From Makarska:Hvar and Bra Island : Day Tour with speedboat

If you’re considering a day trip from Makarska that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life, a speedboat tour of Hvar and Bra might just be the experience you’re after. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing you to choose between two popular routes—GOLDEN and BLUE—each packed with highlights like snorkeling, cliff jumping, and exploring small caves.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the personalized feel — it’s designed for small groups of up to six (or ten, if you opt for the larger boat), meaning you won’t be just another face in a crowd. Plus, you get the thrill of the open sea, the possibility of dolphin sightings, and plenty of secluded spots to relax or get your adrenaline fix. But, as always, there are a few things to consider before booking, like the extra cost for skipper and fuel, and the fact that lunch isn’t included.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving adventure and authentic island experiences. If you enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, jumping off cliffs into the sea, or exploring quiet coves away from the crowds, then this trip promises plenty of those moments. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a flexible, fun-filled day on the water will find it especially worthwhile.

Key Points

• Customizable routes allow you to pick between the GOLDEN or BLUE itinerary.
• Stunning highlights include snorkeling in hidden bays, cliff jumping, and exploring small caves.
• The boats are well-maintained, with quality features like water showers, snorkeling equipment, and sound systems.
• Extra costs for skipper and fuel should be budgeted in, but are straightforward and cash-only.
• The tour offers small group intimacy for a more relaxed, personalized experience.
• Travelers consistently praise knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and the chance to sample local cuisine in Vrboska.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Out from Makarska

Your day begins at the harbor, with options depending on your chosen route—GOLDEN or BLUE. Both start around 9 a.m., giving you plenty of daylight to explore. The initial moments on the boat set the tone: modern, fast, and in superb condition, the boat’s comfort makes the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.

Biskup Beach on Bra Island

At around 9:45 a.m., the boat pulls into Biskup Beach, a quiet haven devoid of crowds. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, and it’s a calm spot ideal for relaxing and swimming. As one reviewer mentioned, it’s “the best place for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing,” away from the busier beaches.

The Iconic Golden Horn

Next, at roughly 11 a.m., you’ll visit Bol’s Golden Horn, one of the most famous beaches in Croatia. Known for its distinctive shape and vibrant scenery, this beach is a must-see. The sand and waters here are often busy with day-trippers, but on this boat tour, you’ll have the luxury of seeing it from a different perspective—perhaps even catching some spectacular photos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lantina Beach and Zeevo Island

The itinerary then takes you to Lantina Beach on Zeevo Island, a tiny yet memorable stop. Travelers love the chance to experience this small, less-visited island, which offers unique scenery and tranquility. The tour’s flexible nature means you can enjoy swimming and exploring this mini paradise.

Vrboska: Croatia’s “Small Venice”

At around 1:45 p.m., the boat docks in Vrboska, a charming old town on Hvar dubbed “Small Venice.” Here, you can stroll narrow, historic streets and sample fresh seafood, fish, or local dishes—a highlight for many. One reviewer called it “the place where you can have lunch and taste local fish,” emphasizing the culinary appeal. The town’s relaxed pace and picturesque setting provide a perfect break during your day.

Mala Stiniva and Cliff Jumping

In the late afternoon, at approximately 4 p.m., you’ll visit Mala Stiniva Beach. Known for its dramatic cliffs, it’s a favorite for cliff jumping and soaking in the raw beauty of nature. The views and adrenaline here are a memorable part of the tour, with some travelers noting it’s “the best place for jumping from the cliffs.”

Optional Blue Cave

On the BLUE route, there’s an exciting visit to the Small Blue Cave on Hvar. Being able to swim into a cave and explore from within adds an adventurous touch. Many reviews highlight the Blue Cave as a unique experience that’s well worth the visit.

Final Stops and Return

In both routes, the tour concludes around 6 p.m. back at Makarska harbor, after a day filled with swimming, exploring, and relaxing. The ability to tailor your route or skip certain stops ensures a personalized experience that suits your interests.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Multiple reviews confirm that skipper knowledge and friendliness significantly enhance the experience. One guest praised Emil, saying, “Super nice, really competent, and totally flexible,” which speaks volumes about the tour’s relaxed, professional vibe.

Tourists also highlight the quality of the boat and the amenities, like the water shower, snorkeling gear, and sound system, which add comfort and fun. The option to book a bigger boat for up to 10 people, with the corresponding extra fee, offers more space for groups seeking comfort.

The scenic stops like Golden Horn and Mala Stiniva are consistently described as breathtaking, while the chance to see dolphins is a bonus that some lucky guests get to enjoy. The reviews underscore that, with friendly guides and beautiful locations, the tour delivers a memorable, picture-perfect day.

Cost and Value: Breaking It Down

The base price of $353 for up to six people covers the boat, snorkeling equipment, water shower, ice box, and sound system. However, the cost of the skipper and fuel—€200 for the smaller boat, €300 for the larger one—must be added in cash on the day. It’s a transparent extra, and splitting it among your group can keep costs reasonable.

Considering the personalized itinerary, the quality of the boat, and the variety of stops, this tour offers good value for those wanting a flexible, all-in-one day on the water. The price could seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in the inclusions and the exclusivity of small-group cruising, many travelers find it worthwhile.

On Food and Dining

While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s schedule allows plenty of time to relax at Vrboska or other stops to enjoy local restaurants. This gives you the flexibility to choose a meal that suits your taste and budget, rather than being tied to a preset menu.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoyment

• Book in advance to secure your preferred route and boat size.
• Budget extra for skipper and fuel (€200–€300 cash), which is straightforward but important to plan.
• Bring your snorkeling gear — even though equipment is provided, you might prefer your own.
• Prepare for cliff jumps if you’re adventurous, and listen to your skipper’s advice.
• Plan to have lunch in Vrboska or other stops, as it’s not included.
• Dress comfortably for a day on the water — quick-drying clothes, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• Stay flexible: The tour can adapt to weather conditions or your preferences, especially with a knowledgeable skipper.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers craving a mix of adventure and relaxation in a small-group setting. If you love snorkeling in clear waters, jumping off cliffs, or exploring quiet bays away from crowds, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding. Families with older children, groups of friends, or couples seeking a personalized day on the sea will enjoy the flexible itinerary and friendly guides.

Those interested in local food and charming towns will appreciate the stop in Vrboska, and adventure seekers will love the cliffs and caves. But keep in mind, the extra cost for skipper and fuel adds to your budget, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight budget.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For anyone wanting an authentic, adventure-packed day exploring the Dalmatian islands, this speedboat tour from Makarska offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, local flavor, and fun activities. The small-group format ensures a relaxed atmosphere, personalized attention, and the chance to truly enjoy each stop without rushing.

The professional guides and well-maintained boats earn high praise, as do the stops at iconic beaches and hidden coves. The tour’s flexibility means you can tailor your day to match your interests—whether that’s snorkeling in crystal waters, jumping from cliffs, or simply soaking in the views.

While there’s an extra cost for skipper and fuel, most travelers agree that the experience is well worth it. If you’re seeking a memorable day among Croatia’s stunning islands with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local charm, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for older children or teenagers who can swim and are comfortable jumping off cliffs. Since it involves water activities, parental discretion is advised.

Can I customize the route?
The tour offers two main routes—GOLDEN and BLUE—and guides can adjust based on your wishes, weather, or conditions.

How much does the skipper and fuel cost?
The cost is €200 for the smaller boat (up to 6 people) and €300 for the larger boat (up to 10 people), payable in cash on the day.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s ample time to dine in Vrboska or other stops.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your snorkeling gear if you want your own. A hat and water are also recommended.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts roughly from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., covering multiple stops along the islands.

Can I book a larger boat?
Yes, if your group prefers more space, you can book the up to 10-person boat for a higher fee.

Is the boat in good condition?
Absolutely. The boats are described as being in perfect condition, with amenities like water showers and sound systems.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsuitable, with full refunds available if canceled in advance.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can book in advance through the provider’s platform and opt to pay later, helping you keep your plans flexible.

This detailed review hopefully helps you decide whether this speedboat adventure is the right fit for your Croatia trip. It combines natural beauty, lively activity, and local charm into a compact day that you’ll remember long after you leave the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: