Makarska: 3-Island Speedboat Tour with Cave and Blue Lagoon

Thinking about a day out on the water when visiting Croatia’s Makarska? This 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a lively mix of swimming, exploring, and relaxing. It’s a favorite for those wanting to see a handful of stunning spots in just half a day, all from the vantage of a speedy boat.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventure with beautiful scenery. First, the chance to swim into a hidden cave is pretty unique — not every boat tour offers a secret spot like that. Plus, the stops at Blue Lagoon and Mala Stiniva give plenty of chances to cool off and take in some seriously postcard-worthy views.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary involves about 2 hours of cruising between stops, which is a good chunk of time on a speedboat, especially if you’re not a big fan of motion or rocking waves. It’s a smooth ride, but if you’re prone to sea sickness or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of water fun, scenic sightseeing, and a dash of local culture. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy being active and in the sun, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: The tour hits some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots like Mala Stiniva bay and the Blue Lagoon.
• Adventure & Relaxation: Cliff jumping, snorkeling, swimming, and exploring Jelsa combine activity with downtime.
• Expert Skipper: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and make the trip smooth and enjoyable.
• Value for Money: At around $85 per person, you get a lot of diverse experiences packed into five hours.
• Secluded Spots: Many of the stops are quiet and untouched, perfect for escaping crowds.
• Limited Restroom Access: No onboard toilets, so plan accordingly if that’s a concern.

A Closer Look at the Experience

If you’re considering this tour, it helps to understand what each part entails and what you can expect. So let’s break down the itinerary.

Starting Point in Makarska

The tour kicks off at Rent a Boat Makarska, Promare Charter. They offer pickup options and the convenience of a mobile ticket, making booking straightforward. You’ll meet the crew at the marina, where you’ll hop aboard a comfortable, well-maintained speedboat. The group size caps at 12, so it’s intimate enough to enjoy personalized attention without feeling crowded.

First Stop: Pokrivenik and the Hidden Cave

Your adventure begins with a 40-minute cruise to Pokrivenik, a less-traveled part of Hvar Island. The highlight here is swimming into a small luminous cave, tucked into the rocky cliffs. The cave is narrow but offers a peek into the underwater and cliffside beauty of the area. Many reviews praise this as a “really special” visit, with clear water and a chance to swim into a secret spot few get to see.

Mala Stiniva Bay: Picture-Perfect Cliffs and Crystal Water

Next, you’ll head to Mala Stiniva, just 20 minutes away. This bay is widely celebrated for its vertical cliffs and transparent water. It’s a stunning, almost otherworldly place that doesn’t feel crowded, as the reviews point out — many of the bays visited are “quiet” and only accessible by boat. Here, you can swim, snorkel, and even do some cliff jumping if you’re feeling brave.

Jelsa: A Charming Town Break

After enjoying Mala Stiniva, the boat cruises to Jelsa. You get about 50 minutes here for a stroll, coffee, or just soaking up the local atmosphere. The town is described as historic and picturesque, making it a good chance to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and experience a slice of local life.

Zeevo Islet: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Opposite Jelsa, only about 30 minutes away, lies Zeevo Islet. It’s uninhabited and protected as a landscape, which means it’s untouched and pristine. Many reviews appreciate this stop as a chance to see untouched nature, away from crowds. It’s a quick visit but adds to the sense of discovery on the tour.

Final Stop: Irje Beach on Bra Island

The last leg takes you on a 30-minute cruise to Bra Island, where Irje Beach awaits. This secluded bay offers a tranquil ending to the trip, perfect for those wanting a peaceful retreat in the midst of a busy day. It’s a quieter spot to reflect on the journey and soak in the last views of the turquoise waters.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of about $85.36 per person covers a lot: safety gear, all fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and a friendly skipper who speaks both English and Croatian. You get a well-rounded experience without hidden costs.

However, note that lunch is not included — so if you’re hungry, you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to grab something in Jelsa. Also, there are no onboard restrooms, so if that’s a concern, plan accordingly.

The Real Vibe: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently highlight the friendly crew and stunning scenery. Travelers mention that the boat was clean and comfortable, and the guides are knowledgeable, often sharing background and history about the islands.

Many reviews describe the experience as fun and relaxing, with some pointing out that the small group size makes the day feel more personalized. Comments about dolphins popping up are frequent, adding an element of surprise to the day.

Swimmers especially love the crystal-clear waters, with some describing the bays as quiet and peaceful, perfect for escaping crowds. A few mention that swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping are highlights, with many feeling the stops are “beautiful” and “idyllic.”

Potential Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, the cruise between stops can be a bit long for some — about 2 hours in total. If you’re not comfortable on boats or dislike rolling waves, it’s something to keep in mind. Also, the lack of onboard toilets might be a drawback if you prefer more convenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love water-based activities, want to see some of Croatia’s most picturesque spots, and enjoy a small-group, guided experience, this tour is a solid pick. It caters well to both active travelers and those wanting to relax and soak up the scenery.

It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a boat ride of a couple of hours and are comfortable with swimming and snorkeling. If you’re traveling with kids over 4 (and comfortable in the water), it can be family-friendly, but non-swimmers or those with sea sickness might want to think twice.

Final Thoughts

This Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a really well-rounded day at sea. You get to visit hidden caves, stunning bays, charming towns, and untouched islands — all in about five hours. The experience is boosted by the friendly guides, the comfortable boat, and the beautiful scenery that Croatia is known for.

While it’s not perfect for everyone — especially if you’re sensitive to motion or seeking a more relaxed, land-based day — it’s ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with sightseeing. The stops are genuinely beautiful and often described as peaceful and quiet, making it a rewarding way to spend a day exploring Croatia’s coast.

Whether you’re into snorkeling, cliff jumping, or simply soaking up the sun, this tour delivers on multiple fronts. It’s a fun, scenic, and memorable way to experience the Croatian islands without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Is pickup included in this tour?
Pickup is offered, but you’ll want to check your confirmation details. The main meeting point is at Rent a Boat Makarska.

How long is the cruise between stops?
You can expect about 2 hours and 10 minutes total cruising time, spread across several legs. It’s a fair amount of time on the water but usually comfortable on a smooth boat.

Are snorkeling and swimming equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included, along with safety gear. You can swim and snorkel at each stop.

Can I jump off the boat or cliffs?
Yes, cliff jumping is part of the fun at Mala Stiniva. Just be cautious and follow the guide’s instructions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 4 can participate, but the tour isn’t recommended for non-swimmers or those over 70. Check your family’s comfort level with boat rides and water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, possibly a hat, and snacks if you’re hungry. There are no onboard restrooms, so plan accordingly.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to eat in Jelsa.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

All in all, if you’re after a day packed with water fun, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities to relax or get active, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for some cruising time and bring your sense of adventure!