Makarska: 3-Island Speedboat Golden Horn & Blue Lagoon Tour

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is dotted with islands that beckon travelers with their natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns. This Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a compact yet immersive day exploring some of the most iconic spots—Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat), Vrboska on Hvar, and the Blue Lagoon on Zečevo. With a solid 4.7-star rating from 93 reviews and a price of around $87 per person, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a quick but meaningful escape into Croatia’s stunning waters.

What we particularly like about this tour is the way it combines beautiful scenery, cultural charm, and fun water activities, all within a manageable half-day. The small group size (max 12 guests) ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, making it a highlight for travelers seeking authenticity over crowded excursions. However, a potential consideration is the lack of onboard restroom facilities, which might be inconvenient for some.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, families, or couples eager to see Croatia’s most celebrated beaches and towns in a comfortable, efficient format. If you’re after a well-rounded, value-packed experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photo ops, and cultural glimpses, this could fit the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Small group experience offers intimacy and personalized service
• Highlights include Golden Horn, Vrboska, and Blue Lagoon with plenty of swimming
• Efficient itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxing, and cultural stops
• Price point offers good value considering the inclusions and unique destinations
• Guides are praised for friendliness, knowledge, and humor
• Water activities like snorkeling and swimming are core parts of the tour

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

This 5-hour speedboat tour from Makarska is designed to pack in some of Dalmatia’s most photogenic spots, with enough flexibility to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. Two departures—one in the morning at 8:00 AM and one in the afternoon at 1:30 PM—allow you to pick a time that suits your schedule. The tour is perfect for those who want a taste of island life without dedicating a full day.

First Stop: Nugal Beach

Just five minutes from Makarska, the tour kicks off with a visit to Nugal Beach. This secret cove is famed for its dramatic cliffs and untouched quietness. It’s an ideal spot for a quick photo and a breath of fresh air before heading further out on the sea. Reviewers like Viktória, who joined the afternoon tour, mentioned this as a “beautiful and nice” stop, though some found the brief swim time there a bit limited.

The Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat)

Next, you’re cruising to Bra, home to Croatia’s most iconic beach, the Golden Horn. This natural wonder is known for its shape that shifts with the wind and currents, creating constantly changing photo opportunities. The boat docks directly at the tip, giving you roughly 60 minutes to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the jaw-dropping scenery.

Guests often comment on how breathtaking this beach is; Mandy described it as “stunning,” and many agree it lives up to its reputation as one of Croatia’s most photographed beaches. The shallow waters and soft pebbles make it inviting for a swim or a relaxed lounge on the sand.

Vrboska: Little Venice on Hvar

The next stop is the quaint town of Vrboska on Hvar Island. Its nickname, “Little Venice,” comes from its peaceful canals, stone bridges, and charming cafes. You’ll have about an hour here to wander the quiet streets, snap photos of the traditional architecture, or enjoy a coffee break. Many reviewers, like Karen, loved this peaceful respite—”a great mix of swimming and sightseeing” that offers a chance to soak in local ambiance.

For foodies, the recommendations include trying local pastries at Trica Gardelin, which visitors say is perfect for a quick treat before heading back to the boat.

The Blue Lagoon: Crystal Waters at Zečevo

The final main destination is the Blue Lagoon on Zečevo, renowned for its clear, inviting waters—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The boat anchors here for about 20 minutes, offering a chance to dive into the calm sea and enjoy the serene surroundings. Reviewers like Gina appreciated the opportunity to snorkel and relax in such untouched natural beauty.

Scenic Return & Final Photos

As the tour winds down, everyone can enjoy the panoramic cruise back to Makarska, with views of Bra, Hvar, and Zečevo on the horizon. Many comment on the beautiful scenery and peaceful vibe, making this a fitting conclusion to a day full of exploration and fun.

The Small Group Advantage & Practical Details

One of the standout features, praised repeatedly, is that this is a small-group tour—only 12 guests max. This setup means fewer crowds, more personalized attention, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall. The skipper (some reviews mention Luka and Peter) are highlighted for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the ride as enjoyable as the destinations.

The boat itself is well-equipped with sunshade, music, life jackets, and a ladder for water access, ensuring comfort and safety during your swim breaks. The tour price covers everything from fuel, snorkeling gear, taxes, and bottled water, making it a transparent deal.

What’s Not Included?

• Food and snacks: You can bring your own, which is a smart move if you want to enjoy local specialties or avoid the potentially limited options on board.
• Restroom facilities: Not available onboard, but there are scheduled stops at Nugal Beach and Vrboska for bathroom breaks.

Timing & Meeting Points

The meeting point is conveniently located at the Palladium Rent a Boat stand on the main promenade, and guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and safety instructions. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Weather & Cancellation

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it might be rescheduled or refunded in case of bad conditions—so it’s worth checking the forecast ahead of time. You’ll want to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes for comfort.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Guests consistently praised the knowledgeable guides and friendly skippers. Viktória shared that Luka “was incredibly kind, funny, and even gave us a gift,” adding a personal touch that many travelers value. Mandy mentioned that her guide was “really friendly and welcoming.” These small moments of personalized service elevate the experience from just a sightseeing trip to genuine hospitality.

Swimmers and sunbathers loved the variety of stops—from the iconic Golden Horn to the peaceful Blue Lagoon—each offering a different vibe. Karen appreciated the mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, emphasizing that the boat ride itself is part of the charm.

Some guests pointed out minor drawbacks, like short swim times at Nugal Beach or the lack of onboard toilets, but these seem to be minor considerations relative to the overall experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of scenery, swimming, and cultural charm in one compact package. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, fun adventure without the hassle of planning a full day. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a quick, visually rich introduction to Croatia’s islands.

If you love photo opportunities, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides, this tour will hit all those marks. However, travelers seeking longer beach days or full island exploration might prefer longer or different excursions.

Final Thoughts

This Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to see Dalmatia’s highlights in just a few hours. The combination of stunning beaches, charming towns, and crystal-clear waters makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to pack a lot into a half-day. With friendly guides, good value, and a small-group atmosphere, it promises an authentic, enjoyable adventure.

While the lack of onboard toilets and limited swim time at some stops are worth noting, they are minor trade-offs for the chance to experience Croatia’s iconic spots in a comfortable, scenic setting. Whether you’re an island hopper, a water lover, or simply after some unforgettable photo moments, this tour provides a memorable slice of Dalmatia.

In short, if you value personalized service, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace, this tour could be a highlight of your Croatian trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old, as well as pregnant women, people with limited mobility, or those over 80. It’s designed for travelers who can comfortably handle speedboat rides and swimming activities.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes for comfort during swimming and exploring. Since there are no onboard toilets, plan accordingly—use the scheduled stops for bathroom breaks.

Are meals included?
No, food and snacks are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Some guests recommend bringing a small picnic or snacks for after the stops.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring a less crowded, more intimate experience.

How long is each stop?
You’ll have about 60 minutes at Golden Horn, roughly an hour in Vrboska, and 20 minutes at the Blue Lagoon for swimming.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of bad conditions, it may be rescheduled or fully refunded—check the forecast and communicate with the provider if needed.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later. Just keep in mind that popular times may fill up quickly, especially in peak season.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, a snorkeling set is included in the price, so you can explore the underwater world comfortably.

To sum it up, this tour balances scenery, culture, and fun in a way that makes Croatian island-hopping feel doable and enjoyable for most travelers. Whether it’s your first time in Dalmatia or a return visit, the mix of sights and laid-back vibe makes for a memorable day on the water.