Getting by ferry from Split to Hvar is something many travelers are having a tough time with. Since, once you get to Split, everything is within the walking distance, it is quite easy! Here is how to do it:
If you are driving:
Follow the signs to ferry port and go directly to the big pier where you park in line waiting for departure. Buy tickets at any of the Jadrolinija booths but most convenient is to get them at the booth right at the pier. There are always several Jadrolinija officials ready to hep out with all the questions.
Make sure you are there at least an hour before the departure of the ferry since, especially in high season, the crowds are terrible! Split is the 3rd busiest ferry port in the Mediterranean and all the central Dalmatian Islands are serviced from Split.
If you are flying:
Easy! Hop on Croatia Airlines bus right at Split airport terminal that drives directly to the harbor and stops at the bus station right across the ferry pier.
If getting a cab or a private transfer, go to the taxi stop and that is even few steps closer.
If arriving by bus:
Very easy again! Bus station is located right across from the ferry to Hvar (and Vis) dock. Simply step off the bus, get your luggage and you are in front of the ferry within a minute or two.
This is the same for train as well since it is next to the bus terminal.
Here is the Split Bus Station web site: http://www.ak-split.hr/
You can leave your luggage at GARDEROBA storage near the taxi stop so you can explore the city on your own before boarding the ferry.
Also note – the ferry services goes only to Stari Grad ferry harbor and there are buses right in front of the ferry to take you to Hvar Town.
There are also faster catamaran services to Hvar town directly:
Here are the times of ferry service from Split to Hvar:
SPLIT – STARI GRAD
The ferry leaves Split harbor at 8:30 AM, 2:00 PM and 8:30 PM and it takes about 2 hours to reach Stari Grad.
Catamaran leaves Split at 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM and reaches Hvar town an hour later.
DAY TRIP TO HVAR FROM SPLIT:
Possible but expect long transfers. The best option is to board the early ferry (8:30 AM) to Stari Grad, then bus to Hvar where you relax till the afternoon hours when you catch a ferry back (6 PM or 8 PM).
Another option is to board the 11:30 catamaran from Split directly to Hvar town.
Check before you go at http://www.jadrolinija.hr/
More information at http://www.hvarinfo.com/hvar-ferries/#1
More info on catamaran KRILO services: http://www.korcula.net/grad/pitanja/krilo.htm
The best info on catamaran schedules: http://www.hvar-island.com/tag/catamaran/
And the best site with the most complete info is at Suncani Hvar web site.