Hvar gems: Cave, Stiniva, Jelsa, Zeevo, beach restaurant

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, a boat tour of Hvar Island offers a glimpse into its most captivating sights. This particular experience, operated by Maris Travel, promises a 6-hour adventure along the island’s northern shores, blending scenic stops, snorkeling, and local charm. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, enthusiastic reviews, and comprehensive description suggest this tour is a well-rounded way to see Hvar’s highlights without breaking the bank.

What immediately stands out is how this trip balances stunning natural beauty with cultural touches — from the rocky bays and secret caves to charming fishing villages. It’s a trip that feels both adventurous and laid-back, ideal for travelers eager to experience Croatia’s waters and rugged landscapes. An important consideration: the tour relies heavily on weather conditions, so if a storm kicks up, the schedule might shift. But for those who love a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and good company, this tour hits the right notes—especially if you prefer small-group, guided excursions that emphasize authenticity.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, want to discover lesser-known spots, and appreciate having a local guide share insights along the way. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, babies under one year, or anyone seeking a relaxed, land-based experience. Overall, it’s a flexible, value-oriented way to make the most of a day in Hvar’s beautiful surroundings.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: See sea caves, rocky bays, a charming town, and a lagoon with vibrant underwater life.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Equipment included, perfect for exploring underwater scenery.
• Local Flavor: Visit Jelsa, a quaint fishing town famous for its wine, lavender, and Mediterranean architecture.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple swim opportunities, scenic drives, and time for sightseeing and relaxing.
• Comfort & Safety: Speedboat transportation with lifejackets, water, and insurance included.
• Authentic Experiences: Small-group setting led by knowledgeable Croatian/English-speaking guides who know the best spots.

This speedboat tour offers a compact, action-packed day exploring the north coast of Hvar Island from Makarska. It’s designed with both adventure and relaxation in mind—think quick dips in crystal waters, stunning photo ops, and charming village strolls. The tour’s duration of 6 hours makes it manageable even for travelers with limited time, yet it packs in enough variety to feel like a full day of discovery.

The starting point is at Makarska port, where you’ll meet your local skipper and hop aboard a speedboat. From there, the adventure begins, whisking you across the Adriatic in search of hidden and well-loved spots. The boat is roomy enough for comfort, though the speed and open-air design mean you’ll want to hold onto your hat and camera.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Stop 1: Makarska to Island Hvar

The trip kicks off with a 45-minute ride across the water, giving you your first taste of the Dalmatian coastline. The ride itself is a fun way to soak in the views and feel the breeze.

Stop 2: Mala Stiniva Bay for Swimming & Snorkeling

This rocky bay surrounded by cliffs is a key highlight. Known for its unique landscape, Mala Stiniva offers a pebble beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and cliff jumping. The shallow, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, equipment included, allowing you to explore the underwater world. Reviewers mention the spectacular setting—”Our boat trip was awesome! Antonia did an exceptional job,” gushed Lori, praising the host’s flexibility.

Stop 3: Jelsa, a Charming Fisherman’s Town

Next, you’ll spend about 45 minutes wandering through Jelsa. This small town is a favorite for its mediterranean architecture, wineries, and lavender fields. It’s a great place for a quick coffee or a stroll along harbor-side cafes, soaking in local life.

Stop 4: Zeevo Islet & Blue Lagoon

A short 15-minute ride brings you to Zeevo Islet’s Blue Lagoon, a quiet, turquoise bay with a beach bar. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or just relax under the sun with a drink in hand. This spot often earns praise for its serenity and beautiful underwater scene—a perfect refresh before heading back.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 5: Vala Hrvaska Bay on Island Bra

On the return journey, a short 20-minute cruise takes you near Island Bra, where you’ll find a secluded bay with a restaurant lounge bar. This is a bonus swim spot, and those who’ve been here mention dolphin sightings as a special treat—”Watch carefully to spot dolphins in their natural habitat,” says the tour description.

The tour runs with a local Croatian/English-speaking skipper, who’s knowledgeable about the waters and the best spots. This makes a big difference—guides who know the area can point out hidden features and keep the group entertained. The group size tends to be small, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for personalized attention.

Timing is generally well-structured, with enough time at each stop to swim, relax, and explore without feeling rushed. For example, the 45-minute swim at Mala Stiniva offers a generous window, while the 45-minute stop at Zeevo lagoon balances activity with leisure.

Snorkeling gear is provided, making underwater exploration accessible—even for beginners. But do bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for the wind. No toilets are on the boat, so plan accordingly—public facilities are available in towns and at the bay restaurants.

Pros and Cons From Travelers

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with Lori noting, “Antonia did an exceptional job of hosting us.” The stunning scenery is another favorite, with Rachel mentioning, “Great day out on the waters. Little windy but worth it.” The flexibility of the crew to accommodate weather and individual needs adds to the overall positive experience.

The main consideration is the reliance on weather. Windy days might make the trip less comfortable or lead to rescheduling. It’s also a speedboat experience, so if you’re prone to seasickness, pack accordingly.

Pricing & Value

While prices are not explicitly listed here, this tour offers good value given the comprehensive itinerary, inclusions of snorkeling gear, water, insurance, and a local guide. For around six hours of adventure, this is a reasonable way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings or self-driving.

This experience suits adventurous travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a half-day escape filled with swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic local spots and enjoy learning about the area from knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a relaxed, land-based vacation, this probably isn’t your best fit—this is all about the water and the outdoors.

It’s perfect for active travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a limited time, and those who value small-group intimacy and personalized attention. If you’re traveling with friends or family who love the water, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Final thoughts

This Hvar speedboat tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s natural beauty and local charm. It combines thrilling swims, scenic drives, and cultural stops in a compact format, providing excellent value for the price. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and opportunity to see dolphins make it a memorable experience. Just remember to check the weather beforehand and pack essentials like sunscreen and a towel.

If you’re looking for an active, engaging way to explore parts of Croatia that are often hidden from larger tours, this trip is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to enjoy the clear waters, rocky bays, and authentic villages that make Hvar such a special destination.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting from Makarska port, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing along the way.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a speedboat, water in bottles, a local Croatian/English-speaking skipper, lifejackets, snorkeling equipment, and insurance.

Are meals provided?
Food isn’t included in the tour price, but you can buy local food at Vala Hrvaska bay, where there’s a restaurant and lounge bar.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?
No, there’s no toilet on the boat. Facilities are available in Jelsa, Zeevo islet, and Vala Hrvaska bay.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year due to the nature of the speedboat ride and outdoor activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler breezes.

What is the best way to prepare?
Dress comfortably, wear sunscreen, and arrive a bit early at Makarska port for a smooth start.

To sum it up, this Hvar speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s pristine waters and rugged coastlines. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, island charm, and natural beauty in a manageable, well-organized package. Whether you’re snorkeling in secret caves or relaxing in a bayside lounge, this experience promises a memorable slice of Dalmatian life.

You can check availability for your dates here: