Split: Hvar, Bra, and Pakleni Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Planning a day on the water in Croatia often involves a boat trip, but not all tours are created equal. This particular cruise, offered by Tours In Croatia, promises a full-day adventure through some of the most scenic spots along the Dalmatian coast, with swimming, island exploring, and a tasty onboard lunch. With a solid 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 280 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a balance of relaxation, sightseeing, and fun.

What’s especially appealing about this trip? First, it takes you to Hvar, one of Croatia’s most glamorous islands, and the Pakleni Islands, renowned for their secluded coves. Second, it offers a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and wandering. The onboard lunch and drinks add a nice touch of convenience and value. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the length of the boat ride can be a bit long for those prone to seasickness or simply tired of being on the water all day. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a social, scenic day with an emphasis on island hopping and water activities.

Key Points

• Itinerary Variety: Visit Hvar, Bra, and the Pakleni Islands with ample time at each location.
• Inclusive Meals & Drinks: Enjoy a freshly prepared burger, unlimited soft drinks, and wine during lunch.
• Water Activities: Snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, and inflatables make the trip interactive.
• Authentic Experience: Friendly crew and guides help make each stop memorable.
• Value for Money: For $89, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, meals, and drinks.
• Limited Time in Hvar: Some reviews note that the time in Hvar can feel a bit rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at a designated meeting point in Split, with some options possibly varying depending on what you select at booking. The check-in time is half an hour before departure, and punctuality is essential since the boat departs exactly on time. For travelers staying in Trogir, a pickup at 6:15 AM is offered, which means an early start but also indicates the tour’s seriousness about making the most of the day.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, with the crew comprising an English-speaking captain and staff dedicated to making the trip enjoyable. You’ll want to arrive prepared with swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera, as the scenery is picture-worthy. Also, a deposit of 10 EUR is required for snorkelling gear—a small price for the chance to explore the underwater world.

The Route & Stops

Pakleni Islands:
Your adventure kicks off here, just off Hvar. These islands are famous for their quiet coves and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The reviews mention how well the crew manages safety and comfort, with some guests noting that they appreciated how attentive the staff was—searching for lost goggles, for example, as one reviewer recounts. Expect to enjoy the scent of Mediterranean pines and the warm sun while floating in secluded bays.

Lunch on Board:
The onboard meal is a highlight for many. Guests can choose between beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers with French fries, along with unlimited soft drinks and a glass of wine during lunch. Multiple reviews praise the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious” and “surprisingly good,” considering the setting. This meal provides a welcome break from the sun and water activities, giving everyone a chance to relax and socialize.

Hvar Island:
Next, the cruise heads to the famous town of Hvar, known for its historic architecture, lively cafés, and scenic harbor. The tour provides some free time to explore, wander the narrow streets, or find a cozy spot for a coffee. Reviewers say this is worth the visit, although some mention the limited time in Hvar can feel a bit tight. Still, the guides try to make sure guests get a taste of what makes Hvar special, from its charming streets to the fortress views.

Milna on Bra (Olife Beach Club):
The final stop is the Olife Beach Club in Milna, a great place to unwind or enjoy a refreshing drink before heading back. While drinks aren’t included here, guests receive a 10% discount, which is handy for those wanting to relax in style. Some reviewers note that this stop is primarily for a quick visit, but it’s a lovely setting to soak up the last moments of your trip.

Water Activities & Equipment

If you love water-based fun, you’ll appreciate the stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and snorkel gear included in the price. The snorkeling goggles require a small deposit, but many guests mention how much they enjoyed exploring under the water, often citing the clarity of the Adriatic as a major plus.

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Crew & Guide

The crew on this tour earns high marks for their helpfulness and friendliness. Multiple reviewers highlight the guides’ positive attitude, good energy, and willingness to go the extra mile—searching for lost goggles or explaining local sights. The English-speaking captain ensures smooth navigation, making the day feel well-organized and enjoyable.

What We Like About the Tour

• Scenic Waterways: The views of islands, coves, and the open sea are stunning—perfect for photography and just soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere.
• Flexible Water Time: Swimmers and snorkelers get enough time in each stop, according to reviews, making it a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation.
• Quality Food & Drinks: The included lunch and unlimited soft drinks are a real value add, especially since many similar tours charge extra for meals.
• Authentic Island Experiences: The stops at Hvar and Bra give a glimpse of local life, historic sites, and seaside charm, not just tourist spots.

Possible Drawbacks

• Long Boat Ride: Some travelers find the cruise portion lengthy, especially if prone to seasickness or if they prefer more time on land. One review specifically mentions the boat ride feeling longer than expected.
• Limited Time in Hvar: While the town is beautiful, the short time available can leave guests wishing for more exploration.
• Weather Dependency: As with any sea tour, rough seas or bad weather can lead to route changes or cancellations, so flexibility might be necessary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for water lovers, those eager to see multiple islands in a single day without the hassle of planning each stop independently. It suits travelers who want a relaxed yet active day—swimming, snapping photos, and tasting Croatian cuisine. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate friendly guides and a well-organized itinerary.

However, if you’re sensitive to long periods on a boat or prefer more time in each town, you might want to consider shorter or more land-focused options. It’s also a great choice if you want to experience both fun water activities and the charm of Croatian islands without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat tour offers a lively, scenic way to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. For just $89, you get a taste of Hvar’s glamour, Brac’s relaxed vibe, and the tranquility of Pakleni Islands, all topped with a hearty lunch and drinks. The reviews consistently praise the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and good value, making it a reliable choice for those visiting Split.

While the boat ride can be long and time in Hvar somewhat limited, the overall experience balances adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second trip, this tour can add a memorable chapter to your Croatian holiday.

In summary, if you’re looking for a well-organized, enjoyable day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore, this cruise checks most boxes. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a lively, social atmosphere and high-quality water activities—an authentic taste of Dalmatia’s stunning islands.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride on this tour?
The total duration is a full day, and the boat ride itself includes cruising between the islands, with some reviews mentioning that it can feel longer than expected.

What is included in the price?
For $89, you get lunch with options (beef, tuna, or vegetarian burger), unlimited soft drinks, wine during lunch, snorkelling gear, stand-up paddleboards, and inflatable fun equipment. The crew and captain are also part of the package.

Are there any optional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a 10 EUR deposit for snorkelling gear, which is refunded if the equipment is returned. Drinks at the Olife Beach Club are extra, but you can enjoy a 10% discount there.

Is there enough time to explore Hvar?
Guests do get some free time to wander the town, but reviews suggest it might be brief, so plan accordingly if you want to see specific sights or visit a particular café.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Remember the deposit for snorkelling gear if you plan to snorkel.

Can I book the tour if I stay in Trogir?
Yes, pickup from Trogir is available at 6:15 AM, which indicates the tour can accommodate travelers from nearby locations.

What happens in bad weather?
The activity provider reserves the right to change the route or cancel if weather conditions are unsafe, so flexibility is key.

This comprehensive review aims to help you decide whether this Croatian island cruise aligns with your travel style. From scenic beauty and water activities to friendly guides and good value, it’s a tour that captures the essence of Dalmatia’s coast—making your Croatian holiday truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: