Split & Trogir: Hvar, Brač & Pakleni Islands Cruise with Lunch

Summary

Adriatic island hopping with swimming, lunch and local stories

You’ll cruise from Split or Trogir across clear Adriatic waters to swim at Pakleni Islands, stroll through fragrant Hvar town, and relax at Milna’s Olife beach club. Enjoy lunch onboard with drinks included and stories from your local crew along the way — expect laughter, sun-warmed skin, and a few surprises only island days can bring.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the boat in Split just as the sky was turning that soft blue you only get near the sea — a bit sleepy still, but the crew was already joking in English and Croatian. The engine rumbled us awake as we pulled away from the harbor. There’s this moment when you first see the outline of the Pakleni Islands ahead — it’s not dramatic, but it kind of sneaks up on you. Our guide, Luka, pointed out some old stone houses on shore and told us how his grandfather used to fish there before tourism took over. I tried to imagine that while I dipped my feet over the side — water colder than expected, salty on my skin.

The first stop was a lagoon near Pakleni. Everyone scattered for swimming or snorkeling; I mostly floated and listened to people laughing in three different languages. The sun felt strong but not harsh yet. Lunch came around just after noon — we’d picked our burgers back at check-in (I went for tuna), and honestly, eating fries on a moving boat is harder than you’d think. There was wine if you wanted it, or juice and water if you didn’t. It all tasted better because of the sea air — or maybe just because I was hungry from swimming.

Hvar town was next. It’s busier than I expected, but there’s this lavender smell everywhere that sort of slows you down. I wandered up to Fortica for a view (totally worth the climb even if your legs complain). Saw a wedding party taking photos in front of those pale stone walls; their laughter echoed off the square. After that we cruised toward Milna on Brač — last stop at Olife beach club. Some folks ordered cocktails (not included, but they gave us a discount), others just stretched out by the water. The light started turning gold over the bay and nobody seemed in a rush to leave.

I still think about that slow drift back toward Split — hair tangled from salt, skin warm from sun, everyone quieter now except Luka telling one last story about growing up on these islands. Not everything went perfectly (I dropped my sunglasses in the sea), but honestly, that’s part of why it felt real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cruise and explore Adriatic islands

• Board boat in Split
• Swim at Pakleni Islands
• Explore Hvar town and Fortica fortress
• Enjoy lunch and drinks on board
• Relax at Olife beach club in Milna

Top questions

How long does the Hvar, Brač & Pakleni islands cruise last?

The cruise is an all-day excursion departing at 8:00 am from Split Port.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Split?

Yes, lunch is served onboard with options for beef, tuna or vegetarian burgers plus fries.

Are drinks included during the cruise?

Wine, juice and water are unlimited on the boat; drinks at Olife beach club are extra but discounted.

Can I join this tour from Trogir?

Yes, pickup from Trogir is available at 6:15 am; ask staff for breakfast tips before departure.

What should I bring for this island cruise?

Bring warm clothing, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen and water shoes.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, masks for snorkeling are included in your tour package.

Are pets allowed on this boat tour?

No, pets are not permitted on this excursion.

What happens if there is bad weather?

The captain may change the route or cancel for safety if sea conditions are rough.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning departure from Split or Trogir with English-speaking captain and crew guiding you through each stop; use of inflatables and stand up paddle boards; snorkeling masks; unlimited wine, juice and water onboard; your choice of beef, tuna or vegetarian burger with fries for lunch; all fees and taxes covered so you can just relax into island time until returning in the evening.