Split/Podstrana: Blue Cave, Hvar & 6 Islands Speedboat Trip

Planning a trip to Croatia and dreaming of turquoise waters, charming villages, and sun-drenched islands? This speedboat tour from Split promises a full day of exhilarating boat rides, iconic sights, and laid-back island vibes. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews paint a picture of an adventure-packed day with plenty of highlights.

What we love? The chance to visit the Blue Cave at just the right moment for that glowing seafloor reflection, the opportunity to explore charming places like Vis’s fisherman village from the Mamma Mia! films, and the freedom to swim and snorkel at stunning spots like Budikovac lagoon. The expert guides and skippers frequently earn praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience feel safe and personalized.

A possible consideration? The price of $135 per person might seem steep for some, but many reviewers agree the value lies in the variety of locations covered and the high-quality boat experience. Still, be prepared for some cash payments (for Blue Cave tickets) and a busy day packed with sights, so a relaxed attitude helps.

This tour is ideal if you love scenic boat rides, are eager to explore multiple islands in one day, and want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural spots. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, don’t mind a full schedule, and want an authentic taste of Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive island hopping with visits to Blue Cave, Hvar, and multiple smaller islands.
• Expert guides who are praised for friendliness, humor, and local knowledge.
• Flexible free time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing at each stop.
• High-speed boat ride for an exciting perspective on the Dalmatian coastline.
• Good value for money, considering the many locations and included snorkel gear.
• Cash payments needed on-site, especially for Blue Cave entrance tickets (cash only).

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

This full-day adventure packs in an impressive lineup of stops, making it a fantastic option for travelers who want an action-filled experience with plenty of variety. The journey kicks off from three potential meeting points, with the boat scheduled to depart early enough to make the most of the day—typically around 10-11 hours of total fun.

The Blue Cave: The Showstopper

One of the main reasons many choose this tour is access to the Blue Cave on Bievo Island. When conditions align, you’ll arrive just when the sunlight hits the seafloor perfectly, bathing the cave in that signature glowing light. To visit, you’ll need to pay an additional cash fee—around €18 in low season, rising to €24 during peak months. Reviewers like Hannah mention how worthwhile the visit is, even if the experience can be brief.

Charming Komia on Vis Island

Next, your boat will make a stop in Komia, a tiny, picturesque fishing village with narrow streets and cozy outdoor cafes. This location offers a relaxing 1-hour break for stretching legs, grabbing coffee, or simply wandering the streets. Reviewers like Emil and Carlo — the guides — are highlighted for their friendliness and local insights, making this stop feel authentic rather than touristy.

Scenic Rides and WWII Bunkers

As you cruise towards Stiniva Bay, you’ll enjoy the chance to see remnants of Yugoslav military bunkers from WWII, adding a layer of historical intrigue. The ride offers fantastic scenic views of limestone caves and natural rock formations along the way. The boat’s speed and the open-air design make this a fun, wind-in-the-hair experience, often praised for its adrenaline rush.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stiniva Cove: Nature’s Gem

This protected cove made famous in the Mamma Mia! movies is the first swimming stop. For about 30 minutes, you’ll have time to snap photos, relax on the pebble beach, or swim in the crystal-clear water. Reviewers mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, although some note it can be crowded during peak season.

The Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island

Next up is Budikovac, a tiny island with a lagoon so clear and inviting it’s often called the Blue Lagoon. Here, you’ll enjoy about 1.5 hours to snorkel, sunbathe, or grab a cocktail at the beach bar. The opportunity to walk across the island in minutes makes it a perfect quick escape from crowds. Many reviews highlight this as a highlight; Emil calls it “absolutely stunning,” and Nando’s energetic guiding style adds to the fun.

Lunch and Exploration in Hvar

After a scenic cruise, the boat lands in Hvar town, where you’re given two hours of free time. This is plenty of time to explore the fortress, stroll through lively streets, or sit down for a leisurely Croatian lunch. The town’s charm is well-loved for its historic architecture, vibrant cafes, and stunning harbor views. Some reviews mention the guides’ helpful tips for local eateries, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Final Stop: Milna on Brač Island

The last stop is Milna, a charming seaside town with a laid-back vibe. Here, you can relax at a poolside beach bar, swim, or simply wander the streets for an hour before heading back. The crew often encourages guests to enjoy this peaceful spot, which provides a nice contrast to the busier Hvar.

The Return Journey

The boat heads back to the starting point around 6 PM, giving you a full day’s worth of activities packed into a well-organized schedule. Many reviews emphasize how smoothly everything runs, thanks to attentive skippers like Luka, Ivan, and Adam, who are praised for their safety and friendliness.

The Practicalities and Tips

Transportation & Group Size:
The tour is operated by Toto Travel and typically accommodates no more than 12 guests on a high-speed boat, making it intimate enough for personalized attention but still lively. The boat is open, so bring a windbreaker or light jacket for chilly mornings or windy conditions.

Price & Value:
At $135 per person, this tour offers access to multiple iconic spots, beautiful scenery, and the company of experienced guides. Many reviewers feel it’s money well spent, especially since it includes snorkel gear and is well-paced — just note the extra cash needed for Blue Cave entrance.

What to Bring:
Comfortable shoes for walking around villages, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and cash for entrance fees are essentials. Some reviewers recommend bringing snacks or water shoes for rocky beaches, as well as warm clothes for early mornings.

Weather & Flexibility:
The skipper reserves the right to change the itinerary for safety reasons, especially due to weather or sea conditions. It’s best to have flexible expectations and be prepared for a possibly chilly start.

Children & Accessibility:
Not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or individuals with back or mobility issues, due to boat movement and the nature of the stops.

What Reviewers Say

• Guides & Skippers: Consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism. Emil, Carlo, Luka, and Mario are among the names that come up, making the trip feel like a personalized adventure.
• Scenic Spots: The Blue Cave, Hvar, Stiniva Bay, and Budikovac Lagoon all earn high marks for their breathtaking beauty. Many say the Blue Cave’s glow is a “must-see,” even if the visit is brief.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: The clear waters and abundance of marine life make for fantastic swim stops. Guests often remark on how they loved the freedom to snorkel and relax at each location.
• Value for Money: Though the tour is priced higher than some other options, reviews often mention the variety of sights, the quality of the boat, and the expert guides as well worth it. It’s a full day packed with highlights.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic boat rides with visits to Croatia’s most iconic islands, this trip is a solid pick. The mix of exhilarating speedboat travel, stunning natural sights, and authentic local villages makes it appealing to those who want more than just a ferry ride.

While the price might seem high, the number of stops, inclusions like snorkeling gear, and the professional guiding team promise good value. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and keen to explore multiple highlights in one day.

However, if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children or mobility challenges, this tour might be less suitable. The open boat design and short stops require a degree of flexibility and comfort with boat travel.

In short, for anyone craving a thrilling, scenic, and well-organized day on the Dalmatian waters, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ Section

• What is included in the price?

The tour price covers transportation by speedboat, guided commentary, use of snorkeling goggles and safety gear, and visits to all major stops including Blue Cave, Vis, Budikovac Lagoon, Pakleni islands, Hvar, and Brač.

• Are entrance tickets to the Blue Cave included?

No, the Blue Cave entrance fee must be paid in cash on-site (around €18 in low season, €24 during peak season). Children 6-12 pay 50% for entrance.

• What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, a sun hat, cash, and possibly water shoes for rocky beaches. A light jacket is recommended for mornings.

• How long is the free time at each stop?

Most stops like Komia and Hvar offer around 1-2 hours for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The Blue Cave visit is about 1 hour, including boat transfer and sightseeing.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

It’s not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility or back issues due to boat movement and the nature of stops.

• What if the Blue Cave is closed?

If the Blue Cave cannot be visited due to weather or other conditions, the company refunds the entrance fee, and you can still enjoy the other stops.

• How big are the groups?

The maximum group size is 12, ensuring a more intimate experience, guided by friendly and professional skippers and guides.

• Can I book and pay later?

Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which offers flexibility with your travel plans.

This speedboat trip from Split to Blue Cave and the islands combines adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural stops, perfect for travelers eager to soak up the Dalmatian coast’s best.

You can check if your dates are available here: