Ferry from Hvar Island to Korcula Island

About Hvar Island

Just under 4 miles from mainland Croatia, Hvar sits between the islands of Vis, Korčula and Brač. The Mediterranean climate and white sandy beaches help make Hvar Island one of the most attractive tourist spots in the Adriatic. Hvar has four towns (Hvar, Sućuraj, Jelsa and Stari Grad), the main one sharing its name with the island and is located in the south west. Hvar town is a particularly popular destination for tourists and features a number of hotels, one of Europe’s oldest theatres, some lively street café's and vibrant night-life. Stari Grad on the north side of the island is the next biggest and second most popular town and along with Hvar the entry point by ferry. Ferries travel across the Adriatic Sea from Italy departing from Pescara (to Hvar) and Ancona (to Stari Grad). Ferry crossings are seasonal running from July to the end of August in line with the peak season. If travelling on foot then head to Hvar as it’s a shorter and more frequent crossing or if you’re travelling with a vehicle then you’ll need to sail to Stari Grad.

About Korcula Island

Korčula is a Croatian island lying just off the Dalmatian coast in the Adriatic Sea. Its scenery is made up of dense pine forest, charming villages and beautiful vineyards. To the south, there are over two hundred pretty coves and some small, sandy beaches. The standout feature is Korčula’s ovular shaped Old Town. It’s an architectural masterpiece, characterised by tall towers and a cluster of red-roofed houses along fish bone shaped streets. They were designed this way to shelter the citizens from the blistering wind. Be sure to visit St Mark’s Cathedral in the Old Town’s square. Using local limestone, it was built in a Renaissance style with fascinating bronze statues and Venetian paintings inside. The southeastern town of Lumbarda cultivates Grk vineyards, which are used to produce the island’s famous Grk wine. Lumbarda is a peaceful retreat from the bustling Korčula Town, with its quiet sandy beaches. Olive oil is an important export, which is primarily produced in Vela Luka on the west coast. There is an olive oil museum on the outskirts of town, selling fine oils and featuring wicker gathering tools. Korčula has a rich cultural history and a number of customs. One such tradition is the Moreska, a spectacular sword dance dating back to the early 17th Century. It involves two groups of dancers engaging in a mock battle over the fate of a veiled woman. It was originally performed on special civil occasions but is now put on every week for visiting tourists. You can sail to Vela Luka from the Italian coastal town of Pescara. The route is operated by SNAV, who provides a few sailings every week with an average journey time of four and a half hours.