Hvar: Red Rocks, Hvar Bays, & Pakleni Private Speedboat Tour — An Honest Look
Looking to experience Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast from a different vantage point? This private speedboat tour from Hvar offers a chance to feel like a local, zipping around the crystal-clear waters, stopping at picturesque spots, and customizing your day along the way. It’s perfect if you crave a flexible, intimate way to explore the islands without the crowds or rigid schedules.
What really catches our eye about this experience is its full-day flexibility and the all-inclusive nature—fuel, gear, bottled water, and a professional skipper are covered, so you’re only paying for your extras like food or souvenirs. Also, the chance to jump off Red Rocks’ dramatic cliffs or snorkel in the hidden lagoons sounds pretty tempting.
However, keep in mind that this tour isn’t suited for very young children or those with mobility issues because of the boat’s nature and the activities involved. The tour typically lasts between 6 to 8 hours, making it a full but relaxed day out. If you’re someone who loves a combination of adventure, scenery, and a bit of personalized flexibility, this could be just right.
This experience seems ideal for couples, groups of friends, or even small families who want a personalized taste of Croatia’s gorgeous waters without the hassle of large tours or crowded boats.
Key Points
- Private & Flexible: Your itinerary is customized daily, with input from your skipper.
- All-Inclusive Pricing: Fuel, gear, bottled water, safety equipment—everything is included.
- Multiple Highlights: Swim in lagoons, cliff-jump at Red Rocks, visit hidden caves, and more.
- Comfort & Convenience: Quality snorkel gear, Bluetooth speakers, charging ports, and an ice-box make the trip enjoyable.
- Duration: Ranges from 6 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences.
- Great for those wanting a personalized experience with a small group (up to 8).
What’s It Like on the Water?
We’re talking about hopping aboard a sleek, white 6.8-meter speedboat with a 150 HP engine. Your skipper, dressed in a navy Arta shirt, will guide you through a day tailored to your wishes. The safety briefing sets the tone for a smooth, worry-free ride.
From the start, you’ll feel the thrill of being on the water, but also the comfort of knowing fuel, gear, and bottled water are all part of the package. If you’ve ever been on a boat with Bluetooth speakers and phone-charging ports, you’ll appreciate the modern touches that keep your day fun and easy.
The route is flexible — you tell your skipper if you want more time swimming or snorkeling, or if you fancy a sunset photo stop. Your skipper’s familiarity with the area means you can also choose to include or skip certain spots based on the weather, your mood, or your interests.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Milna
Exploring the Pakleni Islands
This chain of islands is a highlight for many travelers. We loved the way the tour allows you to swim and snorkel in the lagoons, with gear provided. Jerolims’ sandy Kordovon Beach is a perfect spot for a quick dip, and the Drilca Channel offers clear water for snorkelers.
Picture drifting along the water, palm-lined shores in view, feeling the sun and salt on your skin. The chance to relax on secluded beaches or paddle into tiny caves makes for memorable moments. Plus, since the route is flexible, you can stay longer in your favorite spots or move on if you’re eager to explore more.
Red Rocks and Cliff-Jumping
One of the tour’s stars is the Red Rocks (Crvene Stijene)—imposing crimson cliffs that rise sharply from the sea. We loved the idea of cliff-jumping here; the waters below look inviting and safe enough for a quick leap. You can also paddle into a hidden sea cave beneath the cliffs, adding a sense of discovery to your day.
The scenery here is striking, with bold red hues contrasting against the lush greenery and blue sea. Many reviews mention how breathtaking this area is, and the opportunity to get right up close makes it especially worthwhile.
Hidden Coves and Optional Stops
If time allows, your skipper may suggest an extra stop at Sveta Nedjeljas underwater wine cave. It’s a quirky feature, where you can sample a local Plavac wine (if you wish) in a setting that’s just a little different from your usual beach visit.
Another lovely option is dropping by pebble beaches like Dubovica and Milna, known for their calm, clear waters and scenic surroundings. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose to linger or move on—perfect if you want to keep your day relaxed or packed with activity.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s the Experience Worth?
At $647 for a group of up to 8, the cost breaks down to roughly $80 per person, which is quite reasonable for a full day of private exploration. When you consider that fuel, gear, skipper, and bottled water are included, it’s a straightforward way to get a personalized sailing adventure without hidden fees.
For the quality of the equipment, the modern boat, and the flexibility offered, many travelers find this to be a good value. Plus, with small groups, you’re more likely to get your own pace and avoid the crowds typical of larger tours.
Practical Considerations
- What to bring: Swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen. The boat has an ice-box with water and juice, so no need to carry too much.
- Duration: Expect 6-8 hours depending on your wishes. This makes it a substantial day but not overly tiring.
- Booking: You can reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
- Meeting Point: The boat departs from a fuel station pier near the stadium in Hvar, a short walk from the main square. If needed, they can pick you up from central hotels or other points in Hvar Bay.
Who’s This Tour For?
If you love personalized small-group adventures and want to explore Croatia’s waters at your own pace, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for those who enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling and are comfortable on a boat for several hours.
Not suitable for very young children under three or those with mobility issues, given the boat’s setup and activity nature. It’s also better suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of sun and salt — a perfect way to relax and soak up the scenery.
Final Thoughts
This private speedboat tour from Hvar offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and personalized exploration. It’s a fantastic option if you want to see some of Croatia’s most iconic sights, from the fiery Red Rocks to the tranquil lagoons of the Pakleni Islands, all at your own pace.
The flexibility, inclusive pricing, and quality gear make it a standout choice for small groups who want a hassle-free, memorable day on the water. If you’re after an intimate, tailored experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take photos, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.
It’s a good pick for travelers who prioritize comfort and customization and aren’t fussed about a long day on the boat. Just pack your sunscreen, some snacks, and your sense of adventure — the Croatian coast awaits.
Hvar: Red Rocks, Hvar Bays, & Pakleni Private Speedboat Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, mainly because of the boat’s setup and activities involved. If traveling with older kids comfortable on boats, it can be a fun family outing.
What is included in the price?
Fuel, a professional skipper, quality snorkel gear, a swim ladder, Bluetooth speakers, phone-charging ports, bottled water, and safety equipment are all included. There are no hidden surcharges.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the route is flexible. You can tell the skipper if you’d like more swim time, a particular stop, or a sunset photo pause.
How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on your wishes and the weather conditions.
Where do I meet the boat?
Meet your skipper 10 minutes before departure at the small fuel station pier in Hvar, near the stadium and INA petrol station. The exact location is Janka Zazjala 18.
Can they pick me up from other locations?
Yes, within Hvar Town Bay, they can collect you from hotels or other piers like Bonj, Amfora, or Delfin, provided it’s reachable by boat and arranged in advance.
Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
Are drinks and food included?
No, food and alcoholic drinks are not included. You can bring your own snacks or purchase locally if desired.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, snacks, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. The boat provides water and juice, so you’re covered there.
Is the boat comfortable and modern?
Yes, the boat is a sleek 6.8 meters with modern amenities, offering a comfortable ride with safety and entertainment features.
If you’re after a personalized, scenic day on the Croatian waters, this private speedboat tour might just be your perfect match. It combines adventure with relaxation, wrapped in a flexible package that lets you craft your perfect day.
You can check availability for your dates here:
