Sail and escape to Pakleni islands | Half day sailing on a modern 36ft yacht

If you’re looking to escape the lively buzz of Hvar town for a few hours, a sailing trip to the Pakleni Islands might just be your perfect antidote. This half-day adventure offers a chance to unwind on a sleek, modern yacht while exploring some of Croatia’s most beautiful waters and islands. With the chance to swim, snorkel, and even learn a bit about sailing, it’s an experience designed for those craving both relaxation and a touch of adventure.

One of the standout features of this trip is its small group size and personalized vibe. You’ll be sailing with a knowledgeable skipper, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get some tips on maneuvering the boat yourself! That said, some reviewers noted that expectations around the sailing instruction and commentary weren’t always met, but overall, the vessel’s comfort and the stunning scenery made up for it. If you’re after a laid-back day with beautiful views, friendly guides, and water activities, this tour really hits the right note.

However, if you’re someone who craves a detailed historical or cultural narration or highly structured activities, this might feel a bit light on that front. The focus here is on enjoying the natural beauty, the water, and the open sea. Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, scenic, and fun escape from crowds. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, stunning vistas, and a chance to try some water sports without the hassle of organizing them yourself.

Key Points

• Relaxed sailing experience with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Small group size ensures a more intimate and personalized adventure.
• Experienced skippers like Peter and Philip are praised for their friendly, accommodating style.
• Water activities like SUP and snorkeling gear are included, adding fun and variety.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for worry-free booking up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for most travelers, including children (with adult supervision), and group sizes capped at 16.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting: Sailing from Hvar towards the Pakleni Islands

Launching from the harbor of Hvar, the sail begins with a gentle cruise along the coast, giving you your first taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline. The boat, a sleek 36ft modern yacht, offers a comfortable space to relax as you leave behind the lively streets of Hvar. The journey itself is part of the charm, with the wind in your hair and views of the lush islands and rocky coastline.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

10:00 am or 2:30 pm start times give you options depending on your day’s plans, with two trips offered daily. The initial meet-up involves a quick briefing and getting acquainted with the boat and safety instructions. After that, the sailing kicks off, heading toward the Pakleni Islands, home to some of the most picturesque bays in the area.

The first swim stop, usually around 11:00 am, takes place in a natural bay with crystal-clear waters—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and trying out the SUP paddleboards. Reviewers frequently mention how much fun they had floating in the calm, inviting waters, and how the snorkeling spots were “awesome,” with plenty of marine life to see.

Sailing around the islands follows, offering panoramic views of the rocky coastlines and lush greenery, often with music playing onboard to keep the vibe relaxed. The boat’s skipper, often praised for their friendly attitude, will teach basic sailing maneuvers if you’re interested. One reviewer mentioned that the skipper didn’t set up the paddleboard or provide much in the way of area explanations, but others appreciated the laid-back, no-pressure atmosphere.

The second swim stop at a gorgeously scenic bay around midday allows more time for swimming and relaxing before heading back. The sailing back to Hvar usually begins around 1:30 pm, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and chat with fellow travelers.

Water Activities: Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Swimming

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and SUPs makes this trip a hit for water lovers. The waters around the Pakleni Islands are known for their clarity, making for excellent snorkeling—especially if you enjoy observing marine life in a relatively untouched environment. The paddleboards give a fun, active option for those who want to stay afloat and explore at their own pace.

The Skipper and Crew

Reviews consistently highlight the friendly, accommodating nature of the skippers, especially Peter and Philip, who are known for making guests feel comfortable. One reviewer called Peter a “brilliant host,” emphasizing how he made sure everyone was comfortable and had what they needed. On the other hand, a less favorable review pointed out that the skipper seemed distracted, sat on his phone, and didn’t provide much commentary or instruction during the trip. This variance might depend on individual skippers, but overall, the crew’s approach seems to lean towards laid-back friendliness rather than detailed storytelling.

Practical Details and Value

At $107.40 per person, this tour packs a lot into a four-hour window. The price includes the yacht, the skipper, snorkeling gear, bottled water, fuel surcharge, and paddleboards—meaning you won’t need to worry about extra costs for water activities. For the price, you gain a relaxed, scenic experience with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and a taste of sailing without any pressure.

The small group size (maximum 16 travelers) ensures you won’t feel lost among crowds, and the mobile ticket system makes booking flexible. Plus, the free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip adds peace of mind in case weather or plans change.

Why This Tour Works Well

This sailing trip is ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some quality time on the water. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic beauty, water activities, and a relaxed atmosphere. Families with children (who are accompanied by adults) will find it manageable, and small groups mean a more personal experience.

If you’re after a structured, historical tour or a high-energy sailing adventure, this might not be the best fit. But if your goal is to chill out, swim in clear waters, and get a taste of sailing, it’s a fantastic choice.

Who Should Book This?

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, laid-back fun over formal instruction or lengthy explanations. It’s especially good for those wanting to avoid the busy parts of Hvar and instead discover the natural beauty around the islands. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a gentle sea escape will find it a worthwhile addition to their Croatian itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This half-day sailing trip to the Pakleni Islands offers an excellent combination of stunning scenery, water activities, and relaxed sailing—all at a reasonable price point. The boat’s comfort, the friendly crew, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel make it a memorable, enjoyable experience. While some reviews hint at variability in skipper engagement, the overall vibe remains positive, and the natural beauty of the area is truly breathtaking.

For travelers who seek an authentic, peaceful day on the water, away from the crowds and with plenty of chances to cool off and soak up the sun, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic way to see a side of Croatia that feels both accessible and awe-inspiring.

FAQs

What is included in the price of the tour?
The cost covers the yacht, skipper, snorkeling gear, bottled water, fuel surcharge, and paddleboards, providing everything you need for a fun day on the water.

How long does the trip last?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, from around 10 am or 2:30 pm, depending on your chosen departure.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

How many people can join the trip?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and possibly some snacks if you want extra provisions—although bottled water is provided.

What if weather conditions are poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I learn sailing on this trip?
You will receive some basic instructions, and your skipper might teach you how to maneuver the boat, but the focus is more on enjoying the sailing experience than intensive instruction.

This half-day sailing trip to the Pakleni Islands provides a lovely balance of scenic views, water fun, and laid-back sailing. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or simply enjoy Croatia from the water, it’s a memorable option that offers real value for your money.