Hvar, Bra & Pakleni islands cruise with lunch & drinks from Split & Trogir

Exploring Croatia’s Splendors: A Deep Dive into the Hvar, Bra & Pakleni Islands Cruise

If you’re eyeing a day out on the water in Croatia, this Hvar, Bra & Pakleni Islands cruise with lunch and drinks offers a tempting blend of scenic views, cultural sights, and beachside fun. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to pack in a lot in just one day—and with a decent price point, it seems like a great deal on paper.

What draws us to this experience? First, the opportunity to visit three of Croatia’s most renowned islands—Hvar, Brač, and Pakleni—without the hassle of arranging multiple trips. Second, the included gourmet lunch and unlimited drinks on board make it feel like a true getaway. But, of course, there are some things worth considering, like the size of the group and the possibility of schedule changes due to weather or other factors.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, social day on the water—families, couples, or groups of friends who want a taste of Croatia’s beautiful islands with minimal planning. If you’re after a more intimate or personalized experience, it might be worth exploring smaller, private options. Still, for most travelers, this tour hits a good balance of value and fun.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• All-in-one day: Covers three major islands, saving you time and effort.
• Great value: Price includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and stand-up paddleboards.
• Guided experience: An English-speaking crew makes navigation and communication straightforward.
• Flexible activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddling, or just lounging—your day, your choice.
• Weather-dependent: The route may change if conditions aren’t suitable, so flexibility is key.
• Group size: Up to 130 travelers, which can feel crowded but also lively and social.

What to Expect from the Cruise

This tour offers a full day of island-hopping, with a carefully planned itinerary that takes you to some of Croatia’s most enticing spots. The experience begins early, with a departure from Split or Trogir around 8:00 am, so you’ll want to be prepared for an active day and arrive at the meeting point half an hour early.

The first stop is the Pakleni Islands, a chain of beautiful wooden isles known for their calm lagoons and crystal-clear waters. The reviews highlight these as perfect spots for swimming and snorkeling, with many guests noting how relaxing and picturesque the surroundings are. The tour includes gear for snorkeling (with a small deposit) and inflatables, so you’ll have plenty of options to enjoy the sea. Many visitors mention the inflatable options and paddleboards as fun ways to extend your time in the water.

Next, you’ll head to Hvar, a lively town famous for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views. You’ll have about two hours here to explore on your own—visiting the fortress for panoramic views or wandering through the charming streets. The reviews note that Hvar feels like a Croatian version of St. Tropez, with a stylish vibe and plenty of photo opportunities. The stop includes free time for sightseeing, shopping, or just soaking up the local scene.

The final stop is Brač Island, specifically Olife Beach Club in Milna. This spot offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing after the busy day of sightseeing. The beach club is surrounded by unspoiled nature, and guests often comment on how beautiful and peaceful the setting is. It’s worth noting that drinks here are extra, so plan accordingly if you want to indulge.

The Included Amenities and Activities

Part of what makes this cruise stand out is the inclusiveness. For around $86, you get:

• An onboard lunch featuring beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers with French fries. Many reviews mention the quality of the food, with some saying the beef burger was “ok” but the vegetarian and tuna options less so.
• Unlimited soda, juice, water, and wine during the day, making it easy to stay hydrated and enjoy a glass with your meal.
• Snorkeling equipment, inflatables, and paddleboards are provided, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy the sea. A small deposit of $10 is required for the snorkeling gear, which is fairly common.
• A friendly, English-speaking crew ensures you won’t be left guessing what’s happening or feeling out of the loop.

What Travelers Love About It

Many reviews praise the helpfulness and bubbly attitude of the crew. One guest shared how the team even stepped in to help a young girl being harassed, which shows genuine care. The scenic boat ride, especially with the music playing and the wind in your hair, feels like a proper escape. Guests also mention the variety of activities, from swimming to paddleboarding, as a highlight.

The Downsides to Keep in Mind

A common concern is crowding onboard. With up to 130 travelers, some found the boat a bit cramped, especially during peak season. One reviewer compared it to being on an overcrowded bus, which might be less comfortable if you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience.

Weather can also throw a wrench in plans. Several reviews mention cancellations or route changes due to rough seas or wind, sometimes cutting short stops at Pakleni Islands or skipping them altogether. While safety always comes first, it’s worth preparing for the possibility of a slightly altered day.

The Itinerary – Breaking Down the Day

Stop 1: Pakleni Islands (1.5 hours)

The tour kicks off with a scenic cruise to this chain of wooden islands, known for their secluded beaches and clear blue waters. Guests rave about the swimming opportunities here, with some saying it’s the perfect way to relax after an early start. The shallow lagoons make them ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around and soaking up the sun.

Reviewers mention the beauty of the setting and how peaceful it is. Many guests appreciate the flexibility, as they can choose how long to swim or relax on the boat. The provided gear, inflatables, and paddleboards give you options for extra fun.

Stop 2: Hvar (2 hours)

Hvar Town is lively and picturesque, with a fortress offering panoramic views of the harbor and beyond. Visitors often take the opportunity to explore independently, grabbing photos, visiting cafes, or shopping for souvenirs. The fortress offers a great photo spot, and the charming streets are perfect for a leisurely wander.

The reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the guides are, making sure everyone gets their time to explore. Some reviewers wish they had more time, but overall, two hours strikes a good balance.

Stop 3: Brač (1.5 hours)

The last stop is at Olife Beach Club in Milna, a quiet stretch of coastline with untouched nature. It’s the ideal place for a final dip, some relaxation, or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings. The beach club offers drinks (not included in the price), so you might want to bring some extra cash if you plan to indulge.

Guests comment on the natural beauty and how peaceful it feels compared to the busier Hvar. It’s a perfect spot for unwinding before heading back to Split or Trogir.

The Practicalities: Timing, Group Size, and Cost

The tour departs at 8:00 am from Split, with check-in at 7:30 am. Trogir travelers should note the early pickup time of around 6:15 am. The group size maxes out at about 130 travelers, which means it’s lively but potentially crowded.

For $86.12 per person, the value is quite fair considering the length of the trip, the included meals, drinks, and activities. Compared to booking separate tours or arranging your own island visits, this package offers a lot of convenience and cost-effectiveness.

The tour lasts around 10 hours, which might seem long but is packed with stops and activities. Expect to be on the water for most of the day, with plenty of opportunities to jump into the sea or relax on deck.

Final Thoughts – Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for travelers looking for a full-value, relaxing day of island-hopping with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing. It’s ideal if you prefer a group experience with a lively atmosphere and appreciate organized, guided excursions.

It’s also perfect if you want a straightforward way to see Croatia’s famous islands without the hassle of planning. The included lunch and drinks make it feel like a real escape, and the scenery doesn’t disappoint.

However, if you’re after a more intimate or private experience, or if you’re sensitive to crowds, you might find this tour a bit too busy. Keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the route, but safety always comes first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While families can enjoy the trip, note that the group size is large and activities are water-based, so children should be comfortable with swimming and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. Extra cash for drinks at the beach club is recommended.

How long are the stops on each island?
You get about 1.5 hours at Pakleni Islands, 2 hours in Hvar, and 1.5 hours at Brač, providing enough time for sightseeing, swimming, or relaxing.

Is there a lunch option I can choose?
Yes, at check-in, you select your lunch: beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger with fries.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather and may be canceled or rerouted if conditions are rough, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited soda, water, juice, and wine are provided during the day. Extra drinks at the beach club are paid separately.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How crowded does it get?
Up to 130 travelers, so it can feel busy but lively. Early booking is recommended to secure your spot and preferred activities.

What happens if the route is changed?
Weather or safety concerns may lead to route adjustments or cancellations, but your safety is the priority.

All in all, this cruise offers a solid, hassle-free way to explore some of Croatia’s most famous islands in one day. Whether you’re after scenic views, swimming, or just a fun boat ride, it’s a trip most will remember—but it’s good to keep expectations realistic about the crowds and schedule flexibility.