Split to Blue Cave & Hvar: Private 5 Islands Tour by Speedboat

Summary

Blue cave glow, island coves and Hvar’s old stone streets on a private speedboat day

You’ll leave Split behind by speedboat for a private day trip to Blue Cave (with skip-the-line entry), Komiža village for breakfast, swim at Stiniva Cove and Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon before exploring Hvar town at your own pace. Expect salty skin, local stories from your guide, quiet coves and plenty of time to just drift.

What’s the experience like?

We shot out from Split just after sunrise, the city still yawning behind us while our skipper Luka grinned and cranked up the engine. That first hour and a half on the speedboat was a blur of sea spray and wind — I remember my hair knotting instantly, and the taste of salt on my lips. The Dalmatian coastline slid by in streaks of green and rock. When we reached Biševo, Luka handled the Blue Cave tickets (bring cash — I almost forgot), and somehow we skipped the long queue. Inside, that blue light really does mess with your sense of time; it’s like being inside an aquarium but you’re the fish. I tried not to laugh when my friend gasped — she’d seen photos but nothing prepares you for that color.

Komiža came next, all sleepy fishing boats and old men drinking coffee at tables barely big enough for their cups. We wandered past them to find breakfast — warm bread, something sweet with figs — before heading back to the boat. Stiniva Cove is only reachable from the sea, which feels like a secret handshake; squeezing through those rocks into that tiny beach felt a bit like sneaking into someone else’s dream. I swam ashore (awkwardly) while Luka told us about how they filmed “Mamma Mia” here — apparently everyone in town has a story about it if you ask. We drifted past Srebrena Beach too, just long enough for photos.

After all that saltwater, Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon was pure relief — clear water over pebbles, snorkels fogging up immediately because I never get that right. There’s a donkey at the beach bar who thinks he owns the place (he probably does). By then we were sun-warmed and lazy as we headed for Hvar town. Free time there meant wandering narrow stone alleys under purple bougainvillea, climbing up to the Spanish Fortress for that view over Pakleni islands (I still think about it), or just sitting in front of St. Stephen’s Cathedral watching people go by. Lunch was grilled fish with lemon and olive oil so fresh it almost stung.

The ride back was quieter — everyone sunk into their seats, hair stiff with salt and skin tight from sun. Luka chatted about growing up on Vis; I tried to say “hvala” properly and he laughed at my accent. It wasn’t perfect weather or perfect anything really — but maybe that’s why it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

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

• Speedboat to Blue Cave
• Visit Blue Cave
• Explore Komiža village
• Swim at Stiniva Cove
• Pass by Srebrena Beach
• Swim at Blue Lagoon
• Free time in Hvar town

Top questions

How long is the private Blue Cave & Hvar tour from Split?

The tour lasts a full day, starting early morning from Split or Trogir and returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from Split or Trogir port.

Are Blue Cave tickets included in the price?

No, you need to bring cash for Blue Cave tickets; prices vary by season from €12–€24 per person.

Is lunch included on this 5 islands tour?

No lunch is included; you have free time in Komiža or Hvar where you can buy food at local restaurants or cafes.

Can children join this speedboat tour?

No, children under 6 years old are not allowed on this tour due to safety reasons.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for use at Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon.

Do you skip the line at Blue Cave?

Yes, skip-the-line service is included to minimize waiting time at Blue Cave on Biševo island.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Bring casual clothes/swimwear, sunscreen, towel, some cash for tickets/food and moderate physical fitness is required.

What happens if bad weather cancels the tour?

If canceled due to poor weather conditions you’ll be offered an alternative date/tour or full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes private speedboat transport with an English-speaking skipper-guide from Split or Trogir across five islands; insurance and safety gear including windbreakers and life jackets; use of snorkeling equipment at Budikovac Island; fuel surcharge covered; plus skip-the-line service for entering Blue Cave so you spend more time exploring than waiting around.