Private boat tour of Red rocks & Pakleni islands

This private boat tour around Hvar offers an engaging way to see some of the most captivating sights of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. With a dedicated skipper, you’ll cruise through crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden beaches, dramatic red rocks, and the lush Pakleni Islands archipelago. This experience is designed for those who love a mix of scenic beauty, authentic local stops, and the flexibility of customizing their day on the water.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is its focus on personalized service. You don’t just tag along with a group; instead, you get your own private speedboat and guide, which means a more intimate and flexible adventure. The option to snorkel, swim, and visit exclusive spots makes it ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic Croatian day — with the added bonus of knowledgeable guides who know the ins and outs of the coast.

One potential consideration is the price point — around $701 for up to seven people — which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in exclusive access, custom itinerary options, and the overall quality of the experience, many travelers find it offers excellent value. This tour will suit travelers looking for a private, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for adventure, food, and local wine tasting.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests.
• Expert guides who are knowledgeable about the local spots and hidden gems.
• Multiple stops including beaches, caves, and islands with options for swimming and snorkeling.
• Delicious local food and wine options, particularly at Velo Zarae and Laganini Bar.
• Flexible duration from 5 to 8 hours, giving you control over your day.
• Excellent reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and insider knowledge.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour begins at Antonio Rent, conveniently located in Hvar town, with a start time of 10:30 am. From there, you’ll hop onto a private speedboat and set out across the shimmering waters of the Adriatic. The scene immediately feels special — the boat is modern, comfortable, and equipped with Bluetooth speakers, snorkeling gear, and plenty of space for your group.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Dubovica Beach
The adventure kicks off with a visit to Dubovica, often considered the island’s most beautiful pebble beach. The beach is only 30 meters wide, but its charm lies in the stunning backdrop of a 17th-century noble house and a small hidden cave on the bay’s right side. Expect about 30 minutes here to soak up the scenery, paddle in the clear water, or explore the cave if you’re feeling adventurous. Reviewers mention this as a highlight, with one calling it the “most beautiful beach on the island.”

Stop 2: Plaza Sveta Nedelja & Winery Visit
Next, the tour might include a quick stop at the charming Plaza Sveta Nedelja, with an optional visit to Plenkovic Winery for wine tasting. Since admission to the winery isn’t included, you’d want to budget for this if you’re keen on sampling local wines. Reviewers have raved about the wine tasting, noting it as a meaningful and enjoyable part of the day — a perfect way to indulge in Croatia’s renowned wine culture.

Stop 3: Zarae Bays
On the southern side of Hvar, only about 6 km from the town, are Velo Zarae and Malo Zarae bays. These are ideal spots for a relaxed lunch or a swim, with several restaurants serving local cuisine. The quiet bays are perfect for a peaceful break, and some reviews mention savoring delicious local food here. Expect around 30 minutes at this stop, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and the flavors.

Stop 4: Pakleni Islands
The star of the tour is the Pakleni Islands, a lush archipelago just off Hvar’s coast. Here, you’ll find a mix of lively beaches, secluded coves, and pine forests. The tour includes about 1.5 hours exploring this area, which reviewers describe as “places for every soul — from fun-filled beaches to total peace.” You might choose to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on a hidden beach.

Stop 5: Mlini Beach
One of the most beautiful bays on the Pakleni Islands, Mlini Beach offers pristine waters and a scenic setting. This stop is ideal for a quick swim or a peaceful break. Reviewers have noted the stunning clarity of the water and how relaxing this spot is.

Stop 6: Palmizana & Botanical Garden
A highlight for many is the visit to Palmizana, known for its sandy beach and peaceful vibe. You’ll have about 30 minutes to swim, walk along the eco-friendly paths, or lounge at the famous Laganini Bar, which offers cocktails right at water level. This stop is praised for its natural beauty and laid-back ambiance.

Stop 7: Lucisca Beach
The tour wraps up with a visit to Lucisca Beach, another picturesque spot with clear waters perfect for swimming or relaxing. The reviews consistently mention the quality of the guides and the peaceful, scenic nature of this final stop.

What to Expect From the Guides

One of the most frequently praised aspects across reviews is the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Franco and Marco. They are described as helpful, passionate about their local area, and keen to tailor the experience to your preferences. Several reviewers specifically mention how guides went beyond expectations, taking guests to secret spots and arranging special lunches at exclusive locations.

These guides also facilitate fun activities such as cliff jumping, cave exploration, and fishing — all with safety and enjoyment in mind. The boat is well-equipped with snorkeling gear, life jackets, and even drone photography, which many travelers appreciate for capturing the trip’s memorable moments.

The Experience of the Tour

The entire cruise is flexible in duration, typically lasting between 5 and 8 hours. The timing allows for a leisurely pace, meaning you won’t feel rushed — perfect for soaking in the views and taking your time at each stop. The boat accommodates up to 7 people, making it intimate enough for small groups or families but spacious enough for comfort.

The price point, at roughly $701 for the entire boat, makes sense when you consider the exclusivity, personalized attention, and access to private spots that are often out of reach on larger group tours. Reviews reveal that guests find the value in the curated stops, the quality of the boat, and the local knowledge of the guides, especially in visiting the hidden caves and secret beaches.

Snorkeling and Swimming

With snorkeling gear provided, you’re encouraged to explore the underwater world of the Adriatic. Clear waters and abundant marine life make this a rewarding activity. Many reviewers mention swimming and snorkeling as highlights — a chance to cool off in some of the most beautiful spots Croatia has to offer.

Food and Wine

While the tour itself doesn’t include meals, stops at Velo Zarae and Laganini Bar are praised for their excellent local food and wine. Guests often mention the wineries and seaside taverns as memorable parts of their day, with some even quoting the underwater cellar lunch as a unique experience. It’s worth budgeting extra if you want to indulge in these local flavors.

Flexibility and Customization

Many reviews highlight how guides were eager to personalize the day. Whether you want to focus on swimming, cave exploration, or wine tasting, the tour can adapt. Guests appreciate the freedom to spend more or less time at certain spots, making each trip unique.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat trip is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting a safe yet adventurous day, or small groups of friends celebrating something special. If you appreciate personalized service, authentic local experiences, and gorgeous scenery, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also excellent for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy exclusive access to hidden beaches and quiet bays. The flexibility to customize the itinerary means you can prioritize activities that matter most — whether that’s snorkeling, tasting local wine, or just relaxing on deck.

The Sum Up

In essence, this private boat tour offers a luxurious yet relaxed way to experience the best of Hvar and its surrounding islands. It combines the thrill of speedboating with the serenity of secluded beaches, making it ideal for those who want a tailored adventure in Croatia’s stunning waters.

The expert guides, pristine spots, and flexible schedule ensure you get a genuine, memorable day that’s hard to replicate on larger, more structured tours. From swimming in crystal-clear caves to sipping wine at a seaside vineyard, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve uncovered some of Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

This experience is especially suited for small groups or couples who value intimacy, control over their day, and authentic coastal exploration. If you’re after a blend of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor, this tour delivers all that — and more.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, since the boat is private and the activity involves swimming and exploring, families with children will find it manageable. The guides are friendly and attentive, making it suitable for small kids, especially if they enjoy water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and possibly a light jacket or cover-up. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 5 and 8 hours, depending on your preferences and stops. The start time is 10:30 am, and the schedule is flexible.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. The guides are eager to tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s more swimming, wine tasting, or exploring caves.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, fuel, and life jackets are included. The tour price is for your private boat and guide.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private boat tour around Hvar and the Pakleni Islands offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, local flavor, and personalized service. Whether you’re after serene beaches, exciting caves, or a relaxed day with fine wine, it’s a memorable way to experience Croatia’s coast.