Private Boat Tour of Croatia

Explore Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast on a Private Boat Tour from Podgora

A private boat tour of Croatia offers an intimate way to see some of the Dalmatian coast’s most scenic spots. Priced at $455.60 for a group of up to 6, this 7-hour experience departs early in the morning from Podgora and takes you across the Adriatic Sea to explore Hvar Island and its surroundings. The tour is well-rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 29 reviews, and is recommended by 100% of participants.

This tour stands out because it combines a guided walk through the historic town of Vrboska, visits to secluded bays and beaches, and the flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. There’s no included lunch, but the highlight is the chance to explore less crowded spots, with private transportation, insurance, and a mobile ticket making for a smooth experience.

While the fuel surcharge and lunch are not included, the personalized nature of this tour makes it ideal for those who want to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy the waters and landscape at their own pace. It’s perfect for small groups seeking a customizable day on the water, with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Private boat trip from Podgora to explore Hvar island
• Duration of about 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am
• Visit Vrboska, Vela Stiniva, and beaches around Hvar
• Guided walking tour of Vrboska, called “little Venice”
• Secluded bays for swimming and relaxation
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
• Includes private transportation and insurance, no lunch included

Departure Point and Timing for a Smooth Experience

The tour begins at Branimirova Obala 55, Podgora, with pickup at 8:00 am. The experience concludes back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward. It’s a private activity, so only your group participates, offering a personalized and flexible schedule. Confirmations are received within 48 hours, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

It’s important to note that good weather is required for the trip; if weather conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled for a full refund or rescheduled. The group size is limited to 6 people, ensuring personal attention from the captain and guides.

Visiting Vrboska: The Little Venice of Hvar

The tour’s first stop is Vrboska, a charming town on Hvar known for its long, scenic bay and historical charm. The guide provides interesting insights about the town’s history and main sights, making this a great spot to walk along the quaint streets and enjoy the atmosphere of this “little Venice”.

You get about an hour and a half to explore, take photos, and absorb the local flavor. The town’s setting along the long bay makes it a peaceful and picturesque beginning to the day, away from the busy crowds of larger towns on the island.

Secluded Beaches and the Charm of Vela Stiniva

The second stop on this private tour is Vela Stiniva, a gorgeous bay with a small beach inside a scenic gorge. This hidden gem offers a peaceful environment for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. The stop lasts around 40 minutes, giving you enough time to relax and take in the stunning natural surroundings.

This spot is perfect for those wanting a quiet, secluded beach experience away from the more touristic locations. No entrance fees are involved, and the photo opportunities here are plentiful, with dramatic cliffs framing the bay.

Lunch at Pakomina: A Family-Owned Croatian Restaurant

A highlight of many reviews is the visit to Pakomina Restaurant, a small family-run eatery directly on the coast. The tour allocates 2 hours and 30 minutes for lunch, allowing plenty of time to enjoy fresh fish and local seafood in a relaxed setting. The restaurant’s natural beachfront location enhances the experience, providing a peaceful backdrop to your meal.

While the lunch is not included in the tour price, many guests find the recommendations for this restaurant to be a memorable part of the day. The delicious dishes and calm atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind before heading back onto the boat for more exploration.

Customizable Route: Visiting Hidden Bays and Scenic Viewpoints

One of the main attractions of this private tour is its flexibility. The skipper and guides are happy to adjust stops and routes based on your interests, whether that’s more swimming, sightseeing, or exploring specific beaches and bays. The views around Hvar are often described as incredible, with many stops for photos and relaxing.

Guests consistently praise the skipper’s local knowledge, noting that he can tailor the trip to avoid crowded spots and maximize private, peaceful locations. This makes the experience particularly appealing for groups wanting a personalized day on the water.

Enjoying the Adriatic: Swimming and Water Activities

The crystal-clear waters around Hvar are a key part of this tour. Stops at bay and beach viewpoints provide plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the boat. Many reviews mention that the waters are fabulous, with crabs, fish, and other marine life visible in the clear sea.

The skipper is often praised for being attentive to guests’ needs, whether that’s finding the best swimming spots or providing local tips for enjoying the waters. The flexibility of the trip allows for more or less time in the water, depending on your preferences.

The Experience with the Skipper: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Multiple reviews highlight the skipper’s expertise, describing him as knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. Whether it’s Dragutin or Nikola, the captain leads the trip with professionalism, sharing interesting stories and tailoring the experience to match guest interests.

Communication is described as clear and friendly, making the overall experience more enjoyable. Many mention that the skipper’s local knowledge enhances the trip, providing recommendations for beaches and restaurants along the way.

Practicalities: Booking, Fees, and What’s Included

The private boat tour includes private transportation and insurance, with the meeting point at Podgora. The price of $455.60 covers up to 6 guests, making it a cost-effective way to explore Croatia’s coast with a small group.

While there is a fuel surcharge and lunch is not included, guests find the overall value to be high, especially given the personalized service and flexible itinerary. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat tour suits small groups or families looking for a relaxed, customizable day on the water. It’s ideal for those who want to explore less crowded beaches, enjoy local cuisine, and have an experienced guide tailor the experience to their interests.

Since the tour is accessible to most travelers and allows service animals, it’s suitable for a variety of visitors. The 7-hour duration and early start make it a good choice for those wanting to maximize their day.

Final Thoughts on the Private Boat Tour of Croatia

This tour offers a personalized and scenic exploration of Hvar Island and its surroundings, with beautiful stops, local dining experiences, and a knowledgeable skipper. The flexibility and small group size make it stand out among other options, providing peaceful beaches and hidden viewpoints away from crowds.

While lunch is not included, many guests value the chance to visit recommended local restaurants and enjoy the crystal waters at their own pace. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect consistent quality, especially in guides’ expertise and scenic beauty.

This private boat tour is well-suited for those seeking an intimate, customizable day on the Croatian coast, with a focus on relaxation, scenic views, and local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including children, especially those comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

What is included in the price?
The price includes private transportation, insurance, and the boat rental. Lunch is not included, and there’s a fuel surcharge that is extra.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the skipper and guides are happy to adapt stops and routes based on your preferences, making it highly flexible.

What should I bring for the trip?
It’s best to bring swimwear, sunscreen, water, and any personal items for comfort and safety during swimming and sightseeing.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled for a different date, with a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Podgora.

What makes this tour different from other boat trips?
Its private, customizable nature, small group size, and focus on secluded locations set it apart, providing a more personal and relaxed experience.

Is there any food included?
No, lunch is not included, but guests often visit recommended local restaurants like Pakomina for a relaxed meal.

How do I book this tour?
You can confirm your spot by contacting Seas the day – Boat rental through their provided contact details.