Customize your itinerary on a Private Boat Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Coast with a Private Boat Tour: A Complete Review

Taking a boat trip along Croatia’s shimmering coastline is often at the top of any traveler’s list—and for good reason. This private boat tour offered by Ambis Charter promises a fully personalized experience, letting you decide which islands and sights to explore. With a high rating of 5.0 based on 62 reviews, and a dedicated crew eager to cater to your preferences, this trip stands out as an excellent way to see Croatia’s famed islands while enjoying the comfort of your own boat.

One of the things we love most about this tour is the full flexibility it offers. Whether you want to chase the famous sights like Hvar and Zlatni Rat Beach or prefer secluded swimming spots and secret caves, the captain will tailor your route to suit your desires. Add in the snorkel gear and bottled water, and you’ve got a relaxing, intimate day on the water with plenty of chances to swim, explore, and soak up the scenery.

A potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included—so you’ll want to plan for a meal or snacks if you’re hungry. Also, the final price can vary slightly depending on fuel surcharges and the captain’s fee, which are paid on-site, so it’s good to budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for groups wanting privacy, flexibility, and personalized attention, especially those eager to avoid crowded tours and explore at their own pace.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a customizable, private experience on Croatia’s coast—whether with family, friends, or a small group—this tour offers great value. It’s particularly suitable if you want to set your own pace, visit specific islands or beaches, and enjoy a relaxed day with snorkeling and swimming. It also appeals to those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a tailored itinerary over cookie-cutter excursions.

Key Points

• Fully Customizable: You control your route and stops, from famous sights to hidden gems.
• Private and Intimate: Only your group on the boat, with exclusive access to the best spots.
• Flexible Duration: Ranging from 4 to 8 hours, so you can choose how much adventure suits you.
• Snorkeling Friendly: Equipment included, perfect for discovering Croatia’s underwater beauty.
• Expert Guides: Captains like Frane or Ante are praised for their local knowledge and accommodating style.
• Affordable Luxury: For around $479, you get a private, tailored experience up to 6 people, making it excellent value.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Start at 9:00 am – Your Day Begins

Your adventure kicks off in Split, with the boat ready for departure at 9:00 am. The fact that it’s a private boat means no rushing to keep up with other groups—you’re in control from the start. The boat is exclusively yours, with bottled water provided to keep you refreshed as you take in the views.

Choosing Your First Stop: Hvar or the Pakleni Islands

Hvar is a favorite for many, especially the lively town and the stunning Pakleni islands. You can explore the charming streets, enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on board while taking in the scenery. Or, opt to visit Milna or Brač, both known for their beautiful beaches and less crowded atmospheres. Reviewers mention how their guides were attentive to time and interests, making sure everyone got to see what mattered most.

Zlatni Rat Beach: The Iconic Shoreline

Next, many tours include a visit to Zlatni Rat Beach, probably Croatia’s most famous stretch of sand. It’s a perfect place for a swim or some sunbathing. One reviewer noted that exploring this with a private boat allows you to avoid the busy crowds often found here, giving a more relaxed experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even explore a secret navy base nearby, adding a touch of intrigue to your day.

Blue Lagoon or Less Tourist Beaches

The Blue Lagoon in the Split and Trogir archipelago is another popular stop—its clear waters make for excellent snorkeling. The provided gear allows you to see the underwater world up close. Alternatively, some travelers prefer quieter options like Solinska Bay or Vela Rina Beach, where fewer travelers mean more privacy and a peaceful swim.

Vis Island and the Blue Cave

Finally, Vis is a standout destination for many. The island’s natural beauty and tranquil vibe make it a perfect place to unwind. A highlight often included here is the Blue Cave on Bisevo, accessible via boat, and renowned for its striking light effects. While the cave’s admission is free, the tour guides are praised for their local insights and helpfulness, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.

Authentic Experiences and Personal Touches

Throughout the reviews, the guides earn high praise. “Marco was a spectacular guide, very accommodating and genuine,” says Sean. Others appreciated how Ante tailored the trip to their kids’ interests, even allowing for tubing fun behind the boat, which was a hit with the children. The guides’ local expertise and friendly approach transform a simple boat ride into an enriching experience.

Practical Details: What It Means for You

The tour’s length (4-8 hours) offers flexibility—whether you want a quick half-day escape or a full-day adventure. The price per group (~$480 for up to 6 people) makes this a more economical option for small groups or families wanting privacy. Since there’s no shared boat, you won’t have to contend with strangers—only your loved ones. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and bottled water adds to the value, making your trip comfortable and fun.

Considerations on Cost and Booking

While the base price is straightforward, it’s important to remember that the captain’s fee and fuel surcharge are paid on-site. This means the total cost may fluctuate slightly but still remains a reasonable investment for a tailored, private experience. Cancellation is flexible up to 24 hours in advance, which is convenient if weather conditions turn sour.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This private boat tour blends personalized service, flexibility, and authentic exploration. It’s ideal for travelers who want to craft their own Croatian coast experience without the constraints of a large group or predetermined itinerary. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the freedom to snorkel or relax as you please, you’re paying for a day designed entirely around your interests.

The ability to choose stops like Zlatni Rat, Blue Lagoon, or Vis adds a lot of value—especially since each location offers a different vibe and set of activities. Plus, reviews highlight how guides like Frane and Marco made the day memorable, emphasizing their local knowledge and friendly demeanor.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re traveling with a small group who values intimacy and customization. It suits adventurous souls who want to explore multiple islands in one day or those seeking peaceful, secluded spots away from crowds. Families with children will appreciate the flexibility and safe environment, especially with snorkeling gear and attentive guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will be on the boat, ensuring a personalized and exclusive experience.

How long does the tour last?
The duration can be anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and stops.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment. The captain’s fee and fuel surcharge are paid on-site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can let your captain know your preferred destinations, whether it’s Hvar, Zlatni Rat, Blue Lagoon, or Vis.

Is food provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring your own or arrange for a meal during your stops.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for most groups.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and if the trip is canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s coast in comfort and style. Its greatest strength lies in its customizable nature, allowing you to tailor your day exactly as you wish—whether that’s relaxing at Zlatni Rat, snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon, or discovering hidden gems around Vis. The high ratings and glowing reviews speak to the quality of guides like Marco and Frane, who are praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude.

The balance between flexibility, privacy, and value makes this experience appealing to small groups seeking an authentic, immersive day on the water. If you love the idea of designing your own Croatian adventure with a knowledgeable crew by your side, this tour will likely be one of your highlights.

Whether you want to explore iconic sights or discover quieter spots, this private boat tour combines comfort, adventure, and personalization—delivering what many travelers hope for when they think of Croatia’s spectacular coast.