Makarska: 3 island, Cave, Cliffs, Jelsa, Lagoon, Golden Horn

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water exploring Croatia’s famous islands, this Makarska boat tour promises a mix of hidden bays, scenic cliffs, and charming towns—all in one smooth, well-organized package. It’s designed for those who want to see several highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips, and at $85 per person, it offers quite a lot of value for a 6-hour adventure.

What really attracts us about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with opportunities to snorkel, swim, and simply relax. The boat’s route covers several iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon and Golden Horn, along with lesser-known gems like Mala Stiniva cliffs bay. Plus, the tour’s flexibility and the knowledgeable guides seem to make it a reliable choice.

That said, there are a few things worth considering: it’s a fairly full itinerary, so if you prefer lingering at each stop or have mobility issues, this might not be perfect. Also, there’s no onboard toilet, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and time on the water, especially if you’re keen to explore Croatia’s stunning islands in a lively but manageable group.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary: Covers caves, bays, towns, and beaches all in one trip.
• Good value: $85 includes snorkeling gear, water, and fuel.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guests rave about the hosts’ friendliness and info sharing.
• Perfect for active swimmers: Opportunities for cliff jumping, snorkeling, and swimming.
• Limited onboard amenities: No toilet on the boat, so plan accordingly.
• Flexible and scenic: Multiple stops with time to relax, plus potential dolphin sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Croatia’s best islands and coastlines without the hassle, this Makarska boat tour could be just what you need. It’s not a city tour or a single-site visit—it’s a chance to hop from one beautiful spot to another, all while cruising on a comfortable speedboat.

What we like most about this experience is the way it balances adventure with relaxation. You get to snorkel in the little blue cave, jump off cliffs into clear waters, and enjoy the scenery from the boat. At around $85, it’s also quite competitive considering the number of destinations covered in just six hours. The guides are often praised for their warmth and knowledge, making the trip both informative and fun.

A potential consideration is the pace of the day. If you prefer leisurely visits or are traveling with very young children, the packed schedule might feel a little rushed. Also, keep in mind there are no toilets on the boat itself, so it’s a good idea to use the facilities before departure or plan to visit facilities at Jelsa or Zeevo islet.

This tour works best for those who love active sightseeing—swimming, snorkeling, and taking in spectacular views—without spending a lot on multiple separate excursions. It’s especially appealing if you want a lively, well-organized day out with a friendly group.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Speedboat Journey

The adventure kicks off at Maris Travel Rent A Boat in Makarska, a clear and convenient meeting spot. From there, you’ll hop aboard a speedboat, which zips you across the water, making the journey lively and exciting. The boat ride to Hvar takes about 45 minutes, giving you a good taste of the open sea and the chance to take in coastal views.

Visiting the Little Blue Cave

Your first stop is the Little Blue Cave on Hvar Island. Snorkeling here is a favorite among travelers because of the beautiful blue waters and the chance to see underwater life up close. Reviewers mention that this stop lasts about 25 minutes, just enough time for a quick swim and some photos. It’s a highlight for many, with users describing it as “truly magical.”

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Mala Stiniva Cliffs Bay

Next, you head to Mala Stiniva cliffs bay, surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs. This spot is a favorite for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping. The boat anchors here, giving you plenty of time to explore the rocky surroundings, enjoy the pebble beach, and snorkel around the cliffs. Guests say the setting feels unique and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing dip in the clear waters.

The reviews highlight that the snorkeling gear is provided, and many mention the spectacular scenery—so don’t forget your camera or waterproof case.

Exploring Jelsa

After the bay, the boat takes you to Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar. Here, you get about 30 minutes of free time to wander the stone streets, browse wine shops, or grab ice cream. Several reviews mention how beautiful and authentic Jelsa feels, making it a nice break from the water-based activities.

Zeevo Islet Blue Lagoon

Your next stop is the Blue Lagoon on Zeevo islet, a popular swimming and snorkeling spot. It’s also home to a cocktail bar, where you can enjoy a drink while soaking up the scenery. Guests often comment on the crystal-clear waters and how relaxing this stop is.

Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat Beach)

The tour then drops you directly at the famous Zlatni Rat beach on Bra Island. Known for its distinctive shape and golden sands, this spot is perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll spend some time here enjoying the beautiful beach environment.

Bonus Visit to Bra and Dolphin Spotting

On the way back, the boat passes near Island Bra, where there’s a short stop for swimming in a quiet bay. Here, you might also spot dolphins in their natural habitat, which add an extra touch of magic to the day.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

• Start at Makarska port, setting off on a 45-minute speedboat ride towards Hvar. The ride itself is quick and energizing, giving you a good start to the day.
• Little Blue Cave (25 mins): Snorkel in this enchanting spot, famous for its vivid blue waters. A photo opportunity and ideal for underwater exploration.
• Mala Stiniva cliffs bay (45 mins): Anchored here, guests can swim, sunbathe, or jump from the cliffs into pristine water. The rocky surroundings make for a striking view and excellent snorkeling.
• Jelsa town (30 mins): Wander through stone streets, maybe sample some local wine or buy souvenirs like lavender products.
• Zeevo Islet Blue Lagoon (45 mins): Relax with a swim or snorkel, and enjoy a drink at the cocktail bar.
• Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat): Drop-off for a couple of hours on one of Croatia’s most iconic beaches.
• Journey back via Island Bra, with a short swim and the chance to see dolphins if luck is on your side.

Throughout the day, the routes may be reversed depending on sea conditions, but the focus remains on delivering a full experience of the area’s best spots.

The Experience You’ll Have

Guests consistently praise the professionalism of the guides and the safe, friendly atmosphere onboard. Many mention the knowledgeable hosts sharing interesting stories and tips, making the trip both fun and informative. For example, one review highlights how Emil, a guide, was “charismatic, detailed, and great fun,” adding to the trip’s enjoyment.

The scenery is frequently described as breathtaking, with clear, blue waters and dramatic rocky cliffs. Snorkeling in the little blue cave is a common highlight, with guests noting how magical and beautiful the waters are. Cliff jumping in Mala Stiniva is also a big hit, offering a bit of adrenaline and fun.

The onboard amenities include snorkeling equipment, water bottles, and sun protection. The boat’s Bimini sun cover provides some relief from the sun, which is crucial in summer. Lunch isn’t included, but at Vala Hrvaska bay, you can purchase local food—which many find convenient and tasty.

Group Size and Comfort

The typical group size is around 12 people, which balances intimacy with lively energy. Several reviews appreciate the small group feel and the option to split into smaller groups for guided tours, making the experience more personalized.

Pricing and Value

At $85, the tour offers a lot of activity and variety—from swimming and snorkeling to exploring towns and beaches. The cost covers fuel, the guide, snorkeling gear, and water, which adds to the perceived value. Comparing to similar tours, this one seems quite comprehensive without extra charges for the key highlights.

Practical Considerations

Keep in mind there’s no onboard toilet, so plan to use facilities in Jelsa or Zeevo islet. The tour can be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather, so flexible plans are advisable. You’ll want to bring a towel and possibly a light jacket for the boat rides.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for active travelers looking to see multiple places in a single day, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and outdoor exploration. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable with sea activities—cliff jumping and snorkeling are optional but encouraged.

While families with older children might enjoy it, those with very young kids or pregnant women should consider the physical demands and lack of onboard facilities. The tour’s lively pace and focus on water activities make it less suitable for people seeking a relaxed, beach-only day.

Final Thoughts

This Makarska 3 Island tour delivers a lively, scenic, and well-organized day that captures many of Croatia’s coastal highlights. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a mix of adventure and sightseeing without spending a fortune or juggling multiple bookings. The combination of stunning vistas, snorkeling opportunities, and charming towns makes it a memorable way to see the Dalmatian coast.

The guides’ warmth and knowledge shine through in reviews, adding an authentic touch that enhances the experience. That said, if your priority is rest rather than activity or you need amenities like a toilet onboard, this might not be your best fit.

Overall, for those who love water-based adventures and want to cover a lot of ground in a short time, this tour offers fantastic value and memorable scenery.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour? No, food isn’t included, but at Vala Hrvaska bay, you can buy local dishes with cash or card.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat? No, there are no toilets onboard. You’ll find facilities in Jelsa, Zeevo islet, or at Vala Hrvaska bay if needed.

What should I bring for the tour? A towel is essential, and a light jacket can be helpful for boat rides. Sunscreen and water are provided.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for kids? The tour isn’t specifically designed for children, especially very young ones, because of the active water activities and boat conditions.

How long is the boat ride? The initial transfer to Hvar takes about 45 minutes, with subsequent stops varying in length.

Will I see dolphins? There’s a chance to spot dolphins near Island Bra, especially during the return cruise.

What if the weather is bad? The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if sea conditions aren’t safe, so keep an eye on the forecast.

In the end, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and fun-packed day exploring Croatia’s islands and waters, this tour from Makarska quite likely hits the spot. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and your camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: