Blue & Green Cave Vis Island and Pakleni Islands Private Day Trip from Hvar

If you’re searching for a way to see Croatia’s islands beyond the typical crowd-packed tours, this private day trip from Hvar promises a personalized adventure that ticks all the boxes. With a dedicated speedboat just for your group, you get to explore the tranquil beauty of nearby islands, enjoy spectacular caves, and soak in some of the clearest waters around—without the chaos of larger groups.

What we love most about this experience is the flexibility it offers. You can customize your itinerary, spend more time at your favorite spots, and enjoy personalized attention from your skipper, Josko, whose deep local knowledge adds a layer of authentic charm.

A potential consideration is the boat type and choppiness of the sea—this trip involves a RIB boat, which can be bumpy in choppy waters, so those with back sensitivities or a preference for a smoother ride may want to think twice.

This private tour is perfect for groups seeking a tailored adventure, those who appreciate genuine local insights, and travelers who want to explore Croatia’s stunning coast at their own pace.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: A private trip for your group, with the ability to customize your route.
Spectacular Sights: Visits to Blue and Green Caves, Stiniva Cove, and the Pakleni Islands offer unbeatable photo ops.
Inclusive Snorkeling: Equipment is provided, making it easy to enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
Flexible Scheduling: The itinerary can be adjusted based on weather and your interests.
Local Expertise: Guides like Josko share stories and tips from a lifetime of living in Hvar.
Value for Money: For around $110 per person (assuming 8 people), you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insights—something difficult to match with larger, less personalized tours.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: The Port of Hvar

Your adventure begins at the bustling Port of Hvar, conveniently located at Trg Sv. Stjepana 6. The tour’s flexible schedule means you can start as early as 10 AM or later, depending on your preference, making it easy to fit into your travel plans. The boat, operated by Josko’s boat tours, is described as immaculate and comfortable, offering a smooth ride—though do keep in mind that the boat is a RIB, which can feel lively in choppy conditions.

First Stop: Budikovac Island

We loved the way this tranquil island introduces you to the calmer waters of the Croatian archipelago. With about an hour here, you can jump into the sea with provided masks and snorkels, or simply relax on the small pebble beach. The clear waters reveal an abundance of marine life, making it a perfect spot for swimmers and snorkelers alike. Reviewers praise this stop as “the perfect location for enjoying the beautiful blue sea,” with no entrance fees—just your own desire to explore.

Next Up: The Green Cave on Ravnik Island

A highlight for many travelers is the Green Cave, accessible via a short boat ride into the islet of Ravnik. Guests have the option to swim into the cave or stay dry and admire it from outside. Since tickets aren’t included in the tour price, you’ll want to bring cash if you plan to enter. Reviewers mention that although the cave is a smaller attraction compared to the Blue Cave, its unique color and setting make it well worth the visit.

Stiniva Cove: A Natural Wonder

High cliffs surround this pebble beach with turquoise waters, creating a tiny haven that feels like your own secret spot. The cove’s dramatic landscape and clear waters earned it recognition as a European Best Destination. Guests report spending about an hour here, swimming, relaxing, or snapping photos of the jaw-dropping cliffs.

The Blue Cave Experience

One of the main drawcards of this trip is the Blue Cave, located on Bievo Island. After buying tickets (not included), you’ll hop onto a smaller shuttle boat to enter this famous cave, where sunlight creates a glowing blue effect. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning this site is—”absolutely beautiful,” and “the blue glow is mesmerizing.” The boat ride into the cave is a short but memorable part of the journey, and many appreciate the flexibility in timing, especially if weather conditions change.

Final Stop: Pakleni Islands

The day winds down with a two-hour stop at the Pakleni Islands in Palmizana Bay. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, or simply lounge on a sandy beach and soak up the sun. This spot is praised for its authenticity—guests love the relaxed vibe and the chance to enjoy Croatian seaside cuisine. Reviewers mention that Josko, their skipper, recommended a cozy local restaurant, making the experience feel more genuine.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The success of this trip hinges on several factors. Firstly, Josko’s deep local knowledge shines through in every recommendation—whether it’s a secluded cove or a perfect spot for a snack. Guests consistently mention his friendly, professional attitude and flexibility, especially when weather conditions shift unexpectedly. As one reviewer states, “Josko had a backup plan with some coves that were protected and absolutely stunning” when the water was rough.

Secondly, the customizable itinerary allows you to prioritize your interests—whether it’s more snorkeling, caves, or just relaxing on a beach. The tour’s duration (8 to 10 hours) provides ample time to explore without feeling rushed, and the private nature means you can tailor your day to your mood and weather.

Thirdly, the comfortable, spotless boat (a RIB, noted for its speed and agility) ensures a smooth ride, though travelers with back sensitivities should note the boat’s lively motion might be a consideration. Many reviews mention the boat’s cleanliness and the plentiful supply of bottled water and snorkeling gear, which adds value.

Why It’s Worth the Cost

At approximately $887 for a group of up to 8, this experience offers excellent value for a full day of personalized sightseeing, swimming, and culture. Compared to larger group tours, which might only offer a scripted itinerary, this private trip delivers a more intimate and flexible experience. Guests often highlight the quality of the guide, the pristinely maintained boat, and the authentic stops as key reasons why this tour is worth the investment.

Authenticity and Local Flavour

Travelers love hearing Josko’s stories about growing up on Hvar and his family’s history in the area. This personal touch elevates the experience from mere sightseeing to a genuinely local encounter. Many reviews praise the “delicious lunch at a family-run seaside restaurant,” a real highlight that combines good food with local charm.

Practical Details and Tips for Booking

Duration: 8 to 10 hours, giving plenty of time to explore without fatigue.
Group Size: Up to 8 guests, making it ideal for families, friends, or small groups seeking exclusivity.
Price: $887.21 per group, roughly $110 per person at full capacity—good value considering the personalized approach and included snorkeling gear.
Meeting Point: Port of Hvar, at Trg Sv. Stjepana 6, with flexible scheduling based on season (starting around 10 AM or later).
Inclusions: Bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and the boat.
Extras: Entrance tickets to Blue and Green Caves are not included, so plan accordingly with cash or cards.

Weather and Cancellation: The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private trip is ideal for those who value personalized service and authentic local insights. If you’re traveling with a group of up to 8 people and want to avoid the crowds, this is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who love swimming, snorkeling, and discovering hidden gems, rather than just snapping photos from afar.

It’s also a good choice if you appreciate flexibility—whether you want to spend more time at certain spots or skip others based on weather or mood. Adventure seekers and those with a penchant for cultural stories will particularly enjoy Josko’s narrations and recommendations.

However, if you’re sensitive to boat motion or prefer a more relaxed, less bumpy ride, you might want to consider the boat type. Also, keep in mind that entrance tickets to Blue and Green Caves are purchased separately.

FAQs

Are drinks and snorkeling gear included?
Yes, bottled water and snorkeling equipment are provided, making it easy to stay refreshed and explore the waters comfortably.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible and can be adjusted based on your preferences, weather conditions, and time constraints.

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving ample time to explore each stop without rushing.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as immaculate and comfortable, though it is a RIB, which can be lively in choppy waters.

What are the main attractions?
The tour includes visits to Budikovac Island, Green Cave, Stiniva Cove, Blue Cave, and the Pakleni Islands, each offering unique scenery and experiences.

How do I get tickets to the Blue and Green Caves?
Tickets for the caves are purchased separately, so plan to bring cash or card for entry.

This private speedboat tour from Hvar offers a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s scenic coastlines intimately. With a focus on personalized service, authentic stops, and the chance to explore the Blue and Green Caves, it’s a wonderful choice for small groups seeking a more genuine adventure.

The combination of knowledgeable guides like Josko, a flexible itinerary, and the chance to swim and snorkel in some of the clearest waters around makes this tour stand out. While the boat’s lively ride might not suit everyone, most travelers find the experience well worth the slight bumpiness, especially given the stunning scenery and relaxed pace.

If you’re after a day of discovery that feels tailored just for your group, and you’re willing to pay a bit extra for the privacy and personal touches, this trip is hard to beat. It’s a chance to see Croatia’s hidden marine treasures while enjoying the comfort of a private boat—definitely a memorable way to spend a day on the water.