Hvar and Pakleni Tour with Speedboat Ride from Split or Trogir

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun, exploring charming towns, and cruising along the Croatian coast, the Hvar and Pakleni Islands tour offers a compelling way to do it. While we haven’t experienced this tour firsthand, based on reviews and the official itinerary, it’s clear that this trip packs in a lot of the best Croatia has to offer—beautiful scenery, cultural highlights, and a splash of adventure—all in about nine hours.

Two things that stand out for us are the emphasis on water-based sightseeing and the small-group vibe, which usually means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. However, a notable consideration is the boat’s speed and size, which some travelers have found a bit uncomfortable, especially if you’re sensitive to rougher rides.

This tour aligns well with travelers who want a comprehensive day experiencing Hvar’s sunny charm, a taste of local life, and a splash of island fun. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and a lively yet manageable schedule. If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing with a bit of beach relaxation, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience
• Includes a speedboat ride for a fun, scenic water journey
• Varied stops showcase both cultural highlights and natural beauty
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy water activities like snorkeling and swimming
• Good value considering the number of stops and included snacks
• Limited family-friendly options — minimum age is 5, but consider boat comfort if traveling with young children

Introduction: What to Expect from the Hvar and Pakleni Islands Tour

This 9-hour Hvar and Pakleni Islands tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural stops, and beach fun, all wrapped in a boat adventure. It’s designed for those who love being on the water, want to explore Hvar’s historic charm, and enjoy a bit of relaxation on stunning islands.

What excites us most is how it combines local culture and scenic beauty—walking around Hvar’s sunny streets, visiting iconic sites like Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, and then cooling off with some snorkeling at the Pakleni Islands. Plus, the chance to see everything from the water makes this experience stand out from land-only tours.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat ride can be quite fast, and the vessel smaller, which might impact comfort for some travelers. But for those who don’t mind a bit of a bumpy ride and are eager for a packed day of exploration, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s particularly suited for visitors who prefer small groups and personalized service, rather than large, crowded excursions.

Hvar and Pakleni Islands Tour: An In-Depth Breakdown

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and See

Milna Bay Stop – A Quiet Fishermen’s Village
Your day kicks off with a short stop at Milna, a lovely fishing village on Bra Island. The pace here is relaxed, and it’s a perfect place to enjoy a quick coffee and take in early morning views. It’s a brief 30-minute stop, but enough to get a feel for local life and snap some photos of the calm waters. Many reviews mention this as a peaceful, scenic beginning.

Hvar Town – The Heart of the Island
Next, you’ll hop over to Hvar Island, which is famous for being the sunniest town in Croatia. You’ll have around 3 hours to wander the narrow streets, admire the architecture, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Visiting Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, in particular, offers a glimpse into the town’s history and impressive design—an iconic site that only takes about 20 minutes to explore.

Most travelers appreciate this part of the tour because it’s a chance to see the town at a leisurely pace and indulge in local cuisine (lunch not included, but plenty of good options abound). One reviewer mentioned enjoying the opportunity to stroll around and soak in the sunshine, which is a hallmark of Hvar.

Climb up to Tvrdava Fortica
A highlight for many is the view from Fortica Fortress. It’s a short climb (about 45 minutes, not included in the tour cost) but well worth it for the panoramic views over Hvar. If you’re into photography or simply want to see the town from above, this is a must-do. Be prepared for the climb if you decide to go; the effort is rewarded with stunning vistas.

Pakleni Islands – Swim, Snorkel, Relax
After the cultural sights, it’s time for some fun in the sun. The boat takes you to the Pakleni Islands, a string of small, beautiful islands where you can swim, snorkel, and relax. The two-hour stop is perfect for a quick dip in the clear waters and enjoying the beach bar, which offers cocktails and fresh juice. Many travelers say this is a highlight, especially those who love water activities.

Hula Hula Hvar Beach Bar
Finally, a short visit to Hvar’s famous beach bar allows you to unwind with a cocktail by the sea. It’s a nice way to cool down after swimming and soak in the island vibes. Drinks are not included in the tour, but many find it’s worth splurging a little for that perfect sunset view or refreshing beverage.

The Practicalities of the Tour

Transportation & Group Size
Travel is by small-speedboat, which keeps the experience intimate and flexible. The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which means you’re likely to get more personalized service and less waiting around. The boats are fast—some reviews pointed out that the speed was a little intense, especially on rougher days, so if you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication or consider this factor.

Pricing and Value
At $173.85 per person, the tour offers a solid mix of sights, activities, and convenience. Although it doesn’t include lunch or drinks, snacks are provided, and you get the use of snorkeling equipment. Considering the number of locations, the boat ride, and the guide service, many travelers find it offers fair value. Plus, the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

What’s Not Included
Lunchtime is on your own, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to grab a meal in Hvar or at one of the beach bars. Drinks are also extra, which is typical for tours but worth budgeting for if you want a cocktail or juice.

Weather and Cancellations
The tour is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible in poor conditions. But if it’s canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so no worries there.

What Reviewers Say

One reviewer commented, “Veldig fin tur, anbefaler gjerne, eneste minuset var farten og båten, for stor fart og liten båt, hompet for mye, det var ikke kjekt,” which translates to enjoying the trip except for the boat’s speed and size. That’s something to keep in mind if boat comfort is a priority for you.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want to see Hvar’s highlights, and love water activities like snorkeling and swimming. It’s great for those who prefer small groups and a more personal touch. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with a mix of culture, nature, and beach relaxation, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, if comfort on a smaller boat or long boat rides are concerns, or if you prefer a more leisurely, land-based exploration, you might want to consider alternative options. Also, families with very young children might want to evaluate the boat ride’s comfort and speed.

Final Thoughts

This Hvar and Pakleni Islands tour offers a compelling way to experience some of Croatia’s most beloved spots in a single day. It’s especially appealing for water lovers, cultural explorers, and those wanting a small, intimate group experience. The combination of scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and time on beautiful islands makes it a well-rounded choice for a sunny Croatian adventure.

While the boat’s speed and size might be a downside for some, most travelers seem to find the experience enjoyable and worth the price. The included stops and snacks add value, and the flexibility with cancellations provides peace of mind.

If you’re craving a lively yet manageable day out on the water, exploring Hvar’s streets and relaxing on islands, this tour could be just the thing to make your Croatian trip memorable.

FAQs about the Hvar and Pakleni Islands Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years old, making it suitable for most families. Just keep in mind that boat comfort and speed might be a consideration for very young children.

How long is the boat ride?
The total tour lasts about 9 hours, including water stops and sightseeing. The actual boat rides are relatively quick but can vary depending on conditions.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to eat in Hvar or enjoy snacks and drinks at the beach bar, but you should plan to bring or buy your own lunch.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, and comfortable clothing. Don’t forget water shoes if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations, but you’ll be offered alternative dates or a full refund if that happens.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.

How big is the tour group?
The maximum size is 10 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience with personalized service.

What if I don’t like boat rides?
Given the boat’s speed and size, if you’re sensitive to rougher rides or prefer calmer waters, this might not be the best choice. Consider your comfort with faster boats before booking.

The Hvar and Pakleni Islands speedboat tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Croatian coast, blending cultural sites, scenic water views, and island relaxation. It’s a solid pick for those who want to experience the highlights efficiently and enjoy a bit of adventure along the way.