From Split: Blue Cave & 5 Islands with Vis & Hvar Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands in just one day, this Blue Cave & 5 Islands boat tour from Split might just be what you need. It’s packed with visits to iconic spots like the Blue Cave, Hvar, and Vis, along with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming villages. From what travelers say, it offers a lively mix of natural beauty, interesting history, and fun boat rides—all at an appealing price point.

What we love about this tour is its efficient itinerary—covering five islands and seven locations in around 10.5 hours—making it a great choice for those with limited time but big curiosity. Plus, the guides and skippers get rave reviews for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to adapt when weather conditions shift unexpectedly. The only possible downside? The boat rides can be bumpy, especially in choppy seas, so if you’re sensitive to rough waters, it’s worth considering. This experience suits travelers eager for an active, scenic day that balances relaxation with adventure.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Day Trip: Visit 5 islands in one day, including top spots like the Blue Cave and Hvar.
• Expert Guides & Skippers: Highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to adapt.
• Timing & Flexibility: Starts early, with a planned schedule, but can shift depending on weather.
• Great Value: For around $94, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring some of Croatia’s most famous islands.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants for a more personal and relaxed vibe.
• Unforgettable Stops: Blue Cave, Stiniva Beach, and the Blue Lagoon are highlights, offering stunning scenery and memorable photo ops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour, operated by Valiant d.o.o, offers a comprehensive snapshot of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. We’ll walk through each major stop to give you a realistic sense of what’s involved and what you’ll love about it.

Starting Point: Trg Republike (Prokurative)

Your day begins in Split at the central Prokurative square. Arrive about 15 minutes early so you’re ready to board the speedboat on time. The meeting point is straightforward—just look for the designated spot right in front of the south steps. It’s a chance to get your bearings, maybe snap a few photos of Split’s lively harbor as you wait for departure.

The Blue Cave on Bisevo Island

The highlight for most travelers is the Blue Cave, accessible after a roughly 90-minute boat ride from Split. This natural wonder is famous for its sunlight filtering through the water, casting an unforgettable blue glow inside. The cave’s beauty often exceeds expectations, and early arrival is critical to beat the crowds. Several reviews mention the value of arriving first—”We could visit the Blue Cave without waiting,” says one traveler—because it can get crowded later in the day.

Note that entry to the Blue Cave isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase a ticket on your own. The guided tour on the boat enhances the experience with commentary about its formation and natural significance, making the visit more meaningful.

The Charming Fishing Village of Komiza

Next stop is the small fishing village of Komiza on Vis Island, where “Mamma Mia 2” was filmed. It’s a delightful place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or explore on your own. With about an hour here, you’ll get a taste of authentic Dalmatian life—cozy streets, local eateries, and a chance to watch fishermen go about their day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Raketna baza Stupie & Limestone Caves

A quick 15-minute stop at Raketna baza Stupie offers scenic views and a chance for photos, as does the nearby Limestone Caves. These are mainly photo stops, but they showcase the rugged natural beauty of the islands and offer some interesting geological features.

Stiniva Cove: One of Europe’s Top Beaches

The next highlight is Stiniva Beach, voted the best beach in Europe by some travelers. It’s a small, secluded cove with impressive cliffs surrounding a pebble bay, perfect for photos and quiet time. Expect around 30 minutes here—enough to snap some photos and, if you like, take a quick swim.

Budikovac Blue Lagoon for Swimming and Snorkeling

A favorite part of the tour is the stop at Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon, where you’ll spend about 75 minutes swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the pebble beach. Many travelers mention how pristine and peaceful this spot is, with crystal-clear waters inviting you in. As one reviewer notes, “Getting plenty of time to relax on the pebbled beach and soak up the sun,” makes this a real reward after a busy morning.

Pakleni Islands & Hvar City

After the lagoon, we cruise to the Pakleni Islands for a quick photo stop—just 10 minutes—before heading to Hvar. The 2.5-hour stay in Hvar gives you ample time for a leisurely lunch, exploring the town’s stunning architecture, or simply lounging on the famous beaches. Many reviews highlight Hvar’s charm—”Marvellous architecture” and “a perfect place to enjoy some downtime,” are common sentiments.

You’ll find that the group time allows for flexibility, letting you choose between sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing by the sea. The tour provides a solid overview without rushing, so you can savor Hvar’s lively atmosphere.

Return to Split

The trip wraps up with about an hour of speedboat ride back to Split, where you’ll return to Trg Republike, typically around late afternoon or early evening. The return journey offers more views of the coast and a chance to reflect on your memorable day.

What the Tour Includes & Excludes

For around $94, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of locations visited and the duration. The price covers the skipper/guide, speedboat transportation, snorkeling masks, Bluetooth music, safety equipment, and insurance—all essential for a worry-free adventure.

However, keep in mind that entry tickets to the Blue Cave aren’t included, so plan to buy that separately if you wish to see inside. Also, bring your own beach towel, sun protection, and maybe a bottle of water—although some water is available on the boat.

The Vibe on Board

Travelers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Luka, Viktor, Simon, and Tomo, who are adept at sharing insights and ensuring everyone stays comfortable. The small group size (limited to 12) helps keep the experience intimate, allowing for personal interaction and flexibility.

The boat itself is a speedboat, which means a faster, more thrilling ride—though it can be bumpy if seas are rough. Some reviews mention the invigorating ride and great playlist, enhancing the fun factor.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

• Arrive early to ensure an on-time departure—15 minutes before your scheduled start.
• Dress comfortably with swimwear under your clothes, and bring a towel, sunglasses, and sun protection.
• Be prepared for the weather: mornings can be chilly outside July and August, so a light jacket is recommended.
• Bring your WhatsApp number active for updates on departure times or possible changes, as the company communicates via WhatsApp the night before.
• Consider your comfort with speedboat rides—if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike choppy waters, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re after a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and island charm, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and see multiple highlights without the hassle of arranging individual boat trips. It’s also popular among those who appreciate a guided experience with knowledgeable skippers and guides, and those comfortable with small groups.

It might not be ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or back problems, given the boat rides and walking involved. But for active, curious travelers eager for a taste of Croatia’s stunning coast, this trip offers a vibrant mix of natural wonders and authentic locales.

The Sum Up

This Blue Cave & 5 Islands tour from Split is a well-curated day of discovery, combining natural wonders, cultural sights, and plenty of chances to swim and relax. The tour’s success hinges on its excellent guides, efficient itinerary, and the sheer beauty of the sites visited. For around $94, you’re getting a full day’s worth of memorable experiences—especially if you love boat rides, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see multiple islands and are happy to spend a good part of the day on the water. If you’re looking for a lively, engaging way to explore the Dalmatian coast, this tour could very well be the highlight of your Croatian adventure.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Cave entry ticket is not included and needs to be purchased separately at the site.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, drinks, a jacket (especially outside July and August), and comfortable clothes. It’s also good to have WhatsApp active for updates.

How long do we stay at each location?
Stops vary from around 10 minutes at the Pakleni Islands to 2.5 hours in Hvar, with most other stops between 15 and 30 minutes, giving enough time to explore, swim, or relax.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility or back issues due to boat rides and walking involved.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you get a full refund. The schedule might also be adjusted for safety and comfort.

How big is the tour group?
Limited to 12 participants, making it a more personal experience compared to larger coach tours.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for start times—early morning departures help beat crowds at the Blue Cave, and the season influences the weather and sea conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: