The island of Hvar will be better connected in 2016 than ever before!
These are interesting times for tourism on Croatia's premier island of Hvar, and for the many guests who return year after year, 2016 will have some great additions in transfers to the island.
Let's start with ferries and catamarans, and the two bits of big news not related to actual sailing times, are that Jadrolinija catamarans and ferries are now bookable online. A true revolution! Please note that tickets cannot be bought online on the day of actual travel, but to buy your ticket, simply go to www.jadrolinija.hr, and follow the simple booking process, available in four languages.
The next pleasant surprise on the Stari Grad ferry for regular guests is FINALLY the availability of free onboard WiFi. Some reports claim that the system is a little temperamental but when it works, the connection is excellent. You are advised to log on early, as later users may be denied access if there are too many people already surfing.
More great news from the private catamaran operators Krilo. After the successful introduction of the fast 305-seat catamaran from Dubrovnik to Split via Mljet, Korcula, Hvar Town and Milna on Brac, the company will not only continue this route from May to October, but they will also introduce a direct transfer from Dubrovnik to Split, which is one more option for travellers coming to Split who want also to take in the vibe in the Dalmatian capital.
And let's not forget those lovely seaplanes, whose Twin Otters have slashed travel times from the mainland to just 15 minutes since the first ever scheduled seaplane flight in modern aviation history to Jelsa in August 2014. Since then the network has expanded significantly, with more to come.
This season Jelsa will be connected directly to downtown Split and the seaport of Resnik by Split Airport (if you are flying in to Split, a free waiting shuttle will take you the 500m to the seaport, where you can enjoy a waterfront drink after checking in ahead of the 15 minute flight). If negotiations go well for a seaport at the harbour in Dubrovnik there will be direct flights from Dubrovnik to Jelsa in just 45 minutes. Connecting via Split, it will be possible this summer to fly to the islands of Korcula, Lastovo, Rab, Pag and Losinj, as well as mainland connections to Zadar, Rijeka, Pula, Ancona and Pescara. With the probability that more destinations will be added.
And, if further proof were needed that Hvar transfers are moving with the times, Jadrolinija has already published its summer ferry timetable, which is unheard of so early in the year. View it here, under SAILING SCHEDULE: http://www.jadrolinija.hr/en/ferry-croatia
Of course, let's not forget the possibilities of private transfers for VIP clients, for any information contact us at dalibor@villashvar.com or call +38591895773. Bon voyage!
*Author - Paul Bradbury
*Photo Credit - Aleksandar Topalovic Photography
