Split Blue Cave Tour: Private Bay Lunch & Island Stops

Summary

Blue cave light, grilled fish lunch and island swims from Split

You’ll start your day in Split with a small group and local crew before heading out by speedboat to see the famous Blue Cave’s surreal glow. Enjoy a grilled lunch in a private bay on Vis island (with veggie options), swim off Solta Island, sip local wine or beer, and relax with coffee or ice cream before heading back—sun-warmed and salt-streaked.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure about spending a whole day on a boat — but the idea of seeing the Blue Cave from Split (and getting a real grilled lunch, not just snacks) finally won me over. We met right by the water at Trumbićeva obala, not an office or anything fancy — just our group squinting at the sun and trying to spot which boat was ours. The captain waved us over and I instantly liked him; he had that half-smile Croatians do when they’re about to tease you for asking if you need sunscreen in May.

The ride out felt fast but never rushed — wind in my hair, that salty tang on my lips. I didn’t expect the color of the sea to change so much as we zipped between islands. When we got to Biševo for the Blue Cave, there was this hush before we went inside. The guide explained how the government runs it all now, so you get shuffled onto these little boats for your turn inside. It’s maybe 10 minutes in there but honestly? That blue is weirdly hypnotic — almost fake-looking — and I still think about how quiet everyone went when we floated through that light. Some people tried whispering photos into their phones; it didn’t really capture it.

Lunch was on Vis island at what they called their “private summer house” — more like a hidden cove with a grill going and long tables under trees. Our chef (I think his name was Marko?) handed me a plate of grilled white fish with lemon and potatoes, and then winked when I asked for seconds. There were veggie options too — someone at our table had vegan stuff that actually looked good. We got wine (local, crisp), cold beer, soft drinks… even coffee after, which hit different after swimming.

I lost track of time after that. We swam off Solta Island — water colder than I expected but clear enough to see every pebble underfoot. The crew handed out towels (soft ones!) and snorkel masks if you wanted them. At some point someone brought ice cream out; kids cheered, adults pretended not to care but everyone ate it anyway. On the way back to Split I sat next to Ana, our hostess, who told me stories about growing up nearby and pointed out which islands her cousins lived on. So yeah… if you’re thinking about this Blue Cave tour from Split because you want something “complete,” this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Cave tour with lunch and swim breaks

• Meet at Trumbićeva obala 14a, Split
• Depart by speedboat
• Visit Blue Cave on Biševo island
• Enjoy grilled lunch at private restaurant
• Take swim break in secluded bay
• Take additional swim break at another bay
• Short swim break at Solta Island bay
• Return to starting point in Split

Top questions

How long does the Blue Cave tour from Split last?

The full-day tour lasts more than 10 hours from departure to return.

Is lunch included on this Blue Cave tour?

Yes, a grilled lunch with drinks is served at a private bay on Vis island.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options are available if requested when booking.

Do I need to bring towels or snorkeling gear?

No—towels (cotton or microfiber) and snorkeling equipment are provided onboard.

Where does the tour depart from in Split?

The meeting point is Trumbićeva obala 14a in Split, right next to Hotel Ambasador by the boats—not an office.

How long do you spend inside the Blue Cave?

The visit inside the Blue Cave usually lasts 10–15 minutes; waiting times can vary depending on crowds.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Yes—local beer, red/white wine, soft drinks (Coca-Cola products), juice, coffee at lunch—all included.

Is there a restroom onboard?

Yes—the boat has an onboard restroom for guests’ use during the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting directly by the boats in Split with your captain and hostess guiding you throughout; all admissions including Blue Cave tickets; unlimited bottled water plus local beer and wine on board; use of snorkeling gear and fresh towels; a homemade grilled lunch with vegetarian or vegan choices at their private summer home on Vis island—plus side dishes, drinks, coffee and ice cream served there (not on the boat). All taxes and fees are covered too before returning late afternoon or evening.