Hvar Delight: Private Speed Boat Tour

Hvar Delight: Private Speed Boat Tour — A Balanced Look at Croatia’s Coastal Gem

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s famous Hvar Island from the water, this private speed boat tour promises a full day of swimming, scenic views, and leisurely island stops. Perfect for families, friends, or couples wanting an intimate adventure, this tour offers a chance to see some of the most gorgeous spots around Hvar without the crowds. With an experienced local skipper at the helm, you’re in safe hands and guaranteed personalized attention.

What really catches our eye about this trip is the focus on authentic experiences — from swimming in crystal-clear waters to enjoying a top-notch Dalmatian lunch in Palmizana’s renowned botanical garden. That said, it’s a relatively premium experience at $779 for up to seven guests, but considering fuel, skipper, and snorkeling gear are included, it’s a good value for a private outing. One thing to note is that lunch isn’t included in the price, so you might want to budget for extra food during the day.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, scenic, and private way to explore Hvar’s coastline and nearby islands. If you’re after a relaxing day on the water with tailored stops and a knowledgeable guide, it’s worth considering. However, if you prefer a more structured group tour with fixed schedules, this might feel a bit more personalized than some.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private tour with only your group, led by a local skipper, offers flexibility and intimacy.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Fuel, snorkeling gear, and skipper services are included, making it easier to plan.
• Multiple Scenic Stops: From swimming at Red Rocks to exploring secret bays and Tare Bay, the itinerary packs in stunning scenery.
• Culinary Highlight: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a top Dalmatian restaurant on Palmizana Bay.
• Duration and Timing: At about 5-6 hours, this trip balances sightseeing with relaxation, operating daily from late morning to late afternoon.
• Authentic Local Guides: Reviewers praise guides like Tonci and Klara for their knowledge and genuine hospitality.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Riva, Hvar

The adventure kicks off on the Riva promenade in Hvar town, a lively hub with cafes and a beautiful harbor setting. From there, your private boat awaits, ready to whisk you away towards some of the best spots on the southern coast of Hvar. The experience begins with a relatively quick cruise of about two hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the breeze.

Stop 1: Dubovica Beach and Red Rocks

Your first stop is Dubovica Beach, a classic Croatian postcard scene with a small, pebble beach backed by stone houses and lush greenery. But the real highlight is the Red Rocks, a striking natural formation known for its majestic appearance and excellent snorkeling. Reviewers mention that guides are attentive to your preferences, making sure you hit the best spots for swimming and exploring. Expect around 45 minutes here — enough time to cool off and snap some photos.

Stop 2: Palmizana Botanical Garden and Lunch

By early afternoon, the boat docks at Palmizana Bay, home to one of Croatia’s best restaurants. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed, multi-course meal in a setting renowned for its beauty and culinary excellence. The two-and-a-half-hour stop allows you to savor local Dalmatian dishes, which reviewers describe as a highlight for its quality and atmosphere. The garden itself is lush, offering a peaceful walk after lunch, and is included as part of the experience.

Stop 3: Exploring the Pakleni Islands

Post-lunch, the journey continues around the Pakleni Islands. Expect to find more secluded bays, perfect for swimming and unwinding in nature’s tranquility. Reviewers often mention the guides’ knack for finding secret spots that aren’t crowded, making this part of the trip feel exclusive. You’ll have about an hour here, which is ample time for a dip or some quiet beach time.

Stop 4: Mlini Beach

As the afternoon winds down, your boat heads to Mlini Beach for another swim, giving you a chance to soak in the last rays of sun and enjoy the turquoise waters. The reviews suggest that this stop offers a beautiful, peaceful environment to relax and reflect on the day, with about an hour allocated for this pause.

Final Stop: Tare Bay

Near the end of the trip, you’ll visit Tare Bay, a lesser-known but stunning spot favored for its untouched surroundings and clear waters. Reviewers love this quiet retreat for its peaceful ambiance and pristine scenery. It’s an excellent place for a final swim before heading back to Hvar around sunset.

What We Love About This Tour

The real charm lies in how customizable and personal this experience is. The guides, like Tonci and Klara, are praised for their genuine knowledge and hospitality, which elevates the whole day. Their ability to find less crowded, picture-perfect spots is a big plus — especially if you’re seeking tranquility away from the busy tourist areas.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore beneath the surface, and the fuel and skipper costs are covered, so there are no nasty surprises on the billing front. Plus, the flexible itinerary means if you prefer more time swimming or sightseeing, your skipper can accommodate that.

The scenery throughout the day is consistently breathtaking — from rugged cliffs and lush islands to shimmering waters that are perfect for swimming or just floating lazily. The boat itself is comfortable and private, creating an intimate atmosphere where you can truly relax.

Practical Considerations

While the overall experience offers great value, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included in the price. Many reviewers suggest that the restaurant at Palmizana is worth the extra cost, given its reputation and quality. Also, the tour is quite weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the provider offers full refunds if that happens.

The tour operates daily from late morning to late afternoon, aligning well with typical sightseeing schedules. Booking about a month in advance is recommended, as this is a popular experience, and the private nature means it fills up quickly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, flexible day on the water with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and island exploration. It suits small groups, families, or couples looking for an intimate experience, especially those who appreciate local guides with deep knowledge of the area. If you’re after a luxurious yet authentic way to enjoy Hvar’s coast, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, if you prefer a structured group tour with set schedules, or if budget is a major concern, this private option might seem a bit pricey. But for those seeking exclusivity and tailored adventures, it’s a solid investment.

Final Thoughts

This private speed boat tour around Hvar presents a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, authentic local experiences, and personalized service. The stops at Dubovica, Palmizana, and the Pakleni Islands offer some of the best swimming and sightseeing opportunities, all served with the guidance of knowledgeable and friendly skippers.

The experience is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, flexible, and intimate way to see the coast and islands. The stunning scenery, combined with the chance to swim in crystal waters and enjoy quality local cuisine, makes it a memorable day — whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a luxurious escape.

While slightly more costly than some group tours, the value is clear in the private, customizable nature of the trip and the quality of the stops. If you’re after a personal adventure with genuine local insights and picture-perfect scenery, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, this is a private experience where only your group participates, allowing for tailored stops and flexible scheduling.

What’s included in the price? Fuel, snorkeling gear, and the services of your skipper are included. You won’t have to worry about extra charges for these essentials.

Can I swim at all stops? Absolutely. The stops at Dubovica, Mlini Beach, and Tare Bay are specifically for swimming and relaxing in the waters. Expect crystal-clear, turquoise waters ideal for a dip.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included in the $779.31 price. Many guests choose to dine at Palmizana’s renowned restaurant, which is highly praised for its quality and setting.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes around 5 to 6 hours, usually starting late morning and ending in the late afternoon, providing a relaxed pace.

Are snorkeling masks provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore beneath the surface at each swimming stop.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather causes cancellation, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What size is the group? Since this is a private tour, only your group will participate, up to a maximum of 7 people for optimal comfort.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes. Most travelers book about 28 days in advance, as this is a popular experience, especially in peak season.

In essence, this Hvar private speed boat tour offers a fantastic way to explore the coast with flexibility, comfort, and authentic charm. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a fun-filled day with friends, it’s a memorable way to experience Croatia’s stunning waters.