Port information & tips for Bol (Brac Island)
Bol is a charming jewel on the southern coast of the island of Brač and is considered one of the most exclusive destinations on the Croatian Adriatic. The town impresses with its Mediterranean flair, crystal-clear water, and the picturesque backdrop of the Vidova Gora mountains. Absolute highlights include the world-famous pebble beach Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) as well as the historic Dominican Monastery with its idyllic garden. Cruise ships usually dock at the central quay in the port of Bol (Luka Bol) or use it as a landing station for tender boats. Thanks to the prime location, the charming waterfront promenade, authentic restaurants, and the Branislav Dešković Art Gallery are also within direct walking distance, allowing for a relaxed exploration of this Dalmatian island gem.
Getting to the cruise port in Bol on the picturesque island of Brač is excellently organized thanks to good ferry connections and the island's own airport. The harbor pier for catamarans is located right in the center of Bol, which allows for convenient embarkation.
Airplane
The most convenient way to arrive by plane is via Split Airport (SPU) on the mainland or Brač Airport (BWK) located directly on the island. From Split Airport, you can reach the Split ferry port in about 30 to 40 minutes by shuttle bus or taxi. From there, fast passenger catamarans run directly to Bol with a journey time of around 50 to 75 minutes. Brač Airport (BWK) is located only about 13 kilometers from Bol and offers seasonal direct flights. Taxis or pre-booked transfers will take you directly to the port in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. For a relaxed start to your cruise, we recommend an overnight stay in Split or Bol the day before if you are traveling from the DACH region, to optimally account for potential travel times and ferry schedules.
Car & Ferry
From the DACH region, the modern Croatian A1 highway (Dalmatina) takes you directly towards Split or Makarska. For the crossing to Brač, car ferries are available: either from Split to Supetar (crossing time approx. 50 minutes) or from Makarska to Sumartin on Brač. From Supetar, you can reach Bol after a scenic drive of about 38 kilometers in around 40 minutes, while the route from Sumartin to Bol is approximately 26 kilometers and takes about 30 minutes. Parking is available in Bol, but is very busy during the high season; public parking spaces can be found near Zlatni Rat beach (approx. 12-15 €/day) or in the town center (approx. 28-35 €/day).
Train
The most relevant train station is Split, which offers regular train connections from Zagreb and has international connections from Central Europe. The train station in Split is also located in the immediate vicinity of the ferry port. From the Split ferry port, you can easily take one of the fast passenger catamarans that bring you directly to the center of Bol. The journey takes between 50 and 75 minutes, depending on the connection.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination – is generally scheduled for about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Getting to the cruise port in Bol on the picturesque island of Brač is excellently organized thanks to good ferry connections and the island's own airport. The harbor pier for catamarans is located right in the center of Bol, which allows for convenient embarkation.
Airplane
The most convenient way to arrive by plane is via Split Airport (SPU) on the mainland or Brač Airport (BWK) located directly on the island. From Split Airport, you can reach the Split ferry port in about 30 to 40 minutes by shuttle bus or taxi. From there, fast passenger catamarans run directly to Bol with a journey time of around 50 to 75 minutes. Brač Airport (BWK) is located only about 13 kilometers from Bol and offers seasonal direct flights. Taxis or pre-booked transfers will take you directly to the port in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. For a relaxed start to your cruise, we recommend an overnight stay in Split or Bol the day before if you are traveling from the DACH region, to optimally account for potential travel times and ferry schedules.
Car & Ferry
From the DACH region, the modern Croatian A1 highway (Dalmatina) takes you directly towards Split or Makarska. For the crossing to Brač, car ferries are available: either from Split to Supetar (crossing time approx. 50 minutes) or from Makarska to Sumartin on Brač. From Supetar, you can reach Bol after a scenic drive of about 38 kilometers in around 40 minutes, while the route from Sumartin to Bol is approximately 26 kilometers and takes about 30 minutes. Parking is available in Bol, but is very busy during the high season; public parking spaces can be found near Zlatni Rat beach (approx. 12-15 €/day) or in the town center (approx. 28-35 €/day).
Train
The most relevant train station is Split, which offers regular train connections from Zagreb and has international connections from Central Europe. The train station in Split is also located in the immediate vicinity of the ferry port. From the Split ferry port, you can easily take one of the fast passenger catamarans that bring you directly to the center of Bol. The journey takes between 50 and 75 minutes, depending on the connection.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination – is generally scheduled for about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The picturesque port of Bol is located right in the heart of the town, providing you with easy access to the charming alleys and beaches. Thanks to its central location, the most important points of interest are in the immediate vicinity of the mooring.
On foot
The center of Bol, with its cafés and boutiques, can be reached immediately after leaving the ship. The famous Zlatni Rat beach is accessible via a shaded coastal promenade in about 20 minutes, offering a wonderful view of the turquoise sea along the way.
Water taxi
Small water taxis operate regularly from the harbor basin, comfortably transporting you to Golden Horn beach. This connection is very efficient and also provides an attractive perspective of the coastline from the water.
Tourist train and taxis
Local taxis wait for passengers near the harbor, and the popular tourist train also starts there. This small train runs along the coast and provides a comfortable connection between the town center and the beach sections located to the west.
To make the most of your stay in Bol, we recommend a combination of the picturesque harbor flair of the Old Town and a visit to the iconic Zlatni Rat, which is easily accessible on foot or by water taxi.
Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn)
This world-famous natural phenomenon impresses with its striking shape that constantly changes with the current, as well as its crystal-clear water, and is the ideal place for a refreshing dip in the Adriatic thanks to its short distance from the harbor. The surrounding pine forests also provide pleasant shade, making the beach a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation directly by the sea.
Harbor Promenade and Old Town
The historic center of Bol enchants with its traditional Dalmatian stone houses and a lively waterfront promenade, perfect for a relaxed stroll through small boutiques and local cafes. Here, guests can enjoy the authentic atmosphere of the island of Brac while finding numerous opportunities to try regional specialties in close proximity to the ship.
Dominican Monastery
On the eastern edge of the village, the impressive Dominican Monastery sits on a small peninsula and offers, in addition to its significant art collection, an oasis of peace with a lovingly laid out botanical garden. The picturesque location directly on the water makes this site an impressive cultural landmark, which is also easily and comfortably accessible via an idyllic coastal path.
Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn)
The world-famous Zlatni Rat beach is easily accessible from the port in Bol in about twenty minutes on foot via a picturesque, shady pine promenade and also offers a fast connection by taxi boat directly from the pier. Thanks to its striking shape, which constantly changes with the ocean currents, and the crystal-clear, turquoise water, this location is perfectly suited for a first-class swimming experience. On site, you will find an excellent infrastructure with comfortable sunbeds, upscale beach bars, and shade-providing pine forests for maximum relaxation. Ideally, visit the Golden Horn in the morning to secure a prime spot, and plan a short window for an espresso in the charming cafés at the harbor for the return trip to the ship.
The return journey to the port of Bol in the heart of the town is straightforward and can be particularly relaxed thanks to the short distances and the picturesque waterfront promenade.
Water taxis and taxi stands
From the famous Zlatni Rat beach, small taxi boats will take you directly back to the Riva in the town center in just a few minutes. Additionally, you will find an official taxi stand at the central gas station at the entrance to the town, as well as directly in front of large hotels such as the Elaphusa, ensuring you reach the port on time.
Panoramic train (Vlakić)
A comfortable alternative for the return journey is offered by the small panoramic train, which runs regularly between the Golden Horn and the port. The stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the beach and takes you on a shaded route safely back to the central docking area.
On foot via the promenade
The walk from the beach to the port takes about 20 minutes and follows the paved promenade Šetnica under pine trees. This path is lively throughout and leads you directly to the pier, while orientation is easy thanks to the location by the water and clear signage.
