Blue Cave in Croatia | Best 2023 Blue Cave Tours
Last updated on March 16th, 2023 at 08:52 am
Sail away to the exotic Blue Cave in Croatia and be prepared to be enchanted by its illuminating waters.
Croatia’s epic Blue Cave (sometimes called the Blue Grotto Croatia) is located at Bisevo Island, but you should know it is impossible to visit the cave yourself.
Luckily, there are tours that are specially designed to take you to this magical Blue Cave and ensure your time there is safe and enjoyable. This small aquatic oasis is visited by thousands each year and is an optimal day trip from one of the nearby ports at Split, Hvar, or Vis! This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting the Blue Cave in Croatia including how to get there, when to visit, what to bring with you, and more.
Being one of the only blue illuminating caves in the entire world, you won’t be disappointed when you carve out a day to visit this alluring grotto on the Dalmatian Coast!
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All You Need to Know About the Blue Cave in Croatia
What is the Blue Cave?
The water of the Blue Cave is unfortunately not some kind of magical luminescent water. Although it looks like the insides of a wizard’s cauldron, the Blue Cave gets its color from the refraction of light, bouncing off the seabed. The circumstances of this cave are unusually lucky that there is a small crack in the cave allowing a tiny sliver of light to seep through. The light then bounces off the seafloor and lights up the entire cave in a neon cerulean color.
The History of the Blue Cave
This natural geomorphic wonder has been carved out by prolonged erosion from seawater battering against the limestone walls. Up until 1884, it is rumored local fishermen only knew the cave. But in 1884, Don Juraj Mateo Brajcin revealed the cave to Baron Eugene von Ransonet, who then proceeded to make the cave more publicly known.
Later in 1884, they blasted a larger entrance in the side of the limestone using dynamite so that small boats could enter the cave. This entrance was kept small on purpose to preserve the illusion of the cave. If the entrance was too big, the reflection could lose some magnificence. The small dynamite blasted entrance is the entrance that is still used today.
In the late 1800s, the Baron returned to Austria and spoke to the newspapers about the cave, comparing it to the Blue Grotto in Capri, Italy. It wasn’t long after this that tourists began to visit the region and go on tours to the cave to see this newfound wonder. During these times, travelers would pack into small wooden boats and access the cave through the artificial entrance.
Not much has changed since the cave entrance is only 1.5 meters high, by 2.5 meters wide! Today the boats you hop in to get inside the cave are rubber but similar in size to these 19th-century wooden boats.
How to Get to the Blue Cave in Croatia
Before you decide to visit the Blue Cave on a whim, there are a few things you need to know about getting there.
First of all, no matter where your tour embarks from, the tours are entirely weather dependent since the cave is not accessible in rough seas. If the water level is too high in the cave, tour operators deem it unsafe to visit, and the tours will not run.
So if you have a few sunny days at the beginning of your trip, it may be best to do this early on in your Croatian itinerary. It’s also a good idea to do this excursion earlier in your trip in case the tour is canceled due to high water levels; then you will have time to reschedule.
Remember, you can only visit the Blue Cave via an organized tour. Tours can cost on average around 100 Euros (if you’re coming from a further port like Split or Hvar), so it’s a good idea to do some research and shop around to find exactly which tour will suit your needs and budget the best.
Where is the Blue Cave in Croatia?
This azure wonder is located on Biševo Island, which also happens to be the most remote island of the Dalmatian archipelago. Luckily, tours operate out of some of the larger nearby towns, including Split, Hvar, and Vis.
The island, mostly made up of limestone rock, is home to only 15 residents, so it’s not surprising that there are no accommodation options on Bisevo. For this reason, travelers typically only disembark here for a short while or jump in for a swim at Salbunara Beach or Biševska Luka (a 500-meter long cove with a beautiful sandy beach).
If you do happen to venture away from the beaches and onto the island, you will find a very well preserved 11th-century church by the name of St. Sylvester as well as some Benedictine monastery ruins.
Getting to the Blue Cave from Split
As one of the largest cities in Croatia, there are countless Split boat tours departing from the harbor each day, including day trips to the famous Blue Cave. Every year, travelers flock to this famous seaside city for the ever-popular Riva waterfront (bar and restaurant-lined seafront), the incredible atmosphere of a city built inside an ancient palace, and for its central location in southern Croatia as the perfect place to base yourself.
From Split, you will likely find a considerable variety of tour operators since Split is a large city. You can do a bit of research and book a Blue Cave Split Tour online, or take a stroll down the Riva and see the tour operator kiosks displayed to find out more information from the representatives.
Keep in mind, if you are staying in Split for a few days and want to visit the Blue Cave from Split, it will take about 1.5 hours to get to the Blue Cave. Most tours operate by speed boat to get you over to Bisevo as quickly as possible (which is fun in itself), and will also include a few stops at other locations along the way or on the way back from the cave in order to make the trip worth it!
Getting to the Blue Cave from Hvar
If you’re spending your Croatian vacation on the luxury island of Hvar, it is possible to get to the Blue Cave from the Hvar Town Marina in 1 hour.
Hvar is a conveniently located central Island in the Dalmatian Archipelago, where celebrities and tourists alike go to play. This exotic isle is a popular place to enjoy the beach, the quaint cobbled streets of the old town, and to party late into the evening, especially in the summer months.
Tours to the Blue Cave also operate out of here regularly and will include stops to other picturesque coves and bays along the way. The price of a tour to the Blue Cave from Hvar will vary, but prices start at rates slightly cheaper (from 80 Euro) than those that embark from Split since Hvar is a bit closer to the cave. However, there are also tours from Hvar that offer private services if you are looking to spend a day on a speed boat exclusively for your party.
Getting to the Blue Cave from Vis Island
The island of Vis is located on the outskirts of the Dalmatian archipelago and is closest to the Blue Cave. Bisevo (the small islet that the Blue Cave is located on) is just a quick 20-minute journey away by speedboat.
Vis is an extremely picturesque island that offers visitors more of an insight into local island life. The island offers a slower pace of travel and sleepy little seaside taverns, as well as a beautiful hilltop fort that looks over the Adriatic. If you’re a fan of the “Mamma Mia” series, you’ll recognize this island as one of the prominent filming locations for “Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again”.
Vis blue cave tours are the most reasonably priced options since the cave is just a short boat ride away, with tours starting at around 25 Euro leaving from Komiza Town. Tours from Vis can range from quick trips to half-day and full-day trips depending on the operator, and the locations visited.
Many tour operators from Vis combine the Blue Cave with visits to the monk seal cave, green cave, Stiniva Cove, and even swimming in the blue lagoon off of Budikovac Island!
Things to Know at the Blue Cave
A trip to the Blue Cave will send seafaring lovers into paradise. Flying across the water on a speedboat to a remote azure cave, passing islands and sea life along the way, is an adventure you will never forget! Once you book your tour, you’ll be excited to get on your way, but there are a few things you should remember before you hop on the boat.
Entrance to the Cave and Entrance Price
The tour you book to the Blue Cave may or may not include the price of the ticket (read the terms of your tour and what’s included before you book so you can plan in advance!). Usually, the entrance fee to the cave is included in the booking price, and the tour guides will buy the tickets once you get to the island.
In case your tickets are not included in your tour, entrance to the Blue Cave costs 13.50 Euros in the high summer months and 9.50 Euros in the off-season.
Keep in mind, you will transfer to a different boat once you reach Biševo Island. Your speed boat will dock at the island and once your tour guide purchases your ticket, you will embark in one of the small rubber boats, 12 at a time, to enter the cave.
Swimming at the Blue Cave in Croatia
Swimming is not permitted in the cave, but that doesn’t mean you should leave your swimsuit at home. Tours will generally make plenty of stops at beautiful coves where you can hop off the boat and go for a quick swim or a snorkel in the clear Croatian water.
Swimming is not permitted at the Blue Cave because it can be dangerous, so it’s best not even to ask your tour guide if you can hop in quickly; they will say no. The conditions inside the cave can change rapidly, and the cave is tiny. So just enjoy the sights of the luminescent blue waters and save your swimming adventures for later on in the tour.
You will also have the opportunity to take a few photos from the boat, so you will still get that insta-perfect picture even without being in the water!
What to Bring With You
Depending on the duration of your tour, where your tour takes off from, you may be out on the water for just a few hours or potentially all day. The summer sun is no joke when you’re out on a boat sailing across the bays and inlets of the archipelago, so make sure to definitely bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Check with the tour that you book if lunch and snacks are included. Either way, it’s still a good idea to bring snacks and plenty of water with you even if your tour offers this since there will be times you are off your boat, and it’s always nice to have your own things with you. Here’s a quick packing list of what to bring on your trip to the Blue Cave:
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Extra towel
- Water
- Snacks
- A jacket (it can get very windy out on the water in a speedboat, and maybe even a bit chilly when you’re racing back in the evening so bring a light jacket or windbreaker just in case!)
- Camera
- Wallet/money (in case you will buy lunch or dinner at a restaurant while out)
- And potentially some seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness. The ride on a speedboat across the water can be a bit bumpy sometimes!
Visiting Bisevo Island
Bisevo Island is the home of the Blue Cave, but keep in mind there aren’t too many areas to explore on the Island itself since it is predominantly maintained only for Blue Cave tourism purposes.
Bisevo is a small limestone island with a population of just 15 people. There are no hotels or accommodations on the island, so it is not possible to stay the night. Instead, it’s better to stay on the island of Vis, just 20 minutes away.
Fun fact: Did you know that the last shark attack in Croatia was on the island of Vis? 😱
There are a few small sandy beaches on the Island (Porat and Salbunara beach) where your tour may allow you to relax and swim for a bit. Beyond this, there is not much on the island of Bisevo, so keep in mind you won’t find an abundance of bars and restaurants here.
You can travel to Bisevo island by ferry from Vis, but you will still then have to pay your own way and book a tour on one of the special rubber boats to visit the cave.
When to Visit the Blue Cave
The majority of tours to the Blue Cave operate during the summer months, but you can visit the cave year-round. However, since the cave is only accessible when the weather and sea are cooperating, it’s best to visit this azure oasis during the summer months to assure the best weather and minimize the likelihood that your tour will be canceled.
Most tours operate daily from April through October, with the peak season (and higher prices) being in July and August. With this peak season also comes the peak Croatian heat. So ideally, you may want to visit the Blue Cave during the shoulder months of June or September to assure some optimal weather and slightly small crowds.
Best Blue Cave Tours
When traveling to Croatia, it can be overwhelming to try and figure out which Blue Cave tour to choose. On the coast, there are boats and small agencies everywhere, all seemingly offering the same service. However, not all tours are equal, and there are several things you should consider before booking a Blue Cave Croatia trip.
Blue Cave tours usually last around 10 hours and can get expensive, costing an average of €130 per person for a group tour, and even more for private or luxury tours. When choosing a tour operator, it is important to do your research upfront. I always recommend booking online because it allows you to make sure that you are booking with a reputable and officially registered tour provider. Moreover, you can check the exact itinerary, read customer reviews, and compare prices.
To make the selection process easier for you, I have hand-picked several Blue Cave Tours from Split, Trogir, and Hvar that have excellent reviews, provide a good itinerary, and offer the best value for money.
Blue Cave Tour From Split
Ready for an island-hopping experience like no other? Set sail on this 5 island speedboat tour from Split and explore five stunning islands on this small-group boat tour. You’ll go from Split to Hvar before getting up close to the must-sees, including Bisevo’s Blue Cave and Hvar Town, as well as lesser-known gems such as Stiniva Cove on Vis Island. With a maximum of 12 travelers on board, you can rest assured that you’ll have the chance to explore in peace and privacy. You won’t even have to worry about bringing your own gear – snorkel equipment and Wi-Fi are provided by an experienced crew on this Blue Cave trip from Split.
Blue Cave Tour From Trogir
Staying in the city of stone? Join this Trogir Blue Cave Tour and witness the best that the Croatian coast has to offer. On this full-day speedboat excursion, you’ll get to visit five stunning islands including Hvar, Ravnik, Budikovac, Vis and Biševo. Your skipper will take you to explore the Blue Cave, visit the historic town of Hvar, and allow plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling in Stiniva Cove. Plus, the small group size on this Blue Cave trip from Trogir guarantees extra personalized, friendly and professional service.
Blue Cave Tour From Hvar
Take a full-day Blue Cave Croatia tour from Hvar on a speedboat to explore the highlights of Vis and Pakleni Islands. Your small-group skipper will provide personalized insights as you cruise along the coast and admire the beautiful island landscapes. This tour includes must-see attractions including the mesmerizing Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Stiniva Cove. You’ll also have the chance to swim, snorkel and sunbathe at amazing beaches like the flower-covered strand of Palmizana other their Croatian hidden gems!
Blue Cave Tour From Dubrovnik
If you are looking to go to Blue Cave Bisevo from Dubrovnik, I am sad to inform you that there are no daily group tour operators that offer this type of trip. To access the famous Blue Cave in Croatia, you would first need to get from Dubrovnik to one of the departure locations above (Split, Trogir, Hvar or Vis) and then join an organized tour to the Blue Cave.
However, you can get a similar experience near Dubrovnik at the Kolocep Blue Cave. This cave is located on Koločep, one of the islands that make up the Elafiti Archipelago that stretches northwest of Dubrovnik. This small group tour will take you on a 4-hour adventure to three natural sea caves in the area, one of which is called the Blue Cave. It is one of the rare blue caves that you can actually swim in, making it a super unique experience! Your tour guide on this trip also provides snorkeling gear so that you can enjoy the underwater views.
So, while it isn’t possible to visit the Blue Cave of Bisevo from Dubrovnik, you can still get a similar experience by taking a day trip to Koločep’s Blue Cave!
Blue Cave Tours General Advice
Before visiting the Blue Cave with a tour, there are a few things to be aware of:
- Tour Length: Most tours that depart from Split or Trogir are around 10 hours long. Hvar is closer to the Blue Cave, so tours from there tend to last around 8 hours (this also means that Blue Cave tours from Hvar usually cost less).
- Who It’s For: Blue Cave tours are suitable for adults and are family friendly, so you can rest assured that kids will have an amazing time on this day trip. However, the tours are not suitable for infants or toddlers.
- Swimming in the Blue Cave: Swimming in the Blue Cave is not possible, however you should still wear your swimsuit as all tours stop at swimming spots and beaches during the trip!
- Lunch: Most tours do not include lunch in the price of the trip, but there will be places to stop and eat during the day.
- Water: Usually, tours will provide bottled water, but it’s a good idea to bring your own so that you can stay hydrated while out in the sun all day
Blue Cave in Croatia: Final Thoughts
The Blue Cave will seriously blow your mind when you see how electric the water looks. The tours inside the cave itself may only last up to 15 minutes, but those 15 minutes will live in your memory forever! Not to mention the adventure you’ll embark on to get there and the wind in your hair, zipping across the water on a speed boat.
Just be sure to do your research and book your Blue Cave tour online for the best experience.
Still need help planning your trip to Croatia? Request a custom Croatia itinerary!
Blue Cave Croatia FAQs
Is Blue Cave Croatia worth it?
Yes! Visiting the Blue Cave in Croatia is totally worth it. Even though you only actually spend 5 minutes inside the actually cave, the experience is supernatural and unlike anything you’ve seen before. Plus, getting there is an adventure in itself.
Can you swim in the Blue Cave Croatia?
No, it is not possible to swim in the Blue Cave in Croatia.
How do I get to the Blue Cave in Croatia?
The only way to get to the Croatia Blue Cave is by boat with an official Blue Cave Tour operator departing from Split, Trogir, Hvar, Vis, or Dubrovnik.
How deep is Blue Cave Croatia?
The Blue Cave in Croatia is 12 meters (39 feet) deep.
Croatia Travel Guide
💸 What is the currency in Croatia?
As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia).
🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia?
Croatian is the official language of Croatia.
🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance?
10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it. You never know what can happen on the road (like that time I had to go to urgent care in Thailand for a severe case of dehydration). Luckily I had SafetyWing insurance that covered my bill. Their average plan is $42 for 28 days – that’s $1.50 a day to enjoy peace of mind…just get it. Plus you can adjust your length of coverage to your specific dates of travel, so you could be paying even less than that!
📱 Will my phone work in Croatia?
Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo. Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia!
🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations?
For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights?
I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.
🚗 Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia?
Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here)
💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia?
Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink, so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! (Read more)
🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia?
Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.
