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The Blue Caves, or Modra Špilja, are a natural marvel where light filters through an underwater opening, creating a shimmering blue glow. A Blue Cave tour pairs this spectacle with stops at Croatia’s island highlights: swim and snorkel in Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon, explore hidden coves on Vis, and soak up Hvar’s vibrant harbor with its seafood spots and boutique charm all in one memorable day.

Overview:

  • Best time of year: Mid-June through early September
  • Starting points: Tours from Split, Trogir, Podstrana and Dubrovnik
  • Key stops: Blue Cave at Biševo Island, Blue Lagoon, Vis Island, Budikovac Island, Pakleni Islands, Hvar Town on Hvar Island
  • Most popular tour: From Split: Full Day Tour to Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon & 5 Islands

Blue Cave tours boarding points

Split

  • Distance: ~70 km (43 miles) to Blue Cave
  • Travel time: ~1 hr 15 min by speedboat (one way)
  • The most common starting point

The town’s central location along the Dalmatian coast and its well-connected marina makes it an ideal base for island-hopping day trips across the Adriatic. It also offers easy access to nearby attractions like Marjan Hill, Bacvice Beach, and Krka National Park.

Blue Cave tours from Split

Trogir

  • Distance: ~80 km (50 miles) to Blue Cave
  • Travel time: ~1 hr 30 min by speedboat (one way)
  • Slightly longer than Split, but still a popular departure hub.

Compared to the busier Split, Trogir offers a more intimate and peaceful start to your tour. The town’s less crowded marina, proximity to the islands of Vis and Hvar, and strategic location just off the mainland make it a great starting location for your tour.

Blue Cave tours from Trogir

Podstrana

  • Distance: ~75 km (47 miles) to Blue Cave
  • Travel time: ~1 hr 30 min by speedboat (one way)
  • Convenient for travellers staying in resorts south of Split.

Podstrana’s Marina Lav serves as a convenient starting point for Blue Cave tours. Just a short drive from Split, it offers easy boarding on comfortable speedboats, quick access to the Adriatic, and a relaxed, scenic departure away from the city crowds.

Dubrovnik

  • Distance: ~230 km (143 miles) to Blue Cave
  • Travel time: 4–5 hrs by speedboat
  • Takes you to Blue Cave on Koločep Island.

This historic walled city on Croatia’s southern coast is a popular launch point for Blue Cave tours, especially to the caves on Koločep and nearby Elaphiti Islands. Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes for a perfect pre- or post-tour stroll.

Blue cave tours from Dubrovnik

Islands you’ll explore on your Blue Cave tour

Biševo Island

Biševo is a tiny island off the coast of Vis, but it holds one of Croatia’s most famous natural wonders- the Blue Cave. The cave’s electric-blue glow is created when sunlight reflects through the water and bounces off the limestone walls, turning the inside into a dazzling spectacle.

  • Highlight: Transfer into a small wooden boat to enter the Blue Cave and witness the magical blue light. This is the absolute highlight of the day.
  • Included in all full-day Blue Cave tours
Explore more

Vis Island

Remote and rugged, Vis is the furthest inhabited island from the mainland, known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear coves, and old-world charm. It gained worldwide fame as a filming location for Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.

  • Highlight: Visit the stunning Stiniva Bay, often voted one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. On some tours, you’ll also stop at Komiža, a picturesque fishing town perfect for a short break or lunch.
  • Included in all full-day Blue Cave tours
Explore more

Budikovac Island

Budikovac is a small island surrounded by a turquoise lagoon that feels like a natural swimming pool. It’s quiet, uninhabited except for one family, and a favorite stop for snorkeling and sunbathing.

  • Highlight: Stop for a refreshing swim and snorkel in the lagoon, with plenty of time to enjoy the shallow, clear waters.
  • Included in all full-day Blue Cave tours
Explore more

Pakleni Islands

This chain of pine-covered islets lies just across from Hvar and is known for its secluded bays, hidden beaches, and trendy beach clubs. With a mix of untouched nature and lively seaside spots, the Pakleni Islands are a highlight for relaxation.

  • Highlight: Swim, sunbathe, or stop for a drink at one of the chic beach clubs during your free time here.
  • Included in all full-day Blue Cave tours
Explore more

Hvar Island

Hvar is one of Croatia’s most glamorous destinations, combining history, culture, and a vibrant social scene. Its main town boasts Venetian palaces, a lively harbor, and plenty of cafés and restaurants to soak up the island life.

  • Highlight: Enjoy free time in Hvar Town to wander cobbled streets, grab lunch, or climb to the fortress for panoramic views.
  • Included in all full-day Blue Cave tours

Drvenik Veli Island

Drvenik Veli is home to the famous Blue Lagoon (Krknjaši Bay), known for its shallow, sandy seabed and dazzling turquoise waters. It’s a favorite for swimming and snorkeling.

  • Highlight: Spend time swimming or snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon, one of Croatia’s most photographed natural spots.
  • Included in Blue Lagoon & 3 islands tour. Not part of standard Blue Cave itineraries.

Šolta Island

Šolta is a peaceful island close to Split, famous for its fishing villages, olive groves, and hidden coves. It’s a slower-paced destination that offers an authentic slice of Dalmatian life.

  • Highlight: Visit as part of the Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Šolta Cruise, with time to enjoy the calm waters and a traditional onboard lunch with unlimited drinks.
  • Included in Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Šolta Cruise only

Milna

A peaceful harbor town on Brač Island, Milna offers crystal-clear waters, stone houses, and a laid-back Mediterranean charm.

Time required: 1 hour

Included in select day trips:

​From Podstrana: Full Day Tour to Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon & 5 Islands

Solta Cruise

Sail to Šolta for a relaxed island escape, with sandy beaches, Maslinica’s charm, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and unwinding.

Time required: 1 hour

Included in select day trips:

​From Split: Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Solta Cruise with Lunch

What to expect on a Blue Cave tour?

Guests on speedboats near Blue Caves, Montenegro, with a historic stone building and lush hills in the background.
Guests on speedboat enjoying Bay of Kotor views during Blue Cave tour.
Blue lagoon with clouds and small island in Otok Krknjas Veli, Mediterranean Sea, Croatia.
Guests toasting with drinks on a boat tour to Blue Caves.
Speedboat with tourists on Bay of Kotor during Blue Cave tour.
Aerial view of Komiža Island harbor with boats and historic buildings.
Boat near rocky shore with people swimming, part of Split's Blue Cave, Vis, and Hvar tour.
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Scenic boat ride

Your journey begins with a thrilling boat ride across the Adriatic, offering sweeping views of Croatia’s coastline. Along the way you’ll pass limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and untouched bays that can only be reached by water. The ride itself is part of the adventure. Depending on the tour type, boats vary from small group speedboats to larger vessels with shade and seating.

The Blue Cave glow

The highlight of the trip is stepping into the Blue Cave (Modra Špilja) on Biševo Island. Sunlight enters through an underwater opening, bounces off the white seabed, and fills the interior with a glowing blue light. It’s an otherworldly scene that changes with the angle of the sun- especially magical around midday when the effect is most intense. Entry is carefully timed and controlled, giving you a few precious minutes to admire and photograph this natural wonder.

Blue Lagoon

After the magical visit to the Blue Cave, most tours include a stop at the famous Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay where the seabed of white sand and pebbles gives the water its striking turquoise color. This is the perfect spot to cool off with a swim, snorkel in the clear waters, or simply relax on the boat while taking in the beauty of the Adriatic. The calm and inviting setting makes it one of the most memorable parts of the journey, offering a balance of adventure and leisure.

Island hopping

Most tours will take you on a journey through Dalmatia’s most beautiful islands. You’ll pass the dramatic cliffs of Vis, swim in the peaceful lagoon at Budikovac, glide between the pine-covered Pakleni Islands, and round off the day in lively Hvar Town with its mix of history, culture, and seaside charm. Each stop adds a new highlight, combining stunning scenery with time to swim, explore, and relax.

Swimming & snorkeling

Between island visits, you’ll have plenty of chances to dive in. The Adriatic here is crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling among fish and underwater rock formations. At places like the Blue Lagoon, shallow waters make it ideal even for beginners.

Charming villages

Tours often include a break in Komiža, a traditional fishing town on Vis where stone houses, cobbled streets, and a laid-back harborfront set the scene for a relaxed midday pause. This is a popular spot to stop for lunch, with plenty of local taverns serving freshly caught seafood and authentic Dalmatian dishes. On longer itineraries, you may also spend time in Hvar Town, famous for its Venetian architecture, lively squares, and buzzing cafés.

Guided commentary

Experienced skippers and local guides bring the journey to life with stories about the islands, their history, and the legends of the Adriatic. From tales of pirate hideouts to insights into Croatia’s naval past, the commentary adds depth to what you see.

Things to know before booking your Blue Cave tours

  • Guided tours only: The Blue Cave can only be accessed as part of a licensed skipper-led tour. The journey from the mainland is long and can involve choppy seas, so going independently isn’t possible.
  • The classic tour: If you want the full experience, this is the most popular option. The full-day speedboat itinerary includes the Blue Cave on Biševo, plus must-see stops like Hvar, Budikovac, and the Pakleni Islands. Expect a mix of sightseeing, swim breaks, and snorkeling opportunities, a great choice if you want to cover the region’s biggest highlights in one day.
  • For a quick half-day tour: Opt for the Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Speedboat Tour from Split. The tour is designed for travelers who can’t commit to a full day. In around 4-5 hours, it combines sightseeing with relaxation, including a swim at Krknjaši Bay (the Blue Lagoon) and a visit to charming Trogir, nicknamed the “Stone Beauty.”
  • Private tour thats exclusive & flexible: If you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group of friends and want to avoid sharing your boat with strangers, a private tour is worth the premium. With a speedboat exclusively for you (up to 10 people), you can set your own pace, spend more time at the stops you love, and skip those you don’t.
  • Departure points: Tours depart from Split, Trogir, Podstrana, and Dubrovnik. Split has the widest choice of departures, Trogir is convenient if you’re staying near the airport or north of Split, and Podstrana is best for those in resorts south of Split. Dubrovnik departures, on the other hand, don’t go to Biševo’s Blue Cave, instead they visit a different, smaller Blue Cave near Koločep Island.
  • Boat types & cave entry: Most tours use modern, covered speedboats with padded seating for comfort on longer rides. Once you arrive at Biševo, you’ll transfer into a smaller wooden boat that can pass through the Blue Cave’s narrow entrance, the only way to enter and see its glowing blue interior.
  • Blue Cave entry fee: Access to the Blue Cave requires a separate entry ticket (around €12–24 per person, depending on the season), which is paid on-site in cash unless it’s already included in your tour.

Blue Cave tours explained

TourBoarding pointDurationStart timeInclusionsTransfers typeGroup sizeStarting from
Full day tour from Split

Split (Riva, near Diocletian’s Palace)

10 – 11.5 hrs

7:30am

Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, 5 Islands, Stiniva Bay, swim/snorkel gear, skipper/guide, bottled water, insurance

Speedboat

Small group (8–12)

€99
Private full day tour

Split (Trumbićeva obala) or Trogir (Obala bana Berislavića)

~10 hrs

7am from Trogir and 7.30am from Split

Private tour (up to 10 people), Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, 5 Islands, Stiniva Bay, swim/snorkel gear, skipper/guide, bottled water, insurance

Private speedboat

Private group up to 10

€1,300
Full day tour from Trogir

Trogir (with transfer to Split departure point)

~10 hrs

7:30am

Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, 5 Islands, Stiniva Bay, swim/snorkel gear, skipper/guide, bottled water, insurance

Speedboat

Small group (8–12)

€99
Full day tour from Podstrana

Podstrana (Marina Lav)

~11 hrs

7am

Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, 5 Islands, Stiniva Bay, swim/snorkel gear, skipper/guide, bottled water, insurance

Speedboat

Small group (~12)

€145
Shipwreck & Šolta with Lunch

Split (Gray Line Office)

9 hrs

9am

Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, Šolta, swim/snorkel gear, skipper/guide, lunch, unlimited drinks, bottled water, insurance

Wooden boat cruise

Group tour

€55
3 Islands Speedboat Tour

Split (City Center)

4 hr 30 min

9.30am and 2.30pm

Blue Lagoon, 3 Islands, swim/snorkel gear, skipper/guide, bottled water, insurance

Speedboat

Group tour

€60
Skip the crowds, opt for a Blue Cave private tour

With a maximum of 10 guests, Blue Cave private tours offer a more personal experience. Starting from Split or Trogir, they take you across five islands covering highlights such as Komiža village, Stiniva Cove, and Srebrena Beach.

Highlights of Blue Cave

Boat tour inside Blue Cave, Adriatic Sea, Croatia.

A natural wonder beneath the cliffs

Carved into the limestone cliffs of Biševo Island, being inside the Blue Cave feels almost magical. You’ll be surrounded by still waters glowing with an ethereal light, creating one of the most unforgettable natural spectacles on Croatia’s Adriatic coast.

Swimming in the vibrant waters of a blue cave.
Blue Cave interior with glowing water and rocky walls, Croatia.
Swimmers and a boat near the entrance of the Blue Cave, Kotor.
Sailboat near Dubrovnik coast with view of Elaphiti Islands and historic buildings.

Fun fact: Many parts of the hit movie Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again! were filmed on Vis Island, one of the stops on Blue Cave boat tours. The island's enchanting landscapes and crystal-clear waters perfectly capture the film's vibrant spirit. Walking through Vis, you might recognize some charming locations from the film, adding an extra layer of magic to your visit.

Blue Cave tours map

Blue Cave tour map showing stops at Hvar, Vis, and Biševo Islands in Croatia.

Blue Cave tour itinerary

  • 7am departure: Your adventure begins early with departures available from Split, Trogir, or Podstrana. Speedboats operated by licensed skippers take you across the Adriatic. The ride is fast and fun, and expert handling ensures a safe journey over open waters.
  • 9:30am at Blue Cave, Biševo Island: The ride to Biševo takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once there, you’ll transfer into a smaller wooden boat to enter the Blue Cave. Inside, you’ll spend about 10-15 minutes admiring the magical blue light- only a few boats are allowed at a time to preserve the cave’s serene atmosphere.
  • 11am at Vis Island (Stiniva Bay & Komiža): Continue to Vis Island, where you’ll stop near the entrance of Stiniva Bay, a secluded cove with high cliffs and a pebble beach. Some itineraries also include a short stop at the charming fishing town of Komiža, known from Mamma Mia! filming for lunch.
  • 12:30pm at Budikovac Island (Blue Lagoon): Next, head to Budikovac Island, where the turquoise Blue Lagoon offers shallow, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This is one of the most relaxing and photogenic parts of the tour.
  • 1:30pm at Pakleni Islands: Cruise through the Pakleni Islands, a chain of pine-covered islets dotted with coves, beach bars, and waterfront restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy lunch or grab a drink by the sea.
  • 3:30pm at Hvar Island: Arrive in Hvar Town, one of Croatia’s most vibrant island towns. Stroll around St. Stephen’s Square, explore boutiques and cafés, or hike up to the fortress for stunning harbor views.
  • 6pm return: After a full day of island-hopping, your skipper takes you back to Split, Trogir, or Podstrana.

Plan your Blue Cave tour

Best time to go on a Blue Cave tour

Best time of the day: Blue Cave boat tours typically kick off in the morning, setting the stage for a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and memorable experiences.

Best time of the year: The Blue Cave holds its charm all year round, but different seasons bring unique perks for visitors.

  • The summer season, from July to September, paints the Adriatic coastline with vibrant colors. It's prime time for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. However, this is when tourists flock in, so brace yourself for bigger crowds.
  • If you are looking for a balance between pleasant weather and thinner crowds, consider the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October for your Blue Cave boat tour.
What to pack for your Blue Cave tour?
  • Sun protection: The sun in the Mediterranean can be pretty intense, so be sure to slap a generous amount of sunscreen, grab a hat, and bring along your favorite shades to shield yourself from the sun's rays.
  • Motion sickness medicine: The journey from the mainland to the Blue Caves involves navigating through some of the choppiest waves in the Adriatic. If you tend to get sick on speedboats, please carry medicine for motion sickness.
  • Cash: You'll need it for entry to Blue Caves if you haven't opted. There are shops in and around Hvar Town and Palmizana beaches. If you want to shop for trinkets and souvenirs, please carry cash, as most of these vendors do not accept online payments. 
  • Light jacket: The speedboat journey tends to get very windy, so we recommend bringing along a light jacket, or a scarf. 
  • GoPro or waterproof case: If you plan to go snorkeling in Blue Lagoon, bring a waterproof case for your mobile or camera to capture stunning underwater shots.
Facilities available on Blue Cave tours
  • Professional skipper & crew: Licensed and experienced for safety and navigation
  • Comfortable speedboat seating: Padded benches, covered areas for shade
  • Safety equipment: Life jackets, first aid kit
  • Snorkeling gear: Mask and snorkel provided for swim stops
  • Blue Cave entry arrangements: Smaller wooden boats organized on-site (entry to be paid in cash on site if not opted for blue cave with entry ticket)
  • Bottled water: Complimentary on most tours
  • Storage space: For small bags and belongings (limited on speedboats)
  • Onboard music system: For a fun ride atmosphere
  • Insurance & taxes: Included in the tour price
  • Optional extras depending on tour: Lunch, unlimited drinks, or private service (on certain products like the Shipwreck & Šolta ruise or Private tour)
Rules - Blue Cave tours
  • Age and health restrictions: Blue Cave tours might not be suitable for everyone. Children under 3 years old, pregnant women, and individuals with back and heart complications should refrain from participating due to safety concerns.
  • Blue Cave entrance fee: Entry to the Blue Cave requires a separate ticket (approx. €12-24 depending on the season), payable in cash on-site. Some tour packages already include this fee, while others do not- check your booking details carefully.
  • Weather dependency: Your Blue Cave tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. While tour operators strive to provide a seamless experience, occasional changes or cancellations may occur due to inclement weather for the safety and comfort of all participants.
  • What to bring & what’s allowed: Bring essentials like swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Small day bags are fine, but space on speedboats is limited.
Tips - Blue Cave tours
  • Arrive early: Try to make it to the meeting spot a good 15 minutes early. That way, you'll be all set to kick off your Blue Cave tour without any unnecessary hiccups.
  • Check the schedules: The Blue Caves are only accessible during certain times of the day, usually between 11am and 4pm, due to tidal activity. Before you head out, take a quick peek at your voucher. Double-check the departure schedules, meeting point, and any special instructions. It'll save you time and make boarding a breeze.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: The sun in the Mediterranean can be pretty intense, so be sure to slap a generous amount of sunscreen, grab a hat, and bring along your favorite shades to shield yourself from the sun's rays.
  • Mix comfort with practicality: Opt for light, breathable clothing that’s easy to slip on and off over swimwear. Wear non-slip sandals or water shoes for ease when walking around wet boat surfaces and rocky shorelines. Also, take a towel and pack an extra change of clothes with you, just in case you get splashed by the waves.
Where to eat on Blue Cave tours?

Komiža (Vis Island)- typical lunch stop

  • Konoba Bako: famous for seafood, especially lobster and fish dishes, right by the sea with views of fishing boats.
  • Jastožera: iconic lobster restaurant set on a wooden pier, serving fresh catch of the day.
  • Konoba Barba: casual, family-run spot serving grilled fish, octopus salad, and other Dalmatian classics.

Hvar Town (Hvar Island)- afternoon/evening stop

  • Dalmatino: one of the most popular restaurants in Hvar, offering steaks, seafood, and Croatian wines.
  • Fig Café Bar: a traveler favorite for its casual vibe, fusion menu (tacos, wraps, veggie options), and good coffee.
  • Laganini Lounge Bar & Fish House (Pakleni Islands, near Hvar): upscale option if tours stop nearby; chic spot for cocktails and seafood in a beach club setting.

Frequently asked questions about Blue Cave tours

The 5-Islands Blue Cave tour takes you on an island-hopping adventure across the Dalmatian Coast. You will start your journey from Bisevo, after which you will be taken to Vis Island, Hvar Town, Budikovac Blue Lagoon, and the Pakleni Islands. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, all at once. The tour also includes an English-speaking captain and a licensed skipper to help you navigate the choppy waters.