Find the perfect vehicle around the island
Speedboat and Other Boat Rental
There is nothing quite like the thrill of a speedboat crashing through the waves as the wind sails through your hair. Hvar is a nautical paradise, and while most visitors limit their sailing time to the ferry or catamaran, speedboat tours and transfers are growing in popularity. Looking to get to the airport a little quicker or at a time that does not match the ferry timetable? There are a number of private speedboat skippers who can have you there in just under an hour.
And although the coast of a speedboat is more expensive, if there is a group of you, speedboat tours can be an affordable way to explore Hvar and the surrounding islands. There are a number of organised tours available, including group tours, with popular destinations including Vis and the Blue Cave, the 6 beaches tour, and – if you are a wine lover – why not check out Wine and Waves, a tour of great Hvar wineries by speedboat?
Of course, you may prefer life in the slow lane, and there are plenty of other ways to explore on the water. Sailing and kayaking tours are readily available, as are small regular boats if you want to navigate your way at a slower pace to one of the many hidden coves and bays of the Pakleni Islands.
Rent a car, scooter, bike or quad
One area that tourists sometimes only consider after arrival is the use of a rental car. While there are advantages and a convenience to picking up a car at the airport, there can be disadvantages if you plan to go island-hopping. Taking cars on ferries is an additional expense, and the reality is that tourists rarely use the car every day once they discover the idyllic island pace of life. It can therefore be a lot more cost-effective and convenient to come to Hvar as a foot passenger and then rent a car on the island only for the days you need. There are car rental companies in all the towns, and it is even possible to arrange for a daily rate to meet you at the ferry if you are on a day trip. One of the most popular island car rental options in recent years has been the fleet of multi-coloured Volkswagen Beetle cabrios.
If you prefer two wheels, you are not alone. Cycling is growing in popularity on Hvar, and even world champion Vincenzo Nibali comes to Hvar for winter training with his team, Bahrain Merida. But so too is scooter hire, and many tourists find the scooter option the best in terms of cost and flexibility. One other rental option is quad bikes.