From Makarska: Full day private speed boat tour 3 islands

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast by sea, this full-day private speedboat tour from Makarska offers an excellent way to see some of the most beautiful islands without the crowds or the hurried pace of group tours. It’s an intimate experience that combines scenic cruising, swimming in quiet bays, and sampling local food in picturesque settings.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private boat for up to 8 guests means you get a personalized experience. Second, the stops at secret bays for swimming and snorkeling promise quiet, peaceful moments away from busy tourist spots. The choice to enjoy a traditional meal cooked on a natural wood fire in a tranquil bay is also a highlight.

A potential consideration? The fuel surcharge payable at the end (around 100-140 euros cash or card) adds an extra cost that’s not included in the initial price. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or babies under one year, so it’s better suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day on the water.

All in all, this tour is perfect for those who want a personalized, flexible day of island hopping, especially if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and discovering lesser-known corners of Croatia’s coast. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or small group of friends, the experience offers a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Private and Intimate: Small group size with a private speedboat for up to 8 guests.
• Multiple Swim & Snorkel Stops: Quiet bays and secret spots for peaceful water fun.
• Local Culinary Experience: Lunch in a traditional restaurant, cooked on natural wood fire.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable stops including Hvar, Zeevo Islet, Zlatni Rat, and more.
• Expert Skipper: Knowledgeable guide familiar with the best local spots.
• Cost Breakdown: Price covers boat, insurance, water, and gear; fuel and food are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day at 09:00

The tour kicks off at Maris Travel’s spot located in front of the Hops restaurant bar on the Makarska promenade. Arriving early ensures a smooth start, and from there, your adventure begins with a quick briefing and a comfortable ride to your first destination. The speedboat itself is designed for a smooth ride, with enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.

First Stop: Mala Stiniva on Hvar

The journey starts with a visit to Mala Stiniva, a quiet bay on Hvar Island. This is the perfect place to swim and snorkel in calm, clear waters away from the crowds. The beauty of this bay lies in its seclusion; it’s a spot that feels like your own private retreat. The reviewer Jessica mentions that her day was “really lovely,” and this early stop sets a peaceful tone for the day.

Jelsa for Sightseeing and Sweets

Next, the boat heads to Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar. Here, you can stretch your legs, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy some free time. Many guests choose to indulge in ice cream, wine tasting, or visiting a chocolate shop—small pleasures that add local flavor to your day.

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Zeevo Islet and the Cocktail Bar

Your next stop is the Zeevo Islet, famous for its cocktail bar perched right on the rocks. This is a fun, relaxed spot to anchor, swim, and snorkel again. The setting offers great photo opportunities, especially as you sip your cocktail with a view over the water.

Zlatni Rat Beach and Vala Hrvaska Bay

Leaving Hvar behind, the boat crosses to Zlatni Rat, one of Croatia’s most iconic beaches. You might prefer to stay on board and admire the view or hop onto the beach for a quick walk or sunbathe. After Zlatni Rat, the next highlight is Vala Hrvaska Bay, a peaceful spot with a beach and restaurant. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or enjoy a traditional lunch. The food, prepared on a natural wood fire, makes for a memorable meal in an idyllic setting, as one guest noted, “food made on natural wood fire in beautiful ambient of quiet island bay.”

Final Swim and Return to Makarska

The last stop is another lovely bay, where you can swim and snorkel before heading back to Makarska around 18:00. The whole day blends relaxation, adventure, and the chance to see Croatia’s coastline from a perspective few get to experience.

Why the Experience Offers Great Value

While the $383 price might seem steep at first glance, it includes the private boat, insurance, water, snorkeling gear, and a personal guide. The main extra costs are fuel (100-140 euros, payable at the end) and food if you choose to dine at the restaurant. The advantage here is the personalized nature of the tour—your skipper will know the best spots and tailor the stops to your preferences, creating a flexible, intimate experience.

Authenticity and Comfort

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the islands at their own pace and enjoy quiet, scenic spots that larger groups often miss. The small-group size means fewer crowds and more one-on-one attention. The skipper’s local knowledge ensures you’re taken to the best, most peaceful bays, making your day more memorable.

A Well-Rounded Day

The combination of water activities, sightseeing, and local cuisine makes this a well-balanced day. Guests have reported “several stops, each one a lovely experience,” and the chance to swim, snorkel, and relax in varied settings. Jessica’s glowing review highlights how accommodating the skipper was, ensuring the day suited everyone’s wishes.

Practical Details and Tips

• Check availability and starting times — the tour runs for about 9 hours, starting from 09:00.
• Meet at the Maris Travel spot on the promenade, in front of the Hops restaurant.
• Be prepared for fuel surcharge (100-140 euros) payable at the end of the trip.
• Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a hat—the Croatian sun can be strong.
• Food is not included, so plan to purchase snacks or lunch in the island towns or at the bay restaurant.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or babies under one year.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat, insurance, water, lifejackets, snorkeling equipment, and passenger insurance.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food is not included. You can buy lunch in the island towns or in the bay restaurant. Drinks are provided on the boat, but additional drinks can be purchased during stops.

How much is the fuel surcharge?
Fuel costs approximately 100-140 euros, payable at the fuel station at the end of the tour, either cash or card.

What size is the boat?
The speedboat is designed to comfortably fit up to 8 guests, making for an intimate and relaxed experience.

What languages does the skipper speak?
The skipper speaks English, Croatian, and German, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, giving ample time to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour offers customizable stops based on your preferences and the skipper’s local knowledge.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or pregnant women, but older children who are comfortable on boats should enjoy the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private speedboat tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a personalized, flexible experience and enjoy water-based activities like swimming and snorkeling. It’s perfect for small groups or families looking for a day away from crowded tourist spots, eager to discover quiet bays and authentic local flavors. If you’re seeking a combination of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty in a small-group setting, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It may not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those avoiding long days on the water, but for those who don’t mind a full day under the Croatian sun, it offers an authentic, memorable experience worth considering.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Makarska offers a personalized taste of Croatia’s stunning islands, blending scenic cruising, tranquil swimming, and authentic local cuisine in a way larger tours simply can’t match. The small group size, flexible stops, and knowledgeable skipper create an experience tailored to your interests, making it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting to make the most of their Dalmatian coast visit.

Whether you’re after a peaceful retreat, a fun water adventure, or both, this tour delivers a well-rounded day with plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories. Just remember to factor in the fuel costs and plan for some cash on hand, and you’ll be all set for a fantastic Croatian island adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: