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How to get to Blue Cave in Croatia: Routes, tours & travel tips

Tucked into the cliffs of Biševo Island, the Blue Caves are one of Croatia’s most iconic sights. When sunlight bounces off the white seabed and slips through the cave’s narrow entrance, the water glows in a surreal electric blue. It lasts only a few minutes, and timing is everything. That means picking the right tour and knowing when to go is essential. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how to get to the Blue Caves so you don’t miss the moment everyone talks about.

Where is Blue Cave located?

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Address: Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 5, 21000, Split, Croatia

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The Blue Caves are tucked along the eastern edge of Biševo Island, a small, rocky isle in the Adriatic Sea, just off Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and clear blue waters, the cave was carved by waves over thousands of years. It’s about 1.5 hours from Split by speedboat and can only be reached by sea. It’s best visited as part of a guided tour or private boat trip from nearby coastal towns Split, Hvar, Trogir, or Podstrana.

How to get to Blue Caves in Croatia?

Split is the most popular starting point for Blue Cave tours.

  • Most tours are full-day trips that include other islands like Hvar, Vis, and Stiniva Cove.
  • Travel time by speedboat is around 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Tours usually depart early in the morning to catch the cave’s blue light at its peak.
  • You’ll cruise across open Adriatic waters, often stopping for swimming and sightseeing.
  • Perfect for: First-time visitors who want to experience the Dalmatian coast in one day.

Read more about visiting Blue Cave from Split.

If you’re staying on Hvar Island, you’re already halfway there.

  • The boat ride to Biševo takes about 1 hour.
  • Many tours pair the Blue Caves with stops at the Pakleni Islands or the Green Cave.
  • Shared 5-island tours cost around €95 per person and last about 7 hours.
  • The only slightly cheaper workaround is to take a government ferry from Split to Hvar and then join a tour from there
  • Perfect for: Travelers looking for a shorter trip with time to explore more local spots.

Read more about visiting Blue Cave from Split.

Komiža is the closest access point to the Blue Caves.

  • Just a 15-minute boat ride to Biševo.
  • Most official Blue Cave tours depart from Komiža Harbor.
  • If you're already on Vis Island, this is the most direct route.
  • You’ll take a smaller boat from Komiža to Mezoporat on Biševo, and then transfer to a Blue Cave entry vessel.
  • Perfect for: Visitors staying on Vis who want a quick, no-frills visit to the caves.

If you're in Vis Town, getting to the Blue Cave involves a short drive and boat combo.

  • First, drive or take a taxi 15–20 minutes across the island to Komiža.
  • From there, you’ll join the standard Blue Cave tour boats to Biševo.
  • It's a smooth, easy connection and gives you flexibility with your tour time.
  • Perfect for: Independent travelers based in Vis Town who want a flexible half-day trip.
  • You can choose your own departure time and pace.
  • Ideal for groups or families wanting a quieter, customized day on the sea.
  • Private boats can depart from Split, Hvar, Vis, or Komiža.
  • It’s more expensive, but you’ll skip the crowds and spend time where you want.
  • Perfect for: Small groups, couples, or families seeking a premium experience.

Note: There’s no public ferry directly to the Blue Caves. Even if you take a ferry to Vis or Biševo, you’ll still need to join an official boat tour for entry into the cave itself, as access is limited and regulated by small boats that fit into the narrow cave entrance.

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How Blue Cave visits work

The boat transfer

Your Blue Cave visit begins with a speedboat ride from your departure point most often Split, Hvar, or Komiža. These are modern, open-top boats designed for fast travel across the Adriatic. The ride can take anywhere from 15 minutes (from Komiža) to up to 2 hours (from Split), depending on where you start. Sea conditions vary. On calm days it’s smooth sailing, but choppier waters are common, especially early or late in the season.

Transferring to smaller boats

Once you arrive at Mezoporat Bay on Biševo Island, you’ll hop off your speedboat and wait for a smaller motorboat operated by the official concession. These are the only boats allowed into the cave, as the entrance is very narrow. You’ll queue for a few minutes, then board one of these compact vessels with your group.

Inside the cave

The Blue Cave visit lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. As your small boat enters, sunlight filters through an underwater opening, lighting up the water in a glowing blue. It’s quiet and surreal but know that swimming isn’t allowed inside.

Travel tips for reaching the Blue Cave 

  • Book a morning slot: Tours that reach the cave between 11am and 1pm offer the best light for seeing the glowing blue effect.
  • Bring cash for cave entry: Entry fees (€12–€24) are often not included in tour prices and must be paid on-site at Biševo.
  • Pack light: Storage is limited on speedboats and small cave entry boats. A dry bag is useful for phones, wallets, and towels.
  • Expect weather delays: Tours can be canceled or rescheduled if the sea is rough, especially during early spring or late fall.
  • Combine with other stops: Most tours also visit Komiža, Stiniva Cove, or the Blue Lagoon.
  • No swimming inside: Swimming is strictly prohibited inside the Blue Cave to protect the environment and ensure safety.
  • Choose your departure town wisely: Split offers full-day experiences with multiple stops; Hvar is quicker but requires you to already be on the island. Komiža is the most direct if you’re already on Vis.
  • Ask about the boat type: Larger speedboats are more stable (better for kids or people prone to seasickness), while smaller boats may reach remote stops more easily.

Frequently asked questions on how to get to Blue Caves

Can I go to the Blue Cave on my own?

No, you can’t access the Blue Cave independently. Entry is only allowed via small, licensed boats operated from Biševo Island, which are part of organized tours.

Is there a direct ferry to the Blue Cave?

No, there isn’t a direct ferry. You can take a ferry to Vis Island or Hvar, but from there, you must join a speedboat tour to reach the Blue Cave.

How long do you spend inside the cave?

Visitors typically spend around 10 to 15 minutes inside. The experience is brief but unforgettable, thanks to the unique blue glow created by sunlight beneath the water.

Are Blue Cave tours ever canceled?

Yes, tours may be canceled if sea conditions are rough. Policies vary by provider, but most offer refunds or the option to reschedule.

Is it safe for kids or older travelers?

Generally yes, but speedboat rides can be bumpy. It’s best to check with the operator and choose calmer weather days if traveling with young children or elderly guests.

When is the best time to visit the Blue Cave?

Midday between 11am and 1pm is ideal for seeing the cave’s blue light effect at its brightest. Morning tours usually time their arrival for this window.

Do tours include the cave entry ticket?

Not always. Many tours exclude the €12–€24 Blue Cave entry fee, which must be paid in cash upon arrival at Biševo. Always check what's included before booking.

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