Full Day vs Half Day
How much time should you spend on the water? Compare the two main tour lengths to find what works for you.
Quick Answer
Choose Full Day If...
- You want to see the Blue Cave
- Vis Island or Stiniva Beach are on your list
- You love being on the water all day
- A boat day is a highlight of your trip
- You want lunch at a scenic restaurant
Choose Half Day If...
- You have limited time in Hvar
- You want to explore the town as well
- Budget is a priority
- Kids or sea-sickness are concerns
- Pakleni Islands will satisfy you
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Full Day | Half Day |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7-10 hours | 4-5 hours |
| Typical Cost (Private) | About €950-1,500 per boat | About €550-850 per boat |
| Maximum Destinations | 6-8 stops | 3-4 stops |
| Swimming Time | Multiple long stops | 1-2 longer stops |
| Lunch | Included stop (1-2 hours) | Usually not |
| Best Destinations | Blue Cave, Vis, Stiniva | Pakleni Islands |
| Energy Required | Full day commitment | Lighter experience |
| Time for Town | Evening only | Rest of day free |
Prices are typical for a private boat. Final price comes from the skipper and depends on boat, season and group size.
Where Can You Go?
Full Day Destinations
- Blue Cave (Biševo Island)
- Vis Island (Komiža, Vis town)
- Stiniva Beach (Europe's Best Beach)
- Green Cave
- Pakleni Islands
- + Multiple swimming stops
Half Day Destinations
- Pakleni Islands (Palmižana, Marinkovac)
- Mlini Beach
- Zdrilca Bay
- Hidden coves around Pakleni
- Blue Cave - not possible
- Vis Island - not possible
Sample Itineraries
Full Day: Blue Cave Experience
- 9:00 - Depart Hvar harbor
- 10:30 - Arrive Blue Cave, Biševo
- 11:00 - Green Cave swim
- 12:00 - Stiniva Beach (2 hour swim/relax)
- 14:00 - Lunch in Komiža, Vis Island
- 15:30 - Explore Vis town (optional)
- 16:30 - Pakleni Islands swim stop
- 18:00 - Return to Hvar
Half Day: Pakleni Islands
- 10:00 - Depart Hvar harbor
- 10:20 - First hidden cove swim
- 11:30 - Palmižana beach time
- 12:30 - Optional: Snack at Laganini
- 13:00 - Second swimming spot
- 14:00 - Return to Hvar
- Afternoon free for town/dinner
Local tip:
If it is your first boat day in Hvar, a half day around the Pakleni Islands is an easy start. Choose a full day if you want to reach Vis or the Blue Cave - those need the extra time. Not sure? Send a free request with your dates and a local skipper can suggest the right length.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a half day boat tour in Hvar?
A half day tour typically lasts 4-5 hours. Morning tours usually depart 9-10am and return 1-2pm. Afternoon tours depart around 2-3pm and can extend into sunset.
How long is a full day boat tour?
Full day tours last 7-10 hours, typically departing 9-10am and returning 5-7pm. This allows time for more destinations, a proper lunch stop, and multiple swimming breaks.
Can I see the Blue Cave on a half day tour?
No, the Blue Cave on Biševo island requires a full day tour. It is too far from Hvar for a half day. Half day tours focus on closer destinations like the Pakleni Islands.
Is it worth paying extra for a full day?
If you want to visit Vis Island, the Blue Cave, or Stiniva Beach, yes - these require a full day. If you are happy with closer destinations like Pakleni Islands, a half day offers great value.
Our Recommendation
If the Blue Cave is on your bucket list, book a full day - there is no other option. If you are happy with beautiful beaches and swimming, a half day offers excellent value and leaves time to explore Hvar Town. Many visitors do both during their stay.