Hvar & Pakleni Islands: Small Group Sailing Yacht Tour

Summary

Sail Hvar’s blue waters, swim off Pakleni islands, meet new faces

You’ll join a small group for a half-day sailing trip from Hvar to the Pakleni Islands, guided by a local skipper who lets the wind set your course. Expect quiet swim stops in crystal water, time to relax or chat with new friends, and space to bring your own snacks or drinks aboard. It’s simple but real — you might find yourself still thinking about those salty breezes days later.

What’s the experience like?

“You brought the good weather,” our skipper joked as we stepped barefoot onto the yacht in Hvar’s little harbor. There were just six of us that afternoon — two Aussies, a couple from Berlin, and me with my friend. Someone had already stashed cold beers in the fridge (the kind you can’t pronounce), and I remember the salty smell mixing with sunscreen as we pulled away from the dock. The guide — Marko — explained how the wind would decide our route to the Pakleni Islands. He said something about “letting the sea choose,” which felt right.

The first swim stop was quieter than I expected; only a handful of other boats bobbing nearby, mostly locals waving or just sunning themselves. The water was shockingly clear — you could see every pebble on the bottom. I hesitated at first (it looked cold), but then everyone else jumped in so I did too. There’s this moment when your head goes under and all you hear is muffled laughter above and your own heartbeat. I floated for ages, not really talking, just watching sunlight flicker on the surface. Marko handed out snorkels if you wanted them, but honestly I was happy just drifting.

We talked about everything and nothing as we sailed between coves — where people were from, how to say “cheers” in Croatian (I butchered it; Marko laughed). Someone shared olives and bread they’d brought along; there’s no lunch included but you can bring whatever snacks or drinks you want, which actually made it feel more like a picnic with strangers than a tour group thing. The breeze picked up on the way back to Hvar town and I wrapped myself in a towel that smelled faintly of seaweed and sunblock. Still think about that view coming into port — pink roofs against green hills, voices echoing off stone walls.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and swimming at Pakleni islands

• Welcome briefing and safety introduction
• Sail around Hvar and Pakleni islands
• 1st swim stop at Pakleni islands
• 2nd swim stop at Pakleni islands

Top questions

How long is the sailing tour from Hvar to Pakleni Islands?

The tour lasts for half a day, either in the morning or afternoon.

Is lunch included on this sailing trip?

No, lunch isn’t included. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.

How many people are on each yacht?

The group size is limited to 8 guests per yacht for a small group experience.

Are there swim stops during the tour?

Yes, there are two swim stops at different bays around the Pakleni Islands.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there’s a restroom available on the yacht.

Can families with small kids join this sailing tour?

If you have small children, it’s recommended to book a private trip instead.

Are drinks provided during the sailing tour?

No drinks are provided but you can bring your own alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages for free; there’s a fridge on board.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Hvar harbor for departure.

What’s included

Your half-day includes sailing from Hvar with a professional local skipper guiding your route based on weather and wind conditions; two swim stops around Pakleni Islands’ bays; use of onboard WiFi and restroom; all fees and taxes covered; plus space in the fridge for any food or drinks you’d like to bring along before returning to port later that day.