Hvar: Blue and Green Caves Boat Tour with Stiniva Beach

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat is one of those travel experiences that sticks with you long after the trip ends. This Hvar boat tour promises a day filled with natural beauty, thrilling rides, and memorable swimming spots. It’s marketed as an adventure packed with visits to the famous Blue Cave, the shimmering Green Cave, the secluded Stiniva Beach, and the inviting Budikovac Blue Lagoon. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, this tour is designed to show you some of the most picturesque corners of the Croatian coast.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adrenaline-pumping speedboat rides with serene, picture-perfect stops. The boat is swift enough to get you between sights quickly, leaving plenty of time to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Plus, the knowledgeable guides add a layer of richness with stories and tips about the area’s history and geography. A potential downside? Waiting in line for the Blue Cave during high season can be frustrating, as it’s a very popular stop.

This tour suits those who enjoy active outdoor days with lots of sun, sea, and stunning views. It’s ideal for travelers who seek a blend of adventure and natural beauty, and who don’t mind paying a bit extra for access to some of Croatia’s most sought-after sights.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights like the Blue and Green Caves that create unforgettable visual effects.
• Fast-paced, fun sailing with a skilled skipper who shares local stories and insights.
• Multiple swimming opportunities in clear waters, including snorkeling at the Blue Lagoon.
• Exclusive access to Stiniva Beach, a tiny, breathtaking cove surrounded by towering cliffs.
• Additional stops like Palmizana Bay for relaxation and local cuisine.
• Cost considerations include cave entrance fees payable separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

Itinerary Breakdown and What Makes Each Stop Special

This boat tour begins in the heart of Hvar town, where you’ll meet at a centrally located travel agency office. From there, your captain, experienced and friendly, will take you on a speedy cruise across the Adriatic. The thrill of zipping over the water is a highlight in itself, setting the tone for a day filled with adventure.

First stop: Blue Cave – This is the star attraction. The cave’s vivid blue hue, caused by sunlight reflecting off the white seabed, makes for an almost surreal experience. Travelers rave about its “magical ambiance,” though during peak season, it can be crowded, and you might need to wait in line. Entrance fees aren’t included in the tour price, so be prepared to pay extra if you want to step inside.

Next up: Green Cave – Less famous but equally captivating, this cave glows with a shimmering green light as the sunlight filters through the water. It’s smaller but provides a quieter, more intimate experience. The guide’s explanations help you appreciate why these caves are such a treasured part of Croatia’s coastal landscape.

Stiniva Beach, Budikovac Lagoon, and Palmizana Bay

After the caves, your boat will cruise to Stiniva Cove — a truly stunning beach surrounded by towering cliffs. This cove is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The steep cliffs create a sense of privacy and wonder, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking photos of the dramatic scenery. Reviewers mention how “the steep cliffs surrounding the small pebble beach are breathtaking,” making it an unmissable highlight.

Following Stiniva, you’ll visit the Budikovac Blue Lagoon, a shallow, crystal-clear bay where you can get in the water with provided snorkeling gear. Many find this spot the most relaxing part of the tour, with the opportunity to see colorful fish and underwater vegetation. The water is so transparent you’ll feel like you’re floating in a giant aquamarine pool.

The final stop is Palmizana Bay, a lush, secluded beach ideal for unwinding. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely swim, sunbathe, or sample local Croatian cuisine at one of the beachside taverns. Many travelers appreciate ending their day in such a tranquil setting after the morning’s excitement.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with the start point at a centrally located office in Hvar. Group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring personalized attention, and the skipper shares interesting stories and information throughout the trip. The cost of $115 per person is competitive, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, water, and a cooler with ice.

However, cave entrance fees are not included; expect to pay separately if you want to go inside the Blue or Green Caves. This is a common practice, but it’s worth noting so you’re not surprised at the payment point.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a skipper, snorkeling gear, water, and a cooler with ice to keep drinks cold. Travel insurance is also covered, which provides peace of mind. Not included are the fees for Blue and Green Cave entries—these can be costly relative to the tour price, so budget accordingly.

What to Bring

Travelers should pack swimwear, a towel, and cash — for the cave entry fees and perhaps a snack or two at Palmizana Bay. Remember, pets and smoking are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

Timing and Weather Considerations

The tour operates in good weather, and the experience is much more enjoyable on sunny days when caves glow vibrantly and water visibility is high. In high season, expect queues at the Blue Cave, and be aware that cancellations can happen if weather conditions aren’t ideal or if the caves are too crowded.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as “great” and “friendly,” who enhance the experience with stories and tips. Many mention how the stunning views and crystal-clear waters exceeded expectations.

Some note the value for money is good, but also point out that cave fees are expensive relative to the tour price — a fact to consider when budgeting. Despite occasional comments about waiting in line or higher costs, the overall sentiment is very positive, with travelers describing it as a “fun day” and “an unforgettable adventure.”

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour in Hvar offers a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to explore Croatia’s coast from the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up sun. If you love stunning scenery and don’t mind paying extra for cave entry fees, you’ll find this tour well worth it.

The guided aspect adds value for those who appreciate local insights and stories, making it more than just a boat trip. It’s particularly good for travelers who can handle a full day of sun and sea, and who want to visit multiple iconic sites without the hassle of planning transport.

For anyone seeking a memorable outdoor adventure with picture-perfect views and a bit of adrenaline, this Hvar boat tour hits the mark. It’s a flexible, fun, and scenic way to experience some of the best sights Croatia’s Dalmatian coast has to offer.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Are cave entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the Blue and Green Cave entry fees are paid separately. Expect to pay these fees directly at each cave, so bring some cash.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 6 hours, including stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the caves.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the boat’s nature and activity level.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, cash for cave fees, and perhaps a light snack. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also wise.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What if the weather’s bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If conditions aren’t suitable, trips may be canceled or rescheduled, and refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

How crowded are the caves?
During high season, expect queues at the Blue Cave. Early mornings or late afternoons might be less busy.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, especially for families with older children who enjoy water activities and scenic boat rides.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of thrilling rides, stunning scenery, and knowledgeable guides makes it a memorable way to experience the Dalmatian coast.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Indeed, reviews mention guides as “great” and “friendly,” providing interesting local insights throughout the trip.

In short, if you’re seeking a lively, scenic day on Croatia’s waters with plenty of swimming, a touch of adventure, and some of the most iconic sights, this Hvar boat tour is a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for cave entry fees and potential queues, and you’ll have a day full of beauty, fun, and maybe a few stories to tell back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: