Split: Blue Cave & Hvar 5 Islands Speedboat Day Trip

Summary

Speedboat to Blue Cave, Vis beaches and Hvar’s harbor life

You’ll zip across bright Adriatic waters by speedboat from Split, duck into the surreal Blue Cave on Biševo island, swim or snorkel at Budikovac’s clear bay, unwind over lunch on Pakleni Islands, then stroll through lively Hvar town with a local guide. It’s not just sightseeing — you’ll feel every salty breeze and sun-warmed stone along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sea to be that shade of blue — like someone turned up the color just for us. We left Split early, wind already tangling my hair before I’d even had a coffee (don’t judge). Our skipper, Marko, grinned as he handed out jackets — “it gets chilly out there,” he said. He was right. The speedboat ride was loud and a bit wild in the best way, salt spray everywhere. I could hear laughter behind me as we cut across open water toward Biševo for the Blue Cave. When we finally ducked inside, the light flickered off the walls in this weird electric way. I tried to take a photo but honestly it doesn’t do it justice.

Stiniva Cove was next — apparently it won some European beach award but all I remember is how pebbly it felt under my feet and how cold the water was when I jumped in (refreshing? Let’s go with that). Budikovac Island came after, where Marko tossed us snorkels and pointed out little fish darting around our legs. There was this moment just floating, sun on my face, where everything went quiet except for the sound of someone splashing nearby. I think that’s what stuck with me most from this day trip from Split — those small pockets of calm between all the moving.

Lunch on Pakleni Islands was more laid-back than I expected — grilled fish, cold beer, and everyone just kind of melting into their chairs in the sun. Some people wandered off to explore a botanical garden (I meant to but got distracted by dessert). Then Hvar town at last: stone streets buzzing with people and scooters zipping past, old men playing cards in the shade. Our guide told us stories about pirates and Venetian palaces while we wandered through alleyways smelling faintly of lavender and sunscreen. By then my skin felt tight from salt and sun — you know that feeling? Still haven’t quite shaken it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Blue Cave and Dalmatian Islands

• Depart from Split by speedboat
• Visit Blue Cave on Biševo island
• Swim at Stiniva Cove beach
• Snorkel at Budikovac island
• Lunch and swim at Pakleni Islands
• Explore old town of Hvar

Top questions

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

The tour is a full-day experience departing from Split in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Split?

Yes, hotel pickup is available from Hotel Radisson Blu and Hotel Le Meridien upon request.

What should I bring on the speedboat tour?

You should bring a hat, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothing and shoes.

Are entrance fees to the Blue Cave included?

No, you’ll need to pay cash for Blue Cave entrance tickets: 24 EUR per adult (or 18 EUR during low season).

Is lunch included on this Split boat tour?

No set lunch is included; you’ll have free time to eat at restaurants on Pakleni Islands (at your own expense).

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during swimming stops like Budikovac Island.

Can children join this speedboat tour?

The tour is suitable for children aged 6+, but not recommended for kids under 3 years old.

What happens if weather is bad or Blue Cave is closed?

If weather prevents visiting Blue Cave or running the tour safely, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from select Split hotels if requested in advance, all fuel surcharges and local taxes covered by your ticket price, professional skipper and sailor guiding you throughout five islands by speedboat, plus use of snorkeling gear at swimming spots like Budikovac Island before returning back to Split in the evening.