Split Blue Cave & Hvar: 5 Islands Speed Boat Tour

Summary

Speedboat from Split to Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Hvar and more

You’ll taste salt in the air as you speed from Split to five islands: marvel at Biševo’s glowing Blue Cave, sip coffee in Komiža, swim at Stiniva Cove and Budikovac’s lagoon, then wander Hvar’s sunny harbor with new friends before heading home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the salt on my lips — we’d barely left Split’s harbor before the wind picked up and everyone’s hair went wild. Our skipper, Marko (ex-mountain rescue, apparently), grinned back at us like he’d done this a thousand times. I tried to guess which boat we’d get; turned out it didn’t matter because all you notice is how close you are to the water. We reached Biševo’s Blue Cave after about 90 minutes — the sun was just right so the whole inside glowed blue, almost fake-looking. The official guide inside told us how sunlight bounces off the white sand bottom. I remember someone behind me whispering “it looks electric.”

We stopped in Komiža for coffee — I ordered something I couldn’t pronounce and got a nod from the woman behind the counter (she laughed when I tried to say “hvala”). The smell of grilled bread drifted out from somewhere nearby. Walking around, you could spot little signs from when they filmed Mamma Mia here; locals seemed half amused by it all. On Vis, we pulled into Stiniva Cove — pebbles underfoot sharper than expected but worth it for that swim. Didn’t expect how clear everything looked underwater with those snorkeling masks they handed out. Someone cannonballed off a rock and splashed everyone’s towels.

Later at Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon, we floated in water so clear you could see every ripple on the white stones below. There was a moment when nobody talked — just that soft slap of waves against the hull and some seagulls overhead. Passing Pakleni Islands felt like watching postcards go by too fast; Marko pointed out hidden beaches only locals use but honestly I lost track after a while. By Hvar town, everyone looked sun-dazed and hungry. We found lunch near the harbor (seafood pasta if you’re curious) and sat watching boats come and go until it was time to head back. Still think about that light on the stone buildings there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore 5 islands and 7 locations

• Depart from Split by speedboat
• Arrive at Blue Cave, guided tour
• Visit Komiza town for coffee and breakfast
• Panoramic ride to Stiniva Bay
• Swim at Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Bay
• Enjoy panoramic view of Pakleni Islands
• Arrive in Hvar town for lunch

Top questions

How long does the Split Blue Cave & Hvar tour take?

The full day trip lasts around 10-11 hours including all stops and boat transfers.

Is swimming or snorkeling included on this tour?

Yes, there are stops for swimming and snorkeling at Stiniva Cove and Budikovac Island; snorkeling masks are provided.

What is included in this speed boat tour?

The tour includes your skipper/guide, snorkeling masks, safety vests, insurance, sunshade on board, and Bluetooth music.

How many people are on each boat?

Group size is up to 12 people per boat for a small-group experience.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from Split harbor.

Are meals or drinks provided?

No meals or drinks are included; there are stops where you can buy breakfast or lunch (like Komiža or Hvar).

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to speedboat travel conditions.

What should I bring for this day trip?

You should bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen/oil, and a wind jacket for early mornings.

What’s included

Your day includes all speedboat transfers between Split and five islands with a local skipper guiding your group (up to 12 people), entry into Biševo’s Blue Cave with an official guide inside the cave itself, use of snorkeling masks at swimming stops like Stiniva Cove and Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon, plus safety vests for everyone onboard. There’s also Bluetooth music if someone wants to play DJ along the way—just don’t forget your towel or sunblock.