Makarska: Sea kayaking & snorkeling adventure

If you’re eyeing a way to combine active exploration with serene natural beauty in Croatia, the Makarska Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling Adventure by MPL Nautika might just be your best choice. While I haven’t personally paddled these waters, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest a memorable experience, especially for lovers of the coast and quiet coves.

What we love about this tour is its focus on personalized small-group experiences and the chance to see Makarska’s coastline from an entirely different perspective. The inclusion of drone photography makes for some impressive souvenirs, and the route promises a good blend of exploration, relaxation, and water adventure.

One potential consideration is that the tour operates only in favorable weather, which is typical for such outdoor activities but worth keeping in mind if the weather forecast isn’t clear. Also, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with loved ones who need assistance or have different comfort levels in water.

This experience suits adventurous travelers and nature lovers who appreciate small-group settings, expert guides, and authentic coastal scenery. Whether you’re visiting alone, with a partner, or friends, it offers a rich taste of Makarska’s natural beauty in a manageable, well-paced way.

This experience made our article of Makarska’s 4 Best Canoe & Kayak Experiences.

Key Points

Small-group personalization: The tour is designed for intimate experiences, led by knowledgeable guides.
Spectacular coastline views: Paddle along Makarska’s dramatic cliffs and discover secret coves.
Underwater exploration: Snorkeling gear is provided, perfect for encountering local marine life.
Drone photos included: Capture aerial shots and videos, a memorable keepsake.
Flexible timing: Available in the morning or evening, allowing for different sightseeing schedules.
Accessible activities: While not suitable for everyone, the route is manageable for those comfortable on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Makarska Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour

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Starting Point & Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off from Cvitaka Beach, one of the most beautiful spots along the Makarska Riviera. It’s a prime launch site—quiet, scenic, and perfect for setting the tone for your seaside adventure. You’ll start around 9:00 AM or in the evening, depending on your preference, which allows for a flexible schedule to fit other activities.

The paddle along the coast is the core of this experience. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach, making the entire trip both educational and enjoyable. As you glide over the emerald waters, the backdrop of Mount Biokovo adds a dramatic mountain silhouette to your view, perfect for photography.

The Route and Highlights

The tour’s route has been carefully curated to showcase Makarska’s hidden gems. You’ll paddle past pristine beaches and quiet coves that aren’t accessible by road, giving you a sense of discovering secret corners of the coast. The first notable stop is at Krvavica Marina to visit the iconic Love Bridge—a concrete arch linking cliffs in a romantic setting. This spot isn’t just picturesque but also a perfect photo opportunity, especially with the drone footage included in the tour.

Continuing along the coast, the journey takes you past more secluded beaches and calm waters, ideal for taking a break. The main destination is Bratu, a charming Dalmatian fishing village surrounded by lush pines and colorful stone houses. Here, you’ll find the most beautiful beach on the Riviera—great for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Snorkeling & Water Ecosystem

One of the tour’s standout features is the snorkeling experience. After a break in Bratu, you’ll be equipped with mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant underwater world. The water’s clarity makes it easy to spot a variety of tiny fish and marine creatures, which adds an interactive element to your coast exploration.

This activity is especially appreciated by reviews mentioning stunning snorkeling conditions—a perfect way to connect with the local water ecosystem. Refreshments such as fresh fruit and water are provided, ensuring you stay energized for the return paddle.

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Drone Photography & Photos

A highlight for many participants is the inclusion of drone photos and videos. During the tour, a professional drone photographer captures breathtaking aerial shots of the cliffs, coves, and the Love Bridge. Post-tour, participants receive their photos and videos as a free souvenir, which many reviewers praise as high-quality and memorable.

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The Return & Final Moments

After your water adventure, you’ll paddle back to Cvitaka Beach, enjoying the quiet beauty of the coastline one last time. The gentle return journey offers ample opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights, take more photos, and appreciate the natural beauty of Makarska from the water.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $53 per person, the tour provides kayaks, paddles, life jackets, snorkel gear, waterproof bags, drone photos, fresh fruit, and an authentic experience exploring Makarska’s coastline. It’s a fair price considering the inclusion of professional drone footage—a real value-add.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which is conveniently located where parasailing departs.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, and towel because you’ll be exposed to sun and water.
Be aware that weather conditions influence the tour’s operation; poor weather might mean rescheduling or refund.
Two-seater kayaks are standard; if you’re traveling alone or with a partner, you’ll likely be paired up.
The activity is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.
The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it accessible without taking up your entire day.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

The reviews strongly reinforce the tour’s appeal. Many mention super friendly guides, like Karlo, who are patient and helpful. One reviewer noted, “The guide was very kind, patient, and nice,” capturing the welcoming atmosphere.

Participants also appreciated the stunning scenery and snorkeling, with one saying, “We saw some stunning scenery and got a drone video and photos to take home with us.” The balance of activity and relaxation appeals to a wide audience, including those new to paddling.

Some reviewers mention that while the tour is not overly difficult, it can be strenuous for those unaccustomed to paddling, so a basic level of fitness or comfort in water is helpful.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Makarska kayak and snorkeling adventure offers a combination of scenic beauty, water activity, and personalized guidance. It’s a standout choice for active travelers seeking a manageable but rewarding outdoor experience. The small group size means you’ll get plenty of attention from guides, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting over larger, commercial tours.

If you’re someone who loves seaside exploration, underwater discovery, and capturing memories from the air, this trip is hard to beat. It’s particularly good for beginners or casual paddlers who want a gentle introduction to Makarska’s coast without the hassle of organizing their own route or gear.

The inclusion of drone footage and the chance to visit less accessible beaches makes this a value-packed outing. While it’s not suited for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or non-swimmers—the tour provides a wonderful way to experience Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline in a fun, relaxed, and authentic way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who can paddle and swim comfortably can join, but always check with the provider about specific age restrictions or size requirements for kayaks.

Do I need previous paddling experience?
No, the route is described as manageable even for beginners, and guides are helpful. However, some physical activity is involved, so a basic level of fitness helps.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and any personal items you want in waterproof bags. The tour provides all necessary gear, including snorkeling equipment.

Can I participate in the snorkeling without experience?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the underwater environment is suitable for beginners. Guides can give basic instructions to help you enjoy it safely.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, you’ll be offered to reschedule or receive a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, including paddling, stops, snorkeling, and photo sessions.

Are photos and videos included?
Yes, drone images and videos are captured and given to you at the end—these are free and a big highlight.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point, located at the same site as parasailing.

Can I go alone or do I need a partner?
Two-seater kayaks are standard. If you’re solo, you might be paired with another participant or assigned a single kayak (subject to availability).

The Makarska Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour with MPL Nautika offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline. It’s ideal for travelers who want a moderate physical activity interwoven with spectacular scenery and authentic local flavor. The inclusion of drone photography makes it a memorable keepsake, perfect for sharing your Croatian adventure.

Thanks to knowledgeable guides and a flexible schedule, this tour presents a great value for the price, especially for those who appreciate small groups and personalized attention. The snake-like coves, crystal waters, and charming fishing villages provide a genuine experience that really lets you feel connected with the Dalmatian coast.

While it’s best suited for active, water-loving travelers, it’s also a fantastic introduction for those new to kayaking or snorkeling. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and well-organized outdoor activity in Makarska, this adventure fits the bill nicely.