Hvar is one of the most famous islands in Croatia and a place we spend a lot of time at. We live just opposite Hvar on the mainland, in the part of Croatia known as Makarska Riviera. We don’t even count how many times we took Drvenik to Sućuraj ferry and drove through Hvar. In this article, we’re going to present you with one of our favorite activities – Hvar sailing day trips.
Sailing in Hvar is one of the best ways to explore the coastline of Hvar island as well as nearby places like Paklinski Islands. Imagine a scenario: You’re leaving a Hvar port and enjoy the panoramic view of Hvar Town. The breeze slowly touches your face and the Mediterranean sun warms you and everything feels so relaxing. There’s no motor noise, just the sound of waves and sails dancing on the wind. You’ve headed toward the Paklinski Islands and the skipper has found the best bay ever where you’ll spend the next few hours in swimming and snorkeling in one of the cleanest seas you have ever seen.
If this doesn’t sound like a dream vacation activity, we don’t know what does. Let’s explore Hvar by sailing.
Why Choose a Sailing Day Trip from Hvar? We have already covered this part pretty much in the fictional scenario presented in the introduction. But here are a few more reasons why we believe sailing in Hvar is just perfect spice for your holiday.
Experience Authentic Sailing: Through Hvar sailing day trips you can truly feel the wind in your hair as the sails catch the breeze. It’s a real sailing and if you haven’t tried it before, it’s an experience not to be missed.Access Hidden Places: Hvar and nearby islands are full of secluded beaches and hidden bays that are only accessible by boat. This is your chance to enjoy them.Enjoy the Scenery: The Coastline of this island is beautiful and our most favorite part is the coastline of Paklinski Islands that’s facing the open sea.Relax and Unwind: Sailing excursions in Hvar offers a serene escape from the crowded places like Hvar Town, especially if you’re visiting this island during summer.
What to Expect on a Hvar Sailing Day Trips We have been on Hvar sailing day trips 4 times already. We’re in the photography business and did a few sailing photoshoots in Hvar, which showed us some of the most beautiful and photogenic places of Paklinski Islands. Most sailing day trips from Hvar start by sailing toward the Paklinski Islands and can be customized, depending whether you’ve booked a private tour or you’re on the sailing boat with other guests.
Typical itineraries of these day trips include:
Sailing Around the Paklinski Islands: The Paklinski Islands are an archipelago that has crystal-clear waters, hidden bays, and some great places for swimming and snorkeling.Exploring Secluded Bays and Beaches: Many sailing excursions take you to quiet spots such as bays that are secluded and perfect for relaxation.Relaxing on Board: Expect to have plenty of time to sunbathe on deck, read a book, or simply enjoy the sounds around you.Optional Swimming and Snorkeling: Focus of these day trips is on sailing, but many tour operators allow some time for swimming and snorkeling.
Types of Sailing Boats Available There are 2 most usual types of boats used for such sailing trips, and you can choose any of these. Also, there are numerous tours ranging from a few hours sailing in Hvar to a day trip in which you’ll spend a lot of time exploring all the best places around Hvar Island.
Traditional Sailboats: These kinds of sailing vessels are perfect for those seeking an authentic sailing experience. Enjoy a quiet and eco-friendly way of exploring.Catamarans: These are not traditional sailboats, but many people choose this option because of the many perks these kinds of boats have, such as extra space and better stability.
Best Time for Sailing in Hvar Any time you’re in Hvar is a good time for sailing. Summer is the most crowded part of the year in Hvar and it offers the best balance of the warm sea and steady winds. Logically, the most Hvar sailing day trips are booked in this season.
Summer (June to August): Perfect because of the warm weather and calm seas. Great for a full day sailing experience in Hvar.Spring and Autumn: This time of the year is still perfect for sailing if you want to enjoy it with fewer crowds and still pleasant temperatures. The winds are often ideal for this activity and sailing in September would be our first choice.Tip: Early morning or late afternoon sailing adventures can provide a more peaceful experience since the boat traffic in Hvar can be dense during midday. These sailing trips from Hvar are usually held 2 times a day, in the morning and in the afternoon. Mornings generally offer a peaceful experience and calmer seas while the afternoons add more adrenaline and steady winds.
What to Bring on a Sailing Day Trip If you’re to book such a sailing trip in Hvar via Viator or any other similar service, you’ll get the list of the items that are recommended for the tour. Here are some things we suggest bringing:
Swimwear and Towel: For swimming and sunbathing.Sunscreen and Hat: The Mediterranean sun is very strong and reflects off the sea so take care and use sun protection.Light Jacket or Windbreaker: The summer days are hot, but it can still get cold on the sea, especially later in the day after the sunset.Water and Snacks: Some of these sailing trips in Hvar include refreshments, but check with the tour provider and still bring some extra. You easily get hungry on the sea.Camera: Or your mobile phone. You’ll want to take some photos of this day trip, we guarantee it.
How to Book a Sailing Day Trip from Hvar We have included some of the best Hvar sailing day trips in this article and you can easily access them and see what they offer in terms of duration and other amenities. Here are the most usual ways of booking these trips:
Online: Many tour operators on Hvar offer booking through platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide.Local Agencies: You’ll see a lot of agencies offering sailing trips while walking in Hvar. Enter the office and book your tour there.Private Charters: If you’re looking to get a more personalized experience, we suggest booking a private sailing tour in Hvar.
Tips for a Great Sailing Experience Finally, here are a few more tips before you embark on one of the best adventures in Hvar:
Arrive Early: Make sure you have enough time to get settled on board.Listen to Safety Instructions: Before the trip starts, the captain is going to explain the safety on board and some basic rules of sailing.Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water with you, especially if sailing on hot days.Be Prepared for Motion: If you’re prone to seasickness, choose the calmer part of the day for sailing in Hvar or take the medication and enjoy the wind and waves.
Before You Venture sailing in Hvar If you want to have some great time in Hvar , then sailing is one of the activities to consider. If you are still unsure whether this kind of activity is for you, just scroll back to the introduction and read the ‘imagine’ part again. Any kind of boat tours in Hvar is the perfect activity, some of them use speedboats and take you to the places such as Red Rocks that are near Sveta Nedjelja. Some others can take you from Hvar to Blue Cave on Biševo near Vis Island. And then there are sailing trips and probably the most zen of all the previously mentioned boat tours.
Enjoy sailing in Hvar!
