Blue cave group tour with swimming and snorkelling from Hvar

This popular day trip from Hvar offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most famous natural sights, including the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and the beautiful Stiniva beach. With an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 from over 220 reviews, it’s clear this experience strikes a chord with travelers looking for a mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. The tour lasts around 8 hours and includes visits to multiple islands, caves, and beaches—all in a small-group setting, limited to just 14 participants, making it an intimate way to explore.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines snorkeling, cave exploring, and beach lounging into one seamless day. Plus, the guides are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to manage small groups smoothly—crucial factors for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. A possible downside? The cost of entry tickets for the Blue and Green caves isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget around 26 EUR extra for those.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a full, active day out on the water, with plenty of swimming and sightseeing packed in. If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery, loves snorkeling, and enjoys discovering lesser-known spots, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Hvar visit.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights including the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and the cliffs at Stiniva beach
• Small group size (max 14) ensures a more personalized experience
• Snorkeling gear included, perfect for underwater exploration
• Flexible itinerary with plenty of swimming and beach time
• Tickets for caves are extra, so budget accordingly
• Experienced guides like Simon and Harris receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness

An Overview of the Itinerary

This tour is designed to showcase the very best of Croatia’s island gems in a single day. You’ll start in Hvar around 10:15 am, meeting at Trg Sv. Stjepana, and then head out on a fast, comfortable boat – most reviews mention the boat being clean, speedy, and well-equipped, with plenty of shaded and sunbathing areas.

First Stop: Budikovac Blue Lagoon

The day kicks off with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. As reviewers note, this area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with provided masks, making it easy to explore underwater life. The tranquil waters and surrounding scenery set the perfect tone for the day.

Exploring the Green Cave

Next, you’ll cruise to the Green Cave, an underrated highlight praised by many. The experience of swimming inside this cave—catching the sunlight filtering through—is often described as magical. However, a couple of reviews mention that guides sometimes skip this stop or change plans due to time constraints or delays, so it’s worth knowing that the itinerary may vary.

Stiniva Beach

After the caves, you’ll visit Stiniva Beach, often called one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Surrounded by towering cliffs, its pebble shoreline offers a perfect spot to sunbathe, take photos, or just relax after swimming. Reviewers mention that the cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the overall experience.

The Blue Cave at Bisevo Island

The highlight for most travelers is the Blue Cave, a natural wonder famous worldwide. The tour typically includes a visit to this remote island, with an entry fee of around 18-24 EUR, payable on-site. Many reviewers emphasize how mesmerizing the cave’s glowing blue waters look, especially when sunlight hits the interior. The guides, like Sara and Joseph, are often praised for their skillful navigation inside narrow caves while keeping everyone safe.

Lunch and Relaxation at Palmizana Bay

Mid-afternoon, the tour makes a stop at Palmizana Bay in the Pakleni Islands. This is a great opportunity to grab a meal at a local restaurant, sip a cocktail at Laganini beach bar, or just soak up the sun. Reviewers have enjoyed this laid-back break, with many noting the good food and vibrant atmosphere.

Cruise Back to Hvar

The journey concludes with a scenic sail back towards Hvar town, offering views of the surrounding islands and coastline. Many mention that this part of the trip is a relaxing way to wind down and reflect on the day.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The tour includes snorkeling masks and bottled water, making it easy to stay hydrated and explore underwater. The small group size ensures you’ll never feel crowded, and the guides are noted for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.

However, you’ll need to budget extra for the entry tickets to the Blue Cave (€18 in low season, €24 in high season) and the Green Cave (€8-€12). While the tour price of $117.50 per person seems reasonable for a full day of sightseeing, these additional costs are worth considering for your overall expense.

The Guides and Their Impact

Reviews repeatedly mention guides like Simon, Harris, and Joseph as the real stars of the tour. They’re described as personable, attentive, and full of interesting facts about the islands’ geography and history. Their ability to manage the small group, keep everyone comfortable, and share local insights elevates the experience beyond just boat rides and sightseeing.

Timing and Group Size

Start time is fixed at 10:15 am, with most participants returning around 6:30 pm. The small group limit (14) means more interaction with guides and a cozy atmosphere. This setup works well for travelers who prefer a more intimate adventure rather than large, crowded tours.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $117.50, the tour offers a lot of value considering the destinations visited and the amenities included. The ability to see multiple caves, beaches, and islands in one day is a definite plus. Plus, the personalized feel—thanks to small group sizes and attentive guides—enhances the overall experience.

Most reviews highlight how well-organized and enjoyable the day was, with many noting that the mixture of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing in beautiful settings keeps the energy high and boredom at bay. The extra expenses for cave entry fees do add to the cost but are unavoidable if you want to access these natural wonders.

A Few Considerations

• Weather Dependency: The tour requires good weather; poor weather can lead to cancellations with options for rescheduling or full refunds.
• Additional Costs: Cave tickets are not included, so budget around 26 EUR total.
• Physical Readiness: The tour involves swimming and some walking; comfortable footwear and swimwear are recommended.
• Time Management: Guides sometimes change plans due to delays or weather, so flexibility is key.

Who This Tour Is Best Suited For

If you’re someone who loves active days filled with swimming, exploring caves, and taking in stunning views, then this is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy small-group tours, personalized guides, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the variety of stops make it ideal for water lovers and those wanting a rundown of Croatia’s island highlights.

This tour probably isn’t the best fit if you’re on a strict budget, as cave entry fees add up. Similarly, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience or aren’t comfortable with boat travel, you might want to explore alternative options.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families with children, find it suitable. The boat is described as comfortable and well-managed for small groups, and swimming is a core part of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a towel. Since snorkeling equipment is provided, you don’t need to bring your own masks unless you prefer.

Are the cave tickets included?
No, tickets for the Blue Cave (€18–€24) and Green Cave (€8–€12) are paid separately, cash only, on-site.

What is the typical group size?
Limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier management by guides.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:15 am and returning around 6:30 pm.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is an opportunity to buy food and drinks at Palmizana Bay.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start, with a full refund.

Is snorkelling equipment provided?
Yes, masks are included, making underwater exploration easy and accessible.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Visits to the Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva Beach, and the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax in beautiful Croatian surroundings.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Cave group tour from Hvar is a well-rounded, engaging experience perfect for those who want to see Croatia’s iconic sights with a small, friendly group. The guides’ enthusiasm, combined with the variety of stops—including caves, beaches, and scenic views—make it a memorable day out.

While it’s slightly extra in cost due to cave entries, the overall value is high when considering the stunning scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and the personalized nature of the trip. It’s a fantastic option for water lovers and adventurers eager to make the most of a day at sea, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

If you’re visiting Hvar and want to combine sightseeing with swimming and cave exploring, this tour should be at the top of your list. Just remember to bring some cash for the cave entry fees, prepare for a full day of activity, and get ready for some truly spectacular views.