50 Shades of Blue: Blue Cave & 5 Islands Boat Tour from Hvar

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, especially around the lively town of Hvar, you’ll find this “50 Shades of Blue” boat tour an ideal way to experience the region’s best natural attractions. Combining vibrant caves, pristine beaches, and scenic island hopping, this full-day adventure offers a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline that’s hard to match. From sparkling waters to hidden caves and a dash of local charm, it’s a trip designed for those who love authentic scenery over tourist traps.

What really makes this tour stand out are the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking views—both of which seem to leave travelers with lasting memories. It’s also very flexible, generally visiting 5-6 destinations depending on weather and sea conditions, which keeps each trip feeling fresh. However, one consideration is the need to book your boat ride in advance, as spots on these small groups are limited to just 14 people per boat—so don’t wait too long.

This adventure suits travelers looking for a full-day, immersive experience into Croatia’s island environment, especially those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves. If you’re after a relaxed yet lively day with expert guides leading the way, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Small group size: Max 14 people ensures a personal experience with the guide.
• Variety of sights: Visiting caves, beaches, and islands provides diverse scenery.
• Flexible itinerary: Depending on weather, the number of stops may vary, but always includes key highlights.
• Value for money: For just $12, the core experience is very affordable, though cave entrance tickets are extra.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing local stories and tips.
• Photogenic spots: Locations where the “Mamma Mia” film was shot add a fun, cinematic element.

The “50 Shades of Blue” tour from Hvar promises a full day of exploring some of Croatia’s most stunning seascapes and islands. It’s designed for travelers who want visuals to match their Instagram feed but also crave the stories behind each location. It lasts about 8 hours, starting around 10:30 a.m. and returning between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., giving enough time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s core itinerary includes visits to 2-3 caves—notably the famous Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Monk Seal Cave—and 3 beaches like Stiniva, Blue Lagoon, and one on the Paklinski Islands. These sites are spread across five islands: Vis, Bisevo, Ravnik, Budikovac, and Paklinski. Additional stops are possible if the weather allows, such as exploring towns like Komiza or the smaller beaches and caves on Vis Island.

Blue Cave & Green Cave: These caves are the main attractions. The Blue Cave is renowned for its glowing blue light, caused by sunlight bouncing off the seabed, creating a surreal effect. The Green Cave, used historically as a hiding spot during WWII battleships, offers a different hue—a vibrant green that’s equally captivating. Entering these caves is a highlight, especially since the tour includes tickets for the Green Cave (8 EUR) and Blue Cave (18 EUR), purchased directly on-site.

The Beaches: Stiniva Beach, often lauded as one of Europe’s best, is a favorite for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters—perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing with a good book. The Blue Lagoon and Paklinski Islands feature calm, turquoise waters ideal for snorkelers and kids, or anyone wanting to float lazily in the sea.

Island Wildlife and Local Charm: The tour’s unique feature is the chance to meet the “king of an uninhabited island,” who apparently has a cozy little beach terrace. It’s a playful and fun stop, especially as you sip drinks and snorkel just a few meters from the shore. The guide often shares local tales, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Transport and Group Size

The tour uses small-speed boats—with options of standard (€80), comfort (€90), or deluxe (€100) boats—allowing for quick access into caves and tight spots where larger vessels can’t go. The maximum group size of 14 passengers keeps the experience intimate and allows the guide to tailor some moments to your interests.

The Experience and Reviews

A key highlight from travelers is the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer shared, “Marina, our charming guide, wove local tales and secrets into our journey, making each twist feel like a storybook chapter.” The sights themselves are often described as “picturesque,” with “colors that don’t do justice to photographs,” as one guest put it. The tour’s flexibility based on weather and sea conditions shows a commitment to safety and enjoyment, which travelers appreciate.

The tour includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, and music, creating a relaxed, party-on-the-sea vibe. The only extra costs are the cave entrance tickets, which are quite reasonable when considering the value of the experience.

The Value Proposition

At $12 per person for the core tour, it’s a steal—especially considering the amount of scenery and activity packed into a single day. The cave tickets are additional but are purchased on-site, meaning you only pay if you want to enter. The boat ride prices vary depending on your chosen comfort level, but even the most basic option is relatively affordable.

For those who love water activities, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and see marine life like baby seals (as per the tour description) adds to the appeal. The combination of natural beauty and a personal guide makes this a highly recommended option for most travelers.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early: The limited group size means spots fill up fast.
• Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a change of clothes, water shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection.
• Be prepared for weather: The tour is weather-dependent, and cave visits can be canceled if sea conditions are unsafe.
• Bring cash for cave tickets: The cave entrance fees are paid directly on-site.
• Arrive at the meeting point early: The tour departs from the Vitamin Sea stand near Carpe Diem Bar in the port.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers, water lovers, and those eager to see iconic Croatian landscapes in a single day. It’s especially suited for people who don’t mind small boats and variable weather, and for those who value local guides sharing stories and tips. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, those with back problems, or people with mobility issues.

In the end, the “50 Shades of Blue” boat tour offers an authentic, visually stunning exploration of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. With a small group, flexible itinerary, and expert guidance, you’re likely to leave with a camera full of photos and a heart full of memories. Whether it’s the glow of the Blue Cave, the calm waters of the beaches, or the stories your guide shares, this tour strikes a good balance between adventure, comfort, and value.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic day that hits all the highlights and leaves plenty of room for spontaneous fun, this trip is well worth considering. It’s best suited for those who want to experience Croatia’s natural beauty without the fuss—just the sea, the sun, and a handful of incredible spots that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins at 10:30 a.m., giving you a relaxed morning before heading out on the water.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 8 hours, with return times between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Can I choose a specific boat type?
Yes, you can select from standard (€80), comfort (€90), or deluxe (€100) boats when booking, but payment is made before the tour.

Are cave entrance tickets included?
No, tickets for the Blue Cave (€18) and Green Cave (€8) are bought directly at the entrances. The tour price covers the tour itself and some amenities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While generally family-friendly, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back issues, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, water shoes, and a change of clothes. A long-sleeved shirt and a waterproof bag are also helpful.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Your safety is the priority. If weather conditions make cave visits unsafe, the guide may modify or postpone the tour.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, fun activities, and local insight—ideal for anyone wanting to experience Croatia’s coast authentically.

You can check availability for your dates here: