Jadrolinija’s passenger-only catamaran (fast ship) is one of the fastest ways to island-hop from Split to Bol (Brač) and onward to Stari Grad (Hvar) and Jelsa (Hvar). Typical sailing time is about 1h 05m to Bol and about 2h 35m to Jelsa. Tickets are tied to your selected departure time (effectively reserving your place), so in summer it’s smart to book ahead.
Note: this line serves Stari Grad/Jelsa on Hvar (not Hvar Town). For other ferry options see More Split ferry routes.
Peak-season one-way fares from Split (29 May–27 Sep 2026): €10.00 adult / €4.40 child (3–12) to Bol, Stari Grad, or Jelsa.
Catamaran line 9603: Split → Bol (Brač) - Stari Grad (Hvar) - Jelsa (Hvar)
Split - Bol (Brač) - Stari Grad - Jelsa catamaran quick overview (Line 9603)
- Operator: Jadrolinija
- Line: Catamaran (fast ship) 9603
- Route: Split - Bol (Brač) - Stari Grad (Hvar) - Jelsa (Hvar)
- Typical travel time: Split - Bol about 1h 05m; Split - Jelsa about 2h 35m (approx.)
- Vehicles: Foot passengers only (no cars)
- Off-season/shoulder 01 Jan–28 May 2026 & 28 Sep–31 Dec 2026; Peak season 29 May–27 Sep 2026
- Ticket rule: Fast ship tickets are tied to the selected departure time (acts like a reservation for that sailing)
- Always check before you go: Timetables can change due to operational/weather reasons
Stops and travel times (how long it takes)
Jadrolinija fast ship (catamaran) line 9603 can run with different stop patterns depending on the day and season. Most sailings operate Split - Bol (Brač) - Jelsa (Hvar), while selected sailings also operate Split - Stari Grad (Hvar). Use the timetable section below to confirm stops and times for your exact travel date.
- Typical travel time Split - Bol: about 1h 05m
- Typical travel time Split - Jelsa (via Bol): about 2h 35m (approx.)
- Typical stop in Bol on through-sailings: short (around 10 minutes)
Quick reminder: This line serves Stari Grad and/or Jelsa on Hvar (not Hvar Town). If you need Hvar Town, use the alternatives section below.
Timetable 2026 (Split - Bol - Stari Grad - Jelsa)
Valid from 29.5.2026 - 27.9.2026
Departures from Split
| >> | Departure from Split | Bol (Brač) (arr. - dep.) | Stari Grad (Hvar) (arr. - dep.) | Arrival Jelsa (Hvar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Every day | 16:30 | 17:35 / 17:45 | - | 18:05 |
| Monday - Friday | 13:00 | - | 14:00 | - |
| >> | Departure from Jelsa (Hvar) | Departure from Stari Grad (Hvar) | Bol (Brač) (arr. - dep.) | Arrival Split |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Every day | 06:00 | - | 06:20 / 06:30 | 07:35 |
| Monday - Friday | - | 14:45 | - | 15:45 |
Valid from 1.1.2026 - 28.5.2026 and 28.9.2026 - 31.12.2026
Departures from Split
| >> | Departure from Split | Bol (Brač) (arr. - dep.) | Stari Grad (Hvar) (arr. - dep.) | Arrival Jelsa (Hvar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Every day | 16:30 | 17:35 / 17:40 | - | 18:00 |
| Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri ** | 11:30 | - | 12:30 | - |
| >> | Departure from Jelsa (Hvar) | Stari Grad (Hvar) (arr. - dep.) | Bol (Brač) (arr. - dep.) | Arrival Split |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | 06:00 | - | 06:20 / 06:25 | 07:30 |
| Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri ** | - | 13:00 * | - | 14:00 |
| Sat | 7:00 | - | 7:20 / 7:25 | 8:30 |
| Sun & Holiday | 13:00 | - | 13:20 / 13:25 | 14:30 |
Split to Brač and Hvar Catamaran Ferry 2026 timetable (PDF)
- * Sails from 01.01.2026 until 31.03.2026 and from 27.10.2026 until 31.12.2026 departs from Stari Grad at 14:00
- ** Does not sail on holidays
You should be at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure. The operator (Jadrolinija) has the right to change departure times without prior notice. Be sure to double check the information before travelling. Timetable can be changed in case of bad weather
Ticket prices 2026 (one-way)
These are the official Jadrolinija fares for catamaran (fast ship) line 9603. Prices are per passenger, one-way, in EUR. Peak-season prices apply 29 May - 27 Sep 2026; off-season/shoulder prices apply 01 Jan - 28 May 2026 and 28 Sep - 31 Dec 2026.
| Route (line 9603) | Adult (01 Jan - 28 May and 28 Sep - 31 Dec 2026) | Adult (29 May - 27 Sep 2026) | Child 3-12 (all 2026 periods) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split - Jelsa | €6.40 | €10.00 | €4.40 |
| Split - Stari Grad | €6.40 | €10.00 | €4.40 |
| Split - Bol | €6.40 | €10.00 | €4.40 |
| Jelsa - Bol | €4.20 | €7.70 | €2.90 |
Download the official price list PDF (line 9603, 2026)
How to buy tickets (online vs port) + the departure-time rule
For Jadrolinija catamaran (fast ship) line 9603, your ticket is tied to the selected departure time and effectively reserves a place on that specific sailing. In peak summer weeks, departures can sell out, so booking online ahead of time is the safest option.
Option 1: Buy online (recommended)
- Buy directly on Jadrolinija’s official site (or mobile app). Buy tickets on Jadrolinija
- Keep your e-ticket ready on your phone for boarding (printing is not required).
Option 2: Buy at the port (Split)
- Purchase at Jadrolinija sales points near Split ferry port.
- In July and August, queues are common, so arrive with extra time.
Before boarding
- Have your ticket ready (phone or printout).
- Check the departure boards for the correct line and gate.
- If you are traveling to Hvar Town (not Stari Grad/Jelsa), use a different catamaran route.
Where to board in Split (Split ferry port)
All sailings on this route depart from the Split ferry port (Trajektna luka Split) on the city waterfront, right next to the Split main bus station and the Split train station. If you need help or want to buy tickets at the port, Jadrolinija lists its Split agency at Gat Sv. Duje bb (inside the port area).
Boarding checklist (fast ship line 9603)
- Check the port departure boards for Jadrolinija and your destination (Bol, Stari Grad, or Jelsa).
- Follow signs for catamaran / fast ship boarding (the pier can vary by day).
- Have your ticket ready to scan (phone is fine) and board when called.
If you still need a ticket
- Buy online to avoid queues in July and August.
- Or purchase at the port from the Jadrolinija agency (Gat Sv. Duje bb).
- Fast ship tickets are tied to a specific departure time, so arriving early improves your chances of getting the sailing you want.
Tip: This line serves Stari Grad and Jelsa on Hvar (not Hvar Town). Always confirm the destination shown on the departure board before you join the boarding line.
Luggage, bikes, pets, accessibility (catamaran rules)
This is a passenger-only catamaran route, so space is designed for people and compact luggage. Below are the key Jadrolinija rules and practical tips for line 9603.
Luggage (hand baggage)
- Hand baggage limit: up to 20 kg per passenger on local routes under Jadrolinija’s rules.
- Fast ship reality: on fast routes, baggage acceptance can depend on available space and load capacity, so travel light when you can.
- Keep it manageable: oversized or awkward items that do not belong in passenger areas can be refused.
- Responsibility: you are responsible for your hand baggage during the trip.
Bicycles and scooters
- Bicycles: not permitted on Jadrolinija catamarans (high-speed boats).
- Foldable scooters: allowed and free of charge.
- Safety restrictions: transport of e-scooters, e-bikes, and detachable lithium batteries without fireproof safety bags is prohibited.
Pets
- Dogs: must be on a leash and wear a muzzle (assistance dogs are an exception).
- Small pets on fast routes: allowed in the lounge only in a transport bag with a waterproof bottom, max 45 x 35 x 25 cm, total weight (bag + pet) max 8 kg, kept under the seat or on your lap (one bag per passenger). Transport is free of charge.
- Other pets on high-speed boats: not allowed if technical conditions are not met (for example, no available pet boxes on deck).
- Behaviour matters: if a pet disturbs other passengers, the captain can require changes (including placing the animal outside in an available box) or order disembarkation at the next port without a refund.
Accessibility and special assistance
- Assistance: disabled passengers and passengers with reduced mobility have the right to free assistance in ports and on board (embarkation and disembarkation).
- Notify in advance: inform the carrier about your needs when booking or buying your ticket, and contact the departure-port Jadrolinija agency before boarding if you need help.
Common issues: wind, delays, cancellations - what to do
Catamarans (fast ships) are more sensitive to rough seas than large car ferries, so strong winds (especially bura/bora and jugo) can cause delays or cancellations. If the forecast looks unstable, build extra buffer into your day and avoid tight connections.
- Check the status on the day: use Jadrolinija’s official updates (Traffic status / Interrupted lines) and confirm your departure at the Split ferry port before you join the queue.
- Re-check close to departure: even if you booked online, schedules can change for operational and safety reasons.
- Arrive earlier when it’s busy or windy: allow extra time for crowds, pier changes, and last-minute updates.
If your catamaran is cancelled:
- Look for the next available sailing on the same day (if the weather improves, operators often resume services).
- Switch to a larger ferry if possible: in wind events, big car ferries are often more likely to operate than fast catamarans (even if the trip takes longer).
- Adjust your island plan: if you cannot reach your target port (Bol, Stari Grad, or Jelsa), consider reaching the island via an alternative port and continuing by road.
Tickets and refunds: Jadrolinija notes that local-line tickets cannot be changed; if you need to alter plans, you typically cancel and request a refund under the operator’s rules (check the latest instructions on the official FAQ before you act).
Alternatives (if you need a car or different ports)
Catamaran line 9603 is for foot passengers and serves Bol on Brač plus Stari Grad and Jelsa on Hvar. If you need a vehicle, want Hvar Town, or want a different arrival port, use one of these options.
If you need a car on Brač
- Take the Split - Supetar car ferry (line 631), then drive across Brač to Bol or other towns. See our guide: Split - Supetar (Brač) car ferry.
If you need a car on Hvar
- Take the Split - Stari Grad car ferry (line 635). Stari Grad is the main vehicle entry port for Hvar, then you continue by road to Jelsa or Hvar Town. See our guide: Split - Stari Grad (Hvar) car ferry.
If you need Hvar Town (not Stari Grad or Jelsa)
- Direct Split - Hvar (Hvar Town) catamaran (line 641) is the simplest option for foot passengers headed straight to the main harbour in Hvar Town: Jadrolinija Split - Hvar (line 641).
- In summer, you may also see seasonal fast-ship services that include Hvar Town as a stop.
More tips on when to book and how reservations work: Ferry booking in Croatia.
Arriving on the islands: Bol (Brač), Stari Grad & Jelsa (Hvar)
This catamaran line is popular because it drops you close to island town centres. Here is what to expect when you arrive in Bol on Brač and in Stari Grad or Jelsa on Hvar.
Bol (Brač)
Bol’s catamaran pier is on the waterfront by the town centre, so many hotels and apartments in Bol are walkable.
- Zlatni Rat beach: around 2 km from Bol - about a 20 to 30 minute seaside walk.
- Summer shortcuts: you can usually find taxi boats and seasonal tourist transport from the harbour area toward Zlatni Rat.
- With luggage: taxis are available and can save time in peak heat.
Stari Grad (Hvar)
The ferry/catamaran terminal is in Stari Grad Bay, about 1.5 km from Stari Grad town and about 20 km by road from Hvar Town.
- To Stari Grad town: an easy flat walk along the bay, or a quick taxi if you have heavy bags.
- To Hvar Town and other places: continue by road (taxi or local bus, depending on season and timings).
- Local buses on Hvar: operated by Čazmatrans; tickets are typically sold by the driver on board.
Jelsa (Hvar)
Jelsa’s catamaran port is central, close to the seafront promenade, which makes it a convenient arrival point for the middle of Hvar island.
- To your accommodation: many stays in and around Jelsa are walkable from the harbour.
- Getting around the island: use local buses (Čazmatrans) or taxis for places like Stari Grad, Vrboska, or Hvar Town.
- Weather note: if conditions are hazardous, sailings can be cancelled - always re-check close to travel day.
Reminder: This line serves Stari Grad and Jelsa (not Hvar Town). If you need Hvar Town specifically, use a Split - Hvar fast ship route instead (see Alternatives below).
FAQ
Is this a car ferry?
No. Line 9603 is a fast ship (catamaran) service for foot passengers only, so cars and other vehicles are not accepted.
Does this catamaran go to Hvar Town?
Not usually. This line serves Hvar island via Stari Grad and/or Jelsa (depending on the sailing). If you need Hvar Town, use a direct Split - Hvar fast ship route and see the Alternatives section below.
How long is the trip from Split to Bol and from Split to Jelsa?
Typical sailing time is about 1 hour 05 minutes from Split to Bol, and about 2 hours 35 minutes from Split to Jelsa (via Bol). Actual duration can vary by sailing and conditions.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
In summer, yes. Tickets for fast ship lines are tied to a specific departure time and act like a reservation for that sailing, so popular departures can sell out.
Can I change my ticket to a different departure time?
Jadrolinija states that changes are not possible for local line tickets. If your plans change, you generally cancel and request a refund under the operator’s rules (a cancellation fee may apply).
Do I need to print the ticket?
No. Jadrolinija states there is no need to print an e-ticket. You can show the ticket on your mobile device, but have it ready before boarding.
Can I buy tickets at Split ferry port?
Yes. Tickets can be bought online or at Jadrolinija points of sale. In peak season, buying online early is the easiest way to avoid queues and sell-outs.
What should I do if it is windy and the catamaran is cancelled?
Check Jadrolinija’s official Traffic situation updates on the day of travel, then look for the next available fast ship sailing or switch to a larger car ferry route (often more likely to operate in rough seas) and continue by road on the island if needed.
What are the luggage rules?
Jadrolinija’s rules for hand baggage on local routes allow up to 20 kg per passenger, and fast ships can have additional space limits. Travel light when possible and keep your luggage manageable for catamaran boarding.
Are pets or bikes allowed on this catamaran?
Jadrolinija allows certain pets under specific conditions (for example, small pets in a carrier on fast routes; dogs on a leash and with a muzzle where required). Bicycles are not permitted on Jadrolinija catamarans, while foldable scooters are allowed under their rules. See the Luggage and rules section above for details.