Split & Hvar: Blue Cave, 6 Islands Speedboat Day Trip

Summary

Speedboat from Split to Hvar with Blue Cave and island stops

You’ll zip across turquoise waves by speedboat from Split or Podstrana, slip into the glowing Blue Cave, swim through Stiniva Cove’s rock walls, and wander Hvar Town’s lively streets with time for lunch. With local guides handling everything—including snorkeling gear—you can just soak up each island moment as it comes.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sea to feel that alive—right from Split, our speedboat bounced over the waves so fast I had to grip the rail and laugh. The spray hit my face (salty, cold), and I caught myself grinning at nothing. Our skipper, Marko, shouted something about “Dalmatian coffee” meaning rakija at 9am. I still don’t know if he was joking. First stop: that famous Blue Cave on Bisevo. It’s smaller than I thought but when we ducked inside, the water glowed this unreal silver-blue under the rock ceiling. Everyone went quiet for a second, just listening to the echo and drip of water. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it never comes out right.

After that we zipped over to Komiza—a fishing village where locals were already arguing over cards outside a café. We grabbed coffee (not rakija this time) and a pastry that tasted like almonds and honey. The air smelled like seaweed mixed with fresh bread from somewhere up the lane. Next came Vis Island’s limestone caves—felt like being inside a whale’s ribcage somehow—and then Stiniva Cove, which you only reach by swimming or boat through this narrow gap in the rocks. Water was freezing but so clear you could see your toes wiggling above pebbles.

The Pakleni Islands looked almost fake from a distance—just green dots in bright blue water—and we had an hour there to snorkel or just lie on hot stones (I did both). Lunch in Hvar Town felt busy after all that quiet; everyone spilled out onto stone streets eating grilled fish or pizza slices. Our guide pointed out Spanjola Fortress above us—said it’s worth the climb for views but honestly, I was too lazy after swimming so much. Last stop was Milna on Brac Island: sleepy harbor, old men fixing nets, sun starting to dip behind white houses. I could’ve stayed another hour just watching boats come in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Blue Cave and nearby islands

• Check-in at Split office
• Visit the Blue Cave
• Breakfast in fishing village
• Visit Limestone Caves on Vis Island
• Swim at Stiniva Cove
• View Blue Lagoon en route to Pakleni Islands
• Swim and relax at Pakleni Islands beach
• Explore Hvar Town and landmarks
• Free time in Milna on Brač Island
• Return to Split starting point

Top questions

How long is the Blue Cave & 6 Islands speedboat tour?

The tour lasts a full day with multiple stops including Blue Cave, Vis Island caves, Stiniva Cove, Pakleni Islands, Hvar Town, and Milna on Brac.

Is snorkeling gear provided on this tour?

Yes, goggles and snorkels are included—just ask the crew if you need them.

Where does the tour depart from?

The main departure point is Trumbićeva obala 2 in Split center; pickup from Podstrana is also possible.

Are entrance tickets for Blue Cave included?

No, you’ll need to bring €18 cash (€24 in high season) for Blue Cave entrance tickets.

What should I bring on this day trip?

Bring beach clothes, sunscreen, towel, water shoes for rocky beaches if you have them, snacks, and cash for entrance fees.

Can children join this speedboat tour?

Children under 4 are not allowed; older kids must be accompanied by an adult.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No set lunch is included but there’s free time in Hvar Town where you can choose your own restaurant.

What happens if weather closes the Blue Cave?

If sea conditions close the cave, alternative attractions will be visited instead—the crew adapts routes as needed.

What’s included

Your day covers all boat rides between Split or Podstrana and six islands with an experienced skipper and guide onboard. Safety gear plus goggles and snorkels are ready for anyone who wants them. There’s plenty of free time at each stop—including breakfast breaks and lunch options—before returning to your starting point in the evening.