Why We’ve Been Using the Same RIB Boat for Blue Cave Tours for Almost Two Decades

When I started organizing Blue Cave tours from Hvar in 2008, I was already using the same type of RIB boat that we rely on today. At the time, this decision raised a lot of eyebrows.

I clearly remember local fishermen in Stari Grad telling me that with that boat I wouldn’t even pass the first critical cape, let alone reach the Blue Cave. The sea, however, had a different opinion.

That very year, we successfully completed what became the first organized Blue Cave tour from distant islands, setting a new standard for sea excursions in Dalmatia.

The First Tours That Changed Everything

In the beginning, the boat was used primarily for our Three Caves Tour, and later for the longer and more demanding Blue Cave Tour.

The boat’s maritime performance proved to be exceptional. Although we were then using the Lolivul 5.9, guests responded extremely positively. Many described the ride in rougher seas as a “rollercoaster experience without hard impacts” — exciting, yet surprisingly comfortable.

Today we operate a slightly larger model, the Lolivul 7.4, but the philosophy, design principles, and performance standards remain the same.

A RIB Boat Designed for Rough Sea Conditions

The boat’s manufacturer is Mate Arapov, a Croatian Olympic sailor with deep experience in demanding sea conditions. The first boat he designed was not intended for tourism at all — it was built as a tender for sailing regattas.

Regattas often take place in strong winds and rough seas, which meant the tender had to be:

extremely stable
predictable in waves
safe for crew and equipment

After testing dozens of RIB boats during regattas around the world, Mate made a clear decision about how a proper RIB should be built — and he got it right.

For our operation, he produced the first commercial passenger RIB, certified by Germanischer Lloyd, one of the most respected maritime classification societies in the world.

Built Specifically for the Adriatic Sea

The Adriatic Sea is unique. Due to the proximity of islands and mainland, waves cannot grow long and smooth like ocean swells. At the same time, strong winds constantly try to generate them.

The result is what sailors know well: short, sharp, steep waves — often the most uncomfortable and demanding conditions for small boats.

Our RIB was designed specifically for the critical wave length, frequency, and amplitude typical of Dalmatian waters. This is one of the main reasons why our Blue Cave tours remain comfortable and safe, even when conditions are less than perfect.

Why Seating Design Matters More Than You Think

Following the manufacturer’s recommendation, the rear bench seating is placed in the part of the boat with the least vertical movement.

The remaining guest seats are jockey seats arranged in two rows, which are essential for safe navigation in rough seas.

Unlike standard bench seating:

the body cannot move uncontrollably left, right, or upward
knees absorb vertical motion
hands remain firmly on the grab handles

This design significantly reduces physical strain and eliminates the risk of injuries, even in choppy conditions.

The skipper is positioned at the front of the boat, where vertical motion is most pronounced. This allows the skipper to precisely adjust speed and trim, ensuring maximum comfort for both guests and crew.

18 Years Without a Single Injury

A ride on this type of RIB is as comfortable as sea conditions allow — even in extreme situations and regardless of micro-locations along the route.

In 18 years of operation, we have never had a single injury on board. This is the result of:

a properly designed and dimensioned boat
professionally trained and experienced skippers
clear safety instructions
guests who listen and follow guidance

Boat dimensions and maritime performance are especially important for the Three Caves Tour, where we often navigate narrow passages and approach wild, untouched coastlines. The same performance standards are equally essential for the longer Blue Cave Tour, where reliability throughout the entire day is crucial.