Makarska: Private halfday boat tour ,Hvar,small blue Cave

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun while cruising along Croatia’s stunning coastline, this private boat tour from Makarska offers an inviting slice of paradise. Designed for small groups—up to six people—this experience combines adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury, all wrapped into roughly four and a half hours on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat lover, the smooth pace and personalized touch make it a compelling choice.

What we love about this trip is how it seamlessly blends exhilarating activities like snorkeling and cliff-jumping with tranquil moments exploring secret beaches and mesmerizing caves. Plus, there’s always the chance of spotting playful dolphins—adding an element of surprise to your adventure. The only potential snag? The extra cost for fuel and skipper (about 200 euros cash on the day), which is standard for private tours but worth budgeting for. This tour suits travelers craving an intimate, flexible, and authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots.

If you enjoy a mix of active exploration, stunning scenery, and personalized service, you’ll find this tour a fantastic way to spend part of your Dalmatian holiday. It’s especially well-suited for those who like to decide their pace, hop into clear waters, and explore natural highlights with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Private experience: Small group for personalized attention and flexibility
• Multiple stops: Visit Mala Stiniva, Blue Cave, and Nugal Beach with swimming, snorkeling, and cliff-jumping
• Chance to see dolphins: Not guaranteed, but possible
• Includes snorkeling gear and amenities: Life jackets, Bluetooth system, water bottles, and sun protection
• Cost considerations: Skipper and fuel fee (cash, about 200 euros) not included in the base price
• Ideal for active travelers: Non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness should note the nature of the trip

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Makarska’s Poseidon Rent a Boat

Your adventure starts in the lively harbor of Makarska, where Poseidon Rent a Boat sets the scene with a well-maintained, comfortable boat—either a Quicksilver 605 or Zar 65, depending on availability. The boat is outfitted with all the essentials: a Bluetooth audio system for your favorite tunes, an ice box with bottled water, and sun protection in the form of a Bimini canopy. This setup hints at a focus on comfort and entertainment, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.

The 50-Minute Speedboat Ride to Mala Stiniva Beach

Once underway, you’ll zip along the coast, taking in spectacular views of the Dalmatian shoreline. This part is a real highlight—speeding across the azure waters, feeling the sea breeze, and getting a sense of the area’s rugged, untouched beauty. The 50-minute ride is energetic but smooth, and your skipper will chat in English or Croatian, sharing insights about local spots and the area’s history.

Mala Stiniva Beach: A Hidden Gem

Your first stop is the Mala Stiniva Beach, a stunning stretch of sand surrounded by towering cliffs. The water here is known for its crystal-clear blue hue—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guests have about 50 minutes to enjoy this peaceful refuge, which is only accessible by boat or a 40-minute hike from Makarska.

We loved the way the cliffs create a sense of seclusion, making Mala Stiniva feel like your secret retreat. The calm waters provide excellent conditions for snorkeling, giving you a chance to observe marine life in their natural habitat. For the more adventurous, cliff-jumping into the water is a popular activity, and many guests appreciate the opportunity for a quick adrenaline rush.

Exploring the Blue Cave on Island Hvar

After a relaxing time at Mala Stiniva, you’ll set out on a 20-minute cruise to the Little Blue Cave. This is a true highlight—entering the cave by swimming or snorkeling, you’ll be amazed by the deep, vivid blue water illuminated by sunlight filtering through small openings. Inside, the water’s hue intensifies, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Guests often comment on how the reflection of sunlight makes the water appear cinematic—such a unique spectacle you might find yourself snapping photos for minutes. Since the cave is deep, snorkeling is suitable, though you’ll find some shallow spots to stand or rest on. The chance of seeing marine life here adds to the allure, making it a memorable underwater adventure.

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Nugal Beach and Other Options

Next, the boat navigates toward Nugal Beach—famous for its natural beauty and sandy shoreline. It’s accessible only by boat or a scenic 40-minute hike, so arriving here feels like uncovering a secret. You get roughly 20 minutes to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun on this unspoiled stretch of coastline.

An option is also available to swap Nugal Beach for Pokrivenik Beach on Island Hvar, depending on your preferences or weather conditions. This flexibility is part of what makes the tour appealing—your skipper can adapt the itinerary to suit your interests.

The Final Stop and Return

After enjoying Nugal or Pokrivenik, the boat makes a short 10-minute cruise back toward Makarska. Along the way, you’ll get sweeping views of the coastline, and if lucky, you might catch sight of dolphins—though they’re not guaranteed.

Back at Poseidon Rent a Boat, your half-day adventure concludes, leaving you with plenty of memories and possibly even some new underwater photos.

The value of this tour lies in its combination of active fun and scenic relaxation. We appreciated the small group size, which ensures personalized attention and the chance to ask questions about the area from your knowledgeable skipper. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, with amenities like water bottles and Bluetooth speakers to enhance the experience.

The itinerary is thoughtfully paced, giving enough time at each stop to swim, snorkel, and enjoy without feeling rushed. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and safety gear makes it easy for beginners to participate, though non-swimmers should be aware of the nature of activities involved.

Cost-wise, you should budget an extra 200 euros cash for the skipper and fuel, which is a standard practice for private tours but worth noting upfront. The tour price covers the boat, equipment, and guide services, making it a fair deal for a personalized half-day adventure.

What sets this apart is the chance to explore less-traveled spots like Mala Stiniva and the Blue Cave, away from the larger crowds that flock to more popular destinations. This tour guarantees intimate encounters with nature, whether through swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on deck.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy being active and crave authentic, scenic encounters. Families with older children might appreciate the mix of water activities and sightseeing, especially since the tour isn’t suitable for very young children or non-swimmers.

Couples or small groups looking for a private, tailored outing will find this especially appealing. It’s a good choice if you prefer a flexible schedule, personalized attention, and the ability to skip or extend stops depending on your mood.

People prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should consider their comfort, as the trip involves a fair bit of boat time and some swimming in open water. Also, since the tour is mostly about natural sights and active pursuits, it’s best for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind splashing around in the sea.

This private half-day boat tour from Makarska to Hvar and the Blue Cave offers an excellent mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Its small-group format, flexible itinerary, and focus on authentic experiences make it a standout choice for travelers looking for a personalized day on the water. The stops at Mala Stiniva, Blue Cave, and Nugal Beach provide diverse scenery—each with its own unique charm—ensuring you get a well-rounded taste of Dalmatian coastlines.

While the extra fee for fuel and skipper should be factored into your budget, the overall value is high considering the quality of the boat, activities, and potential dolphin sightings. This tour suits those who want to escape popular crowded spots, enjoy underwater exploration, and soak up the sun in a laid-back setting.

For anyone craving a memorable, active day exploring Croatia’s stunning maritime environment, this private boat tour hits all the right notes. It’s a chance to see some of the most beautiful natural features around Makarska, with the flexibility to tailor the day to your personal interests.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling and swimming are key parts of the experience, non-swimmers might find some stops challenging. It’s best suited for those comfortable in the water, but the boat ride and sightseeing can still be enjoyed regardless.

How long is the boat ride between stops?
The ride from Makarska to Mala Stiniva takes about 50 minutes, then a 20-minute trip to the Blue Cave, and 50 minutes back to Makarska, with shorter rides between other stops.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera. You can also bring your own food, as there’s no included meal.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year, people over 70, or those prone to seasickness. Non-swimmers should consider their comfort level with water activities.

How much does the extra fuel and skipper cost?
The additional cost for fuel and the skipper is around 200 euros, payable in cash on the day of the tour.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

If you’re after a day filled with water fun, stunning views, and personalized service, this private boat tour from Makarska offers a memorable way to explore Croatia’s coast. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s an authentic, enjoyable experience that balances adventure with tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here: