Private Speed Boat Tour to Blue Cave & Pakleni islands

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, a boat tour might be the most memorable way to see the limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves. This private speed boat tour, focusing on the Blue Cave and Pakleni islands from Hvar, promises an intimate adventure on the water—something that beats crowded group excursions and offers flexibility.

Two things we genuinely like about this experience are the personalized guidance from local skippers who know the waters like the back of their hand, and the chance to visit multiple renowned spots in one day, including the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, and Mlini Beach. These are places that showcase Croatia’s natural beauty, and being able to explore them at your own pace adds a layer of comfort and spontaneity.

A possible consideration for travelers is the upfront cost, which is around $967.60 per group (up to 10 people). While this might seem steep at first glance, the private nature of the trip and the variety of stops—plus the included snorkeling gear and music options—offer good value for a full day of exploring some of Croatia’s most breathtaking areas.

This tour is ideal for those seeking an exclusive, flexible, and scenic experience. It’s perfect for small groups, friends, or families who want to enjoy the Croatian coast without the hustle of large tour boats. If you’re after authentic landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of adventure and relaxation, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Complete privacy for your group ensures a personalized adventure.
• Expert Guides: Local skippers offer insider tips and safe navigation around the islands.
• Variety of Stops: From caves to beaches, the tour covers Croatia’s most photogenic spots.
• Flexibility: You can choose an optional stop on Vis, tailoring the day to your interests.
• All-Day Adventure: Lasts approximately 5 to 8 hours, making it a full-day experience.
• Additional Equipment: Snorkeling gear and underwater GoPro camera are available on request.

The Itinerary in Depth

Green Cave

Our adventure begins with the Green Cave, a colorful spot where you can swim, snorkel, or if feeling daring, jump off nearby cliffs. The cave’s interior offers great photo opportunities, and the water’s clarity makes for fantastic underwater scenery. Keep in mind, there’s an entrance fee—about 50 HRK in low season or 70 HRK in high—so budget for that if you want to explore inside. Reviews highlight this stop as fun and visually striking, with Timothy_G noting, “Great time. Driver was very knowledgeable and friendly.”

Stiniva Cove

Next, you’ll visit Stiniva Cove, voted Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2016. High cliffs dramatically frame this narrow pebble beach with crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s an ideal spot for a quick swim or just soaking in the scenery. Since there’s no entrance fee, you might spend your time simply admiring the natural wonder. We loved the way the high cliffs make the beach feel like a secret hideaway—perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Blue Cave

The highlight of the tour is the Blue Cave, famed for its surreal, glowing blue waters created by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening. You’ll dock nearby, purchase tickets (roughly 70 HRK in high season), and then hop inside to marvel at the natural phenomenon. Expect to spend about an hour and a half here—enough time for photos, a brief swim, or just awe at the luminous hues. The cave is a popular stop, and the experience can be crowded, but your guide will optimize your visit.

Vis Island (Optional)

Before heading back to the Pakleni islands, you have the choice to visit Vis town, Komiza, Monk Seals Cave, or Green Lagoon on Budikovac Island. This flexibility allows you to tailor the tour to your interests—whether exploring quaint towns or secluded lagoons. Reviewers often mention the value of this optional stop: Timothy_G appreciated the local insights, noting how the guides are eager to show the “best side of their home area.”

Palmizana Botanical Garden & Mlini Beach

On the Pakleni islands, the stops include the renowned Palmizana botanical garden, a peaceful place for a stroll or a quick coffee. Plus, Mlini Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the islands, with stunning sea colors—especially in the afternoon. This is an excellent spot for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying a leisurely lunch or drinks. Many guests highlight this as a favorite part of the day, especially for its scenic beauty and laid-back vibe.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The appeal of this boat trip lies in its personalized approach and local expertise. The skippers are described as friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share insider tips and steer you to the best photo spots. The boat itself is equipped with Bluetooth stereo, allowing you to listen to your favorite music—adding a personal touch to the experience.

The snorkeling equipment and underwater GoPro on request mean you can capture memories underwater, which many travelers find invaluable. The tour’s flexibility, with optional stops and a customizable itinerary, makes it more than a cookie-cutter trip.

While the price might seem high, it’s important to consider what’s included: private transport, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and an expert guide. Compared to group tours, the privacy and flexibility add significant value, especially for travelers seeking a more exclusive experience.

The Practicalities

Meeting at HvarBoats Rivaetalite, the tour starts at 10:00 am, and the duration can extend up to eight hours, so be prepared for a full day. The boat accommodates up to ten people, making it ideal for families or groups of friends. The private nature means you won’t be sharing your adventure with strangers, and your guide is there to ensure your day is tailored to your interests.

Cancellation is friendly—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, making it less risky if weather plans change. Most travelers can participate, and the tour is accessible for those with service animals.

The Value for Travelers

For those who appreciate authentic scenery, local insights, and flexibility, this tour offers a compelling package. While it’s more expensive than some group excursions, the private setting and curated stops mean you get a more intimate, relaxed experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Croatia’s natural beauty without the fuss of large tour buses.

The experience’s length ensures you see key highlights, and the stops are well-spaced to balance activity with downtime. From cliff jumps to peaceful beaches, the day caters to a variety of interests, especially if you love outdoor activities and breathtaking views.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private boat trip is best for small groups, families, or couples who value a tailored experience and are comfortable paying a premium for exclusivity. It suits adventurous souls eager to swim and snorkel, as well as those keen on photography and nature. If you’re the type who wants to see the Blue Cave without the crowds or enjoy a leisurely day on some of Europe’s most striking beaches, this trip hits the right notes.

This private speed boat tour to the Blue Cave and Pakleni islands offers a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and personalized service. With knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and stunning stops, it provides a memorable way to experience Croatia’s coastline. The day’s highlights—such as the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, and Mlini Beach—are unforgettable and well worth the cost if you’re seeking intimacy and authenticity.

It’s ideal for small groups and travelers who want expert guidance and the freedom to customize their day. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a boat equipped with music make it feel relaxed and fun, while the scenic stops ensure plenty of photo opportunities. This is a good choice for those who value quality over quantity and are willing to pay a bit more for a private, tailored experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 8 hours, depending on the stops you choose and the pace of your group.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at HvarBoats Rivaetalite, located at Kria 3 in Hvar, with a start time of 10:00 am.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for small groups. If you’re comfortable with boat rides, swimming, and some walking, you’ll enjoy it.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and a private boat with Bluetooth stereo are included. Snorkeling gear and underwater camera are available on request.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, entry fees for the Blue Cave (around 70 HRK in high season) and Green Cave (about 50-70 HRK) are paid separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, you can choose an optional stop on Vis and tailor the day to your preferences.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimming gear, and your camera. An underwater GoPro is available if you want to capture underwater moments.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re seeking an easygoing day of scenic swimming or an adventure-packed exploration of Croatia’s coast, this private speed boat tour offers a well-rounded, personable way to enjoy the Dalmatian islands.