From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour

Planning a day out on the Croatian seas? This 10.5-hour tour promises a full day of island hopping, caves, beaches, and historic towns—all in one trip. We’ve reviewed this experience based on hundreds of traveler reviews and detailed itinerary info, so you can decide if it’s worth setting your alarm for early.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit all the major islands in just one day—saving you the hassle of planning multiple trips. Second, the opportunity to see the famous Blue Cave, a natural wonder that often gets rave reviews for its mesmerizing light displays. Lastly, the well-rounded mix of swimming, sightseeing, and exploring charming towns like Hvar and Komiza.

On the downside, some travelers mention that the Blue Cave visit can be short—about five minutes—and requires an extra fee. Plus, the tour can be pricey, but many agree the experience offers good value for the variety of sights and activities packed into one day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a mix of adventure and culture, don’t mind a long day on the water, and want to maximize island visits without the stress of multiple bookings or ferry schedules.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Visit five islands and seven highlights in one day.
• Blue Cave Access: Witness the cave’s stunning colors with a guided tour—early morning trips often avoid crowds.
• Great for Swimming & Snorkeling: Multiple stops at beaches and lagoons offer plenty of time to cool off.
• Flexible & Personalized: Skippers often adjust the itinerary based on weather and group preferences.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 participants, making it intimate and engaging.
• Cost-Effective for a Full Day: The $93 price includes transport, guide, snorkel masks, and safety equipment, offering good value despite the extra Blue Cave fee.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point & Early Morning Vibes

The tour kicks off at Trg Republike (Prokurative) in Split. Arriving 15 minutes early is advised—many travelers mention the need to plan ahead, especially with traffic. The tour departs around early morning, and you’ll be greeted by a friendly skipper and guide who will set the tone for an exciting day. Expect a scenic drive to the coast before hitting the water on a comfortable speedboat that’s well-equipped with safety gear, Bluetooth speakers, and snorkeling masks.

Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder with a Short Visit

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave. The tour includes a guided visit, often about 1 hour total, with the cave’s shimmering blue waters and light effects a real treat. Reviewers frequently mention that arriving early means avoiding crowds, and they appreciate the chance to be among the first boats in.

While the Blue Cave isn’t included in the base price—there’s an extra fee—you’ll learn from experienced guides like Simon or Luka that it’s well worth the cost. One guest noted, “The Blue Cave was breathtaking—definitely a must-see.” Others mention the short time inside can be a downside, but most agree the visual payoff justifies the price and effort.

Visiting Komiza & Filming Locations from ‘Mamma Mia’

Next, the boat takes you to Komiza, a charming fishing village on Vis Island. This is where the film Mamma Mia shot scenes, and many travelers enjoy exploring its laid-back streets and local vibe. A review highlights, “Our skipper Tomas was fantastic, and his local tips made the visit even better.”

The stop lasts about an hour, giving enough time for coffee, sightseeing, or a quick swim. Visitors often mention the relaxed pace lets you soak up the authentic atmosphere away from big crowds.

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Scenic Stops & Beaches for Relaxation

The tour then heads to Stiniva Cove, voted the best beach in Europe. This secluded spot offers photo opportunities and a chance to dip into the crystal-clear waters. Another viewer shares, “Stiniva was perfect for photos and quick dips—absolutely stunning.”

The Budikovac Blue Lagoon is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling, with 75 minutes allocated for relaxing on the pebbled beach or floating in the turquoise waters. Many reviews praise this stop for its untouched beauty and tranquility.

Raketna baza Stupie and Limestone Caves are quick photo stops, allowing you to capture scenic views on the way. These highlight the rugged, untouched coastline and add variety to the trip.

The Charm of Hvar & Free Time

The next major highlight is Hvar Town, where you’ll spend 2.5 hours. This gives ample opportunity to explore the lively harbor, walk past historic architecture, or simply relax on the beaches. Many travelers mention enjoying this break for both sightseeing and lunch.

One reviewer raves, “Simon’s recommendations for a local restaurant made our meal unforgettable,” emphasizing the value of local insight. The scenic streets, lively cafes, and small shops make for a pleasant, laid-back exploration time.

Return Journey & Final Views

After Hvar, the boat heads back to Split, taking approximately an hour. Podcasts, music, or quiet reflection are popular ways to wind down. Many mention the sunset views and the feeling of having seen so much in a single day.

What To Expect: Practical Details & Tips

Transport & Group Size: The tour uses a speedboat that’s both sturdy and comfortable. Groups are limited to 12 people, making it easier to interact with your skipper and get a more personalized experience.

Timing & Duration: Starting early in the morning, the entire day lasts around 10.5 hours. Expect a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to change plans on the go if weather or group preferences dictate.

Price & Value: At $93 per person, the cost covers boat transport, guide, snorkeling gear, and music. The Blue Cave’s entrance fee is extra, but reviews consistently mention that the experience justifies the expense, especially when considering how many sights you see in one day.

What to Bring: Pack swimwear, towels, sunglasses, drinks, a light jacket for the morning ride, and comfortable clothes. Many reviewers recommend bringing a long-sleeve shirt for the early wind on the boat outside July and August.

Weather & Flexibility: Since the trip depends on weather conditions, departures and stops may be adjusted. The operator offers a full refund if bad weather cancels the tour, providing reassurance for cautious travelers.

Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for children under four, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Insights From Actual Travelers

Multiple reviews mention the skill and friendliness of guides like Simon, Luka, Tomas, and Viktor, who go beyond just navigating the boat—they share stories, local tips, and even customize the itinerary. Many reviewers highlight how their guides made the experience more engaging and memorable, often adjusting the route to avoid crowds or include extra stops.

Travelers repeatedly rave about the Blue Cave, with some saying it’s more spectacular than expected. Others note that the speedboat ride itself is a highlight, especially if you sit at the front for the thrill of bouncing over waves.

Several reviews highlight the value for money, especially considering the variety of stops, the scenic beauty, and the small group size that ensures personal attention. A few mention the Blue Lagoon and other swimming spots as peaceful escapes from crowded beaches, emphasizing how these stops allow for genuine relaxation.

The most consistent praise, however, goes to the professionalism and enthusiasm of the guides who keep the energy high, ensure safety, and make every guest feel comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 5-island tour from Split offers a comprehensive snapshot of Dalmatia’s most iconic sights, packed into one well-organized day. If you love boat rides, scenic vistas, and spontaneous swimming stops, this experience hits the mark. The included stops at the Blue Cave and Hvar’s lively town are definite highlights, especially with the small group setting that feels more like exploring with friends.

While it’s an investment, many travelers believe the combination of sights, the quality of the guides, and the overall adventure justifies the price. Plus, the flexibility and personal touches—like adjusted routes and local tips—add value.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a full, varied day on the water, eager to explore Croatia’s best islands without the hassle of ferry schedules or multiple bookings. It’s especially appealing for travelers who enjoy a bit of speed, stunning beaches, and authentic towns in a relaxed, fun environment.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave included in the tour price?
No, there’s an extra fee for entry, but many reviews say it’s worth the cost. The Blue Cave visit is usually about 1 hour.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet in front of the south steps at Trg Republike (Prokurative) in Split. Arrive 15 minutes early.

How long is the boat ride to each destination?
Travel times vary, but expect roughly 1 hour from Split to the Blue Cave, with shorter or similar travel times between stops.

Can I skip the Blue Cave?
Yes, some guests choose to skip it; the tour may offer alternative caves or sightseeing options, especially if weather causes changes.

What should I bring for the trip?
Swimwear, towels, sunglasses, drinks, comfortable clothes, and a light jacket are recommended. Long-sleeve shirts are advised for the early morning ride outside peak summer months.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4, pregnant women, or guests with mobility issues.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 12 participants for a more intimate experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on weather; if bad weather cancels, a full refund is available.

What’s the best time of year to go?
The tour runs from spring to fall. July and August are warmest, but mornings can be chilly outside peak summer—pack accordingly.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?
The tour includes free time for meals, so you can choose local restaurants or cafes in Hvar. Specific dietary options aren’t provided but can often be accommodated if informed beforehand.

Overall, this tour offers a strong mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural highlights in a well-organized package. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to see a lot in a single day and enjoy Croatia’s stunning islands with knowledgeable guides and friendly company.

You can check if your dates are available here: