From Split: Private Blue Cave, Vis & Hvar Tour by Speedboat

Exploring Croatia’s Coastal Gems with the Private Blue Cave, Vis & Hvar Tour by Speedboat

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, this private speedboat trip from Split offers a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most famous sights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-organized, scenic, and memorable experience perfect for those who love a mix of natural beauty, charming towns, and a splash of adventure.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balanced itinerary — it hits multiple highlights in a single day, from the legendary Blue Cave to the lively streets of Hvar. Plus, the small-group format (up to 12 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience than large cruise ships often provide. However, a potential consideration is the early start time — departures at 07:30 mean an early rise, but it’s a small price to pay for such a full day of discovery.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy active days on the water, love island-hopping, and want a taste of Croatia’s diverse coastal culture. It’s suited for those who appreciate stunning scenery, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring historic towns without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights: Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, and the Pakleni Islands offer some of the best views and swimming opportunities along Croatia’s coast.
• Authentic local experience: Exploring Hvar Town gives a chance to wander its charming streets and soak in Renaissance architecture.
• Flexible water activities: Plenty of swimming and snorkeling time makes this a fun day for water lovers.
• Small group benefits: Up to 12 travelers ensure a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for money: The all-included boat, skipper, fuel, water, and insurance make this a convenient package, with optional extras like Blue Cave tickets.
• Well-paced itinerary: The 11-hour day balances sightseeing, leisure, and travel time without feeling rushed.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at a convenient central location in Split—directly in front of the bronze 3D model of the city, across from Diocletian’s Palace. Arriving at least 15 minutes early is advised since the group assembles here before boarding a speedboat that’s specifically reserved for small groups. The boat itself is a key part of the experience, offering a fast, exhilarating ride along the coast with panoramic views that set the tone for the day.

Blue Cave on Bievo Island

The highlight for many will be the Blue Cave, a natural marvel famous for its shimmering, electric-blue water. The trip includes a 30-minute exploration window, giving you enough time to peek inside and snap photos without feeling hurried. The boat skipper provides tickets for the cave, eliminating the hassle of separate lines—though remember that the entry fee (around 18 Euros) isn’t included in the base price.

The Blue Cave’s color is a result of sunlight filtering through underwater openings, creating an otherworldly glow. It’s a brief stop, but we’ve seen many travelers describe it as “breathtaking” and “worth every penny,” especially when combined with the boat ride.

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Vis Island and Stiniva Bay

Next, the boat heads to Vis Island, where Stiniva Beach awaits. This hidden gem is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and striking surroundings—cliffs enclosing a pebble cove. You get about 45 minutes here to swim and snorkel, which is ample time to enjoy the warmth and clarity of the water, as one reviewer noted: “You can swim, do it the water is warm and cristal clear.”

Swimming here is a true highlight, especially for water enthusiasts. Many travelers find it restorative after the morning’s excitement, and the snorkeling can reveal some interesting marine life beneath those inviting waves.

Lunch in the Pakleni Islands

The tour then moves to the Pakleni Islands, a gorgeous archipelago of 16 tiny islands. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for a relaxed lunch at a recommended local restaurant. The stop is also perfect for more swimming and lounging. You’ll love the views of the sun-dappled islands while enjoying fresh Croatian cuisine.

Hvar Town

After lunch, the boat cruises to Hvar, often called the “queen of the Croatian islands.” You’ll have around 2 hours to explore Hvar Town’s cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and lively harbor. This free time allows you to wander at your own pace, perhaps stopping for a coffee or browsing local shops.

Hvar is noted for its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to soak in Dalmatian coastal life. It’s also a great opportunity to learn about the island’s history and culture, which you can do simply by strolling through its historic center.

Return Journey

The return trip to Split is leisurely, with an estimated arrival back at the meeting point between 18:00 and 18:30. During the ride, you can reflect on a day packed with stunning scenery, enjoyable water activities, and cultural exploration.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a boat, a skipper, fuel, water onboard, and insurance—covering most essentials for a worry-free day. However, keep in mind that entrance tickets to the Blue Cave are extra (around 18 Euros per person). Also, lunch is not included, but the guide will suggest the best local restaurant options, helping you enjoy authentic Dalmatian cuisine without the planning hassle.

The departure point is easy to find, right in front of Diocletian’s Palace, which makes it accessible for most travelers. The small group size maximizes comfort and flexibility, but travelers should note that the tour is not suitable for children under 4 or pregnant women. Also, a quick reminder that the tour is weather-dependent—favorable conditions are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Travel Tips and Extras

• Bring towels and swimming suits—the water is warm and inviting.
• Arrive early to avoid missing the boat.
• Consider the timing—early departure means a long day but maximizes sightseeing.
• Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak season, and cancellations are flexible up to 24 hours prior.

Authentic Feedback and Perspectives

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “The Croatian Islands are definitely worth a visit. You can do so from Split on a full-day speedboat tour. You’ll see small fisher villages, the Blue and Green Cave. You can swim, do it the water is warm and cristal clear.”

This kind of feedback suggests that travelers appreciate the combination of natural beauty, ease of access, and the chance to experience multiple sites in one day. The fact that the tour is described as “well-organized” and “good value” reflects its appeal to travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for active travelers who want to see some of Croatia’s best spots without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or tours. It suits those who enjoy water-based activities like swimming and snorkeling, and who appreciate exploring charming towns with historical flair. It’s especially suitable for small groups seeking personalized service and a more intimate experience.

However, it might not be perfect for travelers with mobility issues or those traveling with very young children, given the early start and boat-based nature of the trip. Weather can also influence the experience, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are key.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour from Split offers an efficient, exhilarating way to explore Croatia’s stunning islands and caves. It combines natural wonders like the Blue Cave and Stiniva Bay with vibrant local culture in Hvar Town, all within a manageable 11-hour adventure. The small-group format, along with all the logistics taken care of—skipper, fuel, water, and tickets—means you can relax and focus on enjoying your day.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, the value lies in the convenience, the variety of sights, and the personal touch that a small boat provides. For water lovers, history buffs, or anyone eager to experience Croatia’s coast in style, this tour delivers a memorable, scenic, and fun-filled day.

FAQs

What time does the tour start? The tour departs from Split at 07:30, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Is there a limit on the group size? Yes, the tour is limited to 12 travelers per boat, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What’s included in the price? The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, water on board, and insurance. However, entrance tickets for the Blue Cave (around 18 Euro) and lunch are not included.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended at least 2 days before departure, and you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead with a full refund.

Can I swim and snorkel? Absolutely. You’ll have plenty of time to swim and snorkel at multiple stops, including Stiniva Beach and around the Pakleni Islands.

Are there any age restrictions? Children under 4 years old and pregnant women are not eligible to participate.

What should I bring? Towels, swimming suits, sun protection, and your camera are must-haves.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, the experience depends on favorable weather conditions for safety and comfort.

Where exactly do I meet the guide? You meet in front of the bronze 3D model of Split, at the eastern end of the town’s promenade, across from Diocletian’s Palace.

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Croatia’s coastal beauty, making it perfect for travelers eager to combine natural wonders with cultural sights—all in one memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: