From Split: Blue Cave, Hvar and 5 Islands Private Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat is an experience many travelers dream about, and this private tour from Split offers a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic spots. From the shimmering Blue Cave to the charming streets of Hvar and the tranquil waters surrounding Vis and Budikovac Islands, it’s a well-planned journey packed with memorable sights. The flexibility of a private boat means you can enjoy a more personalized experience, tailored to your pace and interests.

What we especially like about this tour is the chance to visit multiple islands in one day, with an expert skipper guiding the way. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Dalmatian culture without the larger crowds often found on group tours. However, one consideration to keep in mind is that the Blue Cave entrance fee isn’t included, and weather conditions can influence the schedule and overall experience.

This tour fits travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxing beach time—all in one day. If you’re looking for a flexible, scenic adventure with knowledgeable guides, this private boat trip is likely to appeal.

Key Points

Private and Personalized: The tour is designed for groups up to 7, giving you a more intimate experience with your skipper.
Spectacular Views: Expect stunning scenery, from the Blue Cave’s glowing waters to Hvar’s historic streets.
Flexible Schedule: The itinerary can be adjusted based on weather and your interests, especially with a flexible guide.
Cost Consideration: The price includes boat, fuel, water, snorkeling gear, and insurance, but not the cave entrance fee or food.
Expert Guides: Skippers like Luka and Dusko are noted for their knowledge and accommodating attitude—making the journey enjoyable and safe.
Weather Dependency: The trip relies on favorable conditions; poor weather might cause cancellations or schedule changes.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting out from Split

This tour kicks off from Matejuka pier in Split, a central and convenient spot marked clearly with a flag. Your private boat awaits, typically with a well-maintained vessel and all the safety gear you’d need. The experience begins with a sense of anticipation—cruising along the Dalmatian coastline as the city’s historic spires fade into the distance.

The first stop is the Blue Cave on Bievo island, renowned for its shimmering, silver-blue waters. As we learned from one traveler, “The Blue Cave is the highlight—the water’s glow is magical, and it’s worth the small extra fee of €18 per person to get in.” The boat’s access means you’re close to the action, and the natural light filtering through the cave’s opening creates an almost surreal atmosphere. Expect to spend around 30-45 minutes here, enough to take photos and marvel at the color play.

Visiting Komiža on Vis Island

Next, the boat heads to Komiža, one of Croatia’s oldest fishing towns. Here, the reviewers’ guides, like Luka and Dusko, make a point to share insights about the town’s history and local culture. The town’s rustic charm is apparent as narrow streets wind past traditional stone houses and colorful boats bob in the harbor.

You’ll enjoy some free time to wander, relax, or grab a coffee. A reviewer mentioned “Our guide Luka was very accommodating, changing the schedule when we had a 2-hour wait for the Cave Tour,” showing how flexible your skipper can be if you want extra exploration or downtime.

Cooling off at the Blue Lagoon

From there, the boat moves to Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon—a favorite among travelers for its calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The water’s transparency makes it easy to spot marine life, and many guests enjoy taking a break from sightseeing to cool off. The experience is made richer by snorkeling gear provided, allowing you to explore beneath the surface.

Lunch at the Pakleni Islands

Midday is set aside for a relaxed lunch at the Pakleni Islands. The tour usually stops at a beachside restaurant, giving you a chance to enjoy local Dalmatian cuisine. With options for all tastes, this is a perfect moment to unwind, soak in the scenery, and plan your next move. The reviews highlight the flexibility here—guests appreciated the chance to stay as long as they wanted before heading to the next destination.

Exploring Hvar Town

The final major stop is Hvar, often called Croatia’s Saint-Tropez. The town’s historic streets, fortress, and harbor views evoke a sense of timeless elegance. A reviewer highlighted: “My guide Dusko made the day memorable, giving me tips and making sure I enjoyed every moment.” Expect to walk through narrow alleys, admire the 16th-century fortress, and pick a cozy spot for a drink or some sightseeing.

Return to Split

After a full day of exploring, the boat heads back to Split, promising a scenic journey through the islands’ shimmering waters. The entire experience typically lasts around 8 hours, making it a substantial but manageable day trip.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transport & Group Size

The private boat is designed for up to 7 people, striking a good balance between intimacy and space. The vessel includes all safety and snorkeling equipment, ensuring comfort and security throughout your trip.

Pricing & Value

At $1,118 per group, the tour is definitely on the premium side, but the private nature, guided flexibility, and access to multiple highlights justify the expense—especially if you value a more exclusive experience. The price covers fuel, water, safety gear, and taxes, but you should budget extra for the Blue Cave entry (€18 per person) and meals.

What’s Included & Not

Included: Private boat, fuel, bottled water, English-speaking skipper, safety and snorkeling gear, insurance, and taxes.
Not Included: Food, drinks outside bottled water, and Blue Cave entrance fee.

Weather & Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions can mean cancellations or rescheduling. A full refund or alternative date is offered if weather prevents the trip. Travelers should be prepared for potential schedule adjustments.

What to Bring

Make sure to carry your passport or ID, sunglasses, hat, towel, and sunscreen. The tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or people with back problems. It’s also advisable to be ready for a full day outdoors.

Authentic Feedback & Insights

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer shared, “Dusko was very attentive and made sure I was enjoying the day,” which is a common theme—having a skipper who’s both informative and flexible makes a big difference.

However, some reviews point out areas for improvement, such as the Blue Cave fee being an extra expense and the limited time on each island. One traveler felt the tour was “a bit expensive for what it includes,” but appreciated the route and the sights.

The tour seems well-suited for travelers who want a curated, scenic day with a knowledgeable guide, and who don’t mind paying a premium for privacy and flexibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want an exclusive, customizable day exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort, personalized service, and authentic natural beauty. If you’re keen to see the Blue Cave, enjoy scenic coastal views, and wander charming towns without the hustle of large groups, it’s a great pick.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a fully guided experience with detailed historical commentary, you might want to compare other options or join a larger tour.

FAQs

Is the Blue Cave entrance fee included? No, the €18 per person fee for the Blue Cave is paid separately on-site.
What’s the maximum group size? Up to 7 people, making it an intimate experience.
Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, the skipper can adjust the schedule based on weather and your preferences.
Does the tour include food? No, meals are not included, but there are stops for lunch and snacks are available through your own arrangements.
What should I bring? Passport or ID, sunglasses, hat, towel, and sunscreen are recommended.
Is it suitable for children? It’s not suitable for children under 2, and pregnant women or those with back problems should consider carefully.
How long does the trip last? About 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.
What if the weather is bad? The tour is subject to weather conditions; cancellations are possible, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
Are snorkeling gear and safety equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear and safety equipment are included for your comfort and security.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to explore Croatia’s stunning islands with a sense of privacy and flexibility, this private tour from Split offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll see iconic sights like the Blue Cave and Hvar, enjoy the tranquility of Blue Lagoon, and indulge in local culture with plenty of free time. The knowledgeable guides, like Luka and Dusko, enhance the experience with their friendliness and insight, making the day both educational and fun.

While the price might seem steep, the private nature, hotel pickup exclusion, and multiple stops create a sense of value for travelers wanting a bespoke adventure. Keep in mind the weather dependency and Blue Cave entrance fee, but overall, it’s a solid choice for those eager to see Dalmatia’s best without the crowds.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic escape, or just want a fun-packed day with friends or family, this tour has the ingredients for a memorable Croatian adventure.