BEST Boat Tours From Hvar (2026): Scenic Pakleni Islands To Blue Cave!

Last updated on August 16th, 2026 at 12:16 pm

Hvar is a stunning Croatian island with a sweeping coastline, beautiful bays and jaw-dropping landscapes and nearby are some of the true highlights of the Adriatic from the Pakleni Islands to the Blue Lagoon – making a boat tour from Hvar is one of the unmissable experiences in Croatia!

Hvar is known for its wonderful location along the Adriatic coast surrounded by lush island scenery and clear turquoise waters, and a boat tour from Hvar Town’s stunning Riviera makes it super easy to get out there and do some serious exploring and scenic island-hopping – it’s my favourite thing to do in Hvar!

From a boat tour you can see many highlights of the region and a few hidden gems by sail or speedboat from secret beach coves of the Pakleni Islands and dramatic red rock south beaches on Hvar to exploring the mesmerising Blue Cave and Stiniva Beach on Vis Island – two must see’s in the Adriatic.

I’ve spent several summers on Hvar Island and have sailed around its incredible coastline more than once, relaxing on the top deck of a private sail boat, with a glass of wine in hand, swimming in secret blue lagoons and dining in spectacular waterfront restaurants – there’s truly nothing like it!

Below, I’ll share the best Hvar boat tours and my top picks, here are the sea escapes worth your time!

My Top Hvar Boat Tour Picks!

Short on time? These are the Hvar boat tours I’d personally recommend booking first!

• Best Overall – Private Pakleni Islands Sailing
• Best Adventure – Blue Cave & Vis
• Best Luxury Experience – Private Yacht Charter
• Best Beach Escapes – Speedboat Tour

If you prefer a more relaxed and stylish atmosphere, I highly recommend choosing a sailing tour around the Pakleni Islands, while beach lovers would be happiest with the beach-hopping speed boat tour and tours to the Blue Cave are better for ticking off more major Adriatic gems!

Visiting Hvar between June and September? The best boat tours often sell out several days ahead – especially popular Blue Cave and private sailing trips that leave directly from Hvar Town.

BEST HVAR BOAT TOURS TO PAKLENI ISLANDS

Just a short 20-minute boat trip from Hvar Town are the wonderful Pakleni Islands Hvar, a small group of rugged scenic islands with beautiful Mediterranean landscapes and pebble beach coves – a absolute must-see if you’re staying in Hvar. There are sixteen islands in total, some are totally free of any infrastructure and only three offer barefoot bars, over-water restaurants and dreamy boutique beach clubs like Laganini in Palmizana Bay! A boat tour from Hvar to the Pakleni Islands is the quintessential Hvar Island experience – relaxed and chic!

PAKLENI ISLANDS PRIVATE SAILING

• Tour Length: Full-day – up to 8hrs
• Tour Type: Private (max 6 people)
• Best For: Luxury & scenic sailing days!

If you’re looking for a beautiful escape just off the coast of Hvar Town, this incredibly scenic private sailing trip across the Pakleni Islands is a must, overall it’s the best boat trip from Hvar Island for a touch of luxury, relaxation and adventure – this is by far my personal favourite boat trip around the islands to date!

Sailing around the Pakleni Islands you’ll experience hidden coves, turquoise lagoons, and beautiful bays like Palmizana, Mlini, Jerolim or Zdrilca (usually around 6-7 islands) only accessible by private boat, so you can dive straight into the Adriatic, stop for as long as you like and choose your own lunch stop (I highly recommend Mamato in Mlini bay or Laganini in Palmizana Bay), it’s totally your choice as the itinerary is fully customisable –  check availability for this private Pakleni Islands sailing trip!

For all island lovers, this is easily one of the most picturesque sail boat trips in Croatia – especially if you’re looking for a more stylish and relaxed alternative to crowded group tours and bumpy speedboats, I personally think private boat tours around Hvar are absolutely worth it for the flexibility, quieter swimming spots and a calmer atmosphere!

This full-day Pakleni Islands private sail boat tour includes:

• Private sail boat
• Fuel
• Fully customised service
• Ice-box
• Sundeck
• Canopy & cushions
• Toilet
• Snorkelling masks
• Blu tooth

Tip! Bring your own music and drinks for the cool box to fully enjoy your personalised experience, this boat tour is perfect for small groups, families – and worth splurging on for couples!

See summer availability for this incredible sailing Pakleni Islands boat trip!

My favourite Hvar boat trip: If I could only recommend one boat tour, it would be the stylish private Pakleni Islands sailing trip. It felt far more relaxed and exclusive than the larger speedboat tours, and swimming in the picturesque quieter coves around Palmizana was honestly one of my favourite experiences in Croatia!

PAKLENI ISLANDS HALF-DAY (SMALL GROUP) SAILING

• Tour Length: Half-day – 4hrs
• Tour Type: Small group (capped at 8 people)
• Best For: Relaxed sailing & secret swim spots!

A wonderful and very easy half-day tour exploring the Pakleni Island’s beautiful swim spots within tranquil bays and gorgeous scenery by sailboat, a lovely small group experience capped at eight people for a more enjoyable and intimate vibe – it’s ideal if you are social, budgeting or are solo adventuring!

This effortless tour of the Pakleni Islands offers morning or afternoon sailing, I recommend morning for calmer waters and to avoid other busier boats tours, you’ll get to explore 2-3 swim spots in private clear water bays – with snorkel gear, SUP, music and sundecks to sunbathe, check availability for this morning small group sailing boat tour from Hvar Island!

While I love the morning tour around the tranquil island scenery and swimming, the only drawback that I personally experienced is that the boat is small and there’s not much room to spread out if its a fully booked tour (usually peak season months), but if you just want a taste of the Pakleni Islands, it’s one of the best half-day Hvar boat trips that you can easily include in your itinerary!

This half-day Pakleni Islands small-group sail boat tour includes:

• Group sail boat
• SUP paddle
• Cold fridge (bring your own drinks)
• Snorkelling masks
• Blutooth

Secure your place on this morning sailing small-group trip!

SUNSET PAKLENI ISLANDS (SMALL GROUP) SAILING

• Tour Length: 2hrs
• Tour Type: Small group (capped at 8 people)
• Best For: Couples

This romantic sunset sailing tour is one of my favourite Hvar boat trips, a two-hour tour that focuses on the legendary sunsets from Hvar Town, positioning the boat perfectly across the bay for uninterrupted views of the golden hour!

You can expect a small group experience, which usually departs with around five guest (there were only four on my tour) heading towards the stunning Pakleni islands, in the low light, sea breeze and tranquil atmosphere and it’s worth knowing that you don’t actually get into the water on this trip so you can dress as you like!

I love this short boat tour from Hvar Town for relaxing and enjoying the scenic setting and breath-taking sunset (see below)! And the beauty of this Hvar boat tour is that it’s just two hours, which slots perfectly into your evening – bring along your evening cover-up, some drinks and a playlist to make it extra comfortable!

Tip! Couples or honeymooner can reserve the sunset tour privately, it’s well worth the splurge!

This two-hour Sunset small-group sail boat tour includes:

• Group sail boat
• Cold fridge (bring your own drinks)
• Blutooth

Reserve your spot on the Hvar Island sunset sailing trip!

Want to know more about the Pakleni Islands? Check out my complete guide to the Pakleni Islands Hvar here!

If you’re planning several boat trips during your stay, I highly recommend basing yourself in Hvar Town for easy access to the marina and excursions. You can read my full guide on where to stay in Hvar Island here.

BEST BLUE CAVE BOAT TOURS FROM HVAR ISLAND

Blue Cave speedboat tours are the most adventurous boat tours from Hvar Island, which is combined with Vis Island and typically includes the iconic Stiniva beach, blue lagoon, Vis Town or Komiza and the Pakleni Islands on the return journey. This iconic Croatian boat tour from Hvar Town is often the busiest – and most fast-paced, but it does tick off a lot of Adriatic gems in one trip, perfect for those who are short on time but want to see more! In peak summer (July and August) it can be tourist heavy, which is why I fully recommend a private tour for flexibility!

BLUE CAVE & VIS ISLAND PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT TOUR

• Tour Length: Full-day 8hrs
• Tour Type: Private (max 9 people)
• Best For: Adventure-seekers & Adriatic Gems!

A custom-private speedboat tour from Hvar Island is the best way to experience the two of the Adriatic’s iconic attractions, the blue cave and Vis Island – you get the whole boat and crew to yourself for the upmost comfort and flexibility – and one of the biggest draws is that it actually allows you to stop and visit Vis Island’s beautiful Town harbour or Komiza!

It’s ideal for couples or small groups or anyone who wants to explore on their own terms, swim in picturesque beach coves only available by private boat and more attractively – avoid the bigger tourist crowds, especially in popular spots like the blue lagoon and Stiniva beach, the most famous and dramatic beach in Vis – this was my first Hvar boat tour that made me want to return and stay on Vis Island for many summers after!

This exciting private Blue Cave tour from Hvar allows you to create your own itinerary with the help of the skipper and choose your own lunch venue – I highly recommend booking a table in advance and since it’s a custom tour, don’t miss the opportunity to visit spectacular Komiza harbour (see below image below right) one of the best things to do on Vis Island and my personal favourite spot!

This full-day private blue cave and Vis Island speedboat tour includes:

• Private speedboat
• Custom itinerary
• Fuel
• Snorkelling equipment
• Bottled water
• Blutooth

View prices & dates for the blue cave, Vis Island private speedboat tour!

BLUE CAVE & VIS ISLAND (SMALL GROUP) SPEEDBOAT TOUR

• Tour Length: Full-day 7.5hrs
• Tour Type: Group (capped at 12 people)
• Best For: Social & adventure-seekers!

A adventure-style speedboat tour and one of the most popular value day trips from Hvar, typically capped at 12 guests to ensure a social, but not overly crowded atmosphere, it’s an ideal boat tour from Hvar for first-time visitors or adventurous solo travellers who want to see more gems in the Adriatic and get the most out of their boat trip!

With this fixed itinerary you’ll visit the Blue Lagoon, Blue Cave, Green Cave, iconic Stiniva Beach on Vis Island and a groups decision at the end for a stop in the Pakleni Island Palmizana or Vis Town for lunch or drinks (I advise Vis Town on gorgeous Vis Island to explore even more and Palmizana if it’s your one and only boat trip from Hvar!).

I recommend this small group blue cave and Vis speedboat tour from Hvar Island for those who love an adventure, as this trip is pretty fast-paced, but also good fun, you’ll see a variety of places and landscapes, just be sure to book in advance, as this speedboat tour can get fully booked weeks ahead in the summer months!  

This full-day small group blue cave and Vis Island speedboat tour includes:

• Group speedboat
• Snorkelling equipment
• Bottled water & beer
• Ice box
• Bluetooth

Reserve your spot on the group blue cave, Vis Island speedboat tour!

On the fence? Check out my full and honest review of the Blue Cave & Vis Island Speedboat Tour here!

BEST HVAR BOAT TRIPS TO RED ROCKS & SOUTH HVAR BEACHES!

Experience the best beaches on Hvar Island, dramatic scenery and tranquil tourist-free coves with these off-the-beaten-path boat tours from Hvar Town to the red rocks and south Hvar beaches! You’ll explore the most beautiful bays on the island like Dubovica Beach, Zaraće Beach, Lucisca Bay and the Red Rocks that can only be accessed by boat, this is truly a spectacular tour of Hvar’s coastline and the Pakleni Islands combined, a private boat tour is a wonderful way to experience it!

RED ROCKS, SOUTH HVAR & PAKLENI ISLANDS PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT TOUR

• Tour Length: Full-day 4-8hrs (options)
• Tour Type: Private (max 8 people)
• Best for: Scenic swim spots & beach lovers!

A top tier private boat tour for escaping the crowds and exploring Hvar’s wonderful and dramatic coastline including the best beaches with crystal clear water bays, famous red rock mountains and the incredible Dubovica Beach one of the Island’ most picturesque beaches known for its charming stone house and cave entrance – not to be missed!

You have the entire boat to yourselves and while you can create your own itinerary, I would personally leave it to experts, their suggestions are already absolutely superb and includes off-the-beaten-path places such the stunning Plaza Velo Borce lagoon backed by mountains and olive trees and hopping around the Pakleni Islands where you’ll experience the highlights!

It’s one of the best Hvar boat tours for discovering the secret beaches on Hvar Island and most beautiful swim spots across the Pakleni archipelago that you can only access by boat. I personally love this scenic coastal Hvar boat trip for the incredible landscapes and short distances – it feels a lot more worthwhile, especially for beach lovers!

This full-day private red rocks, south Hvar & Pakleni Islands speedboat tour includes:

• Private speedboat
• Fuel
• Guide
• Snorkelling equipment
• Bottled water
• Ice box
• Bluetooth

View prices & dates for this private Hvar boat tour of the red rocks, south Hvar beaches & Pakleni Islands!

Dubovica Beach – South Hvar Beaches!

RED ROCKS, SOUTH HVAR BEACHES & PAKLENI ISLANDS PRIVATE HVAR BOAT TOUR

• Tour Length: Full-day 7hrs
• Tour Type: Private (max 6 people)
• Best For: Incredible coastal landscapes & beach lovers!

A premium Hvar boat tour that focuses on relaxation and exploring the incredible coastal landscape as you pass through Hvar’s best beaches, the iconic red rocks and most dramatic bays surrounded by mountains, olive groves and tropical vegetation – making it one of the best all-round private boat tours from Hvar!

This is an excellent choice for beach lovers, as this boat trip visits more spectacular beaches than any other tour, you will love cruising past some of the most jaw-dropping bays just moments from Hvar Town including hidden gems Lucisce beach and Malo Zorace, two of my favourite beaches on Hvar located in south Hvar as well as the Pakleni Islands for swimming and lunching. These are the places not many visitors to Hvar Island will get to experience!

I recommend reserving your lunch restaurant in advance with help from your skipper, there’s several excellent places to choose from and as this tour is fully customisable you can even pick your own spot (my personal favourite is Mamato restaurant in Mlini Bay) – you can be as adventurous as you like!

This full-day private red rocks, south Hvar & Pakleni Islands speedboat tour includes:

• Private speedboat
• Fuel
• Guide
• Snorkelling equipment
• Bottled water
• Ice box
• Bluetooth

See availability for summer for this scenic beach-hopping Hvar boat trip to red rocks & more!

PRIVATE LUXURY SPEEDBOAT CHARTER

Looking for private charters? A spacious private charter is perfect for small groups or families looking to create their own ideal itinerary in style, from exploring the Pakleni Islands to the Blue Cave and Vis Island, you can include the spots that interest your party the most a fantastic and memorable experience for all!

PRIVATE LUXURY SPEEDBOAT – CUSTOM

• Tour Length: 4-8hours
• Tour Type: Private (max 12-people)
• Best For: Luxury travellers

A top-tier choice for exploring Hvar’s coast, this private luxury speedboat charter, is fully customisable and is the ultimate way to experience the Pakleni Islands, Hvar’s coastal beauty spots and even Vis Island with the entire boat and crew to yourselves! It offers total flexibility – if you love a swim spot or cove you can stay longer and there’s a spacious and stylish sundeck for relaxing in between sights – something the smaller speed boats can’t provide!

With this superior private boat tour from Hvar you’ll make arrangements beforehand for which islands, attractions, beaches and even lunch options best suites your style, then leave it to the experts to arrange your perfect trip, but I recommend reserving lunch ahead of time, especially if you’re heading for the Pakleni Islands and popular Palmizana or Mlini restaurants with their sort-after waterside tables.

This is easily one of the most scenic and luxurious boat trips from Hvar Island, if you want a more stylish and personalised service, you can’t get better than a luxury private charter – it’s my top recommendation for honeymoons and group luxury or celebrations!

This private luxury custom speed boat trip includes:

• Speed boat
• Fuel & taxes
• Shower & Toilet
• Fully customised service
• Refrigerator
• Water
• Snorkeling masks

Check availability for your dates & book this private luxury custom speedboat charter for a trip of a lifetime!

Which Hvar boat tour should you choose?

• For luxury & relaxation – Private Pakleni Islands sailing trip
• For first-time visitors to Croatia – Blue Cave & Vis Island tour
• For couples – Sunset sailing cruise
• For iconic swimming spots – Red Rocks & Pakleni Islands boat trip
• For a special splurge – Private yacht charter from Hvar

Why is a boat tour the best way to explore Hvar?

A boat tour from Hvar Island is the absolute best way to explore Hvar’s picturesque coastline in one day, including those hard-to-reach beaches of South Hvar and mountainous beaches only accessible by boat and hidden bays of the Pakleni Islands with gorgeous waterfront restaurants! Boat tours from Hvar Town are the most popular day excursion and the incredible coastal landscape in this area of Croatia is one of the main reasons for visiting!

TIPS FOR BOOKING HVAR BOAT TRIPS

Start Early

Morning boat tours from Hvar typically have calmer water, better swimming, a clearer view for photos and fewer crowds around popular spots, in my experience the sea is even more beautiful and shimmering turquoise!

Pre-book Tours

If you’re hoping to go on a private Hvar boat tour pre-booking is a must to avoid disappointment, especially during the peak season late June until August! Secure your Hvar boat trip well ahead to save time and hassle later on and reserve restaurants ahead of time, the Pakleni Islands boats some of the best restaurants in Hvar!

Check Rental Boat Size

If you want more space, look closely at the maximum guest count of your private or group boat tour, often a boat will feel very busy if it actually reaches max capacity!

Private Hvar Boat Trips ARE Worth It!

Private tours are well worth the splurge if you’re travelling as a couple, family or small group. You’ll usually get a far more relaxed experience, more flexibility with swimming stops and the chance to avoid some of the busier crowds around the Pakleni Islands and Blue Cave – also you can arrange your own special lunch venue!.

Booking Tips

Booking Hvar excursions is easy with Viator and Get Your Guide, I use them constantly as their customer service and cancellation options are fantastic. For example, you can cancel or change dates with just 24 hours’ notice – book your Hvar boat tours securely – and for peace of mind in case your plans alter!

Check Inclusions

Not every boat comes with the same things, some offer towels, a cooler box and drinks while private tours make a point of including a personal guide and fuel (for private boat rentals it’s not a given).

What To Pack

• Chic cover-ups – Hvar sun is strong!
• Waterproof phone case
• Hat, sunglasses, SPF 30-50
• Swimwear and thick towel (for the pebbles)
• Drinks & snacks
• Water shoes for swimming & pebble beaches
• Cash & Card

BOAT TOURS FROM HVAR FAQ

Are boat tours from Hvar Island worth it?

Yes, Hvar boat tours are absolutely worth it and are easily one of the best experiences on the island. From swimming in the crystal-clear coves of the Pakleni Islands to visiting iconic destinations like Vis Island and the Blue Cave, you’ll experience a far more scenic side of Hvar!

What is the best boat tour from Hvar Island?

The best boat tour from Hvar Island is this full day sailing trip around the picturesque Pakleni Islands, which allows you to experience 4 to 6 islands, including hidden-gem beach coves, clear water swim spots and chic overwater restaurants at a calm pace with a lovely atmosphere!

Which boat tours visit the Pakleni Islands?

Yes – several of the best boat tours from Hvar visit the beautiful Pakleni Islands Hvar, including private sailing trips, luxury boat charters and smaller group island-hopping tours. The Pakleni Islands are known for their clear waters, pretty beach coves and boutique beach clubs and relaxed vibe making them one of the most scenic and worthwhile boat trips in Croatia!

Is it better to book a private or group boat tour in Hvar?

Just like boat tours from busy Dubrovnik old town, a private boat tour will give you more space, relaxation and flexibility – if you want to stay in swim spots longer and choose restaurants for drinks or lunch, the experience is more calm and you’ll avoid the crowds and waiting around, the splurge is worth it for a touch of luxury, group boat tours are great for solo’s.

How far in advance should you book Hvar boat tours?

You should book Hvar boat tours a couple of weeks in advance, especially in the peak summer months when boat trips are among the most popular things to do in Hvar Town!

Can you visit the Blue Cave from Hvar?

Yes you can visit the Blue Cave from Hvar, it is one of the iconic boat tours from Hvar, covering many sights in one trip, making it ideal for first time visitors, check out my full review of the Blue Cave and Vis Island tour here and see if it’s worth it for you!

Still planning your Hvar Island itinerary?

Planning your trip to Hvar? I’ve also shared a complete what to do travel guide for first-time visitors, my favourite things to do, that pairs perfectly with the best day trips from Hvar Island!

• Complete Guide To Hvar Island – top tips & need to know for first time visitors!
• Where To Stay In Hvar Island – the best areas, boutique hotels & luxury stays!
• Best Things To Do In Hvar Town – heritage sites, attractions & experiences!
• Day Trips From Hvar – islands, bays & coastal towns worth visiting!
• Guide To The Pakleni Islands Hvar – best bays, restaurants & tips!
• Best Restaurants in Hvar Croatia – wine bars, seafront terraces & more!
• Stari Grad From Hvar Town – what to see, do & how to get there!
• Beaches In Hvar – best Hvar beaches & how to get there!
• Blue Cave – Full Review – a complete review & tips!

Where To Visit Next In Croatia!

• Where To Stay In Split
• Where To Stay In Dubrovnik
• Where To Stay in Korcula
• Where To Stay in Vis Island

• Best Things To Do In Split
• Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik
• Guide To Korcula Island
• Guide To Vis Island

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