Blue cave & Hvar (5 Islands) private tour from Split or Trogir

Introducing the Blue Cave & Hvar (5 Islands) Private Tour from Split or Trogir

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and want a well-rounded day of island hopping, this private tour of the Dalmatian Islands offers a delightful mix of natural wonders, historic towns, and relaxing beaches. While it’s not a cheap outing—costing over a thousand dollars for a group—you get a personalized experience that takes you from the famous Blue Cave to the lively streets of Hvar with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun.

What we love about this tour is how flexible it is. You get a dedicated skipper, snorkeling gear, and a full day to explore at your own pace, which is a real plus for travelers who dislike large crowds and prefer a tailored experience. Also, the stops at spots like Stiniva Cove and the Green Cave promise memorable moments and some excellent photo opportunities.

However, one important consideration is the cost relative to what’s included. While the tour covers fuel, safety equipment, and bottled water, the Blue Cave and Green Cave entrance fees are extra, so you should budget for those. Also, some reviews mention that the boat captain can be a bit brisk, which might affect the comfort level, especially for families with young children or older travelers.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore the Dalmatian coast in a private setting, especially those who value flexibility, snorkeling, and visiting iconic sites like Hvar and the Blue Cave. If you’re after an intimate, well-paced adventure with the chance to explore Croatia’s best islands, this might be a good fit.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, offering flexibility and personalized attention.
• Multiple stops: From the Blue Cave to Hvar, each destination offers unique sights and activities.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Several stops are ideal for swimming and underwater exploring.
• Extra costs: Entry tickets for Blue and Green Caves aren’t included, so plan accordingly.
• Time management: The tour is about 11 hours, so it’s a full-day commitment but packed with highlights.
• Cost: At roughly $1,134 per group, it’s an investment, but the private nature can be well worth it for privacy and tailored experiences.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The Blue Cave

The tour kicks off with a visit to the world-famous Blue Cave, which is renowned for its surreal, glowing blue waters created by sunlight filtering through a narrow opening beneath the waterline. As one of the most photographed natural sights in Croatia, it’s a must-see. Be aware that the admission ticket isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay extra on the spot. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, so while you won’t have hours here, it’s enough to snap some photos and marvel at the natural wonder.

Komiza on Vis Island

Next, you’ll dock at Komiza, a charming old Croatian town on Vis Island, with a history that stretches back centuries. It’s a relaxed place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or enjoy breakfast before heading to the next stops. The review from a traveler named Carol highlights how the town’s old-world charm appeals, though she notes some dissatisfaction with how the captain handled the boat—”the captain rushed us and sealed the boat in a very rude way,” she said, which could be a concern if you’re traveling with children or older family members.

Stiniva Cove

The tour pauses at Stiniva Cove, a hidden beach embraced by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s often described as a hidden gem, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The cove typically lasts about 30 minutes, giving you just enough time to enjoy the scenery and cool off in the inviting waters.

Budikovac Island – Blue Lagoon

A highlight for many is Budikovac Island, home to the Blue Lagoon, a small, picturesque beach with calm waters ideal for relaxing in the sun or swimming. The hour-long stop is a chance to unwind and take in the stunning surroundings, often praised for its beauty. It’s a peaceful spot to forget about busy tourist crowds and enjoy the gentle waves.

Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands are famous for their clear waters and excellent restaurants. The tour allocates about two hours here, often enough for a leisurely lunch and a swim. Many travelers love the chance to taste the local cuisine, especially since the tour mentions that lunch and drinks aren’t included, but the islands host some of the best eateries in the area. This is a good opportunity to relax, soak up the ambiance, and perhaps sample some local wine—an activity that one review highlighted as particularly enjoyable.

Hvar Town

The day concludes with Hvar Town, one of Croatia’s most popular islands. You’ll have about two hours to explore the lively streets, visit the historic Fortica Fortress, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. With its lively cafes, historic architecture, and panoramic views, Hvar offers a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. The review notes the benefit of having free time here to wander at your own pace, which is often appreciated by travelers seeking authentic local experiences.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides a private boat, a professional skipper who speaks English, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, wind jackets, and bottled water—crucial for a comfortable and secure day on the water. The fuel costs are covered, which is a plus, especially on a long day with multiple stops.

However, lunch, drinks, and entrance tickets to the Blue and Green Caves aren’t included in the price. Expect to spend additional money if you wish to visit the caves, which are some of the most iconic spots on the tour. Considering the price, it’s worth noting that the tour offers a very flexible experience, but you’ll need to budget for extras.

The Experience: Practical Insights

The tour starts at 8:00 am from Split or Trogir, making it a good choice if you want to maximize your day. The group size of up to 7 ensures an intimate experience—much better than large, crowded tour boats—and the mobile ticket simplifies check-in.

You’ll be on a private boat with a skilled skipper, which means personalized narration and the ability to adjust the pace a bit if needed. That said, some reviews mention that the captain can be a bit hurried, which might mean you’ll want to be ready for a lively day rather than a leisurely one.

Timing is tight but well-organized; the stops are fairly short but packed with sights and activities. The 11-hour duration ensures you get a lot of value, especially if you’re eager to see multiple islands in one day.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re looking for relaxation without much movement or if you have mobility issues, as it involves several boat rides and walking around towns. Children under two are not recommended, and those with serious back problems might want to consider the physical demands. Service animals are allowed, which is a considerate touch.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From the reviews, we see a mixed picture. On the positive side, travelers love the stops at Stiniva Cove and Hvar, often citing the scenery and opportunity to explore at leisure. The mention of good wine selection hints that many travelers enjoy the local food and drink, especially during the free time on Hvar and the Pakleni Islands.

On the downside, one traveler recounted feeling rushed and uncomfortable due to the captain’s tone, which could affect the experience if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The extra costs for cave tickets are also a consideration, as they can add a significant amount to the overall trip.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who values private, flexible, and well-structured island adventures, this tour offers a compelling package. You’ll visit some of the most iconic sights in the Dalmatian archipelago, including the Blue Cave and Hvar, with plenty of time for swimming, exploring, and tasting local flavors. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and manageable.

However, it’s not the cheapest option, and some aspects—like navigating cave entry fees and potential rushing—are worth considering. If you’re traveling with children or older relatives, you might want to clarify the captain’s demeanor beforehand, as some reviews suggest they can be brisk.

In summary, this tour offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and relaxed island vibes—perfect for travelers eager to see Croatia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

FAQ

Are the boat rides comfortable?
The tour provides a private boat with safety equipment and wind jackets, designed for comfort. However, boat ride comfort can vary based on weather and sea conditions.

How much extra will I need to pay for caves?
Admission tickets for the Blue Cave and Green Cave are not included, so you should expect to pay additional fees if you want to visit these iconic spots.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 2 years old can participate, but the tour is not recommended for those with serious back problems. Some reviews mention that the captain’s pace may be brisk.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, towels, and some cash for caves and optional meals. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How flexible is the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can make slight adjustments, but the schedule is fairly fixed to maximize the experience across multiple stops.

Will I have enough free time at each location?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, offering a good balance of exploration and relaxation. However, if you prefer longer stays or detailed sightseeing, you might find the time a bit tight.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In the end, this private Dalmatian Islands tour is a solid choice for travelers seeking a personalized day filled with scenic sights, swimming, and island exploration, especially if you’re comfortable with some extra costs for cave tickets and possible briskness from the skipper. It’s a well-organized, scenic adventure that captures much of what makes Croatia’s coast so special.