Stories · Getting Around · 7 min read
How to Get from Split to Hvar: Ferry, Catamaran, Prices & Tips (2026)
Three boats, two ports, one confusing booking site. Here is the clean version with current prices, journey times, and exactly which ticket to buy for which kind of trip.
By Marin Petrović · April 09, 2026
Split to Hvar is the most-searched ferry route in Croatia, and the official booking site does its best to bury the useful information. Here is what you actually need to know to get from Split harbour to Hvar town (the pretty one, with the fortress) in 2026.
Three Ways Across
- Jadrolinija catamaran 9602 (passenger only). 1 hour direct to Hvar town. ~€8.50 one way. The default for most travellers.
- Krilo / Kapetan Luka catamarans (passenger only). 1h 5min to Hvar town. ~€10. Newer boats, more sailings in summer, slightly more reliable in wind.
- Jadrolinija car ferry to Stari Grad. 2 hours, then a 20-minute drive across the island to Hvar town. ~€7 foot, ~€50 with a car. The only option if you are bringing a vehicle.
Which Boat Should You Take?
No car? Going to Hvar town? Catamaran direct, every time. Bringing a rental car? The car ferry to Stari Grad, then drive. Hvar town's old town is car-free anyway; if you are island-hopping by boat, leave the car in Split's long-stay car park (Sukoišan, €8 a day) and take the catamaran.
Where to Buy Tickets
Jadrolinija: jadrolinija.hr or the kiosk at Gat Sv. Petra (Pier of St Peter) in Split harbour. Krilo: krilo.hr (English booking flow is the cleanest of the three).
In July and August, book catamarans 5–7 days ahead. In June and September, the morning of is usually fine. April, May, October: walk-up at the pier 30 minutes before sailing.
If the wind picks up to 40+ km/h, catamarans cancel before car ferries. Always check the Krilo Twitter or the Jadrolinija notices board the morning of, the staff will know an hour before the website does.
Getting to Split Harbour
Split airport (SPU) to harbour: shuttle bus €8, 30 minutes, runs every 30 minutes and meets every arrival. Taxi €30–40. From Split train station the harbour is a 3-minute walk straight ahead.
Arriving in Hvar Town
The catamaran docks at Riva, the seafront promenade. Hvar's old town is a 2-minute walk. Most hotels will pick up luggage; for budget rooms you carry your own up the kamenita ulica (stone-stepped streets).
Beyond Hvar Town: Day Trips
Once in Hvar, the magic is the smaller islands offshore. See our guide to a day in the Pakleni Islands on a small boat and our Hvar guide that goes beyond the marina.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the ferry from Split to Hvar?
- 1 hour by Jadrolinija or Krilo catamaran to Hvar town; 2 hours by car ferry to Stari Grad.
- Do I need to book the Split–Hvar ferry in advance?
- Only in July and August. Outside peak, the morning of is fine.
- How much is the Split to Hvar ferry?
- €8.50–€10 foot passenger; ~€50 with a small car (Stari Grad route only).
