From Split: 5 Islands and Blue Cave Boat Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast isn’t complete without a trip to the famous Blue Cave and its surrounding islands. This full-day tour from Split offers a chance to visit six incredible spots in one go — all aboard a sleek, brand-new luxury speedboat. With so many reviews praising its scenic stops, knowledgeable guides, and overall value, it’s clear why this tour remains popular.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of comfort, variety, and authentic exploration. You get the chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic natural sights, enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and have time for a quick bite in Hvar. But, like all tours, it’s worth considering some potential drawbacks—like a possibly early start or the chance of weather affecting certain stops.

This tour will suit travelers who value a well-organized day out, want to tick multiple islands off their Croatia bucket list, and enjoy a bit of luxury on the water. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, fun-filled adventure with reliable guides, this one ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Luxury Speedboats: Recent, comfortable vessels ensure a smooth ride and a stylish experience.
• Multiple Stops: Visit the Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, Blue Lagoon, Pakleni Islands, and Hvar, all in one day.
• Flexible & Inclusive: Snorkeling gear, water, a professional guide, and insurance included.
• Timing & Pacing: Carefully planned stops allow for swimming, sightseeing, and a relaxed lunch.
• Weather Dependence: Blue Cave visits are weather-dependent, which can affect your experience.
• Value for Money: At $175, it provides a full day of activities and stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile investment.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins early, with guests meeting at 07:45 at the central Riva promenade in Split. From there, you’ll board a sleek, brand-new luxury speedboat, ready to whisk you across the Adriatic. The first major highlight is the Blue Cave, which is a must-see for its glowing blue waters. However, it’s important to note that tickets to enter the cave are not included, so plan to bring extra cash if you want to step inside.

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads toward Vis Island, known for its rugged beauty and historical sites, and then to Bievo Island for quick sightseeing. This part of the day is all about taking in the stunning coastline and enjoying the boat ride itself. If weather permits, you’ll get to see the colorful Stiniva Bay, a small cove famous for its narrow entrance and dramatic cliffs, perfect for photos.

Next up is Budikovac Island, home to the Blue Lagoon — a favorite for swimming and snorkeling. The waters here are crystal-clear, inviting you to relax and cool off. The tour also includes time on the Pakleni Islands, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore dry land. Keep in mind that according to one review, some guests didn’t get to fully explore Pakleni with a visit into Hvar’s town, but instead had limited time on the islands.

The final stop is Hvar Island, renowned for its lively town and historic sites. Here, you’ll have some free time to stroll through the streets, take photos, or grab a quick snack before heading back to Split around 6 pm, arriving back by 6:30 pm.

Why This Tour Works

One of the best aspects of this tour is the small-group size. Reviewers mention a “comfortable boat” and “plenty of time at each location,” which helps avoid feeling rushed and allows for a more relaxed experience. The professional guides are appreciated for their explanations and friendly attitude, making the trip both educational and fun.

The boat itself is described as “fairly new,” ensuring a comfortable ride, which makes a difference when you’re spending hours on the water. The snorkeling gear and cold water are provided, so you’re ready to jump in without any extra fuss.

Another key point is the flexibility — if bad weather affects the Blue Cave, the captain will adjust the itinerary, as one reviewer noted. This adaptability means you’re more likely to enjoy the experience rather than be disappointed.

When it comes to value, at $175 per person, the tour covers a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, plus the convenience of transportation and guided commentary. You might spend more time and effort trying to organize separate visits, so the package offers considerable ease.

The Downsides to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers have pointed out some minor inconveniences. For example, some guests experienced a late start or felt the explanations from the crew were a bit minimal. One review mentioned that “we had breakfast in Milna (Brac)” and didn’t fully explore certain islands or sites, which suggests that the itinerary might be flexible or subject to weather and operational changes.

Plus, since Blue Cave tickets are not included, you’ll need to budget extra if you want to go inside. The tour’s success also partly depends on weather conditions—bad weather can mean missing the Blue Cave or limited stops, which can affect the overall experience.

Finally, the early meeting time (7:45 am) might be a challenge for some travelers, especially those coming from farther accommodations or looking to sleep in. But, given the full day of activities planned, it’s a small price to pay for a comprehensive adventure.

How the Experience Feels

Imagine waking up early in Split, heading out on a sleek speedboat, and being greeted by friendly guides eager to show you Croatia’s natural beauty. As you skim across the water, you’ll marvel at the coastline, then pause at the Blue Cave to see its hypnotic glow.

The stops at islands like Stiniva Bay and Budikovac feel like secret escapes—quiet, scenic, perfect for photos and cooling off in the sea. Lunch at the Pakleni Islands adds a chance to soak in the local vibe, and your visit to Hvar offers a taste of island life with its charming streets and lively atmosphere.

Throughout the day, you’ll be surrounded by stunning vistas, with moments of relaxing swimming mixed with sightseeing and cultural exploration. The boat’s modern design ensures a comfortable journey, and the guides’ local knowledge adds depth to each stop, making it more than just a boat ride.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day on the water, with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and local flavor. It’s perfect if you’re visiting Split and seeking a way to see several islands without booking multiple excursions.

It’s a great option for those who appreciate comfort and small-group intimacy over large, crowded tours. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and water makes it suitable for active travelers who want to cool off and enjoy the sea.

However, if you’re someone who prefers highly flexible, unstructured days or wants to explore islands at your own pace, this tour might feel a bit constrained by its schedule. Also, those who are super sensitive to weather or who want guaranteed access to the Blue Cave should consider that this is weather-dependent.

Final Thoughts

This From Split: 5 Islands and Blue Cave Boat Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, comfort, and guided knowledge. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a full day of scenic stops, swimming, and island exploration with professional guides and modern boats. The value for money is evident in the variety of experiences packed into one day, making it a convenient and memorable way to see Croatia’s Dalmatian coast.

While some minor issues like weather dependency and possible itinerary adjustments exist, the overall experience seems to deliver what it promises: a fun, scenic, and well-organized adventure. If you’re seeking a structured yet authentic way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning islands, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay for entrance to the Blue Cave separately?
Yes, entrance tickets for the Blue Cave are not included in the $175 price. You will need to have cash on hand if you want to go inside.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 07:45 with a meeting at the Riva promenade in Split and returns around 6 to 6:30 pm.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, so you can jump into the water to explore the underwater scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, cash for Blue Cave tickets and any souvenirs, and perhaps a towel or sunscreen for comfort on the boat and during island stops.

Can I expect a large group?
No, the boat is described as comfortable and small, allowing for a more relaxed experience with plenty of time at each site.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The crew can adjust the itinerary, and if the Blue Cave is closed due to weather, they will take you to alternative locations. It’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand.

This detailed review should help you decide if this tour fits your travel style and expectations. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, a comfortable boat ride, or a chance to explore multiple islands, it offers a well-rounded Croatian experience.