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

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

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat offers a unique chance to see some of the most captivating spots that are often crowded or hard to access from land. This 5-hour speedboat tour from Makarska takes you to the iconic Zlatni Rat Beach on Bra, through secluded bays, and all the way to Jelsa on Hvar Island. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide and multiple swim and snorkel stops, this experience is ideal for those eager to combine scenic views with authentic water-based adventures.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances well-known highlights like Zlatni Rat with off-the-beaten-path hidden coves that promise peaceful, crowd-free swims. A potential snag is that it’s a fairly compact window of time, so if you’re looking for a relaxed, all-day experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s island beauty in a single trip. It suits those who love active, scenic outings and are happy to spend a few hours on the water rather than on land.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: Experience the rugged coastline, crystal waters, and iconic beach views.
• Authentic swimming and snorkeling: Multiple free swim stops with gear provided, offering great underwater sights.
• Expert guides: Friendly hosts who can share local insights and ensure safety.
• Great value: Several stops, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and safety equipment included at an affordable price.
• Flexible options: Small group sizes enhance intimacy and personalized attention.
• Weather considerations: Trips may be canceled or rescheduled in poor weather, so flexibility is key.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at the Makarska marina, with pickup options depending on your booking. Embarking from this lively port means you’re right at the heart of Dalmatia’s coast. The boat ride out to Bra Island lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a taste of cruising along rocky, dramatic coastline before reaching your first highlight.

Zlatni Rat Beach: Croatia’s Most Famous Strand

This is the star of the show. Zlatni Rat—also called Golden Horn—is renowned worldwide for its unique, shifting shape and clear turquoise waters. Here, you get around 25 minutes of free time to swim, sunbathe, and try snorkeling. Many reviews highlight how quiet and pristine the waters are here, especially early in the morning when crowds have yet to arrive. Several travelers appreciated the snorkeling gear, noting it allowed them to see a variety of fish and underwater life.

One reviewer from Germany shared that the snorkeling gear gave a “great view of fish in the crystal water,” making the experience memorable. Others mentioned that the beach, once bustling, feels more peaceful during this quick visit, so arriving early or staying longer would boost the experience.

Hidden Bays on Bra Island

After Zlatni Rat, the boat heads to two secretively beautiful bays. These locations are far less crowded and offer a chance to swim and snorkel in untouched waters. From a review, “the bays are very good for snorkeling” because of the clarity of the water and the natural surroundings. Here, you’ll often find yourself alone with the fish and the rocks, giving you a feeling of discovering your own private paradise.

Guides like Marco, praised in reviews, tend to point out interesting fish or features in the water, adding a personal touch that enhances the experience. These stops last about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for floating around, cooling off, and snapping photos.

Jelsa on Hvar Island

Next, the boat ventures to Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar island, for about 45 minutes of free time. While some travelers choose to explore on foot, others prefer simply relaxing by the water. The town’s narrow stone streets, filled with Mediterranean flowers, make for a pleasant post-swim walk.

Although some reviewers mention it as a quick visit, it’s a nice break from swimming, offering local sights, shops, and cafes. This part of the tour appeals especially to those seeking a bit of cultural flavor or a chance to stretch their legs.

Return Journey

The last leg covers a 50-minute cruise back toward Makarska, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the view of the coast from the water. Many appreciate the smooth ride, the friendly crew, and the chance to chat about Croatia’s islands with fellow travelers.

What It’s Like on the Boat

The boat itself is a speedboat, designed for quick, exhilarating rides rather than luxury cruising. This means you’ll get plenty of wind and waves, making it feel like a true adventure. Small group sizes—generally 10 to 12 participants—help create a more intimate, personalized experience.

Safety equipment is provided, and guides like Marco or other crew members are attentive about safety, especially when swimming or snorkeling. The included masks and snorkels are of good quality, and bottled water keeps everyone hydrated.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Bring sun protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essentials.
• Wear swimwear and bring a change of clothes: The swim stops are the main highlight, so be prepared.
• Towels and flip-flops: Make switching between water and land comfortable.
• No need to bring large bags: Small bags or waterproof pouches are best, as oversize luggage isn’t permitted.

The Experience of Guides and Service

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and local knowledge. Marco, in particular, is highlighted for being kind, attentive, and sharing interesting facts about the islands and marine life. His willingness to let travelers fish or show them fish species makes the trip more engaging.

The company, Promare Boat Charter, emphasizes safety and responsible guiding, which travelers recognize and appreciate, especially given the occasional weather cancellations—something to keep in mind if your trip is booked during less predictable seasons.

Price and Value

At $84 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the several swim stops, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and guided experience. Compared to other tours that might only visit Zlatni Rat without additional hidden spots, this offers a well-rounded experience that balances famous sights with natural hideaways.

Some reviewers note that while the tour is a bit on the pricier side, the quality of both the scenery and service justifies the expense. Plus, small group sizes and personalized attention make it feel like a more exclusive trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for water enthusiasts who enjoy active days out on the sea. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also great for those wanting a quick but comprehensive glimpse of Croatia’s islands without a full-day commitment.

While families with small children over 4 years old are welcome, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those prone to seasickness. The short duration keeps it manageable, but if you seek a more relaxed or land-based experience, consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The 3 Islands Speedboat Tour from Makarska provides a lively, scenic, water-based escape to some of Croatia’s most stunning spots. It hits a perfect balance between well-known highlights like Zlatni Rat and the serenity of secluded bays, making it ideal for travelers craving both recognition and quiet beauty.

The knowledgeable guides, the quality snorkeling gear, and the small group setting all contribute to a memorable adventure. Although it can be a quick visit, the variety of locations and the natural beauty packed into five hours make it worth considering, especially if you want to maximize your time on the water.

If you’re looking for a fun, active day that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of local coastal charm, this tour will serve you well. Just be sure to pack your sun protection and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 4 years old can join, but keep in mind it involves boat rides and swimming, so they should be comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, change of clothes, and perhaps a waterproof pouch for valuables.

Are meals included?
No, food isn’t included. You might find local cafes in Jelsa or Zlatni Rat if you want to grab a bite afterward.

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and each swim stop is an opportunity to see underwater life.

What is the group size?
Small groups of around 10-12 people, which helps with personalized attention.

What happens in bad weather?
Trips may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, and full refunds are offered if canceled.

How long is each stop?
Zlatni Rat has about 25 minutes; the hidden bays are roughly 30 minutes each; Jelsa gets about 45 minutes of free time.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour price includes snorkeling gear, masks, bottled water, and safety equipment.

Is there any cultural activity included?
The focus is on water-based activities and scenery; no cultural visits are part of this trip.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers flexible booking with the option to reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide whether this lively, scenic boat trip fits your Croatian island adventure plans. With beautiful views, friendly guides, and plenty of water fun, it promises a memorable half-day on the Dalmatian coast.