Hvar & Pakleni Islands: Private Boat Tour with Red Rocks

Summary

Swim beneath Hvar’s Red Rocks then drift to Pakleni coves

You’ll skim across turquoise waters from Hvar with a local captain, swim beneath dramatic Red Rocks, relax at Dubovica Beach and discover hidden Pakleni Island coves at your own pace. Expect fresh sea air, time to snorkel or sunbathe, plus an easygoing vibe where you can choose your stops—and maybe find yourself thinking about it long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing over the water before I’d finished my coffee—our captain, Luka, grinning as he steered us out of Hvar port. The air tasted salty and the engine hummed under our feet. First stop was the Red Rocks. I’d seen photos but in person, those cliffs really do glow—almost rusty orange against the blue. We jumped in (cold shock, then perfect) and floated under these wild arches. Luka told us locals sometimes picnic here on Sundays. I tried to imagine it: wine, bread, laughter echoing off stone.

Dubovica Beach came next—pebbles underfoot, water so clear you could count every fish darting around your ankles. There’s this old stone house right by the shore that looks like it’s been there forever. We snorkeled a bit (mask kept fogging up, classic), and I found a tiny cave just big enough for one person to squeeze inside. It smelled faintly of seaweed and limestone. Afterward we sprawled out in the sun; someone started talking about how time moves slower here. Not sure if that’s true or just holiday brain.

The Green Lagoon at Velo Borče was quieter—just us and a couple of seagulls eyeing our snacks. The water really is green, not like neon pool green but soft and glassy with trees leaning over from the cliffs above. We swam again (couldn’t resist), then headed off toward the Pakleni Islands. By then everyone was hungry so we stopped at Palmižana for lunch—grilled fish, white wine, bare feet in warm sand. Later we drifted between little bays like Ždrilca and Mlini; each cove had its own mood somehow. Luka let us pick where to linger—he seemed to know every bend and story.

I still think about that slow afternoon light on the boat ride back to Hvar town—the way everything glowed gold for a minute before dusk set in. If you want a private boat tour from Hvar that feels both easygoing and quietly special, this is it. Just don’t forget sunscreen—I learned that one the hard way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Red Rocks and Pakleni Islands

• Meet at 09:30 in Hvar town
• Enjoy panoramic island views with captain
• Explore Red Rocks and swim
• Relax and snorkel at Dubovica Beach
• Swim and snorkel in Green Lagoon
• Visit Pakleni Islands at own pace
• Stop at Palmizana sandy beach
• Explore Zdrilca and Mlini lagoon

Top questions

How long does the private boat tour from Hvar last?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Are snorkeling equipment and bottled water included?

Yes, snorkeling equipment and bottled water are provided during the tour.

Does this private boat trip include pickup from my hotel or port?

Port pickup and drop-off are included; check with your host for hotel pickup options.

Can I customize which Pakleni Islands or beaches we visit?

Yes, the private boat tour can be fully customized based on your preferences.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

No lunch is included but you can stop at places like Palmižana for food during your free time.

What should I bring on this Hvar & Pakleni Islands boat tour?

Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towel, hat, sunglasses—and maybe a light jacket for later.

Are there any health restrictions for joining this trip?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, spinal injuries or if pregnant.

How many people can join per booking?

A maximum of 10 people per booking is allowed on this private tour.

What’s included

Your day includes port pickup and drop-off in Hvar town, all taxes and fees covered up front, bottled water to keep you cool under the sun, use of snorkeling gear whenever you want to jump in (which is often), plus your own captain who doubles as guide and storyteller along every stretch of sea between Red Rocks and Pakleni Islands.