Exploring Hvar by boat offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastlines, coves, and islands. This private tour, offered by Private Hvar, promises a day filled with swimming, sightseeing, and the kind of scenery that makes this part of Croatia legendary. We haven’t done the trip ourselves but have gathered insights from enthusiastic travelers, reviews, and the detailed itinerary to help you decide if this experience fits your style.
What we love about this tour is its intimate setting—up to 8 people on a comfortable speedboat—and the flexibility to customize your day. The chance to snorkel in hidden caves, jump off cliffs, and visit renowned spots like the Pakleni Islands makes this a standout choice. One consideration is that fuel costs are extra, which can add a bit to your final bill, but this is common with private boat trips. This tour appeals most to those who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of local charm—all in a relaxed, private setting.
If you’re looking for a day of discovery with knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and opportunities to relax and swim in crystal waters, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences and a flexible itinerary. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, the private nature of this tour ensures your day on the water will be tailored to your interests.
Key Points
- Customizable itinerary tailored to your preferences, with many stops for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.
- Expert skipper guides you safely through scenic waters, sharing local insights along the way.
- Stunning stops include Green Lagoon Bay, Zarae Beach, Dubovica, Red Cliffs, Luias Bay, and the Pakleni Islands.
- Includes water, safety gear, and insurance, ensuring peace of mind during your adventure.
- Additional costs include fuel, lunch, wine tasting, and tickets, which should be factored into your budget.
- Overall quality and reviews consistently rate this as an excellent, memorable experience.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
The tour kicks off around 10:30 am from the Hvar waterfront, with a pickup arranged at the harbor. The day is designed to maximize scenic beauty and opportunities for relaxation, with the flexibility to customize your stops based on your interests.
Planning more time in Sveta Nedjelja? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Green Lagoon Bay – A Snorkeler’s Paradise
One of the first stops is Green Lagoon Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful setting. Travelers love its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming. It’s a perfect way to start the day, especially if you enjoy relaxing in a scenic setting. Think of it as your introduction to the clear waters of the Croatian coast.
Zarae Beach – Natural Shelter and Unique Architecture
Next, Zarae Beach offers an unusual landscape, with shelters built from natural stone. It’s a quieter spot that can give you a sense of authentic local craftsmanship. It’s also a good place to explore and perhaps take some photos of the unusual rock formations.
Hidden Caves near Dubovica – A Snorkelers’ Dream
One of the tour’s highlights is snorkeling near the sacred bay of Dubovica. This bay features a magnificent beach and is considered one of the most beautiful bays on Hvar. The snorkeling here is often described as excellent, with travelers sharing how they enjoyed exploring hidden caves and crystal waters. As one review notes, “We visited beautiful secluded coves and swam in crystal clear water,” making this stop a pure highlight.
More Great Tours NearbyCliff Jumping at Red Cliffs – For the Adrenaline Junkie
For those craving a thrill, the Red Cliffs offer a more adventurous experience. The cliffs rise over 20 meters, providing a stunning spot to jump into the sea. The feeling of plunging from such a height is described as “an incredible adrenaline rush,” and many travelers find it a memorable part of their day. It’s a safe, supervised jump but best suited for those comfortable with heights and water.
Luias Bay – Relaxation and Nature
Following the excitement, the boat heads to Luias Bay, where pebble beaches and lush pine forests create a peaceful environment. Travelers report that the bay’s crystal-clear waters and natural surroundings are perfect for unwinding after more active stops.
Wine Tasting at Plenkovi Winery – A Taste of Local Culture
A visit to the Plenkovi Winery in Sv. Nedjelja offers a chance to experience local viticulture. The wine production here is a point of pride for the region, primarily focusing on fine red wines. Tourists enjoy walking through the vineyard and, if they opt in, tasting the wines—though this is an extra expense. It’s an authentic way to connect with local culture and enjoy some Croatian wine.
Pakleni Islands – The Perfect End to Your Day
The final part of your tour is flexible—choose your favorite spot among Palmiana, Mlini, or Drilca for a relaxed lunch or an evening cocktail. The famous Laganini lounge bar and local restaurants like Bacchus or Mamato are popular choices. This stop offers chances to soak up the lively island vibe, enjoy a good meal, or simply unwind with a drink as the day ends around 6 pm.
What’s Included and What’s Extra?
The tour fee covers the speedboat rental, skipper, water, safety gear, diving masks, and insurance, making it a convenient package for travelers. However, fuel, food, drinks, wine tasting, tickets, and transport to/from your hotel are additional costs to consider. The price for the group (up to 8 people) is quite reasonable given the exclusivity and personalized service offered.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, snacks, and a sun hat. If visiting in the off-season, a windproof jacket is recommended. Remember that pets and smoking are not allowed on the boat, and staying 15 minutes early for departure ensures a smooth start.
Reviews and Feedback
Multiple travelers praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Donald highlights “professional, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable” guides, while Adam appreciates the recommendations for local sights and restaurants. The overall rating of 5/5 from five reviews underpins the positive experiences, especially emphasizing the guides’ local knowledge, the stunning scenery, and the value for money.
Is This Tour Right for You?
This private boat trip is ideal if you love personalized experiences and want to explore Croatia’s coast in comfort. It’s perfect for small groups or couples who appreciate flexibility and a tailored itinerary. If you’re seeking adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of local culture, this tour ticks all boxes.
However, keep in mind that fuel costs are extra, which can add around €50-60 to your bill, and some stops like wine tasting or meals cost extra. Also, travelers should be comfortable swimming and possibly jumping from cliffs, as well as following safety instructions.
Final Thoughts
For those craving a day on the water filled with discovery, this private tour offers a fantastic way to see the best of Hvar’s coast. It combines the thrill of cliff jumping, the relaxation of swimming in pristine waters, and the cultural delight of wine tasting—all under the guidance of knowledgeable locals.
You’ll love the flexibility, intimacy, and variety of stops, making this a memorable Croatian adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Hvar for the first time, this trip promises a mix of fun, scenery, and authentic experiences that are hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 8 people can join the tour, making it perfect for small groups or families wanting a private experience.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers the speedboat rental, skipper, water, safety equipment, diving masks, and insurance—your essentials for a safe, enjoyable day.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but can be purchased separately at the final stop or brought on board.
What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, snacks, a sun hat, and possibly a windproof jacket in low season. Towels and protective cream are not provided.
Is there an option for wine tasting?
Yes, wine tasting is available at the Plenkovi Winery, but it’s an extra cost. The winery is in Sv. Nedjelja, a short stop included in the itinerary.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
This private Hvar boat tour of Red Rocks & Pakleni Islands is a well-rounded choice for travelers wanting scenic beauty, adventure, and culture—all in a relaxed, personalized setting. It’s a great way to truly enjoy the Croatian coast away from the crowds, with a knowledgeable crew guiding your way.
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