Makarska: 3 Island Speedboat Tour with Little Blue Cave & Lagoon

Imagine cruising along the shimmering Croatian coast, your hair in the breeze, and stopping at some of the most picturesque spots in the region—all within half a day. That’s exactly what this Makarska 3 Island Speedboat Tour offers. It’s a lively, well-organized adventure that blends nature, culture, and pure relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring charming towns.

What we love about this tour is its compact yet diverse itinerary. You get to see multiple islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a laid-back coffee break—all without feeling rushed. The visuals alone, from glowing caves to tranquil lagoons, make it a standout experience.

A few considerations are worth keeping in mind. This is a fairly active tour, with stops that involve swimming and exploring, so comfort with water activities and a bit of walking will enhance your enjoyment. Also, the tour does depend on weather conditions, especially for visiting the Little Blue Cave, which can sometimes be tricky to access in choppy seas.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a half-day taste of the Croatian islands—perfect if you’re short on time but still craving a taste of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an all-in-one excursion will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: A 5-hour tour that packs in multiple island visits, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Variety of Stops: From Blue Lagoon to historic Jelsa, each location offers something unique.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable skippers like Ante make the experience engaging and informative.
• Authentic Experiences: Snorkel in crowd-free spots and enjoy quiet bays away from tourist hubs.
• Value for Money: Includes snorkeling gear, water, and fuel, making it cost-effective for the experience offered.
• Weather-Dependent: The Blue Cave visit is favorable only in calm seas, so conditions matter.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Departure & Overall Vibe

Starting from the Palladium Rent a Boat in Makarska, the tour kicks off with a friendly crew and a well-maintained boat that comfortably fits up to 13 travelers. The group size is small enough to foster a personal feel but large enough for lively camaraderie. The morning trip is often recommended, as reviewers note calmer seas and better wind conditions—something to keep in mind if you’re a nervous swimmer or just prefer smoother sailing.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Pokrivenik Bay on Hvar

Your adventure begins with a 25-minute cruise to Pokrivenik Bay, a secluded spot famous for its azure waters and untouched surroundings. Here, you’re free to swim and snorkel in the clear waters, which many reviewers describe as a highlight. One guest noted, “We had an amazing trip to wonderful places,” mentioning the tranquility of this bay as a real plus. The quiet, crowd-free environment makes for a peaceful start to your day.

Second Stop: The Little Blue Cave

Just a few minutes from Pokrivenik, you’ll encounter the Little Blue Cave, a highlight of the tour. The boat will anchor outside the cave, giving you the chance to snorkel in front of this natural marvel at no extra charge. However, whether you can actually access inside depends on sea conditions, which some guests pointed out can be tricky if waves are high.

One reviewer emphasized, “The Little Blue Cave was just unbelievable,” highlighting how striking the blue glow inside is—and it certainly lives up to its name. Having the safety of the boat anchored outside, you can choose to snorkel at your leisure, taking in the unique color play of the water.

Third Stop: Jelsa Town

Next, you’ll dock in Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar’s north side. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you time to wander along streets lined with cafes and shops. Several guests enjoyed a coffee break here, noting how lively and picturesque Jelsa is. One described it as a “joli village,” adding a sprinkle of local charm to your Croatian adventure.

Fourth Stop: Zeevo Island & Blue Lagoon

Your next destination is Zeevo Island, the smallest of the three, famous for its Blue Lagoon, a perfect turquoise swimming spot. Guests often mention how quiet and idyllic Zeevo is, with water so clear you could see the bottom from the boat. A reviewer called it “an amazing waterfront,” and many noted how refreshing it was to swim in these pristine waters.

Fifth Stop: Bra Island & Zirje Bay

Finally, your journey takes you to Bra Island, where the tranquil Zirje Bay awaits. The natural surroundings are stunning, and the waters are a blend of fresh and saltwater, creating a unique environment for relaxing. One reviewer described the area as “very quiet,” offering a peaceful end to your tour.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Insights

What sets this tour apart is the personalized touch from the crew. Multiple reviews praise Captain Ante for his friendliness and knowledge, making the trip feel more like an outing with friends than a generic tour. Guests appreciated the clear communication and the effort to ensure safety, especially when accessing the Blue Cave in sometimes challenging conditions.

Many travelers also enjoyed the snorkeling gear provided, noting how easy it was to explore the underwater world, often mentioning sightings of small fish, possibly even dolphins, and occasionally an octopus or two. The water quality and visibility are highlighted as outstanding, making the snorkeling worthwhile.

The Value Proposition

At approximately $92 per person, this tour offers great value, considering it includes an air-conditioned boat, fuel, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and the guidance of experienced skippers. The stops are carefully chosen to maximize impact while allowing plenty of time in each location—many guests mentioned the trip felt well-paced.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Morning trips tend to be calmer, with better sea conditions—ideal if you’re prone to seasickness or just want a smoother ride.
• Bring your own snacks or drinks if you want more than bottled water, as there’s no food included.
• Dress for water activities—swimsuits, towels, and waterproof camera gear are recommended.
• Book early, especially during peak season, as this tour is popular and booked more than 10 times just in the last week!

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration—those looking to see multiple islands without committing to a full-day or more intense excursion. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to swim in stunning locations and enjoy a taste of Croatian coastal culture. Active water lovers will appreciate the snorkeling opportunities, while history buffs can enjoy the leisurely walk through Jelsa.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, from departure to return to the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, taxes & fees, and bottled water.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or a picnic is a good idea.

Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
The Blue Cave can sometimes be inaccessible due to sea conditions. The boat will anchor outside, and snorkeling is available in front of the cave when possible.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 13 travelers ensures a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but water activities and walking on uneven surfaces might require some supervision.

How do I know if the weather will be good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Palladium Rent a Boat, Marineta ul. 15, Makarska. The tour ends back at this same location.

Final Thoughts

The Makarska 3 Island Speedboat Tour with Little Blue Cave & Lagoon offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for those craving a taste of Croatia’s coastal beauty without a full-day commitment. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who value authentic, crowd-free spots, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to snorkel in some of the clearest waters the region has to offer.

If you’re after a balanced adventure that combines scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and time to unwind, this tour genuinely delivers. Its value for money, combined with the friendly crew and breathtaking scenery, makes it a memorable choice for a half-day Croatian escape.

Whether you’re a water enthusiast, a culture seeker, or someone simply looking to relax on a boat with spectacular views, this tour offers a bit of everything—and the chance to say you swam in the Little Blue Cave.