When people think of Hvar, they usually imagine stunning beaches, crystal-clear water, and that signature lavender scent in the air. What nobody really talks about? Actually getting there – because if you’re not up for waving at the island from the mainland, you’re gonna need to navigate a ferry or a boat (and possibly some Balkan-level chaos).
So, let me break down everything you really need to know about ferries to Hvar, with all the friendly advice and nitty-gritty details I wish I’d known my first time. This is the only ferry guide you’ll ever need if you want your journey to Hvar to be smooth sailing (pun intended).
How do you even get to Hvar? The basics you actually need
Don’t expect a bridge or a tunnel like you might find heading out of Rijeka. Hvar is a true island – and if you want to step foot there, it’s boat or bust. Most people start from Split, which is the ferry hub for Croatia’s southern coast. Whether you’re bringing a car, a bike, a motorbike, or just your backpack, Split is the main launchpad for your island adventure.
There are other options, though! Think private speed boats (for when you want to feel a bit James Bond and totally ignore ferry timetables), or island-hopping ferries that let you check out Korčula, Brač, or even Mljet along the way. If you’re coming from Italy, there are international lines too – but more on that in a bit.
Experience the Adventure in Hvar Croatia
Split to Stari Grad ferry: The classic, can’t-go-wrong route
If there’s one route everyone knows, it’s Split to Stari Grad. This is the workhorse of Hvar travel – most visitors use it, and it’s the easiest way to bring a car. The trip takes around two hours, which is honestly perfect for grabbing a coffee, taking in those sea views, and maybe even hitting the boat bar if you’re in the holiday mood.
Prices (ballpark)
- Person: €8
- Car (under 2 m): €45
- Car (over 2 m & 5 m long): €77
- Motorbike: €13
- Bicycle: €8
Off-season, there are 3–4 departures daily. In high season (June–October), expect 5–7 departures per day – so you’ll never wait long.
The schedule changes a bit each year, so always check Jadrolinija’s website for the latest info and to book tickets (it’s the main Croatian ferry company, and their site is easy to use).
Sućuraj – Drvenik: The short, sweet, and cheapest route
Driving up from the south? Sućuraj – Drvenik is your best bet. It’s a quick 35-minute crossing, and in the summer, you might see 12–20 sailings a day (every hour or so), while winter drops to about 6–7 daily. And it’s the cheapest route by far:
- Person: €4
- Car (under 2 m): €19
- Motorbike: €7
- Bicycle: €4
This ferry fits 32 cars max, so in peak season you’ll want to arrive early or book in advance if possible. Same advice as everywhere: always double-check Jadrolinija for up-to-date times and prices.
Catamarans and island-hopping ferries: No car needed
Not everyone needs to bring a car to Hvar. Some of us just want to hop on a boat with a backpack and go, and for that, the fast catamarans are a dream. These run between Split and Hvar town, or Jelsa.
Just note – these are for passengers only, so if you’re bringing a car, you’ll need to look at the regular ferries.
Some of these catamaran lines connect other islands, too (like Korčula, Brač, Mljet, Vis…), so you can actually design your own little island-hopping adventure. Highly recommend if you’re feeling adventurous!
International ferries: Italy to Hvar (yes, really)
If you’re coming from Italy, there’s a ferry from Ancona to Stari Grad (and sometimes Split, where you can switch boats). This is mainly a summer thing and is super convenient if you’re road-tripping from further in Europe.
Private speed boats: VIP, no-waiting, total freedom
If you want a bit of luxury or you’re traveling with a group, you can skip all the standard schedules and get a private speedboat transfer from the Split airport or even from the mainland directly to Hvar.
It’s not the cheapest option, but if you’re splitting costs or on a tight schedule (weddings, big celebrations, or you just hate waiting), it can totally be worth it. Plus, zooming across the Adriatic is an experience in itself.
Who actually runs these ferries? Contacts and tips
Jadrolinija is the main player for almost all Hvar routes, but you’ll sometimes see other names like Blue Line, SNAV, or Krilo, depending on your route and season. Always check official websites for the latest timetables and reservations:
- Jadrolinija: www.jadrolinija.hr
- Blue Line
- SNAV
- Krilo
Ferry port contacts on Hvar
- Stari Grad: +385 21 765 048
- Sućuraj: +385 21 773 228
- Split: +385 21 338 333
- “JADROLINIJA” Hvar: +385 21 741 132
Why I Never Travel to Hvar Without a VPN
Here’s a quick tip that’s saved my sanity more than once: always travel with a VPN. Croatian Wi-Fi, especially on ferries or at the ports, can be… well, unpredictable (and definitely not the most secure).
Plus, if you want to catch up on your favorite series, check your bank, or use any apps that might be restricted, a VPN is an absolute game changer.
Personally, I don’t even leave home without one anymore – it just makes life on the road so much easier. From experience, NordVPN and CyberGhost have always worked great for me in Croatia. And here’s a little pro tip: make sure you install and set up your VPN before your trip, because sometimes it’s tricky to download new apps once you’re already abroad.
Trust me, streaming Netflix from the ferry to Hvar is so much better when you know you’re secure and connected!
| My 5 Best VPN for Croatia | Offer + Discount | URL |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 77% off + 3 months free | Try NordVPN |
| ExpressVPN | 61% off + 6 months free | Try ExpressVPN |
| SurfShark | 87% off + 2 months free | Try SurfShark |
| CyberGhost | 83% off + 2 months free | Try CyberGhost |
| PIA VPN | 82% off + 2 months free | Try PIA VPN |
Real-life ferry tips from someone who’s learned the hard way
If you’re traveling in peak summer (June–September), please trust me: book ahead, especially if you have a car. Ferries can fill up fast, and waiting around in the sun with kids or a grumpy partner is nobody’s idea of fun. Smaller routes (like Sućuraj–Drvenik) have limited capacity, so showing up last-minute is a gamble.
But honestly, the journey to Hvar is half the fun. Pick your route, plan just a little, and then let yourself enjoy the ride – there’s something magical about that first glimpse of the island as the ferry approaches.
Whether you’re solo, with friends, or family, the journey is an adventure you’ll remember long after you unpack.
