Split: Blue Cave & 5 Islands Speedboat Tour with Swimming

Summary

Speed across Croatian islands for caves, coves and Hvar

You’ll speed from Split across bright blue water to explore Croatia’s Blue Cave with a local guide, swim at Stiniva Beach, grab a drink on Budikovac Island, and wander Hvar’s old streets. With a small group and plenty of free time for lunch or lounging, this day trip leaves you salty-haired and smiling by sunset.

What’s the experience like?

We zipped out of Split before I’d even finished my coffee — the Adriatic wind was sharper than I expected, so yeah, that light jacket tip is real. Our skipper Marin grinned as we hit the first big wave; he seemed to know every ripple between here and Biševo. When we ducked into the Blue Cave, it was quieter than I thought it’d be — just the creak of our wooden boat and that weird blue glow everywhere. The official guide told us about the sunlight bouncing off the white sand below. I tried to catch it on camera but honestly, it never looks right in photos.

After that quick cave stop (they’re strict about swimming), we cruised along Vis Island’s edge until Stiniva Beach showed up between these high cliffs. The water there is so clear you can see your own toes wiggle — which made me laugh because mine were freezing at first. Some folks dove straight in; I hesitated but ended up loving it. On Budikovac Island, a couple of us skipped swimming for cold drinks at this little beach bar under faded umbrellas. The bartender nodded when I tried to order in Croatian — probably butchered it but he just smiled.

Hvar town was buzzing even in early afternoon; we had enough time for grilled fish and a lazy walk up to the fortress (the stairs are no joke). Marin gave us tips on where locals actually eat — not just tourist spots. After wandering through Pakleni Islands (or Paklinski, as Marin kept correcting us), you could smell pine needles and something herbal in the air. By then everyone was sun-drunk and quiet on the ride back toward Split. That sunset over the islands? Still think about it sometimes — colors you don’t really get at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Cave and Five Islands Tour

• Visit Blue Cave on Biševo Island
• Swim at Stiniva Beach
• Relax or drink at Budikovac Island
• Free time for lunch and sightseeing in Hvar
• Explore Pakleni Islands
• Boat ride back to Split

Top questions

How long does the Blue Cave & 5 Islands tour from Split take?

The tour lasts a full day with multiple stops including Blue Cave, Stiniva Beach, Budikovac Island, Hvar town, and Pakleni Islands before returning to Split.

Is swimming allowed inside the Blue Cave?

No, swimming inside the Blue Cave is not allowed due to regulations. You spend about 15 minutes inside with an official guide.

What should I bring for this Split island tour?

Bring a light jacket (it can get windy), towel, hat, sunscreen, water bottle, swimsuit, and arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point.

Are lunch or drinks included in this tour?

No meals or drinks are included but you have free time in Hvar for lunch and can buy drinks on Budikovac Island at your own expense.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with health issues?

The tour is not recommended for children under 5 or travelers with mobility problems, back issues, pregnancy or poor cardiovascular health due to speedboat travel.

Are snorkeling opportunities available during this trip?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included if you want to swim at Stiniva Beach or Budikovac Island.

Do I need to book entry tickets separately for the Blue Cave?

No; Blue Cave entry tickets are included if you select that option when booking.

Who leads the tour around the islands?

A local skipper and sailor accompany your group throughout the day; an official guide leads inside Blue Cave itself.

What’s included

Your day includes all safety equipment for speedboat travel from Split plus travel insurance throughout. Entry tickets for Blue Cave are covered if selected when booking. Snorkeling gear is available onboard so you can dive in at Stiniva Cove or Budikovac Island without extra cost. A friendly skipper and sailor guide your group between each stop before heading back as evening falls.