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

Planning a day on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast? This Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a lively mix of swimming, scenic views, and authentic island charm. While not a full-day adventure, it delivers a concentrated dose of island hopping and underwater fun that many travelers find well worth the price.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to swim into a secret blue cave—a highlight for many—and second, the opportunity for cliff jumping in Mala Stiniva Bay, perfect for adrenaline junkies. On the downside, the tour’s 5-hour duration means you’ll need to be ready for a fairly active, sometimes fast-paced experience, which could be a consideration for those who prefer more relaxed days.

This tour appeals most to travelers who love a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and discovering less crowded spots. If you’re after a balanced taste of Croatia’s islands with some snorkeling and sightseeing, this trip will check many boxes.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: 5-hour tour packed with swimming, sightseeing, and island exploration.
• Diverse stops: From caves and lagoons to charming towns, each destination offers something unique.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Equipment included: Masks, snorkels, and life jackets make it easy to enjoy the water.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• Value for money: For around $82, you get a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day Out on the Dalmatian Coast

This speedboat tour from Makarska is a practical way to see some of the most beautiful islands in Croatia without the need for a full-day commitment or expensive private charters. It’s designed for travelers who want a quick, exciting escape into the water and scenic landscapes. The speedboat itself is a highlight—a swift way to cover multiple spots that would be harder to reach by land or larger cruise ships.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The tour kicks off with a pickup from the Makarska waterfront, just a short walk from the town’s main attractions. Once aboard, you’ll start your adventure with a 40-minute cruise to the first main highlight: a hidden blue cave at Hvar Island. Based on reviews, this is a real crowd-pleaser, with many describing it as “really cool,” “beautiful,” and “amazing,” once you get inside. Be prepared for some initial nervousness—one reviewer called it “a little scary at first”—but most agree that the experience is worth it once your eyes adjust.

Next, your guide will take you to Mala Stiniva Bay for about 30 minutes of cliff jumping and swimming. This spot is a favorite, with travelers describing it as “picturesque” and “peaceful,” perfect for those who enjoy a splash of adrenaline. The jumps are generally safe, and the scenery makes for excellent photos.

After that, you’ll head to Zeevo Islet for another 30-minute stop at the Blue Lagoon. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many note the crystalline waters are filled with small fish, sea urchins, and harmless jellyfish—ideal for underwater exploration. One positive review calls this “beautiful blue water,” and another mentions how quiet and peaceful it was, especially early in the season.

The tour continues with a secluded bay on Bra Island, where visitors can relax, swim, and snorkel, away from crowds. It’s a great chance to unwind and soak in the natural surroundings. The final stops include more swimming, snorkeling, and scenic cruising, wrapping up back at Makarska after about 5 hours.

The Itinerary in Detail

The itinerary is tightly packed but thoughtfully organized. Starting at the Promare Charter office on the Makarska waterfront, the group boards the speedboat for a 40-minute ride to the first stop—the blue cave. This is often the highlight, with travelers describing their awe at the dark interior and beautiful glow of the cave.

Next, the 40-minute ride to Mala Stiniva Bay offers the chance for cliff jumping—a fun activity that many reviews commend for its scenic setting and adrenaline rush. The 30-minute stop at Zeevo Islet’s Blue Lagoon provides a different experience — calm waters perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.

The trip continues with a 20-minute cruise to Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar, where you get about 50 minutes of free time. Here, travelers often describe the opportunity to explore narrow streets and enjoy local gelato—a favorite sweet treat. The town itself offers a glimpse into everyday Dalmatian life, away from tourist crowds.

Following Jelsa, the boat heads to another secluded bay on Bra Island for 30 minutes of swimming and snorkeling, a peaceful break before the journey back. The final 30-minute cruise takes you along the coast, soaking in the scenery before returning to Makarska, completing your adventure.

What Travelers Rave About

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and skippers who make the experience both fun and informative. One reviewer calls their guide “kind and fun,” noting the good explanations provided at each stop, which enhance the experience.

The scenery receives high marks—crystal-clear waters, stunning cliffs, and quiet bays are frequently described as “beautiful” and “peaceful,” especially when visiting early in the season before crowds arrive. The blue cave and Blue Lagoon are among the most frequently highlighted highlights, with visitors describing them as “really cool” and “amazing.”

The value for money is another theme, with many feeling that the price of $82 is justified by the variety of stops and activities packed into 5 hours. One review mentions how “the scenery was beautiful,” with opportunities to snorkel and see “little harmless jellyfish, small groups of fish, and sea urchins,” adding an educational element to the fun.

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Practical Tips for Your Trip

Since restroom facilities are not available onboard, plan accordingly before departure. Also, bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and towels—most of all, be ready to get in the water and enjoy the water sports gear provided.

The tour is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with certain physical limitations, so consider your comfort with boat rides and swimming. Seasickness or motion sickness can be a concern—if you’re prone, take precaution. The maximum group size of 10 ensures a more intimate experience, but it also means booking early is advised.

Weather can influence the trip—bad weather results in full refunds or rescheduling, so keep an eye on the forecast close to your trip date. The flexible cancellation policy is a plus, giving you confidence in your booking.

The Sum Up

This Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Dalmatian coast life, with highlights including a secret cave, tranquil lagoons, and charming towns. It is a fantastic pick for travelers who want adventure and relaxation in one. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and variety of stops make it a practical choice for those seeking a genuine experience without the fuss of a full-day tour or private boat rental.

If you love swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views, and don’t mind a somewhat energetic pace, this tour provides an authentic way to experience Croatia’s islands. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of fun activities and cultural discovery, along with the chance to see some of the most beautiful spots without fighting crowds.

In summary, this tour delivers excellent value, memorable moments, and a taste of Croatia’s captivating coastline. It’s a smart, fun choice to add to your Dalmatian adventure.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 5 hours, including transfers, swimming, sightseeing, and free time at Jelsa.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat ride, snorkeling masks and snorkels, bottled water, a local skipper, life jackets, and insurance.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
The tour is not recommended for non-swimmers, as it involves swimming and snorkeling in open water.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, pregnant women, or those with mobility or back problems.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and weather-appropriate clothing. Restroom facilities are not onboard.

What happens in bad weather?
If canceled due to weather, you will be offered a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

This speedboat trip from Makarska offers a lively, authentic, and scenic taste of Croatia’s islands. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it is a memorable way to explore the Dalmatian coast’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: