Boat Private Day Tour to Hvar and Pakleni Islands from Split

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, this private boat tour to Hvar and Pakleni Islands might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally hopped on this exact trip, the detailed reviews and solid itinerary paint a picture of a pretty lovely experience—especially if you’re into scenic views, crystal-clear waters, and some leisurely island exploring.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines both popular destinations like Hvar, famous for its lively vibe and historic charm, with quieter spots such as the Pakleni Islands, which are perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying a drink. Plus, the fact that it’s private means you’re not stuck with a huge group, making it more flexible and intimate. On the flip side, at roughly $1,200 for a group of up to 11, it’s not the cheapest option out there—so it’s really geared toward those who want a more personalized experience and can justify the cost.

If you’re someone looking for a laid-back, scenic day out, and don’t mind paying a bit extra for exclusivity and comfort, this tour could be a hit. It suits travelers who love beautiful coastlines, enjoy a mix of cultural stops and beach time, and want to experience Croatia from the water with a knowledgeable skipper.

Key Points

• Private tour for a personalized experience, suited for groups up to 11.
• Includes snorkeling gear, towels, a SUP board, and drinks—perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
• Stops at Hvar, Pakleni Islands, and Milna, each offering unique scenery and local charm.
• Flexible itinerary with free time for swimming, lunch, and exploring.
• Cost reflects a more exclusive experience, combining comfort with scenic adventure.
• Excellent reviews highlight a professional skipper and smooth sailing, even in unpredictable weather.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am from Trumbieva obala 3 in Split, a convenient meeting point. The whole trip lasts about eight hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery, explore stops, and relax without feeling rushed. It’s a good length for a full day’s adventure, especially if you’re staying in Split or nearby.

Stop 1: Hvar

The first stop is Hvar, one of Croatia’s most celebrated islands. Known for its stunning harbor, historic walls that date back centuries, and lively waterfront, Hvar offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and culture. We love the idea of taking a gentle walk around the island to see its charming streets, historical sites, and maybe grab a coffee at a waterfront café. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one traveler praising their day with a “beautifully quiet location to relax and swim” after some unexpected weather—so even if the skies aren’t perfect, the island’s peaceful spots shine through.

Stop 2: Pakleni Islands

Next, it’s time to explore the Pakleni Islands, a cluster of around 20 tiny isles and rocks. Described as a “natural beauty” and a “group of isles and rocks,” this stop is perfect for those seeking scenic views, swimming, or just lounging in a secluded spot. With about two hours here, you’ll have time for a swim, perhaps a picnic or snack, and maybe some drinks at one of the popular cocktail bars. We love that the tour includes snorkeling equipment and a SUP board, making it easy to get into the water and see some marine life or just float around.

Stop 3: Milna

The final stop is Milna, a picturesque seaside village on Bra Island. Known as a sailing paradise, Milna offers a charming setting with narrow streets, local wines, and a relaxed vibe. The hour here is just enough to enjoy a coffee or a wine tasting, giving you a taste of local flavors and a moment to unwind before heading back.

What’s Included: Making the Most of Your Day

The tour provides plenty of gear and amenities to help make your day enjoyable, including snorkeling equipment, towels, a paddleboard, and bottled water, soft drinks, fruits, and a bottle of wine. Plus, insurance is covered—so you don’t have to worry about the small stuff.

While the tour includes drinks and snacks, lunch and wine tasting are extras. If you’re a foodie or wine lover, you might want to plan ahead for that, or simply enjoy the free drinks aboard.

Not Included

The main thing missing is lunch—so if you’re hungry after swimming or exploring, you’ll need to bring or buy your own. Also, wine tasting isn’t part of the package, but you’ll get a bottle of local wine to enjoy during the day.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

One reviewer, J_P, summed it up well: “We had the best day with Marin as our skipper! He arrived promptly and the boat was immaculate. We ran into some poor weather unexpectedly but Marin knew exactly what to do and where to go—taking us to a wonderful place to eat and a beautifully quiet location to relax and swim.” This highlights how important a skilled skipper is in making the day smooth and enjoyable, especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Another point worth noting is the boat quality—clean, well-maintained vessels are common in reviews, making the trip more comfortable. The personalized nature of a private tour means you can tailor your stops a bit, and your skipper’s local knowledge can really enhance your day.

Practical Details: Cost, Booking, and Tips

At roughly $1,200 per group, this trip is a bit of an investment but reflects a more exclusive experience—no crowded boat environment, just your friends or family. Booking on average about 37 days in advance suggests it’s popular and worth planning ahead if you want a spot.

The 8-hour duration means you get a good taste of the islands without feeling like you’re rushing. The itinerary is flexible enough to adapt to weather or your preferences.

Weather and Cancellation

Since it’s dependent on good weather, the tour can be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable, but you’ll either get a different date or a full refund. This is reassuring for travelers concerned about weather disruptions.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is ideal if you value a personalized experience with a focus on scenic stops, swimming, and relaxation. It’s well-suited for those who want to explore Croatia’s coast in comfort, with the flexibility to enjoy different islands at your pace.

It’s especially good for people who appreciate nice amenities, a good selection of drinks, and the ability to snorkel or paddleboard. If you’re after a lively party trip, this might not be the right fit, but if you want a peaceful, scenic day at sea, it’s a solid choice.

Price-wise, it’s on the higher end but offers a level of comfort, exclusivity, and customization that many other group tours can’t match.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly. However, if your kids enjoy boats, swimming, and scenic outdoor activities, they could certainly enjoy it. Always check with the provider regarding age restrictions or specific needs.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The tour provides towels, snorkeling gear, and a paddleboard, but extras like snacks or additional drinks are up to you.

Can I customize the stops or the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can usually accommodate your wishes—within reason. If you want more time at a particular island or to skip a stop, just ask in advance.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. It’s best to plan for a flexible schedule.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 37 days ahead, especially during peak season. It’s a good idea to reserve early to secure your preferred date.

What’s the total cost again?
The price is around $1,198.94 for up to 11 people, making it a more premium option for a small group or family.

In the end, this private boat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coast—combining cultural sights, natural beauty, and lots of opportunities to relax. If you’re after a more intimate, customizable day at sea with the comfort of a private vessel, this adventure could be just what you need.