Split or Trogir: Blue Cave, Vis, and Hvar Speedboat Day Trip

If you’re craving a day full of adventure, stunning scenery, and island hopping along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, this speedboat tour offers just that. Covering key highlights like the Blue Cave, Hvar, Vis, and Pakleni Islands, it packs a lot into a single day—making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything without the hassle of planning each stop.

One of the best parts? The speedboat ride itself. The thrill of zipping across the water, combined with the chance to see multiple islands and caves, creates a sense of excitement that’s hard to beat. The guides, noted for their friendliness and knowledge, really make the experience special. That said, the tour’s fast pace and brief stops mean it’s best suited for those who like to move quickly and enjoy the highlights rather than delve deep into each one.

A possible concern? Some reviews mention the short time spent in the Blue Cave—about 10 minutes—due to the crowds and weather restrictions. If you’re hoping for a long exploration of the caves, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, if you’re after a whirlwind day of sightseeing and fun, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who value good value, lively boat rides, and scenic island views over a slow-paced, in-depth cultural tour.

This trip is best for active travelers, island lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable, action-packed day with a strong sense of adventure. Let’s take a detailed look at what makes this tour stand out, along with some honest considerations.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary: Visits six different sites in one day, offering great variety and value.
Expert guides: Guides like Lea, Vice, Karlos, and Karolina are praised for their friendliness, attention, and knowledge.
Fast-paced adventure: The speedboat rides are exciting, with some reviews noting the thrill of zooming across the water.
Brief cave visits: The Blue Cave visit is quick, sometimes only about 10 minutes, which might disappoint those wanting more time inside.
Scenic stops: Highlights include Stiniva Bay, Budikovac Island, and Hvar, each offering beautiful scenery and opportunities to swim or relax.
Cost and value: At $117 per person, it includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and insurance, making it a competitive option for a full day of exploration.
Potential downsides: Some mention the boat’s speed and bumpiness, as well as limited time at certain stops, notably the Blue Cave.
Family-friendly: Suitable for families with children over 3, though some reviews mention gearing up for a little splash and bumping.
Weather dependency: Bad weather can lead to route changes or cancellations, so flexibility is key.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off early, with a pickup in Trogir or Split, giving travelers flexibility in starting location. From there, it’s about a 75-minute adrenaline rush across the waters to reach your first major stop, the Blue Cave on Bievo Island. The highlight? The cave’s silvery-blue light—created by sunlight refracting through a crack—makes for an unforgettable photo op.

Guides like Lea and Vice are often praised for their insight and friendly manner, making the short visit both informative and fun. Expect about 10 minutes here, as the boat waits for the crowd to enter and exit. Some reviewers wish they had more time, but the focus is on enjoying the whole day’s variety.

Next, you’re whisked over to Stiniva Cove, famous for its stunning, tucked-away beach. It’s a quick photo stop, and if conditions allow, you can take a swim or simply enjoy the scenery. Reviewers note that the cove can sometimes feel distant, and swimming might be discouraged if jellyfish are present—something to keep in mind if water activities are a priority.

The tour then heads to Veliki Budikovac, a tiny island with crystal-clear waters and a small bar. Here, you get about 1.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach. Many visitors find this stop a real highlight, with reviewers praising the pristine waters and the chance to unwind. The crew offers snorkeling gear, which is appreciated, but some might wish for a wider selection or more time to explore.

Afterward, the boat makes its way to the Pakleni Islands, specifically Palmiana, a sandy inlet shaded by pines. This break is ideal for a leisurely lunch, swimming, or exploring. While some reviewers enjoyed the relaxed vibe, others felt the stop was less necessary due to the high prices and limited activities available. Still, it’s a great chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenic setting.

Finally, the highlight for many is Hvar town. With around two hours to wander, you can explore its charming streets, climb the fortress for panoramic views, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Visitors have raved about the town’s beauty and the opportunity to experience local bars and restaurants. Guides like Lea are noted for sharing interesting stories about Hvar’s history and culture, adding depth to the visit.

The return journey offers another hour of cruising, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the stunning sea views and perhaps spot a few dolphins if you’re lucky. The trip concludes back at the starting point—Trogir or Split—where many feel they’ve experienced a complete, action-packed day.

What We Loved About This Tour

The expert guides truly make a difference. Reviewers often mention how guides like Lea, Vice, Karlos, and Karolina are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, ensuring everyone feels included and safe. Their tips and stories enrich the experience, especially at Hvar, where local insights add to the sightseeing.

The scenery along the route is spectacular. From the glowing Blue Cave to the rugged cliffs of Stiniva Bay and the lush, pine-shaded Pakleni Islands, each stop offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature. The boat’s speed allows you to cover more ground and see diverse landscapes in a single day.

The value for money stands out. At $117, the tour includes transportation, snorkeling equipment, and insurance—especially considering it visits six sites in one day. For travelers wanting to maximize their time and see a broad range of sights without extra planning, this offers excellent bang for your buck.

Many guests praise the smooth organization and the “well-paced” itinerary, which balances sightseeing, swimming, and free time. The included snorkeling gear is a bonus, though some reviewers note that more variety or longer stops would enhance the experience.

Considerations and Possible Improvements

Some reviews highlight that the Blue Cave visit is quite short—about 10 minutes—due to crowds and weather. While understandable, this leaves some travelers wishing for a longer exploration or better planning to avoid busy times. If you’re looking for a deep dive into the caves’ geology or extended time inside, this may feel rushed.

Other comments concern the speed of the boat itself. Several mention that the ride can be bumpy and the boat moves very fast—sometimes jumping and bumping—with no safety belts. While the crew prioritizes safety in their own way, this style of travel might not be suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, or a fear of rough waters.

The timing of stops also varies. While many feel the stops are just right, some guests think certain places, like Veliki Budikovac or the final island, could be shortened to allow more time elsewhere. Plus, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the route can change, and some sights may be skipped or replaced.

Pricing at certain stops, particularly the Blue Cave entry fee (about 18 euros), is an extra expense paid in cash. Travelers should budget accordingly, especially since food and drinks are not included, and some reviews mention the prices at the bar on Veliki Budikovac or Pakleni Islands can be high.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits active, curious travelers who love beautiful scenery, island hopping, and boat rides. It’s perfect if you want a fast-paced, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Croatian island life. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge make it ideal for those who enjoy engaging storytelling.

It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate timed excursions—not a deep cultural dive, but a quick look at some of Croatia’s most iconic sights. Families with children over 3 can enjoy it too, although expect a splashy, bumpy ride in parts. Travelers who prefer a relaxing, slow-paced tour might find it too rushed, especially at the Blue Cave.

Given the weather dependency and short stops, this experience works best in good weather and when you’re comfortable with a lively, sometimes bumpy boat ride. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the inclusive price, but should be prepared for extra costs like the Blue Cave entry fee.

This speedboat day trip offers an exciting, well-organized way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots in one go. If you’re after a fun-filled adventure with plenty of scenic highlights, knowledgeable guides, and a lively boat ride, this tour delivers on all fronts. The variety of stops—from caves and beaches to lively towns—means you get a broad taste of Dalmatia’s island life.

While the short Blue Cave visit and the occasionally bumpy ride might not suit everyone, most travelers find the experience memorable and worth the price. It’s a great choice for those looking to pack a lot into a single day and enjoy the quality of guides and stunning scenery.

For adventurers and island lovers eager to explore Croatia’s coast without the fuss, this trip hits the sweet spot—offering a blend of excitement, beauty, and authentic moments on the Adriatic.

FAQ

Is food included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. There are opportunities to buy snacks or lunch during stops, but they are at your own expense.

Do I need to bring cash for the Blue Cave entry fee?
Yes, the Blue Cave fee is payable only in cash, approximately 18 euros, so it’s good to have some prepared.

How long do we actually spend inside the Blue Cave?
The visit typically lasts about 10 minutes, mainly because of crowds and weather conditions, so don’t expect a long exploration.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the crew provides snorkeling gear, allowing you to enjoy the clear waters at several stops.

What’s the group size?
This is a small-group tour, which means you’ll likely be in a group of around 10-20 people, making it more personal and easier to interact with guides.

Are the stops suitable for swimming?
Yes, most stops like Veliki Budikovac and the beaches offer great swimming and snorkeling opportunities, weather permitting.

Can I explore Hvar town independently?
Absolutely. The two-hour free time at Hvar allows you to wander, visit the fortress, or relax in local cafes and bars.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and some snacks or water are recommended. Be prepared for a splashy ride, so waterproof gear is advised.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, children over 3 can join, but expect some splashing and bumpy moments. It’s best suited for active kids who enjoy boat rides and exploring islands.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, thorough look at what to expect from the Split or Trogir: Blue Cave, Vis, and Hvar Speedboat Day Trip. Whether you’re chasing adventure, stunning scenery, or a lively day out, this tour offers a memorable taste of Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast.