3 Islands Speedboat Tour: Golden Horn, Blue Lagoon & Jelsa

Travelers seeking a well-rounded day exploring Croatia’s gorgeous Dalmatian waters will find this 3 Islands Speedboat Tour from Makarska offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, active swimming, and charming towns. With a rating of 4.7 based on 115 reviews, it’s clear many have enjoyed this adventure, though some note room for improvement in certain areas.

We love that this tour offers stunning views of Bra Island’s rugged coastline, the chance to swim and snorkel in pristine waters, and the opportunity to explore the historic charm of Jelsa. The small group size (max 10-12 people) makes it intimate and personal. A potential downside is the lack of onboard restroom facilities, which might be inconvenient for some travelers.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities, families with older children, or anyone wanting a taste of Croatia’s best island scenery without spending a full day or breaking the bank. If you’re after a mix of iconic beaches, hidden bays, and local towns, this tour ticks those boxes.

Good To Know

• Scenic speedboat ride with sweeping coastal views of Bra Island
• Swim and snorkel at Zlatni Rat Beach and two secluded bays
• Visit Jelsa and explore its charming streets with free time
• Dolphin spotting chance during the cruise
• All equipment included—masks, snorkels, and safety gear
• Affordable price for a 5-hour adventure with multiple stops

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

This speedboat journey from Makarska is designed for travelers eager to see Croatia’s breathtaking waters in a limber, fun, and efficient way. We’re impressed by how the trip balances famous attractions like Zlatni Rat Beach with hidden gems, giving a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural beauty and local culture.

What’s particularly appealing is the compact 5-hour duration—perfect if you’re short on time but want a full day of water-based adventures. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personal experience, with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey both relaxed and informative.

One thing to keep in mind is the lack of onboard restroom facilities, so plan accordingly before departure. Plus, the price point of $84 per person offers good value, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, bottled water, and three swim stops.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

The tour departs from Makarska’s marina, with pickup options depending on your booking choice. From here, the adventure kicks off with a 20-minute speedboat ride along the rocky Dalmatian coast, offering your first views of Bra Island and its rugged landscape.

Zlatni Rat Beach

The first major stop is Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) Beach, a world-famous stretch of pebbly shoreline known for its distinctive shape that shifts with the tides and winds. This is the highlight for many travelers, especially those who relish swimming in clear, inviting waters. You’re given about 25 minutes to swim and snorkel, and the reviews confirm that the crystal-clear waters make the snorkeling worthwhile—“they gave us masks and snorkels that let us see all kinds of fish,” as Sven mentioned.

While Zlatni Rat is often crowded, the tour offers enough free time to find a quiet spot and enjoy the scenery away from the crowds. The guides also recommend a 15-minute walk to Bol’s old town, a charming area filled with Mediterranean flowers and quaint streets.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hidden Bays of Bra Island

Next, the boat heads toward two untouched bays—each offering a secluded escape from the crowds. These bays are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters that reviewers rave about. Emma shared that she and her group were able to see fish, even catching some, thanks to the snorkeling gear provided.

These stops are appreciated for the peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to relax in nature’s embrace. The boat stays for about 30 minutes per bay, giving ample time to cool off, explore, and take photos.

Jelsa and Hvar

After the bays, the tour makes a 45-minute stop in Jelsa, a picturesque town on Hvar Island. Here, travelers have free time for sightseeing, strolling through the old streets, or enjoying local cafes. While the reviews don’t highlight specific activities in Jelsa, the opportunity to explore a less touristy, authentic Croatian town adds value to the experience.

Return Journey

The return trip takes about 50 minutes, with scenic views of the coast and a chance to spot dolphins along the way—something mentioned by some reviewers as a potential highlight. The speedboat’s smooth ride and friendly guides ensure a comfortable end to the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The knowledgeable guides, like Marco, help elevate this experience—they’re praised for their friendliness and expertise, making sure everyone is comfortable and informed throughout. Sven complimented that the guide “took us to the places we wanted to go”, and Emma appreciated how Marco showed us fish and even let us fish—adding a fun, interactive element.

The small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity and personal attention, which many travelers value. Plus, the snorkeling equipment and bottled water are included, removing extra costs and logistics.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Many reviews mention the absence of overcrowding at Zlatni Rat due to the early start, making it possible to enjoy the beach with fewer travelers. Emma’s mention of no crowds and turquoise waters reflects how this tour can help you avoid the busy, tourist-heavy spots.

However, Nicole’s review highlights that over-tourism has impacted the Golden Horn, which might be a downside for some seeking pristine, untouched scenery. The two secluded bays help offset this concern, offering peace and quiet.

Price and Value

At $84 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the number of stops, the duration, and the included snorkeling gear. The reviews support that it’s a good deal for a full half-day of exploring, especially if you value guided tours with local insights.

Practical Considerations

One notable aspect is the lack of onboard restrooms, so plan your bathroom needs beforehand. In case of bad weather, the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling, which is reassuring if weather conditions turn rough—something that is mentioned by travelers who had to cancel in high winds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want to experience Croatia’s most iconic beaches but also enjoy some hidden coves away from the crowds. It’s well-suited for adventurous water lovers, families with older children, or couples seeking a scenic day out.

Young travelers, snorkelers, and photography enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to capture Croatia’s stunning coastline and underwater life. However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the nature of the boat ride and swimming stops.

The Sum Up

This 3 Islands Speedboat Tour from Makarska offers a compact yet diverse look at Croatia’s best coastal spots. You’ll enjoy stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to explore charming towns—all with the convenience of a guided boat trip. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, bottled water, and small group size means this is a well-rounded, value-for-money option for those wanting a fun, active day on the water.

While Zlatni Rat can be crowded, the early start and secluded bays help balance the experience. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge enhance the trip, making it memorable and engaging. If you’re after a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and island exploring in a manageable timeframe, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Best for those who love water activities, scenic cruising, and discovering Croatia’s hidden corners without long or overly commercialized excursions. Just remember to bring your sunhat, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for the full fun experience.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides masks and snorkels, bottled water, safety equipment, and three swim stops, making it easy to enjoy the water without bringing your own gear.

How long is each swim stop?
You’ll have about 25 minutes at Zlatni Rat and 30 minutes at each of the two bays, giving plenty of time to swim and snorkel.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?
No, the tour doesn’t include onboard restrooms. Be prepared to use facilities before departure.

Can I visit Jelsa?
Yes, the tour includes about 45 minutes of free time in Jelsa, a charming old town perfect for walking and sightseeing.

What if bad weather occurs?
The tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if weather conditions are unsafe, prioritizing guest safety.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for children over 4 years old who are comfortable in water. Due to the boat ride and swimming stops, it’s not recommended for people with mobility issues or non-swimmers.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and choose pay later options for added flexibility.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this speedboat adventure matches your travel style. Whether you’re after iconic beaches, quiet bays, or a taste of local town life, this tour offers a well-balanced and memorable Croatian experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: