Split: Bol, Hvar, Pakleni Island, and Solta Full-Day Tour

Travelers seeking a smooth, scenic adventure along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast will find this full-day tour from Split offers a compelling mix of gorgeous scenery, charming towns, and relaxing ocean swims. With a well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and plenty of free time, it’s especially suited for those who want to see several highlights without feeling rushed. Our thoughts? It’s a trip that balances comfort, beauty, and a touch of adventure—perfect for first-time visitors or those simply wanting a taste of Croatia’s coastal magic.

We particularly appreciate the easy pace—it’s not physically demanding, which makes it accessible to most travelers—and the opportunity to snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters. The scenic boat rides are another highlight, offering a front-row seat to the stunning Dalmatian coastline. One small consideration: the boat can go at around 27 knots, meaning it can be a bit windier and less smooth than some may prefer, especially if seasickness is a concern. This tour suits those who love relaxed exploration with plenty of picturesque stops, especially if you’re keen to sample a little of everything Croatia’s islands have to offer.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with stops at Bol, Hvar, Pakleni Islands, and Solta
• Inclusive activities like snorkeling gear and bottled water
• Flexible schedule with ample free time at each destination
• Comfortable boat ride with scenic views, though slightly faster and windier
• Great for beginners or travelers wanting a laid-back, scenic day
• Ideal for those interested in swimming and relaxing rather than intense sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day adventure from Split is designed to showcase a few of Croatia’s most iconic islands and coastal sights, all without the heavy travel or packed schedules that can come with more intensive tours. The experience begins with a pickup at the meeting point, where a comfortable boat awaits, ready to whisk you away along the coastline on a roughly 8-clock-hour journey.

The First Stop: Bol on Brač

Our first destination is Bol, home to the legendary Zlatni Rat beach, known for its ever-changing shape that seems to shift with the wind and tide. It’s a postcard-perfect stretch of sand that draws visitors from all over. We loved the way the tour allows plenty of time here—enough for a swim, sunbathe, or simply stroll along the promenade. The reviews highlight this as a high point, with visitors describing it as “beautiful ports and scenery,” and “great itinerary.” The focus here is on relaxing and enjoying the stunning views, rather than rushing through.

The Charm of Hvar

Next, we move to Hvar, one of Croatia’s most famous islands, appreciated both for its handsome architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The town of Hvar offers an inviting mix of historic charm and modern energy. Visitors can explore the Fortica Fortress, which provides panoramic views over the town and harbor, or enjoy wandering the streets and squares filled with cafes and boutique shops. The lively reputation of Hvar, especially its nightlife, is well-known, though on this tour, the emphasis is more on sightseeing and relaxing than partying.

The Pakleni Islands

After Hvar, the boat makes its way to the Pakleni Islands, a cluster of small islands dotted with secluded beaches and hidden coves. This is where many travelers find their favorite part of the day—swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The islands’ natural beauty, combined with the ability to explore at your own pace, makes this a top highlight. Several reviews mention that the stops here are “fascinating,” giving you the chance to really unwind and enjoy some quiet beach time.

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Solta: The Tranquil Escape

The final stop is the island of Solta, often described as less touristy, giving it a peaceful, authentic vibe. Known for its villages and scenic coastlines, it’s a perfect place to stroll, sample local wines and olive oils, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The pace here is gentle, with plenty of time for exploration and relaxation, making it a nice contrast to the busier Hvar.

The Boat and Guides

The vessel used for this tour is praised for being well-organized and comfortable, with reviewers mentioning the “fantastic crew and boat.” The guides are consistently described as knowledgeable, explaining each island’s highlights in a clear and engaging manner. From one traveler: “The guide was made up of two young, kind, and helpful guys who explained each island we visited in a clear and interesting way.” This friendly, informative approach adds a lot of value, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

The boat’s speed—around 27 knots—is a double-edged sword. While it makes for a quick trip that maximizes your time on land, it also results in a windy and sometimes less smooth ride. Some travelers, like Emanuele, noted that “the speed made us feel the wind a lot,” which could impact comfort, especially if seasickness is a concern. However, the trade-off is that you get to see more in a single day.

Practical Details and Value

At $132 per person, this tour offers a good blend of value and experience. It includes snorkeling gear, fresh bottled water, and insurance, so you aren’t left worrying about extras. Food, like lunch, is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat ashore if time permits. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not for children under 3, pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone prone to seasickness.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, which makes planning easier. Also, you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

What Travelers Say

With a 4.6-star rating based on 98 reviews, most travelers find this tour well worth the price and effort. Comments highlight the well-organized nature, the beautiful scenery, and the friendly guides. One reviewer called it a “really cool experience,” noting that the time in each place was just right—not rushed, but enough to soak in the views and atmosphere. Another pointed out that the small group size made for a more personal and enjoyable journey.

Others appreciated the opportunity to relax with free time for swimming and exploring each destination. Some mentioned the beautiful ports and scenery as highlights, confirming that the tour delivers on its promise of showcasing Croatia’s coast in a laid-back, enjoyable way.

Final Thoughts

This tour is best for travelers craving a scenic, relaxed day along the Dalmatian coast, with plenty of opportunity to swim, explore, and soak up the views. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a slow-paced, comfortable experience over a hectic, packed schedule.

The combination of friendly guides, diverse stops, and beautiful scenery makes it a standout choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Croatia’s coastal charm. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the flexible booking options add convenience and value, making it accessible and reassuring for many travelers.

While the boat ride’s speed can be a little windy, most find it adds an element of excitement and offers spectacular vistas. Keep in mind that the tour is not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges, but for most, it’s a memorable, picture-perfect day on the water.

All in all, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and seaside relaxation, making it an excellent way to experience Croatia’s stunning islands without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who dislike boat rides?
It’s generally suitable, but the boat travels at about 27 knots, which can make the ride a bit windy and less smooth. If you are prone to seasickness or dislike fast boat rides, you might find it less comfortable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, water shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. These essentials will help you stay comfortable and enjoy the day fully.

Is food included in the price?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring snacks or plan to eat at one of the stops if you want a full meal.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Not suitable for children under 3 years old, so if you’re traveling with young kids, this might not be ideal.

Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Will I have enough time at each location?
Yes, reviews describe the stops as having “plenty of time,” with just enough to enjoy swimming, exploring, or relaxing without feeling rushed.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic stops, especially Zlatni Rat beach and the panoramic views from Hvar’s fortress, are perfect for capturing memorable images.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Croatian, ensuring clear communication and local insights.

This full-day tour from Split offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coastal treasures—beautiful islands, relaxed seaside towns, and crystal waters—making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a leisurely and scenic day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: