From Hvar: Blue and Green Cave Day Tour

Planning a day on the water in Dalmatia? This Blue and Green Cave Day Tour from Hvar offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic seaside sights. It’s perfect for travelers craving a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of the extraordinary. You’ll get to float inside the famous Blue Cave, explore the vivid Green Cave, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the laid-back pace of island-hopping—all aboard a comfortable speedboat.

What we particularly like about this trip is its variety and expert guidance. The Blue Cave is genuinely a highlight, with its glowing blue light that seems almost otherworldly. Plus, the stops at Stiniva Cove and the Paklinski Islands offer some of the best beaches and photo opportunities Croatia has to offer. However, a potential concern is that weather or sea conditions can sometimes limit access to certain caves. Still, even on days when the Blue Cave is closed, many reviewers say the alternative stops are equally beautiful.

This tour suits those who love boat trips, scenic views, and swimming in pristine waters. It’s also ideal for travelers with a flexible schedule who want a comprehensive adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation. If you’re after an active day with plenty of photo ops and underwater adventures, this experience hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Iconic Caves: See the famous Blue Cave’s glowing waters and explore the Green Cave’s emerald light.
• Island-Hopping: Cruise through the Paklinski Islands, discovering charming bays and secluded beaches.
• Swim & Sunbathe: Enjoy stops at stunning beaches like Stiniva Cove to swim and relax.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable skippers enhance the experience with stories, tips, and assistance.
• Value for Money: For about $106, you get a full day of diverse activities and scenic views, often praised as good value.
• Flexible & Inclusive: Snorkeling gear and water are provided; you’ll need to bring your own lunch if desired, as the tour doesn’t include one.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins at the seafront in Hvar, where you’ll meet your skipper and fellow travelers at a white cabin house by the sea. The boat itself is a speedboat, offering a breezy, exhilarating ride across the Croatian waters. Expect to be on the water for approximately 9 hours, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sun and sea air. Group sizes are generally small (around 9-12 people), making for an intimate and friendly vibe.

The Green Cave on Ravnik

Your first stop is the Green Cave on Ravnik Island. This spot is renowned for its stunning, luminous green light—caused by sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening and reflecting off the underwater flora and sandy sea floor. It’s a visual feast and a favorite stop for many. Reviewers highlight the opportunity to swim inside the cave, with some saying it’s like stepping into an emerald gemstone. The guides are helpful here, assisting those who want to explore underwater and sharing interesting stories about the caves’ formation and local lore.

The Blue Cave on Bievo Island

Next, you’ll visit Bievo Island to see the Blue Cave—Croatia’s most famous natural wonder. This cave is famous for its unique, silvery-blue glow created by sunlight entering through a small opening in the roof. You’ll disembark from the speedboat and hop onto a shuttlecraft that takes you into the cavern. This is where many guests describe a “magical” sensory experience, with the reflection of blue light illuminating the interior. If queues are long, the tour may include a wait, but the guides often share stories to keep everyone engaged.

Several reviews praise the Blue Cave as a must-see: “The colors in the caves were incredible,” said one guest, while another mentioned that the cave’s interior “doesn’t do it justice with photos.” Keep in mind that access depends on weather conditions—rough seas or high tides can prevent entry, as some guests noted.

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Stiniva Cove & Swimming Opportunities

After the caves, the trip moves to Stiniva Cove, a small, secluded bay accessible via a short swim through the “Stiniva Gates.” Here, you can jump into the sea from the boat or relax on the pebble beach. Many reviewers find Stiniva to be a highlight: “Swimming to the beach was the best part,” one traveler said, praising the beauty of the surroundings. The beach bar is handy for a cold drink after your swim or sunbathing session.

The Paklinski Islands & Vinogradice Bay

The final stretch takes you through the Paklinski Islands—a chain of islets renowned for their turquoise waters and vibrant boat life. The tour visits Vinogradice Bay, an admired spot for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. Here, many guests enjoy a seaside lunch at a local restaurant (on their own expense), often citing it as a memorable experience and a chance to sample Croatian cuisine.

Following lunch, there’s time for more swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the tranquil scenery. Many reviews emphasize the value of this part of the trip: “The boat was comfortable, and the stops were diverse,” one guest notes. The sunset return to Hvar caps off the day, with some mention of how the changing light made the scenery even more magical.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides an experienced skipper, insurance, drinking water, snorkeling gear, icebox, and a shower. These extras ensure comfort and convenience, especially the snorkeling gear for underwater explorations. However, lunch isn’t included, so travelers should bring their own or plan to buy at the local bay. Entry to the caves is also at your own expense, which can be a minor additional cost, especially at the Blue Cave.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the day.
• Pack a quick snack or water if you prefer to avoid the late lunch stop, which can be around 4-5 pm.
• Since the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, travelers with mobility needs should consider this before booking.
• Booking in advance is recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Feedback

Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable guides and the friendly crew, who often go above and beyond to enhance the experience. One reviewer appreciated how the skipper recommended a restaurant in Komiza, making the day feel personalized. Others mention that the guides kept the group engaged with stories and support during water activities.

Despite the occasional weather-related hiccup—like not being able to access the Blue and Green Caves—many guests still rate the tour highly because of the diverse stops and the overall experience. “The colors in the caves were incredible,” said one traveler, echoing what many feel about the highlight of the tour.

Analyzing the Value

At $106 per person, this trip offers significant value. It’s a full day of varied activities—cave exploring, swimming, island cruising—plus the convenience of a small group. The cost doesn’t include entry fees or meals, but the overall experience, scenic beauty, and expert guidance make it well worth considering for those who want to see Croatia from the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for active travelers who enjoy boat rides, swimming, and scenic landscapes. It appeals particularly to those who appreciate natural wonders like caves and want a day away from crowded beaches or urban settings. It’s ideal for travelers seeking authentic Croatian island scenery, with the added bonus of expert guides making the journey smoother and more informative.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a fixed itinerary—since cave access depends on weather and tides—and not a full-day sightseeing tour with extensive land exploration. For those looking to maximize their time on the water and see Croatia’s iconic caves, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave accessible on this tour?
Access to the Blue Cave depends on weather and sea conditions. If the weather is rough or tides are high, entry might be restricted, but the tour offers other beautiful stops if that happens.

How long do I spend inside the Blue Cave?
Time inside the Blue Cave is usually enough for photos and appreciating the glow—likely around 15-20 minutes, depending on the queue and conditions.

Are lunch and entrance fees included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to bring your own or buy at the bay. Entrance fees to the caves are paid separately, so budget for that.

Can I swim in the caves?
You can swim in the Green Cave, which is famous for its luminous green light, and also at Stiniva Cove. Swimming inside the Blue Cave is not permitted.

What should I bring for the trip?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel are recommended. Pack some snacks if you prefer not to wait until the late lunch stop.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, especially for families comfortable with boat rides and swimming. The small group size and casual pace are family-friendly, but always check if your children can handle the boat trip.

How many people are on the boat?
Typically, the tour group is small, around 9-12 guests, which helps keep it intimate and less crowded.

What is the duration of the tour?
Expect about 9 hours from start to finish, covering multiple stops and scenic cruising.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts

The From Hvar: Blue and Green Cave Day Tour offers a lively, scenic, and memorable way to experience Croatia’s stunning coast. It balances adventure, relaxation, and storytelling, all within a manageable day. While the Blue Cave’s access can sometimes be weather-dependent, the overall journey is filled with gorgeous vistas, inviting waters, and charming islands that make it a worthwhile outing.

If you’re seeking an active day of swimming, island-hopping, and natural wonders, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value knowledgeable guides, good value, and the chance to explore Croatia’s coastal treasures from the comfort of a small, friendly boat. Just remember to bring your sun protection and a spirit ready for adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: