Sea Kayaking to Jerolim and Marinkovac from Križna Luka

What it is

Half a day of guided sea kayaking from Hvar town to two of the Pakleni islands, Jerolim and Marinkovac. It is about 8.5 km of paddling in four hours, with long stops to swim and snorkel in coves that few reach on foot. No experience is needed: the pace is relaxed and the groups are small.

Who runs it

Hvar Adventure, an activities company with an office in Hvar town, which also runs bike routes and wine tastings. The guides are from the island and speak English. Groups are of 8 people at most.

Two sessions

• Morning. Leaves at 9:30, meeting at 9:15. It costs €60 per person and runs from 2 people. The sea is usually calmer and there are fewer boats.
• Afternoon and sunset. It costs €70 per person and needs a minimum of 4. It leaves at 16:30 in July, at 16:00 in August (until the 20th) and at 15:30 in September, and returns with the low sun.

Both last about four hours.

The route

1. Križna Luka. You meet the guide on Križna Luka beach, about seven minutes' walk from the seafront promenade, past the Franciscan monastery. There you receive the kayak and the safety briefing.
2. Crossing to Jerolim. You paddle towards the nearest island, with the town and the Fortica behind. Stop to swim and snorkel.
3. Marinkovac. You continue among the islets to Marinkovac, with another swimming and snorkelling stop. If you like, there are restaurants on the islands for a bite to eat.
4. Return to Križna Luka.

What is included

The kayak (double or single), paddle, spray skirt, life jacket, dry bags, snorkelling gear and the guide.

What to bring

The company asks for a 1.5-litre bottle of water, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, sun protection (cream or a T-shirt), water shoes and something to eat. The sun is strong over the water: protect your shoulders and legs.

Who can go

The effort is moderate: four hours of gentle paddling with stops. With children, tell them when booking: the smallest life jackets are for 3-year-olds and it is best they go in a double kayak with an adult. For people with disabilities, the company asks you to contact it first.

Season and booking

The published times cover July to September. You book on the Hvar Adventure website, by email or by phone, and it is wise to do so a few days ahead in August because of group sizes. In wind or swell the outing may change route or be cancelled: ask how they let you know.

If you prefer to go independently

The same islands are reached by water taxi from the harbour in 10 to 15 minutes. The kayak makes sense if you want to arrive by paddle and stop at coves without boats.