Private Tour of Red rocks, Pakleni Islands and Hvar’s Southern Beaches

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours & Experiences In Hvar? Our Top 12 Picks.

An Honest Look at the Private Tour of Red Rocks, Pakleni Islands, and Hvar’s Southern Beaches

Traveling to Croatia, especially Hvar, often means encountering busy tour boats packed with strangers and little room for personalization. This private cruise from Mario Rent offers a more intimate alternative, giving you and your group the chance to enjoy the spectacular waters and scenic spots at your own pace. Our review sheds light on what makes this experience worth considering, while also touching on a few points to keep in mind.

What we really like about this tour is its emphasis on personalization and the high-quality guidance from knowledgeable skippers who seem genuinely passionate about their local waters. Plus, the chance to swim, snorkel, and explore breathtaking spots without the crowds is a major plus. The main consideration? It’s a half-day experience, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure or a more structured sightseeing schedule, this might not be the perfect fit.

Ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a relaxed, private getaway, this tour appeals most to travelers who value comfort, authentic encounters, and scenic beauty over hustle and bustle.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Tailored to your group of up to 9 people, offering a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
• Scenic Stops: Includes iconic spots like Red Rocks, Lucisca Beach, Dubovica Beach, and the Pakleni Islands.
• Flexible Route: Can be customized in conversation with your skipper for maximum enjoyment.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Use provided gear to explore underwater sights and enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters.
• Local Guides: Skippers are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.
• Value for Price: At around $815 for a group, it offers a private, high-value experience, especially considering the exclusivity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and What You Can Expect

This tour, priced at approximately $815 for up to 9 people, is quite competitive considering it’s a private experience. Booking typically opens about 26 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among travelers planning ahead. Once booked, you’ll meet at Trg Sv. Stjepana in Hvar, where a knowledgeable skipper will greet you. Expect a warm, friendly start that sets the tone for a relaxed day on the water.

The tour lasts roughly 7.5 to 8 hours, making it a substantial half-day adventure—perfect for those who want a taste of the islands without committing to a full-day excursion. The boat is a private vessel, which means no noisy, crowded groups—just your family or friends enjoying the scenic freedom of Croatia’s coastline.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Stop 1: Red Rocks, Hvar
Our journey begins at the striking Red Rocks, famous for their vibrant, crimson-colored cliffs that seem to jut right out of the sea. These formations are more than just a beautiful backdrop—they’re an active playground. Visitors can swim in the clear waters, explore small caves beneath the cliffs, or even test their nerve with a quick jump into the sea. One reviewer highlights this as a “unique spot for swimming and snorkeling,” and the caves beneath the cliffs offer a chance for some exploration. This stop is about 40 minutes, giving enough time for a swim and some photos without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Lucisca Beach
Next, you’ll visit Lucisca Beach, renowned for its stunning clarity and dramatic cliff surroundings. It’s a quieter spot that’s perfect for those keen to relax in natural beauty. The water is clear enough for snorkelers to catch glimpses of underwater life, and adventurous divers might explore a hidden gem on the side of the beach—exact details vary, but the clarity alone makes it a memorable swim.

Stop 3: Dubovica Beach
Dubovica is celebrated as one of the largest and most beautiful beaches on Hvar, with a quaint beach bar perfect for a relaxing drink. This stop is about an hour long, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery, swim, or explore the cave nearby. One reviewer called it “a must-visit spot,” praising the charm and the opportunity to unwind in a peaceful setting.

Stop 4: Pakleni Islands
The final and longest part of the tour is exploring the Pakleni Islands—a highlight for many visitors. These islands are dotted with secluded bays, beaches, cafes, and tiny paths for wandering. It’s an ideal area for a leisurely lunch (not included in the tour but easily accessible) and more swimming or sunbathing. With around four hours here, you’ll have ample time to explore, snorkel, or simply relax surrounded by stunning scenery. Many reviewers mention the “great local knowledge” of guides like Nino or Symun, who help tailor the route and ensure you see the best spots.

Included & Not Included

Your ticket includes bottled water and snorkel equipment, making it easy to stay hydrated and explore the underwater world. However, lunch is not included, so planning for a meal ashore or bringing snacks along is wise. The flexibility to personalize your route means you can prioritize the spots you find most appealing—whether that’s cliff jumping, snorkeling, or just basking in the sun.

The Skippers and Their Role

The skippers play a crucial role in making this experience memorable. Based on reviews, they aren’t just boat drivers—they’re local guides with a wealth of knowledge about Hvar’s coast and history. One reviewer praised Symun for being “very professional and knowledgeable,” while others appreciated Nino’s “caring” attitude and willingness to make each stop special. This personal touch helps turn a scenic boat ride into a true local experience.

The Pros and Cons

Pros
– Personalized, private experience—ideal for groups seeking intimacy and flexibility
– Stunning locations that are less crowded than typical tour boats
– Ability to snorkel and swim in crystal waters with gear provided
– Knowledgeable, friendly skippers who enhance the experience
– Good value for a private tour of this length and quality

Cons
– It’s a half-day tour, so those craving a full-day adventure may find it limiting
– No included lunch, which might require extra planning or expense
– The boat’s quality and cleanliness are not explicitly detailed, so some travelers might prefer to confirm this beforehand

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews paint a generally glowing picture, especially praising the guides’ local knowledge and the spectacular views. One reviewer said, “Mario gave us the best day ever,” highlighting the smooth ride and dolphin sightings. Others appreciated the flexibility and attentiveness of their skippers, with comments like “Nino was very helpful and gave us plenty of time at each area.”

However, there was a dissenting voice mentioning “lack of communication” about the start time and concerns about the boat’s age and cleanliness—reminding travelers to clarify these details when booking.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves scenic waters, privacy, and personalized service, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for groups of friends, families, or couples who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. The flexibility to customize the route and the inclusion of snorkeling gear makes it suitable for adventurous souls, too.

On the other hand, if you prefer a structured, all-day sightseeing package or need a gourmet meal included, you might want to look elsewhere. This experience is most appealing to those who prioritize quality time in beautiful, uncrowded spots over a packed itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour around Hvar’s southern waters offers a meaningful way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline. The combination of well-chosen stops—each with its own charm—and the personal touch from skippers who genuinely seem to care, makes it stand out from generic group excursions. For the price, you’re paying for intimacy, flexibility, and access to some of the best hidden gems near Hvar.

While it’s not the cheapest option, its focus on quality and personal attention makes it a worthwhile investment for those who prefer exclusivity and authentic experiences. The scenic stops, snorkeling opportunities, and relaxed pace deliver good value, especially when shared with friends or family.

If you’re eager to explore Hvar’s coast with someone who knows the waters and can make the day special, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 9 people can participate, making it perfect for small groups of family and friends seeking a private experience.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water and snorkeling equipment are provided, allowing you to stay refreshed and explore underwater sights comfortably.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring your own snacks or arrange a meal during the day.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7.5 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, you can discuss your preferences with the skipper to tailor the route according to your interests.

Is the tour suitable for kids or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, especially if they’re comfortable in the water; snorkeling gear is provided for underwater exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and any personal items you might need. Since lunch isn’t included, pack some snacks if desired.

This private tour is a wonderful choice for those who prize comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenic encounters. Whether you want to swim at Red Rocks, explore the Pakleni Islands, or simply relax on the boat with friends, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and serenity that truly captures the essence of Hvar’s coastal beauty.