Split: Blue Cave, Hvar, and Pakleni Islands Speedboat Tour

Planning a day out on the water in Croatia? This speedboat tour promises visits to some of the Dalmatian coast’s most beautiful spots: the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Lagoon, Hvar, and the Pakleni Islands. While it sounds like a dream trip, the experience has both shining highlights and notable pitfalls worth considering before booking.

What we love about this tour: the chance to see the famous Blue Cave, the opportunity to relax on quiet beaches like Stiniva Cove, and the stunning views of the Adriatic from Hvar’s fortress. A highlight for many is the potential to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a full day of sunshine and scenery.

A possible drawback is the inconsistency in organization—some reviews mention issues like late meetups or poor communication, which can affect your overall experience. If you’re seeking a smooth, well-coordinated adventure, this might not be the tour for you.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love boat trips, scenic stops, and are flexible about minor logistical hiccups. If you’re looking for a relaxed day of sightseeing and swimming, it could be worth considering, especially given the stunning destinations included.

Good To Know

• Stunning natural sights like the Blue Cave and Budikovac Lagoon make this trip worthwhile.
• Includes snorkeling gear and a guide, adding value for those wanting to explore underwater.
• The experience depends heavily on weather, so plans could change unexpectedly.
• Group sizes are limited, with a maximum of 12 people, fostering a more intimate experience.
• Price is high, but it covers multiple destinations in one day—whether that’s good value depends on your priorities.
• Reviews highlight issues with organization, so manage expectations accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting out in Split: what to expect

You’ll depart from Split, a lively, historic port city. The tour lasts until around 6 pm, giving you roughly 8 hours of exploring and relaxing. The boat is described as a speedboat—fast, nimble, and perfect for zipping between stops—but this also means you’ll need to be comfortable with motion and small boat rides.

Blue Cave: a natural wonder

The first stop, the Blue Cave on Bievo Island, is often considered the star of this trip. It’s famous for sunlight filtering through a small opening, bathing the interior in a glowing blue light. As you approach, you’ll see the sunlight create an almost surreal display. It’s a popular photo spot, but keep in mind that the visit can be affected by weather conditions and waiting times. One review mentions that the Blue Cave visit is “subject to change depending on weather” and even waits, which could cut into your schedule.

Stiniva Cove: the secluded beach experience

Next, the tour heads to Stiniva Cove on Vis Island, which was crowned Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2016. The entrance is a narrow, dramatic passage between high cliffs—think of it as the secret entrance to paradise. Visitors love the unique geology, with towering rocks surrounding a small pebble beach with clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming.

A reviewer notes, “Relaxing on the pebble beach of Stiniva Cove was a highlight,” but also mentions that this stop is quite short, so you’ll want to make the most of it.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Budikovac Lagoon: tranquil waters for swimming

Moving on, you’ll visit Budikovac Lagoon, a shallow, peaceful haven ideal for snorkeling and floating in calm waters. With depths just under 2 meters, this spot allows for easy underwater exploration and observing marine life—if weather permits. Many travelers find it a restful break from the more crowded spots, though some note that the experience can be fleeting if the schedule is tight.

Hvar: a blend of history and lively culture

The tour includes a stop in Hvar Town, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and panoramic fortress views. You’ll have time to stroll through the charming streets, visit the fortress, or enjoy a quick coffee in a street-side café. This part of the trip introduces a lively contrast to the secluded beaches, making it a well-rounded experience.

The Pakleni Islands: scenic beauty and secluded beaches

Finally, the Pakleni Islands offer a chain of 16 islands with pristine beaches, coves, and lush greenery. The group typically spends a bit of time swimming, sunbathing, or snapping photos of the dramatic coastline. This stretch is often described as a highlight, with spectacular scenery that’s perfect for a relaxing end to the day.

Return journey

After exploring the islands, the boat departs around late afternoon, heading back to Split. The return trip offers more coastal views and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Bring

Included in the tour are snorkeling equipment, safety vests, a professional guide, an experienced skipper, and onboard Wi-Fi. These amenities add comfort and convenience, especially for those wanting to snorkel or stay connected.

You’ll want to bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. Since snacks and drinks aren’t included, consider packing some water or light refreshments. The tour does not offer hotel pickup, so plan your transportation to the departure point accordingly.

Important logistical notes: the tour operates only in favorable weather, so be flexible if weather conditions shift. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended, and there’s a strict no-pets, no-smoking, and no-littering policy onboard. Cash is advised for personal expenses, as not all locations accept credit cards.

The Realities of the Experience

The price point of $2,353 for a group up to 12 is on the higher end, but it covers a full day of activity, multiple stops, and all necessary snorkeling gear. If you’re hoping for a quick, budget-friendly boat ride, this might be an over-investment. However, for those craving a comprehensive day exploring Croatia’s most scenic spots, it could be considered fair, especially considering the inclusion of a guide and Wi-Fi.

That said, the reviews reveal some inconsistent experiences. One traveler shared, “The supplier was not at the meeting point, I think it is a scam, we did not find anyone, and he did not answer his cell phone.” While such incidents seem isolated, they highlight the importance of confirming arrangements in advance or considering alternative providers if reliability is a concern.

The blue cave visit can be a mixed bag—dependent on weather and crowd levels. Some visitors find it awe-inspiring, while others note that waiting times or weather cancellations can be disappointing. This unpredictability is common with natural attractions, so patience and flexibility are key.

The value of the experience

You’re paying primarily for access to multiple beautiful locations in a single day, combined with guided commentary and snorkeling gear. If you’re keen on ticking off Croatia’s top scenic spots and don’t mind the potential logistical hiccups, this tour offers a lot of scenery and swimming in a compact package.

Who will enjoy this tour?

It’s ideal for adventure-minded travelers with an interest in natural landscapes, who don’t mind small boats, and are comfortable with a fast-paced, full-day schedule. It’s less suited for those with seasickness, back problems, or seeking a more relaxed, less structured experience.

Final Thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

This speedboat tour provides a chance to see some of the most photogenic and iconic locations along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast in one day. The stops at the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, and Pakleni Islands alone make it a tempting choice for those eager to maximize their scenic experiences.

However, the high cost and the mixed reviews about organization should give you pause. If you’re flexible and prioritize breathtaking views over perfect logistics, it could be a memorable adventure. Just be prepared for possible weather disruptions and last-minute schedule changes.

This tour is most suitable for energetic travelers who want an active day on the water and aren’t overly concerned about the finer details of tour coordination. It offers a snapshot of Croatia’s coastline that’s hard to beat in terms of scenery, but it’s wise to approach with realistic expectations and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? It depends on their comfort with boat rides; generally, small boat trips can be bumpy, and some stops involve swimming, so parental discretion is advised.

Do I need to bring cash? Yes, as not all stops or locations accept credit cards, so bringing some cash for personal expenses is recommended.

What should I wear? Pack swimwear, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection. The boat ride can be warm, but bring a light cover-up if needed.

Are meals included? No, snacks and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is subject to weather conditions; if canceled, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

Will I get enough time at each stop? The schedule is packed, so time at each location can be brief—focus on the highlights and be ready for a full day.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price.

Can I book last minute? Yes, but availability may vary; booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons.

What language is the tour guide in? The tour is offered in English and Croatian, accommodating a broad range of travelers.

In summary, this speedboat trip opens a window to Croatia’s most striking coastal sights, perfect for active travelers eager to pack in scenery and swimming in one day. While organization and weather can sometimes be unpredictable, the chance to see the Blue Cave and enjoy the vibrant island life of Hvar makes it a memorable outing for many. Just stay flexible, bring your patience, and prepare for a day worth capturing with plenty of photos.

You can check if your dates are available here: