Split Blue Cave & 6 Islands Speedboat Tour with Swimming

Summary

Swim in hidden coves, explore Hvar town, speed across Dalmatia

You’ll speed across the Adriatic from Split to the famous Blue Cave, swim at Stiniva Cove and Budikovac Island with snorkeling gear provided, then wander Hvar’s stone streets for lunch. Expect salty air, local tips from your guide, and moments that stick with you long after you’re dry again.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest—I booked the Blue Cave & Island Escape tour from Split mostly because I’d seen those glowing photos online and just wanted to see if it was real. The morning was already buzzing at the harbor; our guide Luka handed out wind jackets (which I definitely needed—don’t let that sunshine fool you) and made sure everyone had water before we climbed into the speedboat. The ride itself? Fast, salty air everywhere, hair whipping around, people laughing every time we hit a wave. I kept thinking: this is not your average ferry.

The Blue Cave on Biševo was our first stop after about an hour or so—Luka timed it so we’d catch that crazy blue light inside. It’s hard to explain unless you’re there… everything glows like someone switched on a neon sign underwater. There’s this hush when you float in; even the kids got quiet for a second. Later, when we reached Stiniva Cove on Vis Island, I just sort of floated on my back staring up at those cliffs—didn’t expect to feel so small in a good way. The water here is cold but clear enough to see your toes wiggling.

We stopped at Budikovac Island for swimming and snorkeling (they hand out gear if you need it). Honestly, I’m not much of a snorkeler but ended up chasing little silver fish anyway. Lunch was in Hvar town—stone streets, cats sunning themselves everywhere, locals chatting outside cafés. Luka pointed us toward a bakery where I tried something called “peka” (probably said it wrong; he laughed). The pace slows down here, which feels right after all that bouncing around on the boat.

On the way back toward Split, everyone was quieter—sunburned and sleepy but happy. There’s something about seeing all those islands in one long day that makes you forget what time it is. Even now, sometimes I close my eyes and remember that blue light in the cave or how salt dried on my skin by afternoon… you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Blue Cave and Dalmatian islands

• Depart from Split
• Boat ride to Blue Cave, Bisevo Island
• Visit Mediterranean fisherman´s village
• Swim at Stiniva Bay, Vis Island
• Swim and snorkel in Blue Lagoon, Budikovac Island
• Free time at Carpe Diem island
• Lunch and walk in Hvar town

Top questions

How long does the Blue Cave & Island Escape tour take?

The tour lasts a full day, including travel between Split and six different islands by speedboat.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for swimming stops like Budikovac Island.

What is the main highlight of this day trip from Split?

The world-famous Blue Cave on Biševo Island is considered the main highlight.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No lunch is included but there’s free time in Hvar town to buy lunch at local restaurants or bakeries.

Are there any age or health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 or travelers with serious back problems or pregnancy.

How do we get between islands?

You’ll travel by speedboat with a professional guide throughout the day trip from Split.

Do they provide bottled water?

Yes, bottled water is included for all guests during the tour.

What should I bring for this island tour?

A wind jacket (especially if it’s cloudy), swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and maybe some cash for lunch are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip speedboat transport from Split with a professional guide at the helm, bottled water along the way, use of snorkeling equipment at swimming stops like Budikovac Island and Stiniva Cove—and plenty of free time to explore Hvar town for lunch before heading back salty and sun-kissed in the afternoon.