Private tour of Pakleni islands, Red Cliffs & South Shore of Hvar

If you’re considering a day out on the water while visiting Hvar, a private boat tour like this one might just be exactly what you need. It promises personalized exploration, stunning scenery, and a chance to escape the crowds—something many travelers crave after seeing busy tourist spots. We’ve seen glowing reviews and detailed descriptions that make it clear this experience is a real highlight for those wanting a flexible, intimate day on the Croatian waters.

What we especially love about this tour is the ability to customize your itinerary with a knowledgeable skipper—meaning you can focus on the spots that catch your eye or relax in those quieter coves. Plus, the all-included approach with fuel, snorkeling gear, and a private guide ensures you aren’t hit with hidden costs or busy group tours. On the flip side, the cost per group (~$517 for up to 5 people) might seem steep if you’re traveling solo or as a small family, but considering the exclusivity and tailored experience, many find it a fair price for a full day of exploration.

This tour is perfect if you value flexibility, personalized service, and scenic beauty. It’s especially well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a more intimate experience—and if you enjoy hopping between beaches, coves, and charming villages at your own pace. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but with careful planning and the ability to control your stops, it can be a relaxed day for most travelers.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with your own skipper and boat
• Includes snorkeling gear, fuel, and water—no hidden extras
• Stunning stops like Red Cliffs, Lucisca Beach, Dubovica, and Pakleni Islands
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences
• Ideal for small groups seeking privacy and a personalized day
• Cost reflects exclusivity and the ability to explore at your own pace

An In-Depth Look at the Private Boat Tour in Hvar

When it comes to exploring Hvar and its surrounding islets, a private boat tour like this offers a distinct advantage: personalization. Unlike group excursions that follow a set schedule, your skipper—who is both knowledgeable and friendly—will work with you to craft an itinerary that suits your interests. Whether you want to lounge on secluded beaches, snorkel in crystal waters, or explore hidden coves, this tour adapts to your desires.

The Comfort of Your Own Boat

The experience is based on renting your own boat, which can comfortably hold up to six people. This means you’re not sharing space with strangers, and your time on the water feels more relaxed and private. The boat includes fuel, snorkeling equipment, and bottled water, removing a lot of the logistical guesswork and potential costs from the equation. Booking in advance—about 80 days on average—ensures you secure your preferred date, especially during peak season.

What the Tour Looks Like

The tour kicks off at the Port of Hvar around 9:00 am. You’ll meet your skipper, who will take you on a scenic cruise along Hvar’s coast and the Pakleni Islands. The first stop, Red Rocks, is a standout point. Known as a hidden gem, these striking red cliffs give you a chance to swim in a beautiful, less-crowded spot. The reviews often mention how breathtaking these cliffs are, with one traveler noting they “remain hidden from the crowds and will take your breath away.” You get about 30 minutes here—plenty of time to snap photos and enjoy a swim.

Next, the boat heads to Lucisca Beach, a quiet cove perfect for relaxing away from the busier beaches. With high cliffs surrounding a small bay, this stop offers another 30 minutes for swimming or simply soaking up the scenery. Travelers often appreciate how peaceful and idyllic these spots are—another chance to beat the crowds and enjoy the water in tranquility.

The third stop is Dubovica Beach, one of the most acclaimed beaches on Hvar. It’s a favorite among snorkelers thanks to a hidden cave you can explore beneath the water. The flexibility of this tour means you might also choose to visit Borce Beach if your skipper recommends it or if you prefer more secluded swimming spots. The reviews repeatedly mention how much they enjoyed the snorkeling here and how the local guide made it easy and fun.

The tour then moves to Zarace Village, a small, charming spot where you can take a quick swim break in a lovely, quiet bay. With just about 20 minutes here, it’s a perfect quick refresh before heading to the Pakleni Islands for a longer stop.

Lunch at Mlini Bay

The highlight for many is the lunch stop at Mlini Bay, located on the Pakleni Islands. The bay is gorgeous—a peaceful, clean beach with a family-run restaurant serving Dalmatian cuisine. While the lunch itself isn’t included in the tour price, reviews rave about the organic, farm-to-table food, especially the fresh octopus salad and local wine. You’ll get roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes here, enough time to relax, enjoy a meal, and take a swim or sunbathe before heading back.

The Scenic Cruise & Additional Stops

Cruising along the Pakleni Islands, your skipper will point out interesting landmarks and share local stories—think of it as a casual, informative ride. You’ll also enjoy the freedom to stop at other coves or beaches if you want. The flexibility to pick your stops makes this a much more personalized experience. Based on reviews, the skipper’s knowledge and friendly attitude enhance the trip, making it feel like a day out with a well-informed friend.

The Experience in Practice

Travelers rave about the knowledge and friendliness of the guide. One reviewer even commented, “Flash knew everything about every cove, bay, island, fish, and boat around. Would highly recommend him.” The ability to avoid the busy crowds and discover lesser-known spots is consistently highlighted as a major perk. Many mention that the guide’s local insight makes the experience richer—knowing where to swim, jump, or just relax.

Value for Money

At around $517.94 for up to five people, the price might seem high initially. But considering the private setting, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, fuel, water, and the personalized service, it offers good value—especially for small groups wanting a tailored day. The reviews strongly suggest that the experience exceeds expectations, especially when you factor in the flexibility to choose your stops and the quality of the guide.

Who will love this tour?

If you enjoy customized itineraries and want the freedom to explore at your own pace, this trip is ideal. It’s suited for those who value comfort, privacy, and local insights. If you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple, you’ll be able to enjoy the day without feeling rushed or crowded. The tour isn’t explicitly marked as family-friendly, but with careful planning, it could work for travelers with older children comfortable on a boat and in water.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour in Hvar offers a wonderful way to see the island’s best spots without the hustle of larger group excursions. The ability to tailor your day, combined with the stunning scenery and attentive guide, makes it a memorable choice for those wanting to explore the Croatian coast in comfort and style. Whether you’re into swimming, sightseeing, or just relaxing with a good view, this tour covers all those bases.

Many reviewers consider this experience a highlight of their trip, thanks to the combination of expert local knowledge and the freedom to choose how you spend your time. It’s an ideal pick for travelers who prefer an intimate, flexible adventure on the water. Just remember to book early, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to enjoy a day that feels like exploring with a friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
While the tour is designed for groups up to five, solo travelers can still book—it’s private, so you won’t be sharing with strangers. However, the price per group might be higher for just one person.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat rental, fuel, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and a driver/guide. Lunch is not included, but there’s a recommended stop at Mlini Bay with a restaurant.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and ending back at the port of Hvar.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the skipper will work with you to craft your preferred itinerary, making stops at beaches, coves, and islands based on your interests.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s not specifically marketed as family-oriented, but if your children are comfortable on boats and in water, it can be a relaxed day for most families. Just keep in mind the physical activity involved.

Do I need to have a certain level of fitness?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some stops involve swimming and climbing on and off the boat.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours ahead, a full refund isn’t available.

Who do I contact for more info?
You can reach out to Flash Hvar Boat Tours via phone at +385994133136 or email at [email protected].

If you’re after a flexible, scenic, and intimate way to explore Hvar’s waters, this private tour is a strong contender. It’s especially perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sea at your own pace, with local insights making the day even more special.