Full Description & Details
Stari Grad Ferry Port is a working car ferry harbour at the head of a long bay on the north coast of Hvar Island, about 2 km from the town of Stari Grad. It is the main gateway for vehicles to the island, with Jadrolinija line 635 running from Split, a crossing of about 1 hour 50 minutes. The port is a busy commercial facility, not a recreational marina, and its berths are reserved for ferries. The old town of Stari Grad, the oldest in Croatia, and the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain lie nearby, but the port itself is functional and utilitarian.
The harbour offers good protection from the weather thanks to its position in the long bay. Depths are suitable for large car ferries, which berth alongside the quay. There are no recreational moorings or overnight berths for visiting yachts; the port is for ferry operations only. Holding in the bay outside the port may be possible, but the port itself is not set up for private vessels to stay.
Facilities at the port are minimal. There is a small Jadrolinija ticket office in the main terminal building, where passenger and vehicle tickets are sold. Cafes are present at the port, but no specific shops or restaurants are confirmed. The town centre, 2 km away, has provisions and dining options. There is no left luggage office at the port, though local cafes may hold bags. Parking bays are available outside the terminal for pick-up and drop-off, and a long-stay car park is nearby.
Safety notes: the port is a working ferry terminal, so keep clear of ferry manoeuvres and follow any instructions from port staff. The ferry service is reliable, often running when catamarans are cancelled in spring or autumn due to the bura wind. Ferry frequency varies by season: up to 7 crossings a day in summer, dropping to 4-5 in winter. A night crossing at 01:30 runs only from 20 June to 24 August. No overnight stays are permitted for recreational craft.
How to get there
Approach Stari Grad Ferry Port from the west, entering the long bay that leads to the head where the ferry berths are located. The port is a working ferry terminal, so expect ferry traffic and follow any VHF instructions from the harbour or ferry crews. There are no specific navigational hazards mentioned, but keep clear of the ferry berths and manoeuvring areas.
The GPS coordinates for the port are approximately 43.18134 N, 16.57611 E. Land access from the port is by local bus or taxi, with a walking path along the waterfront to Stari Grad town centre, about 2 km away. Buses meet most ferry arrivals and run to Hvar town, Jelsa, and Vrboska. The nearest airport is Split, reached by ferry from Split port.
Formal entry procedures are handled by the ferry operator, Jadrolinija, at the ticket office in the terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I moor my yacht overnight at Stari Grad Ferry Port?
No, Stari Grad Ferry Port is a working ferry port with berths for ferries only. Recreational moorings and overnight stays are not permitted.
What is the ferry frequency from Split to Stari Grad?
Jadrolinija line 635 runs up to 7 times a day in summer, 6 outside peak, and 4-5 in winter. A night crossing at 01:30 operates only from 20 June to 24 August.
Are there fuel facilities at Stari Grad Ferry Port?
Fuel is not listed as available at the port itself. A petrol station is located on the road to Hvar town, about 20 minutes away by road.
Is there a ticket office at Stari Grad Ferry Port?
Yes, a small Jadrolinija ticket office is in the main terminal building, selling passenger and vehicle tickets. Last-minute car tickets sell out quickly in summer, so book ahead.
How far is Stari Grad town from the ferry port?
Stari Grad town centre is about 2 km from the ferry port. You can walk along the waterfront, take a local bus, or get a taxi.
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