. Plus, some reviews mention variable experiences with the safety and professionalism of the boat crew, so travelers should be prepared for different levels of service. This tour suits adventurers who love nature, snorkeling, and island hopping, with a good balance of guided visits and free time.

Key Points

• Price: $94 per person for a full-day boat adventure from Hvar
• Duration: Approximately 6 PM return, with stops throughout the day
• Main stops: Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, Blue Cave, Palmizana Beach
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, exploring caves, relaxing on beaches
• Optional stops: Vis Town, Komiza, Budikovac Island, and more, based on weather and group preferences
• Tour provider: Hvar Charter, with flexible itinerary options

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How the Tour Starts at the Hvar Main Pier

The tour begins at the main pier in Hvar city center, specifically outside the HvarBoats office next to the Post Office. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. The speedboat is designed for comfort, equipped with safety gear, life jackets, music, and bottled water. This setup ensures a smooth start to your day at sea. The group size is generally manageable, allowing for personalized attention from the local skipper.

Exploring the Green Cave on Ravnik Island

The Green Cave on the islet of Ravnik is a key highlight. As your boat anchors nearby, you’ll have the chance to swim directly into the cave or explore it from the boat. Inside, sunlight filters through an opening in the ceiling, casting a green glow that reflects off the seafloor, creating a magical atmosphere. The skipper often assists with ticket purchases and guiding you through the cave, making this stop both scenic and accessible.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Stiniva Bay

Next, the unusual shape of Stiniva Bay makes it a must-visit site. The bay’s gorgeous, sheltered waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The boat drops anchor, and visitors can enter the bay either by swimming or with a small rubber boat. At the beach, a bar offers drinks, so you can relax after your swim. The bay’s secluded vibe and crystalline waters make it a favorite for nature lovers, though some may find the access a bit challenging if they’re less mobile.

Visiting the Iconic Blue Cave

A major highlight, the Blue Cave is often considered a Croatian natural wonder. The tour coordinates entry tickets and timing, with access managed by the local port authority. Visitors enter the cave aboard a small official motorboat, which is operated by Blue Cave staff. Inside, you’ll notice the stunning blue light that illuminates the cave, a phenomenon caused by sunlight passing through an underwater opening. Waiting in a nearby bar provides a good chance to relax before your turn to enter.

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Flexible Itinerary and Optional Stops

The tour’s itinerary includes four main stops—Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, Blue Cave, and Palmizana Beach—plus one optional stop. This extra location is chosen based on weather, sea conditions, and group preferences. Possible options include Vis Town, Komiza, Bodikovac Island, Seal Monks Cave, or a hidden beach on Vis, among others. The skipper customizes the route, ensuring everyone gets the most out of the day.

Relaxing at Palmizana Beach on the Pakleni Islands

The final stop is the sandy Palmizana Beach. This vibrant bay offers sandy coves, beach bars, and seaside restaurants. Visitors can swim, enjoy a drink, or grab lunch at one of the renowned seaside eateries. The shaded pine forest nearby and the botanical garden add to the laid-back island vibe. Whether relaxing on the sand or exploring the lush surroundings, this stop provides a peaceful end to the active day.

Timing, Weather, and Cave Accessibility

The tour operates year-round, but access to the Blue and Green Caves can be affected by high tide or strong winds. If caves are closed, the route adjusts to include other scenic locations. The length of the tour may be slightly shorter before June and after September due to earlier sunsets, but the fewer crowds mean a more peaceful experience. In any case, safety and quality of experience take priority.

Practical Considerations for Booking and Preparation

Travelers should bring sunglasses, a towel, a change of clothes, and cash for tickets and meals. It’s important to note that entrance tickets to caves are purchased on-site, and lunch and drinks are not included but available at seaside restaurants. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or individuals with certain mobility issues. Also, pets, electric wheelchairs, and nudity are not permitted.

Safety and Review Highlights

While most reviews emphasize the scenic beauty, guide quality, and relaxing atmosphere, some mention safety concerns with boat handling. Reports of reckless skipper behavior, including smoking, drinking, and unsafe navigation, contrast with the many positive comments about knowledgeable guides like Ana and Dino. Visitors should weigh these factors when choosing this tour.

Final Thoughts on the Hvar Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Tour

This full-day speedboat trip offers an exciting way to see Croatia’s stunning coastline, with notable stops at the Green Cave, Blue Cave, and Stiniva Bay. The flexible itinerary allows for customized experiences based on weather and group preferences, making it suitable for adventurous travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views.

Despite some mixed reviews regarding safety and crew professionalism, the tour’s highlights—the spectacular caves, crystal waters, and relaxed island stops—make it a compelling option. For those who value nature, exploration, and a day at sea, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience, with the potential for memorable moments in Croatia’s coastal paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $94 per person fee includes the full-day group speedboat tour, local skipper, fuel and docking fees, safety gear, life jackets, bottled water, snorkeling masks, and insurance.

Are entrance tickets to the caves included?
No, tickets for the Blue and Green Caves are purchased on-site before entering, with prices varying seasonally and by age.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, a change of clothes, and cash for tickets and meals. Eating and drinking at seaside restaurants is not included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable for young children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, pregnant women, or people with back problems. Mobility limitations may make some stops less accessible.

What happens if the caves are closed due to weather?
If weather conditions prevent access to the Blue or Green Cave, the itinerary is adjusted to visit alternative locations. The tour may be shortened or rescheduled for safety and quality reasons.

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