From Trogir or Split: Full-Day Blue Cave & Hvar Island Tour

From Trogir or Split: Full-Day Blue Cave & Hvar Island Tour

Planning a day on Croatia’s sparkling Adriatic waters? This full-day tour covering five islands, including the iconic Blue Cave and the lively town of Hvar, promises a trip packed with breathtaking scenery, historical charm, and plenty of chances to cool off with a swim. With a focus on comfort, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experiences, it’s an excellent way to see the best of Dalmatia.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to visit five distinct islands in just one day, each with its own personality and beauty. Plus, the boat ride itself is a highlight—speeding across the water in a well-equipped vessel with lively music and the promise of adventure. That said, some travelers might find the speedboat ride a little bumpy or crowded on busy days, so it’s worth considering how comfortable you are with high-speed cruising.

This experience is best suited for travelers who are eager to maximize their island-hopping and explore the stunning coastline without spending several days on the water. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural stops, but may not be ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems. Overall, if you want a well-organized, fun-filled day with the option to customize your stops, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights: Blue Cave and crystal-clear swimming spots make this tour memorable.
• Expert guides: Many reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides who share local insights.
• Efficient itinerary: Visits to five islands packed into a 10-11 hour window—ample time at each stop.
• Comfort and safety: Well-maintained RIB speedboats with safety gear, windproof jackets, and professional skippers.
• Authentic stops: Visits to charming villages like Komia and free time to explore Hvar town.
• Value for money: At $92, you get a full day of diverse experiences, with the option to upgrade Blue Cave tickets.

The Ride and the Route: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off from several convenient points in Trogir or Split, with options to meet near the Kamerlengo Fortress or at the Matejsuka Pier. Once aboard your fast and comfortable RIB speedboat, your journey begins with a scenic one-hour cruise along the coast. The boat itself is described as “best-in-class,” and reviewers frequently note the lively music and friendly crew making the trip enjoyable from the start.

Visiting the Blue Cave

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, a natural phenomenon on Biovo Island. Known for its surreal blue glow caused by sunlight reflecting off the seabed, it’s often called a must-see. The cave visit lasts around 30 minutes, giving enough time to marvel at its beauty and snap a few photos. However, since the Blue Cave is operated by a different company, the tour does not include the entry fee (roughly €18-24 per person), payable on-site. Weather conditions can impact access—if the cave is closed, the tour operator offers an alternative experience, ensuring no one leaves disappointed.

Exploring Komia and the Coastline of Vis

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to Komia, a small fishing village on Vis Island. Many reviews praise this stop for its authentic atmosphere and scenic views. Visitors often mention the chance to learn about traditional Dalmatian customs and enjoy local food (although not included in the tour). It’s a quiet, picturesque spot that feels worlds away from tourist crowds.

Further along, you’ll pass Stiniva Cove, a famous beach known for its dramatic shoreline carved by the sea’s powerful waves. Here, you get about 30 minutes to admire the unique landscape and, if you wish, take some photos of the caves and cliffs. Many guests say this is a highlight of the day, especially since the natural formations are so striking.

Swim and Relax at Blue Lagoon

One of the most relaxing parts of the trip is the stop at Buddikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon, where you’ll have about an hour to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Reviewers rave about how perfect the blue water is for floating, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. Some mention bringing your own snorkel gear, which is provided, to explore beneath the surface.

The Charm of Hvar

The final stage is Hvar town, often described as “the jewel of the Adriatic.” You’ll have around two and a half hours to wander its narrow streets, visit the fortress, or simply relax in a café. Many reviews praise Hvar for its beautiful architecture, lively atmosphere, and stunning views from the fortress. This is a great chance to experience Croatian coastal town life, browse local shops, or enjoy some delicious Croatian tapas.

Return Journey

The boat ride back takes about an hour, giving you time to unwind, listen to music, and reflect on the day. Some reviews mention how the crew keeps the mood lively—an important factor when covering so much ground in one day.

The Fine Print: What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $92 per person covers the speedboat, a knowledgeable skipper, guide, snorkeling gear, windproof jackets, and onboard safety equipment. It’s a good deal considering the length and variety of stops. However, lunch, drinks, and the Blue Cave entry fee are not included, so you might want to bring some cash for food, snacks, or the cave ticket (€18-24).

No hotel pickup is provided, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot—either in Trogir or Split, depending on your booking. The tour runs for a full 10-11 hours, so it’s a long day, but many find the experience well worth the time.

Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunglasses and sunscreen—the open water means lots of sun exposure.
• Pack light, water-friendly clothing and luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, the boat can be bumpy, especially in rougher waters.
• Consider bringing swim shoes—reviewers note that the rocky beaches and caves are best explored with proper footwear.
• The Blue Cave is weather-dependent; in poor weather, an alternative activity is offered.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently mention how expert guides and skippers make or break the experience. Many praise Mateo, Antonio, Marino, or Valentina for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to manage timelines, ensuring everyone gets their fair share of sightseeing and swimming.

A recurring theme is the blend of natural beauty and authentic towns. The stops at Komia and Hvar are highly valued for their charm and local flavor—many reviews mention that guides often give tips on where to eat or explore, adding to the overall value.

Some travelers highlight that, despite a few weather-related cancellations of the Blue Cave, the alternative stops like the Green Caves and the Blue Lagoon more than compensate. The crew’s flexibility and professionalism shine through, making sure everyone still leaves with a memorable experience.

The tour’s small-group or private options also get rave reviews for making the trip feel personalized and relaxed, especially for those who prefer a more intimate adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a well-organized, fun, and scenic day exploring Croatia’s islands, this tour delivers. It’s a fantastic way to tick off multiple highlights—Blue Cave, Stiniva Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Hvar—from one seamless experience.

The cost of $92 offers excellent value, considering the boat, guides, snorkeling gear, and the variety of stops. The pace is energetic, but many find it manageable, thanks to the professional crew and well-planned itinerary.

This trip suits travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially appealing for those eager to see the Blue Cave and explore Hvar’s vibrant streets without the hassle of navigating on their own.

However, if you’re uncomfortable on speedboats or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find the ride a bit rough or the timing a little tight. It’s also not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Overall, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure with expert guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to swim in some of Croatia’s clearest waters, this tour hits the spot.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave ticket included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Cave entry fee (~€18-24) is paid separately on-site since it’s operated by a different company.

Can I customize the stops or spend more time at certain locations?
The itinerary is set to maximize the experience across five islands, but reviews suggest that the time at each stop is generally adequate and well-managed.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and possibly swim shoes for rocky areas. Large luggage or big bags are not allowed on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old cannot participate, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. In case the Blue Cave is inaccessible, an alternative activity is provided.

How long is the boat ride between islands?
The ride between stops varies but can be up to 90 minutes; the boat is described as fast and safe, with safety gear available upon request.

To sum it up, this Blue Cave and Hvar island tour offers a comprehensive, well-priced way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline. With expert guides, a lively boat ride, and enough stops to satisfy different interests, it’s perfect for travelers who want to pack a lot into one day without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.