Sail and escape to Pakleni islands | Half day sailing on a modern 36ft yacht

A Sail into the Heart of Hvar’s Natural Beauty
This particular half-day sailing adventure offers a fresh perspective on Hvar—one of Croatia’s most popular islands—by escaping its busy town center to explore the stunning Pakleni Islands. The experience is hosted aboard a sleek 36-foot yacht, run by The Day Sail, and it promises a pleasant mix of sailing, swimming, and relaxation. The overall vibe is intended to be laid-back and fun, with some opportunities to learn sailing skills, making it both a scenic and interactive outing.

Two things I really appreciate about this trip are its flexibility and the chance to unwind in nature. First, the tour offers free cancellation and rescheduling, which is rare for outdoor activities, giving you peace of mind in case weather or plans change unexpectedly. Second, the opportunity to learn basic sailing manoeuvres adds a charming touch, especially for those who enjoy hands-on experiences.

The possible drawback? From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides’ engagement levels vary—some guests felt their skipper didn’t provide enough explanations or setup for activities like paddleboarding. Also, with only a 4-hour itinerary, it’s a quick taste of the islands, so those craving a more in-depth exploration might find it a little brief. Still, for casual travelers seeking a blend of sailing and swimming, it hits the right note.

Key points / Takeaways

• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and rescheduling are available up to 24 hours before the trip, providing reassurance.
• Authentic Sailing Experience: Learn basic sailing techniques and enjoy sailing on a modern yacht with a knowledgeable skipper.
• Scenic Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling: Multiple swim stops in crystal-clear waters, with equipment provided, make for memorable dips in nature.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal, relaxed experience compared to larger tours.
• Guides’ Variability: While some guides are praised for their attentiveness, others receive mixed reviews for their level of engagement.
• Great Value: At just over $100 per person, the tour offers a good balance of scenery, activity, and learning—especially given the included gear and drinks.

Discovering the Charm of the Pakleni Islands on a Modern Yacht

If you’re staying in Hvar and looking for a way to escape the crowds, this sailing trip can be a perfect choice. It’s designed for travelers who enjoy being on the water, swimming in clear waters, and having a bit of hands-on fun. The experience lasts about four hours, making it manageable as a morning or afternoon activity, and it’s ideal for those who want a taste of sailing without committing to a full-day charter.

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet at the Harbour of Hvar, specifically at Riva 7, a convenient spot near public transportation. The tour starts either at 10am or 2:30pm, with May, September, and October offering earlier departures—helpful if you prefer to start your day early or avoid the midday heat. It’s designed for most travelers, with a minimum of two people, and the group size capped at 16, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd.

Itinerary Breakdown – What to Expect

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with potential for memorable moments. After a quick briefing, your skipper will set sail towards the Pakleni Islands, a string of islands famous for their natural beauty and secluded coves. Expect to spend around 45 minutes sailing before your first swim stop. Here, you can snorkel, paddleboard (if the guide has set it up), or simply relax on the boat.

Most guests find the swimming in these waters to be a highlight—crystal-clear and warm enough for a good splash. One reviewer praised the snorkeling spots as “beautiful,” and appreciated the free gear provided. Be aware that some guides might not offer much explanation or setup; one guest noted their skipper was “on his phone,” which can detract from the experience if you’re hoping for more guidance.

The journey continues with more sailing around the islands, enjoying the views and the breeze, and a second swim in a gorgeously picturesque bay. The final leg heads back to Hvar, offering ample opportunities for photos, relaxation, or just soaking up the sun.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Guides
Reviews mention guides like Philip and Peter positively, with the latter going above and beyond to ensure everyone is comfortable and has fun. You’ll love the knowledgeable and personable skippers who make the sail feel special—when they’re engaged.

Snorkeling & Swimming
The water is undeniably the star here. As one guest raved, “the snorkeling spots are fantastic,” and the clear waters make for easy viewing. Plus, the included gear makes it simple to jump right in without fuss.

The Sailing Experience
While some guests, like Preeti, wished for more detailed explanations, others enjoyed the “chill vibe” and learning just enough to feel involved. The modern yacht is easy to handle, and the breeze is invigorating, especially when the skipper allows you some steering.

Flexibility and Booking Confidence
The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially if weather turns sour or your plans shift. You can postpone or cancel up to 24 hours before, which is a real plus for spontaneous travelers.

Who Would Love This Experience

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a relaxed, scenic sail with manageable activity. It suits couples, small groups, or families with children (though kids must be accompanied by an adult). If you’re seeking a low-pressure, authentic day on the water with plenty of swimming and a taste of sailing, this is a solid choice.

What to Keep in Mind

While the experience offers fantastic scenery and good value, some reviews suggest that the guides’ enthusiasm can vary. If you’re hoping for a very educational or highly interactive trip, you might find it a bit lacking. Also, the brief time at each swim spot means you won’t explore the islands in depth, but rather get a taste of their beauty from the water.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At approximately $104 per person, this tour delivers a good bang for your buck. It includes snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, bottled water, and fuel, which are all part of the package—no hidden costs. Given the small group size, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience and have time to ask questions or just soak up the scenery.

It’s worth considering that the tour is best for casual travelers who want a laid-back vibe rather than a high-energy adventure. If you’re interested in sailing and water activities but don’t want to spend a full day on the water, this half-day trip fits perfectly into a Hvar itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Trip for You?

If you love the idea of sailing past stunning islands, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere with friendly guides, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable if you’re keen on a small-group experience and appreciate the flexibility of free cancellations.

However, if you’re looking for a highly structured, educational, or in-depth exploration of the islands, you might find the tour somewhat limited. Also, be prepared for some variability in guide engagement, as reviews show that not all guides are equally enthusiastic or communicative. Still, for many, the beautiful scenery, good company, and the chance to learn a bit about sailing make it a memorable part of their Croatia trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately four hours, from meeting time to return to Hvar’s harbor.

What times are the tours available?
There are two daily departures: one at 10am and another at 2:30pm, with earlier start times in May, September, and October.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, a minimum of two people is required to book, and the maximum group size is 16 travelers.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, bottled water, and fuel are all included.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel or reschedule free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with kids.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming is optional, non-swimmers should be cautious or comfortable in shallow waters.

Do I need sailing experience?
No prior experience is necessary; you’ll receive basic instruction and be supervised by the skipper.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at the Harbour of Hvar, Riva 7.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Optional: waterproof camera or phone for photos.

In summary, this half-day sailing trip offers a relaxed yet scenic escape from the hustle of Hvar. With friendly guides, stunning water views, and opportunities for swimming and paddling, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a taste of Croatia’s maritime charm without a full-day commitment. Just be prepared for some variability in guide engagement, and you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your island adventures.