Split & Hvar: Blue Cave, 5 Islands Speedboat Tour

Summary

Speed across Dalmatian islands, dive into blue caves, wander Hvar

You’ll speed from Split across five Dalmatian islands with a local skipper, slip into Biševo’s surreal Blue Cave, swim at Budikovac’s lagoon, and explore Hvar’s winding streets at your own pace. Expect salty air, strong coffee in Komiža village, laughter with locals—and maybe even a donkey encounter on Budikovac beach.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if those turquoise waters in movies are real? I did—until we left Split before sunrise, salt already in the air, and zipped across the Adriatic on this five islands speedboat tour. Our skipper, Luka, grinned as we bounced over waves—he said it was a “good sea day” (I guess that means not too bumpy). Ninety minutes later, we were queuing for the Blue Cave on Biševo. The wait can be long but with our tickets sorted ahead (bring cash), it went fast. Inside, it’s not just blue—it’s like someone turned up the color dial. Cold air hit my face and everyone went quiet for a second. Even Luka stopped joking.

Komiža on Vis is the kind of place where fishermen still nod at you from their boats—I grabbed a coffee so strong my hand shook after. There was this old lady selling figs by the dock; I tried to say thank you in Croatian and she laughed, correcting me gently (“Hvala”). After that came Stiniva Cove—getting there by boat felt sneaky somehow, slipping between cliffs. Swimming to shore was harder than I thought (the pebbles hurt my feet), but floating there looking back at our little boat… I still think about that view sometimes.

We cruised past Srebrena Beach—Luka pointed out where they filmed that Mamma Mia scene (I’ve never actually seen the movie but everyone else seemed excited). Then Budikovac Island: shallow water so clear you see every stone below. There’s a donkey at the beach bar who tried to eat my towel—no one warned me about that part. Mask on, snorkel in mouth, I drifted until my skin wrinkled up.

Last stop was Hvar town. Free time meant wandering narrow streets while church bells echoed off stone walls. Climbed up to the fortress for a view over Pakleni Islands—sweaty but worth it. Lunch was fried calamari and local white wine under faded umbrellas. By then I’d lost track of time completely—which is sort of the point of a day trip like this from Split to Hvar and back again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, and Hvar tour

• Speedboat ride to Biševo island
• Visit Blue Cave
• Explore Komiža fishermen village
• Swim at Stiniva cove
• Pass by Srebrena Beach
• Swim at Blue Lagoon on Budikovac island
• Free time in Hvar town

Top questions

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

The tour lasts a full day including travel time between Split, Biševo island (Blue Cave), Vis (Komiža & Stiniva Cove), Budikovac Island or Pakleni Islands (seasonal), and free time in Hvar.

Is hotel pickup included for this Split to Hvar day trip?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; travelers meet at the departure point in Split for boarding the speedboat.

Do I need cash for Blue Cave tickets?

Yes, bring cash for Blue Cave entry: €12–24 per person depending on season; your guide will organize tickets so you can skip the line.

Can children join this speedboat tour?

No, children under 10 are not allowed due to safety regulations.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No lunch is included; you’ll have free time in Hvar to choose your own restaurant or snack spot.

What should I bring for swimming or snorkeling?

Snorkeling equipment is provided on board; bring your swimsuit and towel for swimming stops like Budikovac Lagoon or Stiniva Cove.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems, mobility issues, heart conditions or pregnant travelers due to speedboat travel.

How many people are on each boat?

Each boat carries up to 12 people plus crew for a more personalized experience.

What’s included

Your day covers all transport by open-air speedboat with an English-speaking skipper-guide who handles logistics and safety gear—including wind jackets and life vests—plus skip-the-line service at the Blue Cave and use of snorkeling equipment along the way before returning you back to Split in the evening.