Split → Hvar → Palmižana → Split
Spend a day at sea, moving between some of the Adriatic’s most iconic and most relaxed places.
The journey begins in Split, with a morning departure from ACI Marina, followed by an open-sea cruise toward Hvar — an island known for its history, atmosphere, and Mediterranean character shaped by lavender, wine, and olive oil.
After time in Hvar town, the route continues toward the Pakleni Islands. Here, the pace naturally slows — with clear water, sheltered bays, and time to swim, relax, or enjoy lunch by the sea.
In the late afternoon, the day comes full circle with a return to Split, carrying that quiet feeling that only time spent at sea leaves behind.
Carpe Diem Cruising Route
| Stops | Route | Distance (NM) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stop 1 | Split → Hvar | 25 NM | First open-sea sail, Hvar old town, sunset views |
| Stop 2 | Hvar → Palmižana | 5 NM | Crystal-clear bays, beach bars, relaxed vibe |
| Stop 3 | Palmižana → Split | 30NM | Relaxed return sail, swim stop en route |
Step 1: Split → Hvar
Highlights:
- Open-sea cruising across the Adriatic
- Walk through Hvar’s historic old town
- Fortica viewpoint overlooking Hvar & Pakleni Islands
- Relaxed time on the main square or seaside cafés
Depart from Split and enjoy a scenic open-sea cruise toward Hvar — one of the Adriatic’s most iconic islands.
Hvar is the sunniest Croatian island
Hvar is more than just a stop — it’s a place that slowly reveals itself.
At the center of it all is St. Stephen’s Square (Pjaca), one of the largest in Dalmatia. Here stands the baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its bell tower dating back to the 16th and 17th century, built on the site of an earlier church. Just nearby, you’ll notice the Štandarac — once used as a pillar of shame — a small but powerful reminder of the town’s history.
On the square, life moves at its own pace. A short stop at Hvar Pjaca Bar, with coffee or ice cream in hand, is often all it takes to feel it.
Across the square is the Arsenal building, home to the Hvar Public Theatre from 1612 — one of the oldest public theatres in Europe, still open to visitors today.
From there, a walk along the waterfront reveals a quieter side of Hvar, where the statue of Fisherman Boy – Bata Duje reflects the island’s deep connection to the sea and everyday life shaped by it.
For the most memorable view, a short climb leads to Fortica fortress, built in the 16th century to protect the town. Today, it offers a panoramic view over Hvar and the Pakleni Islands — one of those moments that stays with you.
Hvar is known for its lavender fields, local wines, and olive oil.
Step 2: Hvar → Palmižana
Highlights
- Crystal-clear bays surrounded by pine forest
- Anchoring in calm, sheltered turquoisewater
- Relaxed beach clubs and seaside restaurants
- Lunch at Laganini or local hidden spots
- Swimming, sunbathing, and slow afternoon rhythm
Short and relaxed sail from Hvar to Palmižana in the Pakleni Islands.
Just across from Hvar lies the Pakleni Islands — an archipelago of over 20 small islands and islets, scattered like a natural extension of the coastline.
Their name comes from paklina, a type of pine resin once used in traditional shipbuilding — a quiet reminder of the area’s deep connection to the sea.
The group includes islands such as Jerolim, Marinkovac, Planikovac, Gališnik, and Vodnjak, but the largest and most well-known is Sveti Klement.
Although there are small settlements like Momića Polje, Vlaka, and Palmižana, the islands have no permanent population — which is exactly what preserves their untouched character.
Palmižana, located on Sveti Klement, is the most visited spot — not only for its sheltered bays and relaxed atmosphere, but also for its unique botanical garden.
Owned by the Meneghello family, this garden has been cultivated since the early 20th century and features an unexpected mix of plants: pine trees, cacti, tamarisk, oleander, yucca — a Mediterranean landscape with a subtle exotic touch.
The Pakleni Islands are known for their crystal-clear bays, untouched nature, and quiet escape just off Hvar.
Step 3: Palmižana → Split
Highlights
• Ancient streets within Diocletian’s Palace
• Life around Peristyle and the old town
• Slow walks along the Riva promenade
• Bačvice beach and local traditions
• A mix of history, culture, and everyday life
• Evening atmosphere, food, and wine
Return cruise back to Split with a relaxed sailing day along the coast.
Split — a 1700-year – old living city
Split — where the day comes full circle
In the late afternoon, you return to Split — just in time to enjoy the city at its best.
Returning to Split in the late afternoon, the day gently shifts back into the rhythm of the city — where history and everyday life blend effortlessly.
At its center lies Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that still shapes the city today. Its ancient cellars, stone streets, and Peristil Square create a setting where history feels present rather than preserved.
During the summer months, the change of the Roman guard brings that atmosphere to life, while the Cathedral of St.Duje stands quietly as one of the oldest functioning cathedrals in the world.
Beyond its heritage, Split carries a distinct local character. Parts of the city served as filming locations for Game of Thrones, with a museum dedicated to it, while Bačvice beach is known for picigin — a simple, almost ritual-like game played in the shallow sea.
As evening approaches, the city becomes more vibrant. The Riva fills with life, summer events take over the streets, and occasions like the Ultra Europe Festival or Nights of Diocletian add another layer to the experience — a balance of energy, tradition, and atmosphere that naturally rounds off the day at sea.
Along the Riva promenade, the pace softens again — ideal for a coffee, an easy walk, or simply watching the city unfold.
For something sweet, Gelateria Emiliana is a popular stop, while restaurants like Dvor, Bokeria Kitchen & Wine, Articok, Bokamorra, and Maestro Grill Club offer options to continue the day into the evening.
Split is known for its ancient history, vibrant streets, and life that unfolds within 1,700-year-old walls.
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