From Hvar: Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands Private Boat Tour

Discover the Best of the Dalmatian Coast on a Private Boat Tour from Hvar

This private boat tour offers an exciting day exploring Croatia’s famous Blue Cave, Green Cave, and the scenic Pakleni Islands. Priced at $1,118 per group for up to 10 people, it provides an intimate way to experience the natural beauty of the Dalmatian coast. The tour includes visits to coves, caves, and beaches, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

The experience is guided by attentive skippers who are well-versed in local spots, ensuring you see the highlights at a comfortable pace. While tickets for the Blue and Green Caves are not included in the base price, the overall experience promises a full day of scenic vistas, water activities, and relaxing beach time. This tour suits groups seeking a personalized adventure with flexibility to choose stops based on your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private boat experience for up to 10 guests, ensuring personalized service.
• Includes visits to the Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, and Pakleni Islands.
• Snorkeling masks, bottled water, and an icebox are provided for comfort and convenience.
• Stops at several scenic locations, including Stiniva Beach, Seal Monk’s Cave, and Palmizana Beach.
• Tickets for caves are not included, so budget around 70-100 kn per person for admission.
• Tour runs from morning until sunset, with flexible stops to match your group’s interests.

Starting Point: Hvar Town’s Main Pier

The tour begins at HvarBoats office, located on the main pier in Hvar town, next to the Post Office. Meeting in this central spot makes it easy to start your day with a quick check-in before boarding the comfortable speedboat. The group size is limited, fostering an intimate atmosphere ideal for families, friends, or small groups.

The pickup is straightforward, and the guide provides a friendly welcome, setting the tone for a relaxed, fun day at sea. Returning to the same meeting point at the end of the day around 6 PM, guests enjoy views of the sunset as the boat heads back to Hvar, with skies painted in warm colors.

Exploring the Iconic Blue Cave in Style

A highlight of this tour is the Blue Cave, often regarded as a national natural wonder. The guide assists with purchasing cave entrance tickets, which cost 70 kn per person in May, June, and September, and 100 kn in July and August. The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to wait at the bar nearby or explore the shop while you await your entry time.

The Blue Cave’s famous light effect is a mesmerizing display of shimmering blue hues that fill the interior when sunlight filters through the sea. The guide helps guests step off the speedboat and navigate the entrance safely, making this a memorable photo opportunity. The cave’s interior offers a truly unique visual experience that makes it well worth the small additional expense.

The Green Cave and Stiniva Bay: Refreshing Water Stops

Next, the tour takes you to the Green Cave on Bodikovac Island, where entry is also paid separately (around 50–70 kn per person depending on the season). Visitors can swim inside the cave or enjoy the scenery from outside. The guide often provides insights about the cave’s formation and environment.

Following the Green Cave, the boat drops anchor at Stiniva Bay, famed for its unusual, narrow entrance and stunning natural setting. Guests can swim in the gorgeous, sheltered bay or snorkel in its clear waters. The bay has a small bar where you can buy a drink and relax after a swim. This spot offers great opportunities for water activities and soaking up the scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Palmizana Beach and the Pakleni Islands

Returning to the Pakleni Islands, the tour visits the Palmizana Beach, famous for its gently sloping sandy beaches and a charming local cocktail bar. Guests have free time to swim, grab a bite at nearby restaurants, or simply lounge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Some choose to explore the botanical garden close to Palmizana, making for a tranquil end to the day. During your free time, you can listen to music on the boat or take a walk to the nearby marina on the north side of the island. This mix of relaxation and light exploration makes Palmizana a favorite stop.

Optional Lunch and Additional Spots

While lunch is not included, the tour’s flexible nature allows groups to buy food on Vis Island or at the beaches. Other optional stops include Seal Monk’s Cave, Stoncica Beach, Komiza Town, or the WWII military submarine garage. These varied options give you a chance to customize the day based on interests or weather conditions.

The guide’s local knowledge ensures you get the most out of each stop, whether you’re seeking a scenic photo, a refreshing swim, or a quiet moment of escape.

The Comfort and Practicalities of the Speedboat

The speedboat is described as comfortable, with an icebox to keep drinks cool and snorkeling masks provided for water fun. The boat’s design allows for easy access to all stops, and the salty sea air enhances the feeling of adventure.

Guests should bring cash for cave entrance tickets and any additional purchases, as these are not included in the price. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or babies under 1 year. It operates subject to weather conditions, and the company reserves the right to cancel or change routes if necessary.

The Skipper and Guides: Knowledgeable and Attentive

Reviews highlight the skippers’ expertise and friendly manner. Skippers like Vinko, Davor, and Tin are praised for their professionalism, local knowledge, and ability to adapt the day’s schedule to guests’ preferences. They are also noted for their excellent English, making communication smooth and enjoyable.

This personalized attention is a key feature, allowing for a flexible and smoothly run day at sea, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized commentary.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

While this tour is highly praised, it’s important to note that blue cave tickets are purchased separately and may cost between 70–100 kn per person depending on the season. The price of $1,118 covers the boat and guide, but not the cave entries or lunch.

For travelers seeking a private, customizable experience with attentive guides and a focus on scenic water stops, this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for those who want an intimate tour with the flexibility to choose stops and spend ample time in each location.

Final Thoughts: A Personalized Day of Croatian Water Adventures

This private boat tour from Hvar provides an engaging mix of nature, water activities, and scenic beauty. Its small group size and knowledgeable guides make for a relaxed, enjoyable experience—perfect for families, friends, or small groups looking to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline without large crowds.

While cave tickets and lunch are extras, the overall experience offers excellent value for such a tailored adventure. The stunning Blue and Green Caves, beautiful beaches, and scenic coves make this tour a memorable way to see the Dalmatian coast.

Most importantly, the flexibility and personal attention from the guides stand out, ensuring that each trip can be adapted to suit your interests and weather conditions. For travelers wanting a private, scenic, and water-filled day around Hvar, this tour is a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the price?
  Bottled water, snorkeling masks, a skipper/guide, and an icebox are included. Cave entrance tickets and lunch are not included.

• How much do cave tickets cost?
  The Blue Cave costs 70 kn in May, June, September and 100 kn in July and August; Green Cave is 50 kn in May, June, September and 70 kn in July and August.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It starts at HvarBoats office on the main pier in Hvar town and returns there around 6 PM.

• Is this tour suitable for families with children?
  Yes, but not suitable for babies under 1 year or individuals with back problems or pregnant women.

• Can I buy lunch during the tour?
  Lunch is not included, but you can purchase food and drinks on Vis Island or at beaches during your free time.

• What should I bring?
  Bring cash for cave tickets and any additional purchases. Also consider bringing sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear.

• What happens if the weather is bad?
  The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled, you can reschedule or receive a refund.

• How personalized is the experience?
  The guides are praised for their attentiveness and flexibility, often customizing stops based on your interests.

• Is snorkeling equipment provided?
  Yes, snorkeling masks are included for water activities.

• Would you recommend this tour?
  Absolutely, especially for those seeking a private, flexible day exploring Croatia’s famous caves and beaches with knowledgeable guides.

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