Split/Podstrana: Blue Cave, Hvar & 6 Islands Speedboat Trip

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, this speedboat tour promises a full day of island hopping, swimming, and scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, a glance at hundreds of reviews and detailed itineraries shows it offers a lively, well-organized way to see some of the best sights from Split.

Two things we really like are the variety of stops—from the Blue Cave to historic Hvar—and the enthusiasm of the guides, who often receive glowing praise for their knowledge and friendliness. On the flip side, the trip’s length and pace might be intense for some travelers, especially those who prefer a more relaxed, leisurely pace on their holidays.

This adventure suits energetic travelers eager to pack as much as possible into one day, especially those who want a taste of everything: stunning caves, charming villages, beaches, and iconic filming locations. If you love a mix of sightseeing and swimming in crystal waters, this tour could become a highlight of your Croatian trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including Blue Cave, Hvar, and six surrounding islands
• Fast-paced but well-organized day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing
• Guides praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and handling of the group
• Cost reflects value, with multiple stops and included gear but extra for Blue Cave tickets
• Good for active travelers who enjoy a full day of adventure and scenery
• Weather-dependent itinerary can shift for safety reasons or sea conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Speedboat Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to see as much as possible in one day. From the moment you meet at a designated starting point, you’re whisked away on a powerful speedboat, feeling the wind in your hair as you cruise around the islands of Dalmatia. The total duration is about 10 to 11 hours, including stops, so it’s a long but exhilarating way to explore.

The Blue Cave: The Star of the Show

The Blue Cave on Bievo island is often the highlight—and for good reason. You’ll arrive just as the sunlight hits the seafloor, filling the cave with shimmering aqua light. It’s a spectacle that many reviewers describe as magical. However, the Blue Cave tickets are extra, payable in cash (around €18-24), and access depends on weather and sea conditions. Several reviews note that if the cave is inaccessible, the tour still offers plenty of other compelling sights.

Reviewers such as Hannah say, “Great trip! It’s expensive but worthwhile to see a lot,” which hints at the value of experiencing these unique natural features. Others, like Kimberly, mention that the cave experience is short but sweet, adding that the real gems are the islands and villages visited afterward.

Visiting Komia: A Picturesque Fisherman’s Village

Next, your journey takes you to Komia on Vis Island, an old fishing village made famous by the film Mamma Mia!. Here, you get about an hour to stroll its narrow streets, soak in the relaxed atmosphere, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or breakfast by outdoor cafes. Several reviews highlight how stunning and authentic this village remains, making it a worthwhile cultural stop amid the scenic splashes and boat rides.

Scenic Highlights and WWII Bunkers

On the way between stops, you’ll pass WWII Yugoslav military bunkers and limestone caves. These add a bit of historical contrast to the natural beauty, giving you a sense of the area’s layered past. The ride between islands is often praised for its scenery, with many noting the thrill of zipping past rugged coastlines and natural formations.

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Swimming and Snorkeling at Stiniva Bay and Budikovac

The first swim stop is at Stiniva Cove, another Mamma Mia! filming location, renowned for its dramatic, narrow entrance flanked by cliffs. It’s a roughly 30-minute stop that leaves enough time for a quick dip and photos. Travelers like Venessa mention how beautiful and marvelous the beach is—an ideal spot for a quick splash.

The second swimming stop is at Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon, known for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll get about an hour and a half to snorkel, relax, and sip cocktails at the beach bar. Many reviewers rave about how smooth and easy it is to walk from one side of the island to another, and to enjoy the seclusion and natural beauty.

Hvar: The Longest Stop

After a scenic ride along the Pakleni archipelago, the tour hits Hvar town for roughly two hours. This gives you ample time for sightseeing, shopping, or grabbing lunch in a town famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic fortress, and beautiful harbor. Multiple reviews mention how lively and charming Hvar is, with some noting that it’s the perfect place to soak up the local vibe and enjoy a leisurely walk.

Final Stop at Milna and Return

The last stop is in Milna on Brač Island, where you can relax at a beach bar, swim, or explore this charming town. It’s a relaxing end to an otherwise busy day. The boat then returns to the starting point around 6 pm, giving you a full day of adventure with plenty of photos and memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket price of around $135 per person covers most of what you need: speedboat transportation, goggles and snorkels, safety gear, and guidance. Your guides are praised repeatedly for their friendliness and knowledge, making the trip feel safe and engaging.

However, Blue Cave entrance tickets aren’t included, costing €18-24 cash, and are subject to weather conditions. You’ll need to bring cash for extras, plus your own lunch, drinks, towels, and sun protection. The review chorus suggests bringing snacks, beach shoes if rocky beaches bother you, and warm clothes for the chilly mornings.

Group Size and Comfort

The boat carries a maximum of 12 people, making for a more intimate experience than large tour buses. Many reviews highlight the friendly, attentive crew, and the relatively small group size means more personalized attention and less crowding.

Duration and Pace

This is a full-day tour, typically starting in the morning and returning in early evening. Several travelers mention that the day flies by and that the balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing is just right. Still, it’s a fast-paced day—if you prefer a slow, meandering trip, this might feel a bit rushed.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Reviews reveal that guides are a key part of the experience. Many mention how knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous guides made the day enjoyable and informative. Several users commented on the scenic beauty of the islands and coves, describing the Blue Lagoon and Blue Cave as spectacular.

The value for money seems generally positive, especially considering the number of stops, activities, and the boat ride itself. As Hannah notes, “It’s expensive but worthwhile,” and many agree with the sentiment that the memories and views justify the cost.

A recurring theme is the fun, lively atmosphere—from the music on board to the cheerful crew—that makes this more than just a sightseeing trip. The dolphins spotted on the way home, as one reviewer mentions, add a special touch.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous, energetic travelers looking to maximize their time in Croatia. If you love speed and thrill, enjoy beautiful natural sights, and don’t mind a long day with multiple stops, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see a lot in one go.

It’s also perfect for those who appreciate friendly guides and are comfortable with some crowds and a fast pace. If you’re traveling with children aged 6 and up, you’ll find the itinerary manageable, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 4, or people with mobility issues.

Overall, it’s a dynamic, well-organized way to explore Croatia’s stunning islands and coastline, with enough flexibility for free time and swimming. Just remember to bring cash, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 to 11 hours, starting in the morning and returning by early evening.

Do I need to pay extra for Blue Cave tickets?
Yes, the Blue Cave entrance costs about €18-24 in cash and is paid directly to the crew. The price can vary depending on the season.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, sun hat, cash for extras, and snacks. If you plan to swim at rocky beaches, water shoes might be helpful.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6-12 get a 50% discount on entrance fees, and the trip is generally suitable for active kids. It’s not recommended for children under 4 or for those with mobility issues.

Will I see dolphins?
Some reviews mention spotting dolphins on the way back, but this isn’t guaranteed. It’s a fun bonus if it happens.

What if the Blue Cave is closed or inaccessible?
The guides will adjust the itinerary, and many travelers find plenty of other stunning sights and swimming opportunities to compensate.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is designed for speed and efficiency, holding up to 12 people, with safety gear and the option to request snorkeling gear or life jackets for comfort.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and memorable way to experience Croatia’s coast. Its combination of natural wonder, cultural stops, and the thrill of a speedboat makes it a fantastic choice for those eager to pack a lot into one fantastic day.

You can check availability for your dates here: