3 Islands Speedboat Tour: Golden Horn, Blue Lagoon & Jelsa

Traveling through Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a dream for many, and a boat tour like this promises a taste of the island life—fast-paced, scenic, and full of opportunities for swimming and exploring. This particular 3 Islands Speedboat Tour from Makarska has been getting solid reviews, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 115 travelers, and it’s easy to see why.

What makes it stand out? First, it takes you to Croatia’s famous Zlatni Rat Beach, where the clear waters and iconic shoreline are a must-see. Second, it offers the chance to snorkel in secluded bays, away from the crowds, in some of the most pristine spots around Bra Island.

One thing to keep in mind is that the price of $84 per person might seem high to some, especially considering that food isn’t included and there’s no onboard restroom. This trip is best suited for those who want a full, scenic day on the water and are comfortable with a 5-hour adventure that includes several swim stops and sightseeing.

If you’re after a relaxed, small-group experience with knowledgeable guides who know the area well, this tour could be a great pick. It’s especially ideal for travelers who love water activities, stunning scenery, and a bit of adventure on the waves.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and iconic beaches make this trip visually memorable.
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops in crystal-clear waters cater to water lovers.
• Visit to Zlatni Rat Beach offers a chance to relax and enjoy one of Croatia’s most famous beaches.
• Hidden bays provide quiet spots away from crowds, perfect for peaceful dips.
• Dolphin spotting is possible, adding a magical element to the cruise.
• Small group sizes ensure a more personalized experience, with guides who speak English and Croatian.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience is all about combining scenic cruising with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. From the start, you’ll head out from the Makarska marina on a speedboat, enjoying sweeping views of the rocky Dalmatian coast. The ride itself is quick, around 20 minutes to your first stop, setting the tone for a day filled with beautiful vistas.

Visiting Zlatni Rat Beach

Your first big highlight is Zlatni Rat Beach on Bra Island. This spot is renowned for its unique shape and clear, inviting waters. The tour allocates about 25 minutes for swimming and snorkeling here, which might seem brief but is enough to get a good taste of the beach’s charm. As one reviewer mentioned, the snorkeling gear provided allows you to see all kinds of fish in the transparent water, making it worthwhile for underwater enthusiasts.

Hidden Bays and Secluded Coves

Next, your boat will cruise to two lesser-known bays on Bra Island. These areas aren’t crowded, which is a big plus if you prefer quieter spots. The water here is described as crystal-clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. One traveler enjoyed the experience saying, “Marco showed us fish and even let us fish!” It’s clear that the guides try to make these stops interactive and fun.

Visiting Jelsa on Hvar Island

After exploring Bra, your boat heads toward Jelsa on Hvar Island. This stop offers about 45 minutes of free time to wander, take photos, or enjoy a quick snack. You might find the old town streets filled with Mediterranean flowers, and it’s a nice chance to stretch your legs after the boat ride.

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The Final Swim in Zecevo Islet

The last stop places you in Zecevo islet’s Blue Lagoon, another tranquil spot for swimming and snorkeling. With about 30 minutes allocated here, you’ll have enough time to soak in the scene, watch for dolphins if luck is on your side, and enjoy the calm waters.

The Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is carefully structured to maximize your time on the water and at each location. Here’s a step-by-step look:

• Start from the Makarska marina, depending on your selected pickup point.
• 20-minute speedboat ride to Zlatni Rat Beach, where you’ll have about 25 minutes for swimming and snorkeling.
• 35-minute cruise to the first hidden bay, with around 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling.
• Another 20-minute speedboat ride takes you to Zecevo Islet, where you spend about 30 minutes enjoying the water.
• A 15-minute cruise to Jelsa on Hvar, with approximately 45 minutes for sightseeing and exploring.
• The day concludes with a 50-minute return trip back to Makarska, ending the tour.

The tour includes masks and snorkels, bottled water, and safety equipment, so you’re well-prepared to enjoy the water. Keep in mind that food isn’t included, so bringing your own snacks or planning to buy something in Jelsa is a good idea.

Real Travelers’ Experiences

Many reviewers rave about the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One shared that “Marco dropped us off at Zlatni Rat; the water was turquoise, and the beach was nearly empty—perfect.” Others appreciated the flexibility and responsiveness of the staff, especially in case of weather issues. For example, one traveler noted, “The guide was very apologetic and helpful when the weather was dangerous, and they offered a full refund.”

However, there’s a recurring critique about overcrowding at Zlatni Rat, as some feel that mass tourism has affected its charm. One reviewer said, “The Golden Horn has been completely ruined by mass tourism and is now overcrowded,” but they still enjoyed the snorkeling in the quieter bays afterward.

What’s the Value?

While $84 per person might seem a bit steep, many feel it’s justified considering the small group size, the variety of stops, and the guides’ local knowledge. The experience of swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring secluded caves, and visiting two different islands makes this a full and active day.

Weather and Safety

Weather can impact the trip, as one traveler pointed out that high winds prevented the trip from happening. The good news is that the company offers full refunds or rescheduling in such cases, which adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for water lovers, especially those interested in snorkeling and exploring quiet bays. It’s great for travelers who want a small-group experience, personalized guides, and a mix of sightseeing and swimming. It’s less suited for those who prefer a more relaxed, less active day or for travelers with mobility issues, as the tour involves a fair amount of boat travel and walking.

If you’re visiting Makarska and craving a day on the water with incredible scenery, this tour hits most marks. It’s also suitable for groups who enjoy a bit of adventure and are comfortable in a boat setting. Even with some minor critiques about crowded beaches, many reviewers agree that the hidden bays and snorkeling make it worth the trip.

The Sum Up

The 3 Islands Speedboat Tour offers a lively, scenic, and sometimes adventurous day out. You’ll love the way this tour blends iconic destinations like Zlatni Rat with quieter, untouched bays—perfect for escaping crowds and soaking up Croatia’s natural beauty. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides are a big plus, making it feel more personal and flexible than large tour buses.

This experience is especially suited for those who enjoy water activities, stunning vistas, and a bit of spontaneity in their day. While it might not be ideal if you’re looking for a super relaxed or family-oriented outing, active travelers and water enthusiasts will find plenty to love.

Overall, it’s a good value for the money, considering the variety of stops, the quality of snorkeling gear, and the beautiful scenery. Just be prepared for the possibility of weather-related cancellations, and bring some snacks along to keep your energy up. If you want to see a mix of Croatia’s most famous beaches and hidden gems, this tour could very well be your highlight.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, and some restrictions apply for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility issues. The trip involves boat rides and swimming, so consider your child’s comfort with those activities.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including traveling between stops, swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food isn’t included. Bottled water is provided, but you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy something in Jelsa.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included, so you can explore the underwater life in the clear waters of the bays.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen. A dry bag or waterproof case for your valuables is also a good idea.

How many people are on the boat?
The group size is limited to 10 or 12 people, depending on the boat model, making it a more intimate experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or the chance to reschedule.

Can I visit the old town of Bol?
The tour includes a stop in Jelsa, not Bol, but if you want to explore Bol, it’s about 20-25 minutes’ walk from Zlatni Rat Beach.

Is dolphin spotting guaranteed?
While dolphins are possible, they are not guaranteed. The tour offers the chance to spot them, adding to the excitement.

Where does the tour start?
Start points depend on your chosen pickup option, with various nearby hotel drop-offs included.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and water-filled day exploring Croatia’s gorgeous islands, this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck. Whether you’re snorkeling in quiet bays or snapping photos of legendary Zlatni Rat, it’s a day you’ll remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: