Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands boat trip

The experience

Why this trip is worth a day

Hvar and the Pakleni Islands form the classic high-energy Split day. A fast skippered boat can reach Hvar Town, then use bays around the Pakleni archipelago for swimming or lunch near Palmizana. The route combines architecture, harbour life and clear-water coves, but it is ambitious for a slow boat. Decide whether the priority is time ashore in Hvar or time swimming; trying to maximise both can leave the return hurried.

Suggested stops

Use these as the shape of the day, with enough time at each stop to swim, relax and enjoy being there.

1. 1

   Hvar Town

   Arriving beneath Hvar's fortress and stone waterfront is one of the Adriatic's great harbour moments. Go ashore for the old-town lanes and a coffee, or enjoy the view from the boat before the crowds build.

2. 2

   Palmizana or another Pakleni bay

   Cross the short channel to Palmizana or another Pakleni bay for lunch among pine-covered islands. The archipelago gives the day its clear-water, barefoot contrast to Hvar's polished harbour.

3. 3

   A swim stop selected for shelter

   Let the skipper choose one final sheltered cove for a proper swim. This stop keeps the itinerary from becoming only sightseeing and gives everyone time to cool off before the longer return.