Hvar and Pakleni Tour with Speedboat Ride from Split or Trogir

Traveling along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, a day trip to Hvar and the Pakleni Islands is often top of the list. The tour reviewed here offers a taste of some of the region’s most captivating spots, blending cultural exploration with leisurely beach time, all from the vantage point of a swift speedboat. We haven’t personally been, but this experience has been widely praised, and here’s what makes it stand out.

First, the small group size ensures a personal touch that you simply won’t get on larger tours. Second, the opportunity to see the sights from the water is an absolute highlight, giving you a different perspective of the coast and islands. Third, the inclusion of free snacks and snorkeling equipment adds value and fun, especially for families or water lovers. On the flip side, some travelers have voiced concerns about speedboat comfort and boat size, noting that a bigger or slower boat might make for a gentler ride.

This tour is perfect if you’re craving an active, scenic day out that mixes cultural insights with beach relaxation. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, enjoy boat rides, and want to explore Hvar beyond just walking its streets. If you’re after a laid-back yet immersive day, this tour ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• Small group experience offers personalized service and a more intimate day.
• Scenic water travel provides unique views of Hvar and the Pakleni Islands.
• Flexible itinerary with stops at charming villages, historic sites, and beaches.
• Good value with snacks, snorkeling gear, and a guide included.
• Family friendly, suitable for children aged 5 and up.
• Potential for boat discomfort if you prefer larger, more stable vessels.

A Detailed Look at the Hvar and Pakleni Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early with a short stop at Milna, a quaint fishermen’s village on Bra Island. Here, you get a quick chance to stretch your legs, sip a coffee, and enjoy the peaceful morning views over the water. The reviewer, Terje K, mentioned that “the early morning view” was a nice touch, setting the tone for the day.

Next, you head to Hvar Island, arguably the star of the show. With around 2,718 hours of sunshine annually, Hvar boasts a reputation as Croatia’s sunniest town. You’ll have about three hours to wander its charming streets, admire the architecture, and soak in the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to have lunch at a local restaurant — a chance to taste authentic Croatian cuisine. A key reason this stop is so appealing is the chance to see Hvar from a water level perspective after the boat ride, offering a fresh take on the town’s beauty.

The visit includes a quick stop at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, where you can marvel at its impressive structure and learn about its significance. The tour’s guide is noted as being knowledgeable, helping make these cultural visits more meaningful. For those who want panoramic views, a climb up Tvrdava Fortica (though not included in the price) rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas of Hvar’s coastline and the distant islands. The guide’s enthusiasm is often highlighted, making the history and architecture come alive.

The Highlight: Pakleni Islands and Beach Time

After exploring Hvar, the group heads to Pakleni Islands — a true highlight for water lovers. The islands are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and protected coves. Reviewers repeatedly mention the excellent snorkeling equipment provided, which enhances the experience. You’ll also find a beach bar on the islands, where you can refresh with a cocktail or fresh juice, making the most of the relaxed island vibe.

The two-hour beach break is well-balanced, giving plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the scenery. The Hula Hula Hvar Beach Bar offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a swim. While drinks are not included, the setting makes it worth the extra spend.

Practical Details and What You Should Expect

The tour runs for about 9 hours from start to finish, which is quite reasonable considering the stops and travel time. It’s a small group tour with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring you get personalized attention and a flexible experience. The price of $167.68 per person reflects good value, especially considering snacks, snorkeling gear, and the guide are included.

The tour is family-friendly — children over 5 are welcome — and requires no prior experience. Travelers should bring essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. The boats are fast and small, which some guests find exhilarating but others might find a bit bumpy. As one reviewer pointed out, “farten og båten, for stor fart og liten båt,” meaning the boat’s speed and size might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to sea sickness or prefer a steadier ride.

The Guides and Overall Experience

While specific guides’ names aren’t provided, reviews emphasize the knowledgeable and friendly nature of the crew. Their ability to share insights about each location enhances the cultural value of the day. The small group setting and attentive guide work together to create a more personal experience, which many travelers appreciate.

What’s Not Included & Additional Tips

• Lunch is not included, but there are plenty of excellent restaurants in Hvar town if you want to indulge locally.
• Drinks at the beach bar are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this package, so plan your transportation to the departure point.
• The tour is weather-dependent; if poor weather cancels the trip, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Water enthusiasts and those who enjoy exploring coastal towns from a boat will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and water activities. Families with children over 5 will appreciate the laid-back pace and manageable group size. If you’re after a more energetic ride or prefer a larger, more stable boat, you might want to consider other options.

History and architecture buffs will enjoy the stops at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and Fortica, especially with a guide to share fascinating stories. Meanwhile, anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy a day under the sun while discovering some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands will find this trip offers excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and beach time, making it a full but manageable day.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Milna village on Bra Island, Hvar town including its historic center, Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Fortica (not included in the price), and a two-hour break at the Pakleni Islands with swimming and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the waters around the Pakleni Islands.

Can I buy drinks or food on the tour?
Snacks are provided, but drinks and lunch are not included. You can purchase drinks at the beach bar or bring your own essentials.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate, making it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps some cash for extra drinks or souvenirs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Hvar and Pakleni Islands tour offers a well-rounded day that combines cultural discovery, scenic boat rides, and relaxing beach time. Its small group size and knowledgeable guide create a personal experience that many travelers find more engaging than large-group excursions. The inclusion of snacks and snorkeling gear adds to the overall value, making it a good choice for those seeking an authentic taste of Croatia’s coast.

If your ideal day involves exploring picturesque towns from the water, enjoying a lively beach bar, and soaking up some sunshine, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing and leisure, and who appreciate the intimacy of a small-group adventure.

In summary, this tour delivers a memorable day full of scenic views, cultural insights, and beach relaxation. It is best suited for water lovers, families, and culture seekers who value personalized service and a flexible, well-paced itinerary. For the price, it offers a lot of value, especially when you consider the included snacks and snorkeling equipment — making it a solid choice for exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline.