Hvar, Bra & Pakleni islands cruise with lunch & drinks from Split & Trogir

A full-day cruise from Split, Croatia, offers an exciting way to explore some of the country’s most popular islands. For $86.12, you get around 10 hours of island-hopping, with visits to Pakleni Islands, Hvar, and Brac. This tour is perfect for those seeking a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation, with lunch included and free drinks throughout the day.

The itinerary is thoughtfully arranged to maximize your time on each island, with several opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. The crew is noted for being helpful and lively, which enhances the overall experience. However, the tour’s size can mean crowded boats and limited time at each stop, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and don’t mind a busy schedule.

This cruise is a flexible, budget-friendly way to experience the Croatian islands in one day. It’s highly rated with a 4.5/5 score based on over 1,380 reviews, with 92% recommending it. Keep in mind that weather conditions can lead to route changes or cancellations, so flexibility is key.

Key Points

• Full-day island-hopping tour departing from Split or Trogir for around 10 hours
• Visits to Pakleni Islands, Hvar, and Brac, with swimming, snorkeling, and exploration
• Lunch includes options like beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers, served with french fries
• Free drinks on board: wine, soda, juice, and water all day
• Snorkeling gear, inflatables, and stand-up paddleboards are provided for active fun
• Tour groups can be large, with up to 130 passengers, which can impact comfort and pacing
• Weather conditions may cause route adjustments or cancellations; flexibility is offered
• Guides speak English, with many reviews highlighting their helpfulness and friendliness

Departure and Check-in Details at Split Port

The cruise begins early at 8:00 am from Ulica Svetog Nikole in Split, with check-in starting at 7:30 am. Travelers should arrive half an hour before departure to settle in and choose their lunch options. For those departing from Trogir, pickup is at 6:15 am, making this a very early start.

The tour features a mobile ticket system for convenience, and most travelers can participate, with some cautions for those with mobility issues. The guide and crew emphasize safety, especially in bad weather, when the route might be diverted or the trip canceled.

The Pakleni Islands: First Stop for Swimming and Sunbathing

The cruise kicks off with a 1 hour 30 minutes stop at the Lagoon near Pakleni Islands. This chain of wooden isles is known for its calm waters and perfect swimming spots. The shallow lagoons provide excellent conditions for snorkeling and relaxing in the sun, with free snorkel gear and inflatables to enhance your time in the water.

This first stop is a favorite among guests, who appreciate the chance to dive into the sea straight from the boat. The tranquil waters and scenic surroundings make it a peaceful start to the day.

Exploring Hvar: The Croatian St. Tropez

The second major stop is Hvar, where 2 hours are allocated for sightseeing and exploration. The town of Hvar is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, historic sights, and picturesque harbor. Visitors can walk along the waterfront, admire cultural sights, or visit the Fortica fortress for a panoramic view of the harbor and cityscape.

Many reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the scenic views from the fortress, which resemble the Croatian St. Tropez. While some find the time at this stop sufficient for a quick walk or a coffee, others feel it could be longer to fully enjoy the town’s charm.

Relaxing at Olife Beach Club in Milna, Brac

The final stop takes place at Olife Beach Club in Milna, 1 hour 30 minutes are set aside for relaxation and fun. Surrounded by untouched nature and serene waters, this spot is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or enjoying a cold drink from the beach bar (note: drinks are not included at the beach club).

Guests appreciate the secluded feel of this location, offering a calm finale to the day’s activities. The focus here is on relaxing in the quiet beauty of the Croatian coast.

Included Activities and Equipment

The tour provides stand-up paddleboards, inflatable toys, and mask for snorkeling, allowing for active water fun during stops. All fees and taxes are covered, and the English-speaking crew ensures clear communication.

For lunch, travelers choose from beef, tuna, or vegetarian burgers with french fries, served around 1:00 pm. The onboard drinks include wine, soda, juice, and unlimited water—a feature often praised for its generosity.

Additional Costs and Limitations

While the snorkeling equipment requires a $10 deposit, drinks at the Olife Beach Club are not included. Some guests note that overcrowding on the boat can make sitting arrangements and pacing challenging, especially during peak times.

Weather can impact the trip, with windy conditions sometimes forcing route changes, such as skipping the Pakleni Islands or shortening stops. The captain makes decisions based on safety, which means plans can vary.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour accommodates up to 130 people, making it a larger group. While this can mean a lively, social environment, it also influences comfort levels. Many reviews mention the friendly, helpful attitude of the crew, with highlights on professionalism and good humor.

Guests recommend arriving early to secure better spots and to avoid the discomfort of overcrowding. The music and friendly crew members contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere onboard.

Weather and Safety Considerations

In case of bad weather or rough seas, the route may be altered or the trip canceled, with full refunds available if this occurs. The safety measures are emphasized, especially during sea activities.

Guests are advised to bring sun protection, water shoes, and swimwear. The boat’s size and facilities are suitable for most, but those with mobility issues should consider the physical demands of the stops.

Reviews and Overall Satisfaction

The overall rating of 4.6/5 from over 1,390 reviews indicates a strong appreciation for this tour. Many guests praise the helpfulness of the crew, the scenic stops, and value for money.

Common positives include the beautiful water, friendly staff, variety of activities, and delicious lunch. Some less favorable points involve crowding and shorter-than-expected snorkeling time, which are understandable in large group tours.

Final Thoughts on the Croatian Island Cruise

This full-day cruise from Split offers a balanced mix of water fun, sightseeing, and relaxation, with lunch, free drinks, and activities included. It suits travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and want to maximize island visits in one day.

While large group size and weather-dependent changes are considerations, the friendly crew and gorgeous scenery make it a popular choice for those looking to see Hvar, Brac, and the Pakleni Islands affordably. It’s an enjoyable way to experience Croatia’s stunning coast without the hassle of planning individual transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for free, with a $10 deposit required.

Is lunch included, and what does it feature?
Yes, the tour includes a gourmet burger of your choice—beef, tuna, or vegetarian—served with french fries.

Can I expect enough time at each island?
Most stops are around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering adequate time for exploration, swimming, or relaxing, though some reviews say it can feel rushed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain may change the route or cancel the tour for safety reasons, with a full refund if canceled due to weather.

How large is the tour group?
The group can include up to 130 passengers, which can lead to crowding, particularly on the boat’s indoor sections.

Where does the tour depart from?
The main departure point is Split Port at Ulica Svetog Nikole, with an early check-in at 7:30 am. For Trogir pickups, expect a 6:15 am departure.

This cruise from Split offers a practical, enjoyable way to see the Croatian islands with good value, lively crew, and beautiful scenery—ideal for travelers eager to experience Hvar, Brac, and the Pakleni Islands all in one day.