Private Boat Tour of Croatia

If you’re considering a way to see Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, a private boat tour around Hvar might just be the best way to do it. We haven’t tried this specific tour ourselves, but from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s clear this experience can deliver a memorable day filled with scenic views, charming stops, and a flexible pace tailored to your interests.

What we really love about this tour is its customizable nature — you’re not stuck with a rigid schedule, and the guide seems genuinely interested in making sure your day aligns with what you want. Plus, the stops at picturesque towns and secluded beaches promise plenty of photo-worthy moments and relaxing downtime. The only consideration? It’s a full-day outing, so if you’re not a fan of boat travel or want to explore multiple destinations on your own, you might want to weigh that.

This private boat tour is ideal for those who value personalized service and want to explore the Croatian coast at their own pace. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler wanting to avoid tourist crowds, this experience can cater to your needs, making it a great choice for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a comfortable yet adventurous day.

Key Points

• Customized experience: The tour can be tailored to your preferences, focusing on beaches, towns, or hidden gems.
• Expert guides and skilled skippers: From reviews, you’ll find guides knowledgeable about the area, making navigation and commentary engaging.
• Stunning scenic stops: Expect views of bays, beaches, and historic towns that are postcard-perfect.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops at Vrboska, Vela Stiniva, and a special lunch spot in Pakomina are highlights, but timings and destinations are adaptable.
• Value for money: At $455.60 for a group of up to six, it’s a fair price considering the private nature and personalized attention.
• Good for those who love a relaxed pace: With about 7 hours on the water, this tour balances sightseeing and downtime.

If you’re dreaming of Croatian islands with their crystal-clear waters and charming villages, a private boat tour like this can be a real treat. It’s more than just a cruise; it’s a tailored journey that gets you close to local spots, away from the crowds, and immersed in natural beauty.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off at Branimirova Obala 55 in Podgora early in the morning (around 8:00 am). From there, your skipper — often praised for their knowledge and friendliness — takes you across the Adriatic to your first stop: Vrboska. This tiny town is affectionately called “little Venice” because of its long bay and historic charm. One reviewer mentions, “The town is also called little Venice because of beautiful long bay,” and notes the guide will share interesting tidbits about its past and sights. Expect about an hour and a half here, enough to stroll the waterfront, snap some photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Next, the boat heads to Vela Stiniva, which is often described as one of the most special and beautiful places in the area. With a gorgeus bay and a small beach inside, it’s perfect for some relaxing time, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery. Reviewers mention “a beautiful bay where we were completely on our own,” highlighting the sense of exclusivity and serenity. You’ll likely spend around 40 minutes here, enough to enjoy the water or just unwind.

Afterward, the tour typically makes a stop at Pakomina Restaurant, a family-owned place known for its delicious seafood and relaxed setting. With about 2.5 hours allocated, this is the main meal stop. One review calls it “one of our favorite places,” praising the fish and the natural beach setting that makes for a laid-back dining experience. Keep in mind that lunch isn’t included in the tour, so you’ll want to budget for that separately.

The Experience and What’s Included

The tour package provides private transportation on a well-maintained boat, insurance coverage, and a flexible schedule. The boat capacity is up to six people, making it intimate and perfect for small groups or families. Reviews mention that the boat works well even for families, with one reviewer noting, “the boat worked well for our family of 6 — all of us had a great time.”

Guides and Skippers, like Dragutin and Nikola, receive high praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge. One reviewer states, “Dragutin was amazing from start to finish,” emphasizing how he tailored the trip to their interests and provided valuable advice on beaches and swimming spots.

Price and Value

At about $455.60 per group, the cost is reasonable considering it covers private transportation for up to six people. For a full day on the water with flexible stops and personalized attention, many travelers find it worthwhile. It’s important to note that fuel surcharges and lunch are not included, so budget accordingly.

The Flexibility That Sets It Apart

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the ability to customize your day. If you want to spend more time at a particular beach or skip a stop, your skipper can usually accommodate. Travelers have appreciated guides who stay flexible — “he stayed flexible and stopped where we wanted,” one review mentions.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Most reviews (all rated 5 stars) highlight the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the delicious, relaxed vibe of the stops. Many mention how private and exclusive the experience felt, with some describing the stops as “completely on our own,” which is quite a rarity in busy tourist spots.

This private boat tour appeals especially to travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day on the water. If you’re someone who prefers to avoid crowded tours and loves exploring at your own pace, this is a great pick. It suits small groups, couples, or families comfortable with boat travel and looking for a mix of sightseeing and downtime.

However, if you’re not into long boat rides or prefer a guided group tour with set stops, this might not be your ideal choice. It’s also worth noting that since lunch isn’t included, you should plan to bring snacks or plan ahead for a meal during your day.

This private boat tour around Hvar offers a fantastic way to enjoy Croatia’s coast with a mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personal attention. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, intimate experience that can be tailored to their interests. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning stops, and the comfort of a private boat makes it stand out.

While the price is reasonable for a full-day private tour, remember that it’s an all-in-one experience — so it’s well worth considering if you’re after a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water. If you’re traveling with a small group who appreciates personalized service and scenic exploration, this could be one of your favorite Croatian adventures.

Is lunch included in this tour? No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to budget for a meal at the restaurant stop or bring snacks to enjoy during the day.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Podgora.

How many people can the boat accommodate? Up to 6 people per group, making it suitable for small parties or families.

Are there any hidden costs? Fuel surcharges and lunch are not included, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

Is this a private activity? Yes, only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized and flexible experience.

What are the main stops? The tour includes stops at Vrboska, Vela Stiniva, and a restaurant in Pakomina. These are based on the itinerary and can be customized.

Is it suitable for families or children? Many reviews suggest it’s suitable for families, especially since the boat is comfortable and the guide stays flexible. However, you should consider your child’s comfort with boat travel.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start date for a full refund.

How do I book? You can book through the provider, Seas the Day, with confirmation received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Embarking on this Croatian private boat tour offers a chance to experience the coast in a way that’s relaxed, personalized, and rich with stunning scenery. Whether you’re in it for the quiet bays, historic towns, or just a day on the water, it’s an experience that could easily become one of your favorite memories from Croatia.