Half-day Speedboat Tour: Explore Hidden Gems of Hvar Island

Exploring Hvar’s Hidden Corners: A Realistic Look at the Half-day Speedboat Tour

If you’re eyeing a quick yet immersive way to see some of Hvar Island’s most stunning sights from Makarska, this half-day speedboat tour might catch your interest. It’s designed for those who want to squeeze in a bit of everything—crystal-clear waters, scenic cruising, a charming town visit, and a laid-back beach bar experience—without committing to a full-day trip.

What we love about this tour is how efficiently it combines different types of experiences. First, you get to cruise past rugged cliffs and unspoiled bays, then enjoy some snorkeling in waters praised for their clarity, and finally, you get a taste of local life in Jelsa, topped off with a relaxing stop at Zeevo’s untouched islet and beach bar. It’s a well-rounded snapshot of what Hvar offers, wrapped into just five hours.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that the tour isn’t perfect for everyone. Because it’s a half-day experience, it’s naturally compressed—so if you’re hoping for more extensive exploration or to linger longer at each spot, you might find it a bit rushed. Also, it’s not designed with families with very young children in mind, as the tour advises against kids under three.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure, scenery, and local charm but prefer to keep things manageable within a shorter timeframe. It’s especially good if you want a taste of Hvar without the commitment of a full-day outing.

Key Points

• Efficient Experience: Combines cruising, snorkeling, town exploration, and relaxing at Zeevo in just 5 hours.
• Beautiful Scenery: Highlights include Mala Stiniva Bay’s cliffs and an unspoiled islet with a beach bar.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup service and mobile tickets make it easy to join and plan your day.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable skippers and guides enhance the trip, according to reviews.
• Great Value: At around $85, the combination of activities and scenic stops offers good bang for your buck.
• Limited Time at Each Spot: While you get plenty of highlights, the stops are brief, so it’s more of a sampler than an in-depth tour.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Veliki Pokrivenik Bay

Your adventure kicks off with a 35-minute cruise from Makarska, offering panoramic views of the coast. Veliki Pokrivenik isn’t as busy as other bays, so you’ll enjoy a peaceful start surrounded by impressive cliffs. It’s a perfect introduction to the island’s rugged beauty. Expect to see stunning rock formations and perhaps get your first glimpses of what makes Hvar’s coastline so special.

Stop 2: Mala Stiniva Bay

Next up is Mala Stiniva, a spot that’s often called a picture-perfect little hideaway. The cliffs drop sharply into the sea, creating a dramatic backdrop for swimming and snorkeling. The water here is said to be crystal-clear, giving you excellent visibility—ideal for spotting marine life or just floating in the refreshing water.

Many reviewers mention Mala Stiniva as a highlight, with one saying, “The sea is crystal-clear, and the cliffs are a stunning sight that leaves no one indifferent.” The scenery is truly postcard-worthy, and you’ll love the feeling of being in a relatively untouched part of the coast.

Stop 3: Jelsa

After some water fun, the tour continues to Jelsa, an ancient town on Hvar. Here, you get about 45 minutes to explore, grab a coffee, or just soak in the local vibe. Travelers often praise Jelsa for its charming streets and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a nice break from the water-based activities and gives you a chance to stretch your legs and maybe snap some photos.

One reviewer called it “a beautiful town,” and appreciated the free time to enjoy a walk or some local treats. It’s an authentic taste of Hvar, without the crowds of more touristy spots.

Stop 4: Zeevo Islet and Beach Bar

The final stop is Zeevo, a protected, uninhabited islet surrounded by Hvar’s archipelago. It’s a serene spot where you can unwind at the beach bar, enjoying a drink while taking in the unspoiled surroundings. The islet is praised for its untouched landscape, offering a peaceful end to your half-day adventure.

This part of the trip is all about relaxation—some reviews mention how enjoyable it was to just float and enjoy the scenery, with the added bonus of warm, clear waters perfect for swimming.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included: Bottled water, snorkeling gear, all fees and taxes, fuel, and safety equipment. Basically, all you need for a safe, comfortable ride and water activities.

Not Included: Lunch, tips, and onboard restroom facilities. The tour doesn’t provide lunch, so plan accordingly if you want to eat something during your stops—Jelsa offers options, or you might bring snacks.

The Experience: From Booking to the Boat

Booking is straightforward, with a mobile ticket option and pickup service available. The meeting point is at Rent a Boat Makarska, which is conveniently located in Makarska. The tour has a maximum of 18 travelers, ensuring a more relaxed and personalized vibe.

Most travelers find the process simple and stress-free. As one reviewer put it, “The check-in, parking nearby, and getting on the boat were all incredibly easy.” It’s a small detail, but it makes a difference when your day starts smoothly.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating from 48 reviews. Many highlight the friendly guides and the beautiful locations. One reviewer said, “Marco was an amazing guide,” while others appreciated the flexibility of the skipper, who allowed extra swimming time when everyone was enjoying themselves.

People love the scenery—“The water was gorgeous, and the scenery was amazing,” one says. Snorkeling is a recurring favorite, thanks to the clarity of the waters and the variety of spots. Cliff jumping seems to be a fun bonus for many, with one reviewer calling it the “highlight.”

Some reviews mention the relaxed vibe of the trip and how it felt more like a private boat experience than a crowded tour. That’s a big plus for travelers seeking a comfortable, friendly atmosphere.

Price & Value

At just over $85 per person, this tour is quite competitive considering what’s packed into those five hours. You’re paying for a half-day of scenic cruising, water activities, town exploration, and relaxation. The value lies in the variety of experiences—from snorkeling in crystal waters to walking through historic Jelsa and unwinding at Zeevo’s beach bar—all under the guidance of knowledgeable skippers.

While it’s a brief taste, many reviews suggest it’s worth every euro, especially for the chance to see some of Croatia’s best-kept seaside secrets without a full-day commitment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a short, scenic escape that combines outdoor adventure with cultural charm. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see some of Hvar’s highlights without spending a whole day on the water. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling, exploring quaint towns, and relaxing at a beach bar.

If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a laid-back, friendly atmosphere and appreciates good scenery, this tour will likely hit the spot. However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or longer stops, you might find the brief time at each spot a little limiting.

Final Thoughts

This half-day speedboat tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to get a taste of Hvar’s most striking sights. With friendly guides, beautiful waters, and a mix of active and relaxing stops, it’s a well-rounded option. The crowds and reviews suggest it’s a popular choice, and for good reason—many travelers leave with smiles and memorable stories.

If quick, scenic, and social experiences appeal to you, this trip is worth considering. Just remember, it’s a snapshot rather than an in-depth dive, so if you want to linger longer or explore more thoroughly, you might want a different arrangement.

All in all, for the price and the experiences packed in, it’s a solid pick for a memorable half-day on Croatia’s gorgeous coast.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour? Yes, pickup is offered, making the start of your day more convenient.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 5 hours, with most of that time spent cruising between stops.

Can I snorkel during the tour? Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is included, and the waters are praised for their clarity, giving you a good chance to see marine life.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old, but older kids and teens who enjoy water activities should find it fun.

What’s the price? It costs about $85.36 per person, which includes all fees, taxes, and equipment.

What are the main highlights? Mala Stiniva Bay’s cliffs, exploring Jelsa, and unwinding at Zeevo’s beach bar are the main attractions.

Are there any additional costs? Lunch, tips, and onboard restroom use are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is there a maximum group size? Yes, the tour is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Thinking about exploring Hvar’s coast but want a balanced, friendly, and scenic half-day experience? This tour might just be what you’re looking for.