Planning a day out on the water around Hvar? You’re in luck. We’ve gathered detailed impressions of a highly-rated private tour that promises to take you to some of the most beautiful spots along Croatia’s southern coast. Whether you’re keen on swimming in crystal-clear bays, exploring secret caves, or enjoying a glass of local wine, this trip ticks a lot of boxes.
What we really appreciate about this experience? First, the personalized attention with a private skipper who makes each stop feel special. Second, the variety of stops — from scenic beaches to lively spots on the Pakleni Islands. That said, a potential consideration is fuel costs, which are extra, so keep that in mind when budgeting.
This tour will suit travelers who love a relaxed day on the water but want a good mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local culture. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate personalized service and flexible schedules. If you’re after an authentic, intimate experience that avoids the crowds, this one’s worth considering.
Key Points
- Private tour for up to 8 people offers a tailored experience.
- Multiple stops including beaches, caves, and scenic cliffs, providing variety.
- Expert skipper ensures safety and local knowledge.
- Includes water, safety gear, and insurance—fuel and extras are additional.
- Customizable to your preferences, with options for wine tasting or lunch.
- Departure from Hvar waterfront at 10:30 am, returning by 6 pm.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Starting with what you get: a speedboat rental, an experienced skipper, water, travel insurance, diving masks, and a refrigerator with ice. All these amenities mean your day is comfortable and safe, and you don’t need to worry about bringing your own safety gear or drinks. The skipper’s local expertise is a big plus—expect to learn about the area and get insider tips.
On the flip side, fuel isn’t included in the base price and costs around 50-60 euros, paid after the trip. You’ll also need to cover food and drinks, which you can bring on board or buy at stops. If you want wine tasting or a sit-down lunch, those are extra. Towels, sunscreen, and windproof jackets (if it’s cooler) are things to bring along, especially if you plan to lounge or swim.
Planning more time in Sveta Nedjelja? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day on the Water
The tour kicks off at 10:30 am from the Hvar waterfront, a convenient starting point. Expect the skipper to meet you in front of the Nautica Bar—an easy landmark. The day is flexible but well-structured to cover the most breathtaking spots.
Green Lagoon Bay and Snorkeling
Your first stop is Green Lagoon Bay, a lively seaside resort with waters so clear you’ll want to jump right in. The calm, blue water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, so bring your gear. The reviews highlight how much guests loved the snorkeling here, describing it as “fascinating” and “enchanting.”
Zarae Beach and Natural Shelters
Next, you’ll head towards Zarae Beach, known for its natural stone shelters. This spot is a bit unusual but great for exploring and relaxing in a natural setting. If you love unique beaches, this one will catch your eye.
More Great Tours NearbySacred Dubovica Bay and Hidden Caves
One of the more spectacular stops is near Dubovica, a bay famed for its stunning beach and peaceful setting. The tour includes snorkeling in a nearby hidden cave, giving you that sense of discovering something special. The reviews mention how the crystal-clear waters here add a magical touch to the experience.
Cliff Jumping at Red Cliffs
For the adrenaline junkies, there’s cliff jumping from the Red Cliffs—a highlight that gets the most buzz. The cliffs rise more than 20 meters from the ocean floor, offering a thrill and a chance to truly feel the power of nature. It’s a perfect photo op and gets rave reviews for its excitement.
Luia Bay for Relaxation
After the thrills, you’ll visit Luias Bay, with its pebbly beaches and shady pine trees. It’s the ideal spot to unwind, swim, or simply soak up the scenery. The calm waters and lush surroundings make this a leisurely break.
Wine Tasting at Plenkovi Winery
For those interested in local flavors, the tour includes a stop at Plenkovi Winery in Sv. Nedjelja—a center for fine red wines. You can enjoy a wine tasting experience here, though it comes at an extra cost. The region’s people are mainly engaged in viticulture, so it’s a genuine taste of local life.
Final Stop: Pakleni Islands
The tour wraps up with a visit to your choice of spots on the Pakleni Islands — Palmiana, Mlini, or Drilca. These are perfect for lunch at local restaurants like Bacchus or Mamato, or for a relaxing drink at Laganini Lounge Bar. You can tailor this part of the trip to your preferences, making it a perfect way to end a day on the water.
Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback
Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. One reviewer shared, “Franco was professional, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable,” highlighting the importance of good guidance. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, which makes a difference during a full-day trip.
The reviews also praise the variety of stops: “We visited beautiful secluded coves and swam in crystal clear water,” and “The skipper was a great tour guide and gave all his bests.” The inclusion of water, safety gear, and ice keeps things easy, and the ability to customize the day makes it feel more personal.
However, some mention that fuel costs are additional, which means you’ll want to budget extra for that. The price of $759 per group up to 8 people offers good value considering the exclusivity, personalized service, and the number of stops.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after a relaxed but adventure-packed day on the water, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for small groups or couples who want a private experience and personalized attention. It’s also great for wine lovers or those eager to explore lesser-known spots that you wouldn’t easily find on your own.
It’s less ideal if you’re pregnant, a non-swimmer, prone to seasickness, or if you prefer rigid schedules—this is a flexible, scenic trip with plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy the environment.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This private tour offers a combination of stunning scenery, personalized service, and varied activities. It’s a fantastic way to see multiple highlights of Hvar’s coastline without the hassle of coordinating transport or navigating alone. The reviews speak highly of guides’ knowledge, the boat’s comfort, and the overall value.
For travelers who love a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor, this experience really hits the mark. It’s particularly good if you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple looking for intimacy and flexibility.
While the additional costs for fuel and extras can add up, the overall experience—with its beautiful stops and knowledgeable guides—makes it a worthwhile option. If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and fun day on the water, this tour is definitely worth considering.
From Hvar: Private tour of Red Rocks & Pakleni Islands
“The boat was great! Marko and Franco were great guides, and gave great recommendations for where to eat and what to see! A very relaxing day, with …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for those comfortable with boat trips, and not recommended for pregnant women or non-swimmers. It’s also not suitable for people prone to seasickness.
What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, and sunscreen. Bringing your own protective cream and windproof jackets (if off-season) can make the day more comfortable.
Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the final stop on the Pakleni Islands can be chosen based on your preferences. The tour is flexible to some extent.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased at local restaurants or brought along. Wine tasting at the winery is also optional and extra.
How long is the tour?
The trip departs at 10:30 am and ends around 6 pm, giving you a full day of exploring.
What’s the maximum number of people?
Up to 8 guests per group, making for an intimate experience.
Are drinks provided?
Yes, water and diving masks are included, and there’s a refrigerator with ice. You can bring your own drinks on board.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, check weather conditions before departure and follow the skipper’s instructions for safety.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind if plans change.
This private boat tour around Hvar offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxing stops, all wrapped in the comfort of a personalized experience. Whether you’re seeking a fun, scenic day with friends or a romantic escape, it’s a solid option to consider.
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