Makarska: 3-island Speedboat Cave & Blue Lagoon Tour

Introduction

Thinking about a day on the water in Croatia’s Dalmatian islands? This Makarska 3-island Speedboat Cave & Blue Lagoon Tour offers a lively mix of swimming, exploring, and soaking up scenic views, all in a compact 5-hour adventure. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized outing that’s ideal for travelers craving an authentic, active experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit hidden natural spots that are only accessible by boat—think secret bays and a Little Blue Cave on Hvar without the crowds. Second, the balance of exploration and leisure: ample time for swimming and relaxing at the Blue Lagoon or in secluded bays, plus a stop in Jelsa, one of Hvar’s most charming towns. One potential downside? The itinerary’s packed schedule might feel rushed for those who prefer a slow-paced day. Still, if you’re after a taste of Croatia’s blue waters and unspoiled islands, this tour suits active travelers, families, or anyone eager to see the highlights in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Visit three islands in just 5 hours, including Hvar, Bra, and Zeevo.
• Swim in hidden bays and lesser-known caves that are only accessible by boat.
• Experience the Little Blue Cave on Hvar—no queues, no fees, just swimming and snorkeling.
• Enjoy free time in Jelsa, one of Hvar’s most picturesque towns, with time for a coffee or a stroll.
• Relax at the Blue Lagoon on Zeevo Island, complete with a waterfront bar for drinks and lounging.
• Small group size limited to 12, ensuring a more personal, friendly experience.
• Price of $96 per person offers good value considering the inclusions like a snorkeling set, water, and fuel.
• Flexible booking options: reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and small-group adventures.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins at Palladium Rent a Boat in Makarska, where you’ll meet your skipper and fellow travelers in a relaxed, friendly setting. The boat itself is included in the price—likely a comfortable vessel suited for small groups, designed for quick transit and easy access to remote spots.

After a 40-minute cruise, your first stop is Pokrivenik, a hidden bay perfect for a swim or snorkeling. This spot offers a chance to dip into calmer, less crowded waters, and enjoy a peaceful slice of Dalmatia. The review mentions that even with just a small group, the tour maintained a private feel, which is often a bonus in popular sights like this.

Next, you’ll head to Little Blue Cave. Unlike the well-known Blue Cave on Bievo Island, this one isn’t crowded or fee-based. The boat anchors just in front of it, and you’ll swim in to explore the tiny, enchanting cave. Reviewers have described this as a highlight, with one noting it’s “no queue, no entry fee, swimming possible,” which gives a sense of unspoiled, spontaneous fun. This stop is about 25 minutes, so it’s enough time to marvel at the cave’s beauty without feeling rushed.

Following the cave visit, you’ll spend about 60 minutes in Jelsa, the most famous town on Hvar’s north side. Here, you can stroll along the waterfront, grab a coffee, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this charming settlement. The reviews praise the organization and the captain’s friendliness, which makes the experience smooth and enjoyable.

From Jelsa, the tour moves to Zeevo Island for the Blue Lagoon, a scenic spot where you can swim, relax, and sip drinks at the waterfront bungalow bar. This is a quintessential Croatian postcard moment—crystal-clear water, lush surroundings, and a casual bar setting. About 45 minutes are allocated here, giving plenty of time to unwind.

Finally, the trip concludes with a stop at Zirje Beach on Bra Island for a 20-minute swim, followed by a 30-minute cruise back to Makarska. The entire experience combines sightseeing, swimming, and a touch of adventure, all wrapped into a manageable timeframe.

What We Loved About the Tour

One thing that stands out is the emphasis on authentic, lesser-known spots. Instead of just visiting the typical tourist highlights, you’ll explore secret bays and caves, which many travelers find more memorable and less crowded. The absence of queues at the Little Blue Cave is a significant plus, as it allows for spontaneous swimming and photography without stress.

The small group size (limited to 12) is another strength, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and personalized service. Many reviews mention how the friendly and knowledgeable captains enhance the experience, providing insights and making everyone feel comfortable. The value of this trip is also notable; for less than $100, you get multiple stops, swimming, snorkeling gear, and a scenic cruise, making it a cost-effective way to see several islands in a short time.

Another highlight is the scenic beauty of the Blue Lagoon with its waterfront bar, perfect for relaxing after some active swimming. The combination of beautiful landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns means you’ll leave with plenty of memorable images and stories.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour runs twice daily—at 8 am and 1:30 pm—allowing some flexibility to fit your schedule. It lasts about 5 hours, which is a good length if you want a full experience without overcommitting your day. The meeting point is straightforward: Palladium Rent a Boat on the main promenade in Makarska.

In terms of what to bring, pack swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture the scenery. Since food and drinks are not included, you’re encouraged to bring some snacks and beverages to enjoy at the Blue Lagoon or other stops.

This tour is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or non-swimmers, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with younger kids or anyone with mobility issues. Smoking is not allowed on the boat, which helps keep the environment pristine.

Considering the reviews, many travelers appreciated how well-organized and relaxing the trip was, despite the busy schedule. The live guides speak both English and Croatian, so language won’t be a barrier for most visitors.

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Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, discovering secluded spots, and fitting a lot into a short time. Families with older children or teenagers who want to swim and explore will find it ideal. It’s also a good choice for couples or small groups looking for a more personalized adventure. If you dislike large crowds and want to explore Croatia’s islands in a relaxed but efficient way, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and authentic local scenery will find this tour offers a genuine taste of Dalmatia’s natural beauty. It’s not a lazy day lounging on a boat, but it’s also not overly strenuous, striking a good balance for most.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and active day on Croatia’s islands, this Makarska Speedboat Tour should be high on your list. It offers an excellent way to see Hvar’s hidden caves and bays, enjoy a laid-back visit to a lovely town, and relax by the Blue Lagoon—all in just five hours. The small group size and the chance to swim in less crowded spots make it a standout option for travelers wanting intimacy and adventure.

For those who value authentic experiences with friendly guides and are comfortable with a bit of activity, this trip provides compelling value. It’s perfect if you want to tick several highlights off your Croatian checklist without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

In summary, this tour combines beautiful scenery, hidden gems, and a relaxed pace—a memorable way to discover a side of Croatia most visitors never get to see. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, it offers a balanced, fun, and scenic escape into Dalmatia’s stunning waters.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, snorkeling set, taxes & fees, and a bottle of water.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, food and additional drinks are not included, so you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages.

What should I bring on the tour?
Pack swimwear, a towel, and possibly a waterproof camera. Sunscreen is also recommended, as you’ll be outdoors most of the time.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 20 to 60 minutes, including swimming, snorkeling, exploring towns, and relaxing at the Blue Lagoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, pregnant women, or non-swimmers.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak both English and Croatian, ensuring clear communication.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure.

What time does the tour start?
It departs at either 8 am or 1:30 pm—check availability for your preferred time.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 12 participants, providing a more personal experience.

This Makarska tour is a wonderful way to experience Croatia’s stunning islands with a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic scenery. Whether you’re swimming in hidden bays or savoring a cold drink at the Blue Lagoon, it promises a memorable day on Dalmatia’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: