From Vis: Speedboat tour – Vis, Bievo & Blue Cave (shared)

Experience the Ultimate Speedboat Tour of Vis, Bievo & the Blue Cave in Croatia

Vis Island, with its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and hidden caves, is a must-see in Croatia’s Dalmatian region. This shared speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see several of its highlights in just half a day. From the famous Blue Cave to secluded beaches like Stiniva, the trip promises adventure and spectacular scenery, all led by knowledgeable local guides.

What really sets this tour apart is its combination of comfortable boat rides, the chance to visit iconic sites without long waits, and the opportunity to swim in some of the most beautiful spots around Vis. We love how it balances guided exploration with free time to relax and soak up the scenery.

A possible consideration is the need to purchase cave tickets separately, which might feel a little inconvenient if you’re not prepared. However, this system allows you to choose whether to visit the caves or just enjoy the boat ride. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and learning about local history — especially those who appreciate a relaxed pace and local insight.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines visiting Blue Cave, Stiniva, Green Cave, and beaches on a single trip.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Luka are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the trip feel effortless.
• Authentic & Flexible: Optional cave visits and ample swimming time make the experience personal and un rushed.
• Comfortable & Reliable Boat: Equipped with sun decks, sea ladders, and modern engines for a smooth ride.
• Value for Money: For ~$118, you get multiple stops, snorkeling gear, bottled water, insurance, and the chance to explore hidden gems.
• Ideal for Active & Relaxed Travelers: Offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on beaches like Smokova.

A Deep Dive into the Vis Speedboat Experience

The Itinerary: What’s Really Included

Starting at 8 a.m. from Vis, the tour kicks off with a visit to the military tunnel in Parja Bay—a quick, intriguing look into Vis’s past. Then it’s onto Bievo Island for the Blue Cave. Thanks to a special fast entry card, you’ll skip the long queues that often plague this popular attraction, ensuring you spend more time inside marveling at its glowing blue waters. Guides like Luka are known for their friendliness and local knowledge, which makes the visit all the more enriching.

After the cave, the itinerary really opens up to swimming and relaxing. The first swim is at Pritiina, a peaceful bay perfect for cooling off and taking photos. Next, you’ll anchor at Stiniva, one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia, accessible only by boat or a challenging hike (which you won’t need to do thanks to this trip). Reviewers like Marcia highlight how the guides make sure everyone feels welcome, with plenty of time to sunbathe, swim, or grab a coffee at the beach bar.

A special highlight is the Green Cave on Ravnik islet. Unlike many caves, this one is swim-in accessible, giving you a chance to snorkel and explore its shimmering interior. Luka and other guides are praised for their attentiveness here, often providing snorkeling gear and safety tips.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a visit to Buddhivac Island and a dip in the Vela Smokova sandy beach. The boat then returns to Vis, providing a well-rounded day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, typically lasting around 6-7 hours.

The Boat & Equipment

The tour uses modern, well-maintained boats like the Bat Arctic 745 with a 250 HP Suzuki engine or the RIS Marine Scorpio 300 with inboard engines. These are praised for comfort, speed, and stability—important when cruising along Vis’s rugged coastlines. Features like sun decks, Bimini shades, and sea ladders ensure comfort and convenience throughout the day.

Snorkeling gear is provided (masks and snorkels), so you can explore underwater life, although fins are not included. Water bottles are on hand, and there’s an onboard refrigerator to keep drinks cool—a thoughtful touch appreciated by reviewers.

The Cost & Value

At $118 per person, this tour offers a lot. It includes everything from transportation to snorkeling gear and insurance. Tickets for the caves are not included, which might seem like an extra step, but it’s designed to give you freedom—visit the caves if you want, or skip them and relax on the boat. Guides will buy your cave tickets using a fast-entry card, so you avoid waiting in line, which is a real plus during busy seasons.

Given the number of stops, the knowledgeable guides, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks, many find the price a fair deal, especially considering the personalized experience and insider knowledge you gain.

Authentic Moments & Local Insights

Luka, the standout guide in many reviews, is praised for his friendliness, humor, and deep love of Vis. He not only navigates expertly but also shares stories about the island’s past, culture, and hidden corners. Neil mentions how Luka even messaged ahead to advise on changing dates based on weather, showing real care for his guests’ experience.

Guests also appreciate that the trip feels private and personalized, even in a shared setting. The boat size strikes a good balance—small enough to feel exclusive but large enough to accommodate everyone comfortably.

Exclusive & Hidden Spots

Beyond the main attractions, reviewers highlight how guides like Luka take guests to lesser-known beaches and caves that aren’t crowded or overrun by travelers. This adds value for those wanting a more authentic experience rather than just ticking off popular sites.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Booking & Payment: Reserve your spot in advance and pay later if you prefer flexibility—perfect if your plans might shift.
• Timing: The tour starts at 8 a.m., so plan for an early start. This also helps beat the crowds at popular sites like the Blue Cave.
• What to Bring: Towels, sunglasses, waterproof camera, and sunscreen are essentials. Pack a light lunch or snacks if you prefer to picnic on the beaches.
• Suitability: Not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems, due to boat rides and some steep beach access.
• Cave Tickets: Remember, cave entry is an extra cost paid directly to the cave entry team, so budget around that if you plan to visit.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This speedboat adventure is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. It’s especially ideal for those who value local guides with insider knowledge and appreciate a balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

If you’re keen to see the Blue Cave, enjoy hidden beaches like Stiniva, and love the idea of exploring multiple locations in one trip, this tour delivers excellent value. The intimate group size and friendly guides like Luka make it feel personal and special.

However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prefer a more structured, fixed schedule, you might find the optional cave tickets and flexible stops a bit too loose. But overall, this experience scores highly for comfort, authenticity, and scenic variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the boat rides and some hikes might be challenging for very young children. Check with the provider if you have specific age concerns.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling masks and snorkels are provided as part of the tour. Fins are not included, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater more comfortably.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll typically have at least an hour at Stiniva, with several other stops for swimming and exploring. The Blue Cave visit is quick—about 30 minutes inside, thanks to the fast entry system.

Are food or drinks included?
Bottled water is provided, and there is an onboard refrigerator. No meals are included, so consider bringing snacks or a light lunch.

What is the group size?
While the exact number varies, reviews indicate small groups of around 10 guests, creating a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather can influence the trip, especially sea conditions. Guides like Luka monitor weather forecasts and will advise if rescheduling is necessary.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on this popular tour.

To sum it up, this shared speedboat tour around Vis, Bievo, and the Blue Cave offers an excellent way to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed. With knowledgeable, friendly guides, a comfortable boat, and multiple stops to swim and explore, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting an active yet relaxed day on the water. The combination of iconic sites, hidden gems, and personal touches makes this experience a memorable part of any visit to Vis.