Booking Tips for Hvar
When to book, how to book, and what to know before you confirm. Essential advice for securing your perfect boat experience.
When to Book
2-4 Weeks Ahead
Popular tours and dates book up fast. Private charters on weekends can fill up even earlier. The earlier you book, the more boat options you will have.
1-2 Weeks Ahead
More availability but still wise to book ahead, especially for full-day tours. Weekends fill up faster than weekdays.
A Few Days
Good availability in shoulder season. You can often book 2-3 days ahead or even last-minute. Weather may be more variable, so flexibility helps.
Key Booking Tips
Book Early for Peak Season
July and August are extremely busy. Popular experiences like Blue Cave tours and sunset cruises can book out 2-3 weeks ahead. Start looking as soon as you have your travel dates.
Flexible Dates = Better Options
If you have flexibility in your travel dates, you will have more choice. Consider booking your tour first, then arranging accommodation around it.
Check the Weather Window
Book for early in your trip if possible. If weather forces a cancellation, you will have backup days. Do not save your must-do experience for your last day.
Communicate Special Requests
Mention special occasions (proposals, birthdays), dietary requirements, or specific interests in your request. We pass them to the skipper so the day can be tailored.
Typical Booking Terms
Each skipper sets their own terms. These are common in Hvar - ask the skipper about deposit and cancellation terms before you confirm.
Deposits & Payment
- 30-50% deposit is common to confirm
- Balance usually due on the day of the tour
- Cash (€) or card, depending on the skipper
- Bank transfer often possible for deposits
Cancellation Terms
- Full refund often given 48+ hours before
- Around 50% charge 24-48 hours before
- Often no refund within 24 hours
- Weather cancellations normally refunded
Weather Cancellations
If the skipper cancels your tour due to unsafe weather (high winds, storms), you normally get a full refund or a new date. Skippers watch the forecast closely, so book early in your stay to leave room for a backup day.
How Booking Works
It takes one request. We pass it to licensed local skippers in Hvar, who run the trip and confirm the price.
Send a Request
Use the request form to share your dates, group size and interests.
Get an Offer
A local skipper suggests a boat and route for your group, answers questions, and confirms the price.
Confirm & Go
Pay the deposit the skipper asks for and get the meeting point. Meet at the harbor and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a boat tour in Hvar?
For peak season (July-August), book 2-4 weeks ahead for popular tours like the Blue Cave. For private charters, 1-2 weeks is usually sufficient. In shoulder season (May-June, September), a few days notice is often enough.
What is the cancellation policy for boat tours?
Policies vary by skipper. A common pattern is a full refund if you cancel 48+ hours before, a 50% charge within 48 hours, and no refund within 24 hours. Weather-related cancellations by the skipper are normally refunded in full. Ask the skipper about deposit and cancellation terms before you confirm.
Is a deposit required to book?
Most private charters require a 30-50% deposit to confirm the booking, with the balance due on the day. Smaller group tours may require full payment upfront.
What if the weather is bad on my booking day?
If the skipper cancels due to weather (strong winds, storms), you normally get a full refund or a new date. Skippers watch conditions closely and will contact you if there are concerns. Check this in the skipper's terms before you confirm.