Split: Hvar, Pakleni Islands and Bra (Milna) Speedboat Tour – An Authentic Croatian Sea Adventure
If you’re craving a day of sunshine, sea breezes, and scenic stops along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, this speedboat tour offers a lively way to see some of the most photogenic spots in the area. Starting from Split, you’ll zip across the waters to visit the tranquil town of Milna on Bra, the lively streets of Hvar, and the lush, hidden coves of the Pakleni Islands. It’s a fast-paced, fun-filled itinerary that packs in cultural sights, natural beauty, and plenty of chances to swim and snorkel.
What I really appreciate about this tour is its emphasis on authentic exploration. You’ll get time to wander through Milna’s quiet harbor and its charming streets, which feels like stepping into a postcard. The visit to Hvar gives you a snapshot of the island’s vibrant atmosphere and impressive vistas from Fortica Fortress, giving you more than just a touristy look. Plus, the time spent in the Pakleni Islands with their crystal-clear waters is a highlight for anyone who loves relaxing in nature’s lap.
One of the best features is how smoothly the experience runs, with scenic but short boat rides between stops—around 30 minutes each—keeping energy high. A potential consideration is the weather; since the trip is entirely on the water, choppy seas or strong sun might impact your enjoyment. Also, the tour is quite full-day, so weighing whether the pace suits your travel style is worth it, especially if you prefer more leisurely exploring.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic Stops: You’ll visit real towns and spots, not just tourist traps, including Milna’s peaceful harbor and Hvar’s bustling streets.
- Natural Beauty: Expect stunning views, particularly from Fortica Fortress and the Pakleni Islands, which make for memorable photo ops.
- Water Activities: Snorkeling gear is included, and swimming in the clear Adriatic is often a highlight for many travelers.
- Flexible Free Time: Ample time at each stop means you can explore, relax, or just soak in the scenery.
- Smooth Transfer: The boat rides between spots are short, offering a good balance of travel and exploration.
- Practical Tips: Pack water, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag—things you’ll thank yourself for when on the water or exploring on foot.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
Starting at Toto Travel’s office near St. Francis Church in Split, you’ll board a speedboat that whisks you across the waters, setting a lively tone for the day. The first leg lasts about 30 minutes, taking you toward Milna on Bra Island, a peaceful fishing village with a delightful harbor. Many reviews praise Milna’s “quaint streets, pristine beaches, and relaxed vibe,” making it a perfect first stop to stretch your legs after the boat ride. With around 1.5 hours of free time, you can wander at your own pace, perhaps have a coffee by the water or explore some hidden beaches.
Next, a swift 30-minute ride brings you to Hvar, perhaps the most famous island in Croatia. Known for its lively ambiance, Hvar’s old town is full of historic architecture, bustling cafes, and stunning views from Fortica Fortress. Many visitors enjoy the climb up for panoramic vistas of the harbor, the town, and beyond. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here—long enough to explore the main sights, grab a drink, or just people-watch in the lively streets. One tip from past travelers: “The views from the fortress are incredible, and the town’s atmosphere is vibrant but not overwhelming.”
The final stop is the Pakleni Islands, a collection of lush, green islets known for their secluded coves and crystal waters. You’ll have about 2 hours here, which many find perfect for a swim, snorkel, or just lounging on a quiet beach. The scenery is particularly striking—an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. The boat ride from Hvar to the islands is just 15 minutes, making it a quick transition to more relaxed, scenic downtime.
After a leisurely 45-minute return trip back to Split, you’ll arrive around the same location you started, completing an engaging and varied day on the water.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Milna.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The stunning scenery of the Dalmatian coast is undeniable, and this tour does a good job of balancing sightseeing with relaxation. The included snorkeling gear encourages you to get into the water, and many reviews mention how crystal-clear the sea is, making the experience particularly memorable. The combination of peaceful Milna, lively Hvar, and the idyllic Pakleni Islands provides a well-rounded taste of Croatian island life.
The experienced guides and boat crew are often praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the day flow smoothly. The fact that the tour is flexible enough to allow some free exploration is a big plus—you’re not just following a guide around. Some reviews note that the boat ride can be bumpy if the weather isn’t perfect, so packing sunscreen, water, and a hat is wise.
In terms of value, the price includes all boat transfers, snorkeling equipment, and free time at each stop. While it doesn’t include meals or Fortica entrance tickets, these are optional and can be purchased on-site if desired. The tour’s duration of 8 hours is a good length, combining enough time for each stop without feeling rushed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and lively island atmospheres. It’s ideal for those who want to see multiple destinations in one day without the hassle of navigating between them on their own. If you’re comfortable on boats and enjoy spontaneous swimming or snorkeling, you’ll find this tour offers plenty of opportunities.
It’s also a great choice for families with older children, groups of friends, or couples seeking a fun day out. However, it might be less suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or anyone prone to seasickness, as the boat rides can sometimes be choppy.
Price and Logistics
The tour costs around a reasonable rate for a full-day, guided experience that covers three key destinations. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, scenic boat rides, and ample free time adds to its value, especially considering the small-group feel many reviews mention. The meeting point at Toto Travel’s office is centrally located, making it easy to find, but note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.
The tour runs for about 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability—be sure to check ahead. Flexibility in booking and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance makes it easier to fit into your plans. Remember, this tour is weather-dependent, so a clear, calm day will make for a much smoother experience.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to maximize their time on the Croatian coast, this speedboat tour offers a lively, scenic, and well-balanced glimpse into some of the Dalmatian islands’ best features. Expect stunning views, enjoyable boat rides, and plenty of chances to swim in the transparent waters, all delivered with a friendly and professional crew.
It’s a wonderful option for travelers who want to see a variety of spots without sacrificing too much relaxation for sightseeing. While it’s not suitable for everyone—especially non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness—the overall experience promises a memorable day filled with natural beauty and authentic local flavor.
In short, if you’re after a fun, scenic, and active day out on the water, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of stories and stunning photos to take home.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, the tour starts at the Toto Travel office near St. Francis Church. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
How long is each boat ride between stops?
Boat rides between destinations are approximately 15 to 30 minutes each, making for a quick and scenic transfer without long hours on the water.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. A waterproof bag for personal items is also recommended.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can enjoy exploring the underwater life in the clear waters.
Can I go inside Fortica Fortress?
Entrance tickets to Fortica Fortress are optional and are not included in the tour price. You can purchase tickets if you wish to visit.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and teenagers comfortable on boats and in the water. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or people prone to seasickness.
This Croatia speedboat tour balances adventure with relaxation, offering a lively way to experience the coast’s highlights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, it provides a memorable taste of Dalmatia’s natural beauty and vibrant island life.