Professional Diving & Blue Cave Tour with Lunch from Split

If you’re planning a day-trip along Croatia’s spectacular Dalmatian coast, this tour promises a blend of underwater adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural flavor. While it’s marketed as a diving experience, it also offers plenty for those who prefer snorkeling or simply want to enjoy the gorgeous landscape from the boat. We think it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded day with expert guidance, scenic stops, and a taste of local cuisine.

Two things we really like about this trip: First, the opportunity to see the world-famous Blue Cave—a natural marvel that’s often the highlight of any Croatian boat tour. Second, the comprehensive itinerary that includes stops at Stiniva Cove, Veliki Budikovac, and Hvar, giving you a good mix of natural beauty and local charm.

One potential drawback? The blue cave entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget extra for that if you want to go inside. Also, the full-day schedule can be long and somewhat hectic, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

The tour is best suited for active, curious travelers who enjoy exploring both above and below the water, but it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, those with back problems, or claustrophobes due to the cave visit.

Key Points

• Scenic & adventurous: Combines boat rides, snorkeling, and underwater exploration.
• All-inclusive experience: Equipment, water, and a hearty Dalmatian lunch are covered.
• Highlights: Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Veliki Budikovac, and Hvar’s charming streets.
• Flexible for skill levels: Professional instructors guide beginners and experienced divers alike.
• Long day: About 11 hours, so prepare for a full day on the water.
• Extra costs: The Blue Cave entrance fee is not included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Croatian Coast with a Multi-Layered Tour

This tour offers a well-structured mix of natural wonders and culture, making it attractive for those who want more than just a boat ride. Starting from Split, you’ll hop onto a speedboat that whisks you along the coast — a thrill in itself — with stunning views constantly on show.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The first stop is Komia, where a professional diving instructor will give you a quick briefing before you jump into the water. If you’re a beginner, or even if you’re experienced, this part allows you to marvel at the vibrant marine life and explore reefs teeming with fish and colorful corals. The guided instruction and provided equipment aim to make this accessible for all skill levels.

Next, the boat takes you to the famous Blue Cave on Bievo Island, a highlight of the tour. Here, sunlight filters in through narrow openings, turning the water and cave walls into a glowing blue spectacle. It’s a natural show that draws photographers and nature lovers alike. The guided visit includes a chance to learn about the cave’s formation and significance, though keep in mind the entrance fee isn’t part of your ticket.

From there, the boat heads to Stiniva Cove, often touted as one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches. Here, you’ll have a chance to snorkel, swim, or just relax on the beach, taking in the stunning cliff walls surrounding the cove. It’s a perfect spot for photos and unwinding, especially if you love the feeling of being in a secret paradise.

After a short cruise, you’ll arrive at Veliki Budikovac, a small island with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or enjoying a coffee break. The visit includes free time for sightseeing and exploring the island’s environment, giving you a breather from the more active parts of the day.

The next stop is Hvar City, where you get about 1.5 hours to walk through the lively streets, browse shops, or sample some local snacks. Hvar’s charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere provide a wonderful contrast to the natural stops.

Finally, your journey concludes at Carpe Diem Beach in the Paklinski Islands. Known for its relaxed vibe, here you can swim or snorkel in calm waters before heading back to Split. The entire day is paced to maximize sightseeing and relaxation, with a scenic speedboat ride wrapping up your adventure.

The Experience in Practice

We loved the way the tour balances adventure with leisure. The marine activities are accessible, thanks to the professional instructors and supplied gear. The Blue Cave visit is especially memorable—there’s a magic to witnessing that blue glow firsthand. And the lunch at a secluded island offers a genuine taste of Dalmatian cuisine, with hearty local flavors that many travelers find satisfying after a morning of activity.

Some reviews mention the tour being quite packed but note that the organized schedule allows for a comprehensive experience without the need to plan multiple excursions**. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of everything and don’t mind a full day on the water.

Pricing-wise, the tour offers good value when you consider the included equipment, guided visits, and the group lunch. Remember, the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to add that if you want to step inside. Most travelers find the overall experience worthwhile, especially given the stunning scenery and the chance to see multiple highlights in one day.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 11 hours, starting at a convenient time—just check availability. The group size is limited to 12 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The guide speaks English, making it accessible for international travelers.

Since it involves boat travel and water activities, you’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, hat, swimwear, and a towel. The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems, claustrophobia, or non-swimmers, so keep that in mind.

Transportation is by speedboat, which offers exhilarating speed and great views, but can be bumpy if the seas are rough. The schedule is tightly packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to linger longer at any stop, this may not be the perfect fit.

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The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a lively, well-organized way to see some of Croatia’s most striking coastlines and marine attractions. It’s best for active travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and culture. If you’re looking for a day of snorkeling, exploring caves, and island-hopping with a dependable guide, this will suit you well.

Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy underwater activities and scenic boat rides will find it engaging. However, those who prefer a relaxed, slow-paced day or have limited mobility may want to consider other options.

The included lunch and the opportunity to see the Blue Cave make this a memorable value, especially for first-time visitors eager to tick off Croatia’s iconic sights in one go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
Yes. Even if you prefer snorkeling or just relaxing by the water, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The diving instruction is optional and suitable for all skill levels.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No. The tour provides snorkeling and diving equipment, along with life jackets.

How much does the Blue Cave entrance cost?
The entrance ticket is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay for it separately if you want to go inside.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Comfortable shoes for walking around Hvar and other stops are recommended.

Can I participate if I don’t swim well?
It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, as snorkeling and water activities are core parts of the experience.

How long is the trip overall?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is the group size limited?
Yes, the group is capped at 12 participants, which helps maintain a personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute plans.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or claustrophobia; age restrictions aren’t specified but common sense applies.

Will I have free time at Hvar?
Yes, you get around 1.5 hours to explore Hvar’s streets, shops, or enjoy some snacks.

Final Thoughts

Travelers seeking a dynamic day on the water with a mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor will find this tour quite appealing. It’s a dependable way to see the Blue Cave, snorkel in inviting waters, and enjoy authentic Dalmatian cuisine. The small group size and professional guides help ensure a safe and engaging experience, making it a good value for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

While it’s a full schedule and extras like the Blue Cave entrance fee are additional, the stunning views, underwater sights, and delicious lunch deliver a memorable taste of Croatia’s coast. We recommend it for active travelers, curious explorers, and anyone excited by the idea of island-hopping along the stunning Dalmatian shoreline.

End of review

You can check availability for your dates here: