Private Boat Tour from Hvar – Blue and Green cave, Vis, and the Pakleni islands

Discover the Beauty of Croatia’s Coast with a Private Boat Tour from Hvar

If you’re thinking about how to make the most of your time around Hvar, a private boat tour might just be the highlight of your trip. This experience promises a flexible, personalized way to see some of Croatia’s most spectacular sights — from caves to beaches and tiny islands — all aboard a comfortable boat with your own skipper.

What we really like about this tour is how customizable it is; whether you want to spend your time swimming and snorkeling or prefer sightseeing and relaxing, the itinerary can be tailored to your taste. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the guides and the stunning locations visited.

That said, a minor consideration is the price — at around $899 for a group of up to nine people, it’s a bit of an investment. But if you’re traveling with friends or family, the cost per person can be quite reasonable, especially considering the private, no-shared experience you get. This type of tour suits travelers looking for a more intimate, flexible way to explore, and it’s perfect for those who don’t want a cookie-cutter cruise experience.

Key Points

• Highly Personalized: Tailor your day to match your interests, whether that’s swimming, sightseeing, or simply relaxing.
• Expert Skipper: Guides are praised for their professionalism and accommodating attitude.
• Spectacular Sights: Visit must-see spots like the Blue and Green caves, Stiniva Cove, and Budikovac Lagoon.
• Flexible Duration: Ranges from about 3 to 8 hours, allowing you to choose a half-day or full-day adventure.
• All-Inclusive Features: Snorkeling gear, bottled water, and fuel are covered — no hidden costs.
• Additional Costs: Entrance tickets for caves are extra, and lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

An Honest Look at the Experience

Thinking about booking this private boat tour from Hvar? Here’s what you should expect based on the details and what travelers have shared.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Stiniva Cove, famously voted Europe’s most beautiful beach, and for good reason. Surrounded by towering cliffs, it’s a picture-perfect spot for swimming and soaking in the scenery. The dramatic geology alone makes it worth the visit, and the free admission makes it an accessible highlight. You’ll want your camera ready here, as the views are truly breathtaking, especially with the sun bouncing off the water.

Next, the boat heads to Budikovac Island and its renowned Blue Lagoon. This is a favorite for swimmers and snorkelers. The clear, calm waters make it perfect for a relaxing dip, and if you’re into underwater views, the snorkeling gear is included. It’s about a 30-minute stop, giving just enough time to enjoy the serenity and take some memorable photos.

Then, it’s time for a visit to the Palmizana Botanical Garden, one of the prettiest bays in the Pakleni Islands. Here, you can spend around two hours — perfect for a leisurely lunch, with many spots offering local fresh seafood and beautiful views. This stop allows you to enjoy some downtime, whether that’s wandering the gardens or dining al fresco overlooking the water.

Throughout the day, you’ll have opportunities to explore caves and secret spots, including the Blue and Green caves — tickets for these are additional, costing around 8-24 EUR depending on the cave and season. The Green Cave, in particular, surprises visitors with its vibrant color, while the Blue Cave’s shimmering waters are a must-see.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate the knowledge and professionalism of the skippers. One reviewer mentioned their skipper, Vlad, was incredibly accommodating, even securing them a reservation for a nice lunch with a view and good local seafood. That kind of extra touch can turn a good tour into a memorable experience.

Another reviewer shared, “It was a fantastic experience! The skipper was very professional. We had a fabulous boat day!” This kind of praise shows how much people value the personal attention and the ability to customize their day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and fuel, which means you won’t have to worry about those costs. The skipper’s expertise is a key part of the experience, making navigation through busy or tricky spots much easier.

However, cave tickets are extra, and their prices vary between 8 and 24 EUR depending on the season. Lunch is not included, but the stops at Palmizana offer ample opportunities to grab a delicious meal, often recommended by previous guests.

Practicalities: Duration, Cost, and Booking

The tour ranges from 3 to 8 hours, so whether you want a quick jaunt or a full-day adventure, there’s flexibility. Booking well in advance (average is about 57 days ahead) is recommended, especially during peak months. The cost per group is $899.20, which, split among 4-9 people, makes it quite affordable especially considering the private nature of the trip.

The meeting point is easy to find at Trg Sv. Stjepana in Hvar town, and the tour ends back at this spot — making logistics straightforward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat tour is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and personalized experiences. It suits groups of friends or families wanting to avoid crowded, generic boat trips and instead craft their perfect day. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.

It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget, given the cost, but for those willing to splurge for a more intimate, tailored adventure, it’s well worth it. Also, if you’re traveling with children, you’ll want to consider their comfort with boat trips and swimming.

Final Thoughts

A private boat tour from Hvar offers a flexible, personalized way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic sights. With the chance to relax at beautiful beaches, explore caves, and enjoy incredible underwater views — all with knowledgeable guides — it’s an experience that many travelers find well worth the cost.

The reviews back this up, highlighting professionalism, beautiful scenery, and memorable moments. While the additional cave tickets and lunch costs are minor considerations, they’re easily manageable with a little planning.

Overall, if you’re after a tailored, intimate adventure on the water and don’t mind paying a bit more for exclusivity, this tour stands out as a top choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or kids?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat trips and swimming. If traveling with children, make sure they’re comfortable with water activities and boat rides.

How long does the tour last?
The duration can be anywhere from about 3 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and the stops you choose.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and the fuel surcharge are included. The skipper’s services are also covered. Cave entry tickets and lunch are extra.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 57 days before their preferred date, especially during peak season, to secure availability.

Are cave tickets included?
No, cave tickets cost between 8 and 24 EUR depending on the cave and season.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, this is a private tour and can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s more swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a flexible, private way to explore some of Croatia’s most stunning spots, this boat tour from Hvar is definitely worth considering. It promises personalized service, beautiful sights, and plenty of opportunities to relax or adventure as you like.