Hvar: Pakleni Islands Sailing Tour with Brunch

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, this Pakleni Islands sailing tour might just be the perfect choice. Set on a beautifully renovated traditional wooden boat, this outing offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Croatian scenery. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed description paint a clear picture of a memorable experience.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach, the chance to enjoy a homemade brunch while sailing, and the opportunity to explore secluded spots away from the crowds. The stunning vistas and clear waters for snorkeling are highlights, and the flexibility to choose your stops makes each trip feel unique. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness or seeking a lively party scene. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate quiet, scenic exploration combined with comfort and good company.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: A private, renovated traditional wooden boat offers a genuine sailing vibe.
• Flexible itinerary: The captain’s ability to customize stops ensures a personalized journey.
• Delicious onboard brunch: Homemade focaccia, seasonal fruit, wine, and water elevate the day.
• Secluded spots: Escape tourist crowds with visits to private beaches, caves, and bays.
• Snorkeling: Clear waters and snorkeling gear invite underwater exploration.
• Ideal for relaxed travelers: Perfect for those seeking tranquility, scenic beauty, and authentic Croatian hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hvar: Pakleni Islands Sailing Tour

Setting the Scene: Traditional Wooden Boat with a Modern Twist

Sailing on a 40-year-old but recently renovated wooden boat, this experience offers a charming and authentic vibe. The vessel measures 9.5 meters long, equipped with a refrigerator, toilet, and snorkeling gear, ensuring comfort and practicality. The boat’s age adds character, and its recent refurbishment promises a smooth, safe ride, blending old-world charm with modern amenities.

The Journey Begins: Meeting at Riva

The tour kicks off in front of the Hotel Riva, a central and convenient starting point in Hvar. The private nature of the experience means you’ll likely be with a small group or even alone, which enhances the intimacy and flexibility of the trip. The skipper, often a knowledgeable local, takes care of navigation and safety, freeing you from worries about steering or route planning.

Itinerary Breakdown: Four Stops Around the Islands

The tour is designed to make about four stops, each offering a unique slice of island life or natural beauty. The most common route includes:

• Sveti Klement: This is often the main destination, with sailing and scenic views en route. The island features both quiet beaches and lively spots, depending on your preference. Reviewers have noted that the skipper, John, was particularly attentive, asking if the stops suited everyone’s liking and suggesting the best secluded bays for swimming.

• Secluded Bays and Beaches: Many reviewers emphasize the value of visiting less crowded spots, ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. One guest mentioned that they had the boat to themselves, enjoying peaceful, private beaches with crystal-clear waters.

• Caves and Snorkeling: The tour includes access to caves or shallow bays perfect for snorkeling. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and the clarity of the water allows for excellent underwater views. A reviewer noted that the snorkeling was fantastic, with opportunities to explore marine life in pristine waters.

• Island Villages and Waterfront Taverns: For those interested in local culture, visits to villages like Palmiana offer a taste of Croatian seaside life. Guests can sample seafood at waterfront taverns and interact with friendly residents, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

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Food and Drink: Homemade Brunch on Board

The homemade focaccia served on deck is a highlight, paired with seasonal fruit, wine, and water. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the food, with one describing it as “excellent,” and many guests appreciating the relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their meal while admiring the views. The inclusion of wine adds a celebratory feel, perfect for unwinding and savoring the moment.

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the tour’s most praised aspects is the ability to customize the experience. The skipper, like John, actively communicates, asking if the stops and the pace suit your preferences. This means you can spend longer in your favorite spots or hop quickly between others. This flexibility is rare in large group tours and offers real value for travelers seeking a tailored outing.

The Return and Overall Duration

The total duration of around 7.5 hours includes time on the water, stops, and the onboard brunch. Guests typically start mid-morning and return in the late afternoon or early evening, making it a full but comfortable day. The start point is easy to reach, and the tour ends back where it began, with no extra transportation needed.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

This sailing tour is especially suited for those who love a relaxed pace, enjoy authentic local experiences, and appreciate the beauty of untouched nature. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a private or small-group experience—many reviews mention having the boat entirely to themselves, which adds to the feeling of exclusivity.

If you crave peaceful beaches, snorkeling in clear waters, and delicious homemade food amidst stunning scenery, this tour delivers in spades. It’s less about partying and more about savoring the moment, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a break from busier tourist spots.

Practical Details and What to Pack

The tour provides everything you need, including snorkeling gear and refreshments, but travelers should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the memories. Given the quiet, scenic nature of the stops, it’s a good idea to have a waterproof case or dry bag for electronics.

While the boat is suitable for most travelers, those prone to seasickness might want to consider this before booking, as the experience involves sailing in open waters. The tour is not recommended for party groups, as the focus is on relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Weather Considerations

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it’s wise to check the forecast before confirming your booking. In bad weather, the tour can be canceled or modified, but the provider offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a unique, authentic Croatian sailing experience, this tour offers excellent value. You get personalized stops, delicious homemade food, and the chance to explore secluded beaches and caves—all while sailing on a charming, well-maintained vessel.

The glowing reviews—highlighting friendly guides, stunning vistas, and good value—confirm that this tour consistently delivers on its promises. It’s best suited for those looking for a relaxing day in beautiful surroundings rather than party-focused trips.

If you want a memorable day of sailing, swimming, and soaking up Croatia’s island charm, this experience deserves a spot on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes up to 8 hours on the boat, a private skipper, fuel, refreshments, moorings, a toilet onboard, snorkeling equipment, and a homemade brunch with wine, water, and seasonal fruit.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of Hotel Riva and concludes back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day around the schedule.

Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Yes, the captain asks for your preferences and can adjust the stops accordingly, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While snorkeling gear is provided, the tour involves sailing in open waters, so non-swimmers or young children should be accompanied carefully. It’s not specifically tailored for kids but could be suitable with supervision.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. It’s also handy to bring a waterproof bag for valuables.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

This Pakleni Islands sailing tour combines the magic of Croatian scenery with the comfort of a private vessel and homemade food—perfect for those who want a relaxed yet authentic day on the water. Whether you’re after secluded beaches, snorkeling adventures, or a peaceful escape, this experience offers a slice of island paradise that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: