From Vis: Speedboat tour – Vis, Bievo & Blue Cave (shared)

If you’re planning to visit Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and want to experience the natural beauty of Vis island, a shared speedboat tour like this offers an exciting, flexible way to see some of the area’s highlights. This particular trip, offered by NEMO – Vis, takes you around the island with stops at famous sites like the Blue Cave, Stiniva Beach, and the Green Cave, while also giving you ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up scenic vistas.

What I find appealing about this tour is the combination of professional local guides and a well-equipped boat that promises comfort and safety. The reviews highlight Luka, the skipper, as someone who makes the experience memorable through his extensive knowledge and friendly manner. One thing I particularly like is the option to buy cave tickets separately, giving you the freedom to visit or skip the caves—something that adds a layer of flexibility many travelers appreciate.

However, a consideration worth noting is that the tour is quite full with a limited group size of 10 participants—meaning it can be popular, and spots may fill up fast. Also, the cave entrances are paid separately, which could be an extra cost, but it allows you to decide whether those visits are worth it for you. This tour offers fantastic value for those eager to explore Vis’s coast in just one day, especially if you enjoy boat rides with authentic local insights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic local guidance: Luka and other guides are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge about Vis and its hidden spots.
• Flexible cave visits: Tickets for Blue and Green Caves are purchased separately, giving you control over whether to go inside.
• Multiple scenic stops: From beaches and caves to viewpoints, the itinerary offers a varied experience with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities.
• Comfortable boat experience: The boats, with modern equipment and sun decks, make long days on the water enjoyable and safe.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, which means more personal attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Value for money: At $102 per person for 6.5 hours, considering the stops, equipment, and guided service, this tour offers strong value.

Exploring Vis Island from the Water: A Deep Dive

If you’re looking to see the true essence of Vis, this speedboat tour hits some of the most striking spots in a single day. I’ll walk you through what you can expect, what makes this trip stand out, and some tips to get the most from your experience.

Starting the Day: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins early, with pickup inside Vis marina, making logistics straightforward. The boat, described as Bat Arctic 745 or RIS Marine Scorpio 300, is equipped with everything you need — Bimini shade, a sun deck, and a sea ladder for easy swimming. The professional skipper, Luka, or another guide, will steer you through the crystal-clear waters, sharing stories and insights along the way.

The group is limited to 10 guests, which means it’s not overcrowded, and you’ll have a more personalized experience. Plus, the quick check-in process and the “skip the line” entry for caves add to the convenience. For a traveler who values comfort and an intimate atmosphere, this small-group setup is ideal.

The Itinerary: A Well-Rounded Island Tour

The route is thoughtfully planned to balance scenic cruising with active stops. The day kicks off with a visit to the military tunnel in Parja Bay, an intriguing historical site that sets the tone for the tour’s blend of natural and man-made sights. Then, you head towards Bievo island for the Blue Cave.

Here’s a key detail: your guide arranges fast-entry tickets for the Blue Cave, bought by the skipper using a special card, so you’ll be in and out quickly—minimizing wait times and maximizing your time inside. The cave itself showcases Croatia’s colorful geology with its mesmerizing, glowing blue waters.

After the cave, the boat takes you to Pritiina Beach for your first swim, snorkel, or just some relaxing on the deck. This stop offers clear water and a peaceful setting perfect for unwinding. Then, you’ll visit Stiniva Beach, a natural marvel famous for its secluded cove and unique shape. The reviews consistently mention how breathtaking these beaches are, with François praising the “great day” and the guide’s attentiveness, especially Luka, who even drops guests off conveniently afterward.

Next, the Green Cave on Ravnik islet offers the rare chance to swim into a cave — a highlight for many. You walk into the Green Cave, marvel at the natural beauty, and take photos before moving on to Budihovac Island for more swimming and relaxing.

Finally, the tour culminates with a visit to Vela Smokova, a sandy beach perfect for dipping into calm waters before heading back to Vis. Along the way, some stops are quick pass-bys, giving you scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities, like the viewpoint stop, which offers a quick but stunning vista of the island’s coast.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Beyond the itinerary, what truly elevates this experience are the authentic insights from guides like Luka. Matthias describes Luka as “a real local who made the tour unforgettable” with his extensive knowledge, friendliness, and humor. This personal touch turns a boat ride into a genuine introduction to Vis — not just a sightseeing tour but a chance to understand the island’s charm.

The scenery is another big draw. The clear waters, steep cliffs, caves, and beaches create picture-perfect moments at every turn. The crystal blue waters at Pritiina and Smokova are frequently highlighted as some of the best swimming spots you’ll find in Dalmatia.

The Cave Visits: Worth the Extra Cost?

Tickets for the Blue Cave and Green Cave are purchased separately. This might seem like an extra hassle, but it’s a smart way to give you control over whether you want to go inside. For many, the Blue Cave’s glow is a bucket-list photo, and with fast entry, your time inside is maximized. The Green Cave offers the thrill of swimming inside, which many reviews mention as a memorable part of the trip.

Keep in mind, the ticket prices are the same as regular tickets, but your skip-the-line entry ensures you avoid long waits—a real plus during the busy summer months.

The Value for Money

At $102 per person for a 6.5-hour excursion that covers multiple stops, guided commentary, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a comfortable boat, this tour is quite a good deal. The inclusions provide convenience and safety, and the variety of stops ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Vis’s coast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, yet active day on the water, with plenty of time for swimming and photo breaks. It suits those eager to see caves, beaches, and scenic viewpoints without renting a boat or arranging separate trips. If you enjoy small groups for a more intimate feel and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this tour will resonate.

However, if you’re not keen on paying extra for cave tickets or prefer self-guided independent exploration, this may feel a bit structured. Also, people with back problems should consider the boat ride’s comfort and duration.

Practical Tips for Your Vis Speedboat Tour

• Bring sunscreen, towels, and sunglasses for comfort during the day.
• Pack snorkeling gear if you want to explore marine life more closely, although masks and snorkels are provided.
• Arrive early for pickup — it’s straightforward and included inside Vis marina.
• If you’re interested in caves, be prepared for additional costs and consider whether you want to visit inside.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for capturing the scenery — the views are spectacular.
• Wear sturdy swimwear and shoes suitable for walking on rocky beaches and caves.
• Remember that the tour is not suitable for those with back problems, given the boat ride and transfers.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour around Vis is a fantastic way to see some of the most stunning spots in a short amount of time. The combination of breathtaking beaches, caves, and scenic viewpoints, along with friendly, knowledgeable guides, makes it a memorable day. The flexibility of cave visits, the high-quality equipment, and the intimate group size all add to the appeal.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local insights — without the hassle of planning multiple trips or renting boats themselves. If you love exploring by water and want to experience Vis’s natural beauty from a comfortable boat with a small group, this tour offers great value and a memorable experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available anywhere inside Vis marina or further along the route, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with starting times available based on your booking.

Are cave tickets included?
No, tickets for visiting the Blue and Green Caves are purchased separately, but your guide helps with fast entry.

What equipment is provided?
Snorkeling masks and snorkels (without fins), bottled water, and safety equipment are included.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best for those without back problems, as it involves boat transfers and some walking on rocky beaches. Children are welcome, but keep in mind the boat ride length.

Can I skip the cave visits?
Yes, you can choose not to enter the caves and simply enjoy the other stops and scenery.

What’s the best time to book?
During high season, tours fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended—especially for the small group size.

If you’re visiting Vis and crave a day of exploring its most iconic spots by water, this speedboat tour is a dependable, enjoyable choice. It combines scenic beauty, authentic local guides, and enough flexibility to tailor your experience—making it a great way to truly appreciate the island’s coastal treasures.