Pakleni Islands Sailing Tour

Imagine cruising along Croatia’s shimmering coast on a spacious sailing boat, stopping at picture-perfect bays for swims, and savoring fresh seafood by the sea — that’s what this Pakleni Islands sailing tour promises. It’s an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Dalmatia without dedicating a full day’s time. The tour is run by Batun d.o.o and offers a blend of sailing adventure, scenic exploration, and casual relaxation.

What draws many travelers in is the chance to sail on a 42-foot regatta-style boat, giving that authentic sailing feel coupled with plenty of space to lounge and soak up the sun. The itinerary includes stops at some of the most enchanting bays around St. Klement and Hvar, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating lazily. Plus, a Dalmatian-style lunch at a local restaurant adds to the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the lunch is not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget for that. Also, the tour’s flexibility with weather and anchorage means your experience can vary somewhat from day to day. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a scenic, social day on the water but may not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women.

This tour offers a fantastic value for those looking to combine sailing, swimming, and authentic local cuisine into a half-day adventure. It’s particularly appealing for groups who want a shared, small-group experience with knowledgeable local guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Sailing Experience: Aregatta-type sailing boat adds genuine charm and fun.
• Ideal for Water Lovers: Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops in crystal-clear bays.
• Relaxing and Spacious: Large 42ft boat with ample sunbathing space.
• Local Cuisine: Stop for a Dalmatian-style lunch at a bay-side restaurant (lunch not included).
• Flexible and Easy Booking: Keep plans open with pay-later options and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Expert Guidance & Extras: Guides are knowledgeable, and the tour includes wine, water, snacks, snorkeling gear, and a stand-up paddleboard.

An In-Depth Look at the Pakleni Islands Sailing Tour

What the Tour Entails

This tour sets sail from the Dalmatian coast, with a focus on showcasing some of the most stunning bays of the Pakleni Islands, notably near St. Klement and Hvar. The itinerary includes a couple of stops: one or more bays on St. Klement, a passage, and either Zdrilca Bay or Vela Garska Bay on Hvar. These spots are renowned for their clear waters and peaceful atmospheres, perfect for a refreshing swim or underwater photography.

You should expect the boat to anchor in these bays, giving you time for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are described as pristine and crystal-clear — ideal for underwater capturing or just floating peacefully. From the reviews, travelers have shared that the skipper, often full of local knowledge, makes the experience even better, with friendly service and helpful tips.

The Sailing Experience

Sailing on a regatta-style boat is not just about transportation — it’s about feeling the wind in your hair and the thrill of being on the water. The boat is sizable at 42 feet, providing plenty of room for sunbathing and relaxing. Some guests have highlighted that the boat’s spacious design makes the experience comfortable, even for those who enjoy lounging.

As one reviewer pointed out, the sailing itself was fun and “a real experience,” with plenty of time to enjoy the ride and take in the views. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, sharing stories about the islands and recommendations for swimming spots.

Food & Drink

While the tour price does not include lunch, the stop at a bay-side restaurant is a highlight. Depending on weather and anchorage conditions, the skipper will bring your group to the most suitable spot for a proper Dalmatian lunch. Guests can expect to enjoy fresh seafood, typically fish, in a relaxed setting just steps from the water.

The tour includes wine, water, snacks like crackers and chocolate wafers, snorkeling gear, and a stand-up paddleboard, making the day well-rounded for water enthusiasts. Many travelers appreciated the local knowledge of guides like Hvar-born skipper Juraj, who was described as “lovely” and “full of local insights,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

This experience generally draws small groups, making it more intimate than large cruise ships. Guest reviews mention a friendly, helpful skipper, and some describe it as a perfect balance of socializing and relaxing. The group size, combined with the guided nature, makes for a more personal adventure.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price point: At $141 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the included amenities like snorkeling gear and drinks.
• Duration: The tour runs for a few hours, typically enough for two swimming stops, sailing, and a meal.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, hat, towel, and a jacket for cooler moments.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women, given the boat’s setup.
• Booking: Flexible with a pay-later option and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

From honest reviews, we learn that the tour is most enjoyed by those who appreciate a relaxed, scenic day with friendly guides. Travelers rave about the local knowledge of skipper Juraj, who shares stories and tips about the islands. The wine and snacks are appreciated, though some noted that only one drink was offered during the trip, which might be enough for most but is worth noting.

One traveler mentioned that, despite the fun sailing, the activity could feel monotonous if the guide walks slowly and seems to pass time, leading to a less engaging experience. However, this seems to be the exception rather than the norm.

Why This Tour Works for Different Types of Travelers

Water lovers and sun worshippers will adore the swimming and lounging opportunities, with plenty of space to stretch out on the boat. The small group setting fosters a friendly, informal atmosphere, perfect for couples or friends who want a shared adventure with a local touch.

Those interested in authentic Croatian cuisine will enjoy the stop at a bay-side restaurant, where fresh fish and local wine come together for a memorable meal. The knowledgeable guide adds an extra layer of value, making the experience feel genuine and personal.

However, travelers with limited mobility or pregnant women might prefer more accessible options, as the tour involves boat stops and walking on uneven surfaces. Also, if you’re very particular about food inclusions or multiple drinks, note that drinks are limited during the trip.

In The Sum Up

This Pakleni Islands sailing tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of Dalmatia’s coast from the water, blending sailing, swimming, and delicious local cuisine. The large, comfortable boat, combined with a knowledgeable guide and small-group experience, makes it a standout choice for those seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure.

It’s an especially good pick for water enthusiasts who love to spend time swimming and snorkeling in clear, tranquil bays. The inclusion of wine, snacks, and paddleboarding adds to the fun, making it a well-rounded half-day escape.

While not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers—the tour provides excellent value when it comes to authentic, memorable experiences on Croatia’s stunning waters. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of local flavor and expert guidance, this sailing trip could be just what you need.

FAQs

Is the lunch included in the tour price?
No, the Dalmatian-style lunch is not included. The guide will take you to a restaurant on the islands depending on weather and anchorage conditions.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, towel, and a jacket for cooler moments.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women due to boat and walking requirements.

How many stops are there during the tour?
There are typically two swimming stops at bays on St. Klement and Hvar, plus the lunch stop at a restaurant.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a skipper/guide, wine, water, snacks, snorkeling gear, and a stand-up paddleboard.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water, some great swimming, or a taste of local Dalmatian cuisine, this sailing tour delivers a memorable slice of Croatian coastal life.