How to Get from Hvar to Brač

Hvar and Brač are neighboring islands connected by passenger ferry services. During the summer season, private boat transfers are also available. Regardless, both options take no more than 50 minutes

While there are no car ferries linking these two islands, it is possible to travel from Hvar to Brač if you're traveling by rental car by taking the car ferry services connecting to the mainland. There are no direct bus routes connecting destinations on the two islands.

This 5-day sailing itinerary explores the Dalmatian islands of Vis, Korčula, Hvar, and Pakleni.

By Passenger Ferry

Duration: 20 - 50 minutes

Passenger ferries run from Hvar Town and Jelsa on Hvar island to Bol located on Brač island. Ferries operated by Jadrolinija for passengers only (catamarans) depart from Hvar Town to Bol daily at 10:30 am (from the end of May to the end of September only), a journey time of 50 minutes. There's also one daily departure (the schedule varies according to the day and season) from Jelsa to Bol with a travel time of 20 minutes.

If you are departing from Jelsa, and time allows, it’s worth checking out Restaurant Murvica. The family that owns and operates this restaurant also has a farm nearby that offers tours. They sell a variety of homemade products out of the restaurant including olive oil, olives, marmalades, and lavender oil. 

Kapetan Luka operates a daily ferry service (with an evening departure) from Hvar Town to Milna on Brač daily from April to October. During the last week of October, the frequency is reduced to three times a week. The journey lasts 30 minutes. High-speed boats run by Split Express link Stari Grad on Hvar island to Bol on Brač (30 minutes) once a day (5:30 am departure) from June to mid-September only.

If you're traveling during the peak summer months, it's a good idea to book your tickets in advance via the ferry companies' websites.

By Private Boat Transfer

Duration: 20 - 50 minutes

The fastest and most convenient way to travel between Hvar and Brač is by private boat transfer, especially if you have a schedule to stick to or are traveling in a group. Journey times depend on your destination on Brač island as well as the type of boat, but it shouldn't take more than 50 minutes to reach any destination. 

Note that boat transfers do not run during the winter months or in bad weather. To find out more details about private boat transfer services, contact your local travel specialist.

By Rental Car and Ferry

Duration: 4 - 5 hours

Departures: 5:00 am – 10:35 pm daily. Up to 11 departures. (Schedule and frequency varies according to season)

There are no car ferries running between Hvar and Brač islands. If you plan to explore the islands by rental car, you'll need to take the car ferry from Sućuraj at the eastern tip of Hvar, a 90-minute drive from Hvar Town.

Depending on the timing of your ferry in Sućuraj, Restoran Fortica is a great option for lunch or dinner. Restoran Fortica offers an array of fresh seafood and outdoor seating overlooking the bay just north of the ferry terminal.

There are frequent connections to nearby Drvenik on the Croatian mainland, a crossing time of 35 minutes. From here, drive 18 miles (29 km) north to Makarska where you can catch the ferry (one hour) to Sumartin on Brač island. The total journey time will depend on waiting times at the ferry ports.

If you are looking for something to do in Makarska before catching the next ferry, there is plenty to choose from. One option is a hike in Biokovo Nature Park which provides easy access to some great views of the surrounding areas plus an opportunity to stretch your legs between car and ferry rides. Another option is exploring Makarska Old Town and Kacic Square. During the summer months, Kacic square is often bustling with local festivities and musical artists.