Private vs. Group Tour: What's the Difference?

Split is the ultimate launchpad for exploring Croatia’s most beautiful islands — from the glowing Blue Cave on Biševo to the chic streets of Hvar and the hidden coves of Šolta. But with so many boat tours on offer, one big question arises:
Should you book a private tour or join a group tour?

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences, what’s included, and which option best suits your travel style, budget, and expectations.

⚖️ Private vs. Group Tour: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Private Tour	Group Tour
🚤 Boat is yours	Yes – just for your group	No – shared with others (up to 12 people)
🗺️ Custom itinerary	Yes – flexible stops & timing	No – fixed schedule
🧑‍✈️ Skipper attention	Full attention, personalized	Shared with all guests
💰 Price	Higher – priced per boat	Lower – priced per person
🌟 Privacy	Ideal for families, couples, small groups	Great for meeting others
🕐 Departure time	Flexible	Fixed (usually 7:30–8:00 AM)

🏝️ Why Choose a Private Tour?

A private boat tour from Split is perfect if you:

Want to explore at your own pace
Prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy more comfort
Are celebrating a special occasion (birthday, honeymoon, anniversary)
Have kids or elderly guests who need flexibility
Want to visit less touristy places or spend more time in your favorite bays

Bonus: You can bring your own food, drinks, and create the perfect playlist — it’s your day, your way!

💡 Example private routes:

Blue Lagoon – Trogir – Šolta
Bol – Hvar – Pakleni Islands
Custom itinerary based on your preferences

👥 Why Join a Group Tour?

A group speedboat tour is ideal if you:

Want to see the most famous sights in one day
Are looking for a budget-friendly option
Like the idea of meeting other travelers
Don’t mind following a set schedule

Most group tours include:

Blue Cave entry ticket
Stops in Komiža, Stiniva Cove, Blue Lagoon, Hvar, and more
Snorkeling gear, bottled water, insurance
A professional skipper & host onboard

💡 Tip: Book early and choose a tour with maximum 12 people for a more intimate experience.

💸 Budget Considerations

Private tours usually start from €600 to €1300 depending on boat type, size, and route
Group tours range from €95 to €140 per person, including entry fees

Split boat tours are in high demand from June to September, so plan ahead if traveling in peak season!

✅ Final Tips: How to Decide

Ask yourself:

Are you looking for freedom or affordability?
Is it a romantic trip, family day, or just fun with friends?
Do you want to discover hidden spots or just hit the highlights?

If you’re still unsure — contact us at Island Hopping Split and we’ll help match you with the perfect tour based on your group size, budget, and travel vibe.