Split or Hvar: excursions on a famous Croatian sailing boat

Thinking about taking a day out on the water while exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast? This tour offers a taste of the classic sailing lifestyle aboard a boat with a storied past, perfect for those looking to combine history, relaxation, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the calm coves of Bra and the Pakleni Islands or the romantic vibe of a sunset cruise, this experience could be just what you need.

We really appreciate how this trip balances traditional charm with plenty of active options—snorkeling gear, SUP, kayaks—plus the chance to enjoy authentic Dalmatian finger food and local white wine. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this isn’t an all-day party; it’s a laid-back, scenic cruise, so if you’re after a lively or high-adrenaline experience, this might feel a bit tame.

Designed for those who love the ocean, stunning views, and a touch of maritime history, this tour suits couples, friends, or anyone eager to see Croatia from the water without a hefty price tag. It’s also flexible enough for those seeking a shorter or private experience—custom overnight tours are available on request.

Key Points

• History and charm: Sail on Croatia’s first boat to circumnavigate the globe.
• All-inclusive: Skipper, fuel, local food, wine, water, snorkeling gear, SUP, and kayaks included.
• Flexible options: Choose from split-day trips or a romantic sunset sail, with private tours on demand.
• Beautiful stops: Visit calm bays on Bra, the dramatic cliffs of Iovo, or the tranquil Pakleni Islands.
• Relaxed pace: Long enough to truly enjoy each location without rushing.
• Great for scenery lovers: Expect stunning sea views and untouched nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the focus on authenticity. The boat itself is a true classic, not a modern charter, but one with a deep maritime history—it’s the first Croatian sailing vessel to sail around the world. That adds a layer of genuine seafaring spirit that’s hard to match on more generic boats.

The crew, including your skipper, is friendly and knowledgeable, often including the fuel cost in the price, which makes budgeting a little easier. The atmosphere is relaxed, perfect for soaking in the sun and the sea air.

The Split, Bra, and Iovo Route

Your day begins in Split, heading towards the island of Bra. The journey takes about an hour, during which you can sit back and enjoy the views. Once you arrive in the peaceful Milna bays of Bra, the calm, crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling or just floating lazily. Reportedly, the waters here are so clear that spotting marine life is quite rewarding.

Many reviews mention the serenity of Bra’s bays—“Perfect for relaxing and floating in the calm sea,” as some put it. The unspoiled scenery is a highlight, and the shallow waters are gentle enough for beginners or those just wanting a laid-back experience.

Next, the boat moves to Iovo, where travelers often choose between visiting Gospa od Prizidnice, a stunning cliffside chapel with panoramic views, or enjoying time at the sandy bay of Kava. Both options offer a memorable swim experience, with reviews praising the natural beauty and tranquility. One traveler remarked, “The last swim at Iovo was unforgettable—surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal waters.”

Return to Split

From Iovo, the boat makes its way back to Split, a short 30-minute sail. This part of the journey lets you reflect on the day and enjoy the cooling sea breeze. Many guests say arriving back in Split feels like coming home after a peaceful escape, with plenty of memories and photos of the untouched coastline.

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The Hvar and Pakleni Islands Route

Alternatively, if you opt for the Hvar experience, your day begins with a morning departure from the lively port of Hvar. The focus here is on relaxation, snorkeling, and exploring two of the best bays: Drilac and Tare.

Drilac is praised for being incredibly peaceful, surrounded by pine forests and rocky shores. It’s a quiet spot, ideal for swimming or just lounging on the boat, with travelers noting it’s a perfect start to a relaxed day.

Tare offers a more secluded vibe—imagine emerald waters and rocky coastlines that feel miles away from busy beaches. Snorkeling here is often highlighted as a highlight, with marine life visible just below the surface. Reviewers frequently mention how refreshing it is to be in a place where time seems to slow down.

This route’s longer duration—eight hours—gives enough time to genuinely enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The scenery, combined with the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or just drift in the water, makes it a favorite for those wanting a peaceful, nature-filled day.

Sunset Sail and Special Routes

For those seeking a romantic finish, the sunset sail from Hvar or Split is a real treat. The boat stops at Kajuni (Marjan) for a late afternoon swim, then cruises along the rugged coastline of Iovo as the sun dips. The sky lights up in pinks and oranges, creating picture-perfect moments.

Many reviews describe this as “a magical evening,” perfect for couples or anyone who appreciates a more tranquil, scenic experience. The twilight views and gentle rocking of the boat make for a memorable ending to a day at sea.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Pricing and What’s Included

The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, traditional Dalmatian finger food, local white wine, and water. Snorkeling gear, kayaks, and SUPs are included, so you have plenty of options for active fun. Considering that food, drinks, and equipment are part of the package, it offers good value—especially since the boat itself is a historic vessel with a story.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 8 hours, with flexible start times depending on the route chosen. It’s a private group, which means more personalized attention and fewer strangers. This setup makes it especially appealing for couples or small groups who prefer intimate experiences.

What to Bring

To fully enjoy the trip, pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. The stops for swimming and snorkeling are the main attractions, so come prepared to get in the water and stay comfortable.

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-oriented, the relaxed pace and calm waters make it suitable for most age groups. If you have small children, just consider their comfort with boat time and water activities.

Cancellation and Payment

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with a pay-later option. This approach gives you peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Overall Impression and Who It’s Best For

This Croatian sailing experience offers a relaxed, scenic journey through some of the Dalmatian coast’s most beautiful spots. The charm of sailing on a historic vessel combined with the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters makes it a special way to connect with the sea and nature. The focus on authentic scenery, excellent amenities, and flexible options makes it a strong choice for travelers who value quality time on the water over high-energy activities.

While it’s not a party boat, it’s certainly a crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves stunning views, peaceful bays, and a taste of maritime history. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a romantic getaway, friends seeking a day of relaxation, or anyone interested in a more genuine, less commercialized Croatian experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour’s calm waters and relaxed pace make it suitable for most age groups, but small children should be comfortable on a boat and in water.

What’s included in the price?
Skipper, fuel, traditional Dalmatian finger food, local white wine, water, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and SUPs are included.

Can I customize the route or book a private tour?
Yes, private group options and custom overnight tours are available on demand, making it flexible for special occasions.

How long does each route last?
Both the Split-Bra-Iovo route and the Hvar-Pakleni Islands trip last around 8 hours, giving plenty of time at each stop.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Comfortable clothes for being on deck are also recommended.

Is the departure from Split or Hvar?
You can choose based on your stay—either starting from Split or from Hvar for the package that suits your itinerary best.

What’s the boat like?
It’s a true classic Croatian sailing vessel, rich in history, offering an authentic maritime experience rather than a modern motorized boat.

If you’re after a peaceful day exploring Croatia’s coast, combining scenic views with a touch of history and water fun, this tour hits the right notes. It’s not about high-speed thrills but about truly soaking in the natural beauty of the Dalmatian islands aboard a vessel that’s part of Croatia’s maritime story. Perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: