There are several catamaran lines (Jelsa, Hvar) and two ferry lines (Stari Grad, Sućuraj) that operate to the island of Hvar. Multiple carriers provide services on these routes, and you can find details about the ports, ticket purchases, and carriers below. We intentionally didn’t include the timetables in the tables because there are several carriers, each with different schedules, and there is a 50% chance of making a mistake. Note: As mentioned earlier, for accurate and up-to-date information on the ferry and catamaran schedules to the island of Hvar, it is best to check the official websites of the ferry companies or contact the local ferry authorities. Using online ticket shops for purchasing ferry and catamaran tickets is a reliable and up-to-date method to ensure accuracy and avoid any potential mistakes in the schedules. These platforms provide real-time information and secure transactions, making it convenient and hassle-free for travelers to plan their journey to the island of Hvar.
The ferry and catamaran schedule for the island of Hvar
Jadrolinija operates daily ferry lines on the route Split-Stari Grad, which takes approximately 2 hours. However, during the peak season, ferries may experience delays due to heavy traffic in Split’s port. Alternatively, there is a route from Drvenik, also operated by Jadrolinija, to Sućuraj on the eastern part of the island of Hvar, which takes 35 minutes and operates daily with increased frequency during the high season. Catamaran transfers take approximately 1 hour to reach the town of Hvar and 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach Jelsa. Ferries accept all types of vehicles, while catamarans only allow passengers and small pets. In all ports, you can choose between taxi or bus transportation, but unfortunately, UBER service is not available on the island, but hete is an alternative app called Pick App, which operates during season (May-October). Make sure to purchase your catamaran ticket online at least two days in advance. Waiting in line at Split’s port during the high season can be unbearable due to the large number of people choosing catamaran transportation. If you are traveling with a car, it is highly recommended to buy your ticket online in advance as well. This will save you time and ensure a smoother travel experience to the island of Hvar.
purchasing tickets online and making advance reservations will secure a spot for your car. This primarily applies to the ferry lines between Stari Grad and Split, where there can be significant passenger and vehicle traffic during the high season. However, it’s good to know that the Sućuraj/Drvenik ferry line is operated by a large ferry that can accommodate over 160 vehicles. While online reservations might not be as crucial on this route, it’s still recommended to plan your travel in advance, especially during peak tourist periods. The most convenient place to purchase online tickets is the reliable portal “GetByFerry” because it includes all carriers, routes, and schedules.
The town of Hvar has only catamaran lines operated by TP LINE, KRILO, and JADROLINIJA carriers. The catamaran docks at the Hvar harbor, where access with a car is not permitted. However, hotels, travel agencies, and concierge service providers can arrange transportation for your luggage using suitable vehicles. This way, you can have a convenient and hassle-free transfer from the harbor to your accommodation without the need for a car. The taxi and bus stops are just a few hundred meters away from the city center, after the St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The best online portal for purchasing tickets for the city of Hvar is GetByFerry because it includes all carriers. You can find the link here.
The ferry port in Stari Grad is only a few minutes away from the town of Stari Grad by car. Jadrolinija is the exclusive carrier operating in the ferry port, and access with a car is permitted. Alternatively, you can choose between taxi or bus transportation to reach your final destination. Tickets can be purchased on the Jadrolinija web shop or on GetByFerry.
Luka in Jelsa is located at the Kanun pier on the eastern part of the harbor, and the exclusive carrier is Jadrolinija. Access with a car is allowed only for passenger drop-off, and long-term parking is not available. The bus stop is approximately one kilometer away, at the western end of Jelsa, so consider this if you have a lot of luggage. Taxi stands are also available at the exit of the town, near the main parking area (taxi drivers usually wait in the park across the street, but it’s best to contact them by phone). Find the link here.
The Sućuraj-Drvenik transit port is ideal for travelers coming from the far south of Dalmatia, such as Dubrovnik or Metković. Jadrolinija is the exclusive carrier operating on this route. It is also the most cost-effective route for crossing to the island with vehicles, with a similar travel time as the lines from Split to Stari Grad. It’s good to know that starting from 2023, a new large ferry operates on this route, with the capacity to accommodate 160 cars. Link to online shop.
For answers to other transportation-related questions about the island, it‘s best to check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) sections of all carriers, which we provide below. We carefully update all information, but be sure to verify the links for online ticket purchases in case ferry companies have last-minute changes.
