Introduction
If you’re looking to explore some of Croatia’s most captivating islands without the hassle of large tour groups or hefty prices, the Makarska: 3-island Speedboat Cave & Blue Lagoon Tour might just be your perfect match. This small-group excursion offers a blend of scenic cruising, swimming, and local charm, all wrapped into a compact 5-hour adventure.
What we love most about this tour is its focus on hidden gems like Pokrivenik bay, the Little Blue Cave, and the Blue Lagoon on Zeevo Island—places you won’t find on every itinerary. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, comfortable speedboat ride, and flexible schedule make it stand out.
One potential consideration is the timing, with two available start times—8 am and 1:30 pm—that might not suit late risers or those with tight schedules. But for anyone eager to maximize their island-hopping experience, this tour offers excellent value.
It’s especially well-suited for active travelers, water lovers, and those who prefer a more intimate look at the Dalmatian coast’s lesser-known spots.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
- Focus on hidden bays and caves offers an authentic, crowd-free experience
- Excellent value with snorkeling gear, water, and fuel included in the price
- Flexible schedule with morning and afternoon departures
- Authentic coastal views combined with leisure swimming and sightseeing
- Not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or non-swimmers
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Jelsa Hvar.
The Itinerary in Detail
The journey begins at Palladium Rent a Boat Makarska, conveniently located on the main promenade. From here, you jump aboard a comfortable speedboat with a max of 12 participants, led by a knowledgeable skipper. The small group size is a real plus, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and personalized commentary.
The first leg involves a roughly 40-minute cruise along the Dalmatian coast, where you’ll get your first glimpses of the crystal-clear waters and rugged islands. The scenic ride sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.
Pokrivenik Bay is the first stop — a true hidden treasure accessible only by boat. We loved the way it offers a quieter, less commercialized vibe, perfect for swimmers and snorkelers. Reviewers, like one happy traveler, highlighted that “even though the water was quite cold, the kids enjoyed jumping off the boat,” and some even caught glimpses of dolphins. Expect about 30 minutes here to swim and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Next, you’ll visit the Little Blue Cave on Hvar Island. Unlike the more famous Blue Cave on Biševo, this one is free, has no queues, and requires only a swim to enter. The guide will anchor the boat so you can swim in front of the cave opening. The cave isn’t large, but its enchanting blue glow makes it a highlight. Reviewers praise it as “an amazing little cave” perfect for snorkeling and avoiding crowds.
After a short 20-minute cruise, the boat takes you to Jelsa, arguably Hvar’s most charming town on the north side. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore, enjoy a coffee, or simply stroll its cobbled streets. One review mentioned the “well-organized trip and a nice captain,” which makes a big difference in how smooth and enjoyable the experience feels.
The next stop is Zeevo Island’s Blue Lagoon — a stunning spot for swimming with a waterfront bungalow bar where you can grab a drink and relax. With about 40 minutes here, you’ll have ample time to swim, take photos, or lounge poolside. The lagoon is a popular, picture-perfect spot that provides a perfect blend of leisure and scenic beauty.
Finally, the tour wraps up with a 30-minute swim at Zirje Beach, a less-frequented but equally beautiful bay, before heading back to Makarska. The entire route is designed to maximize sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, all within a compact five hours.
Why This Tour Stands Out
Authentic Hidden Spots
Unlike many tours that stick to heavily trafficked locations, this trip emphasizes secret bays and caves. The stops at Pokrivenik and the Little Blue Cave are particularly appreciated for their tranquility and natural beauty. Reviewers like “thanks to the organizer, even with just four of us, we had a private feel and enjoyed the peacefulness,” which underscores how personalized this experience can be.
Beautiful Swimming and Snorkeling
With snorkeling gear provided, you’ll love the chance to see underwater life in clear waters. The caves and bays are ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, with safe, calm water for exploring.
Expert Guides and Seamless Organization
Guests consistently comment on the friendly, professional skipper who ensures smooth navigation and engaging commentary. One reviewer said, “Very well organized trip, nice captain, we recommend,” highlighting the ease of the experience.
Flexible Timing and Good Value
With two start times, you can choose what fits best with your day. The price of $96 per person includes fuel, snorkeling gear, taxes, and bottled water. Given the variety of stops and the personalized nature of the trip, this offers excellent value.
What Could Be Better?
The main consideration is the timing—early mornings or early afternoons—may not suit everyone, especially those eager for a relaxed start or a full day. The tour duration is fixed at five hours, so if you prefer a full day of exploration, additional arrangements might be needed.
Practical Details
Transport & Group Size:
Starting from the Palladium Rent a Boat stand, the tour uses a small, comfortable speedboat with a maximum of 12 participants. This small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for individualized attention.
Duration & Schedules:
Tour options are available at either 8 am or 1:30 pm, each lasting about five hours. The timing allows for a good balance between sightseeing and leisure swimming.
Cost & Inclusions:
At $96 per person, this tour covers all fuel, snorkeling equipment, taxes, fees, and bottled water. It’s a straightforward price, with no hidden costs.
What to Bring:
Swimmers should pack their swimwear and a towel. Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring a snack or additional drinks if needed.
Restrictions:
Not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or non-swimmers. Smoking is not allowed on the boat, maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Authentic Experiences & Real Guest Insights
The reviews reveal how much travelers appreciate the small, personalized feel of the trip. One traveler noted, “Thanks to the organizer, even though there were only four of us, we experienced a private excursion and enjoyed the peace of the area,” which underscores how flexible and accommodating the tour can be.
Another said, “Very well organized trip, nice captain, we recommend,” indicating that the guides make a positive difference. The highlight for many remains the stunning, uncrowded spots like Pokrivenik and the Blue Lagoon, which deliver a genuine sense of adventure and discovery.
Final Thoughts
This Makarska speedboat tour offers a wonderful balance of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quick but immersive taste of Croatia’s lesser-known island treasures. The smaller group size and focus on hidden bays and caves mean you’ll avoid the crowds and get a more authentic experience.
The variety of stops, from tranquil bays to lively Blue Lagoon, means there’s something for all—whether you love swimming, snapping photos, or simply soaking up stunning coastal views. And with knowledgeable guides ensuring smooth sailing, you can relax and enjoy the ride.
If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and intimate day on the water, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for active travelers, water enthusiasts, and anyone eager to escape the crowds and uncover the Dalmatian coast’s best-kept secrets.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour isn’t recommended for non-swimmers, as swimming and snorkeling are core parts of the experience.
How long is the cruise between stops?
Cruises range from about 10 to 40 minutes, depending on the leg, with the longest stretch being the initial ride from Makarska.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, as they are not included in the price.
What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
How many people are on the boat?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, like all boat trips, it’s best enjoyed on calm, sunny days. Check the weather forecast before booking.
To sum it up, the Makarska 3-island Speedboat Cave & Blue Lagoon Tour excels at combining scenic beauty, authentic hidden spots, and small-group intimacy at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for travelers craving a taste of Croatian island life, away from crowded tourist spots, with the added thrill of swimming in stunning bays and caves. Whether you’re a water lover or simply seeking a memorable day on the coast, this tour offers plenty of bang for your buck.
You can check if your dates are available here: