Makarska: 3 island, Cave, Cliffs, Jelsa, Lagoon, Golden Horn

Traveling through Dalmatia’s turquoise waters, it’s easy to feel like you’re on a postcard. This Makarska boat tour designed by Maris Travel offers an exciting way to see some of Croatia’s most celebrated spots, all packed into a single day. If you’re after stunning scenery, authentic island towns, and a splash of adventure, this trip might be your ticket.

What we love about this tour? First, it hits iconic locations like Zlatni Rat and the Blue Lagoon, giving you a taste of Dalmatian beauty without the hassle of planning. Second, the inclusion of snorkeling and cliff jumping turns it into a genuinely interactive experience.

One thing to consider? The tour’s itinerary can shift depending on sea conditions—so if you’re set on seeing a specific site, keep in mind it might change on the day. This tour suits active travelers, nature lovers, and those eager to explore Croatia’s coast in a relaxed, fun group setting.

This experience made our article of 12 Best Tours & Experiences In Croatia (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling in famous spots.
• Authentic visits to Jelsa and other charming islands with local flavor.
• Expert local skipper ensuring safety and enjoyment.
• Flexible schedule that adapts to weather conditions.
• Value-packed experience with included snorkeling gear, drinks, and insurance.
• Ideal for adventurous, curious travelers seeking a mix of scenery and activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Croatia Coastal Adventure

The Makarska 3 island tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast. Priced at around $90 per person, it’s a competitive option given the mix of activities, sights, and the guided expertise involved. From the moment you set out from Makarska’s bustling port, you’re in for a blend of natural splendor and small-town charm.

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s coastal highlights while offering enough flexibility and interaction to make it memorable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the mix of sights and experiences here appeals across the board.

The Itinerary, Step by Step

Starting from Makarska

Your journey begins at the Maris Travel boat point in front of the Hops restaurant bar. The group boards a speedboat, which is both quick and comfortable, thanks to the Bimini sun cover protection that shields you from the Croatian sun. The boat is well-equipped with lifejackets, snorkeling gear, and water in bottles, ensuring safety and refreshment as you set out.

First Stop: The Little Blue Cave on Island Hvar

Depending on weather conditions, your first destination might be the famous Blue Cave. This small but stunning cave, accessible by boat, is perfect for a quick swim or snorkel. The reviews show that many travelers appreciate the effort to visit, even if weather requires the skipper to be flexible. One traveler noted, “Although the weather initially disrupted the experience, the skipper still tried to get us to see the blue cave,” which speaks to the crew’s commitment.

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Mala Stiniva Cliffs Bay

Next, the boat anchors at Mala Stiniva, a rocky bay with a small pebble beach. This is where you’ll want your swimming gear ready—the water is clear, inviting you to dip in amidst dramatic cliffs. The bay’s rocky surroundings provide a dramatic backdrop for cliff jumping, sunbathing, and snorkeling. One guest commented, “The places felt like an absolute dream with clear blue waters and idyllic beaches.” This spot is ideal for those wanting a more active and scenic break.

Jelsa Town: A Taste of Dalmatian Charm

After the water-based fun, the boat heads to Jelsa, a quaint town on Hvar island. Here, we appreciated strolling through stone streets, browsing cozy wine shops, and sampling local ice cream. This stop offers a chance to soak in local life—perfect for those seeking a quiet, authentic experience away from tourist crowds. Travelers have praised the trip here, with one reviewer saying, “Nice guide, great spots,” implying that the crew’s local knowledge added depth to the visit.

Zeevo Islet and Blue Lagoon

From Jelsa, the boat moves on to Zeevo Islet, home to the Blue Lagoon—a shallow, tranquil bay known for excellent swimming and snorkeling. Many guests enjoy relaxing with a drink at the bay cocktail bar, soaking in the views. The water’s calmness makes it ideal for families or less confident swimmers.

Golden Horn: The Iconic Zlatni Rat

One of the trip’s highlights is arriving directly at Golden Horn beach, famed worldwide for its distinctive shape that shifts with the tide and wind. Many reviews mention this as a favorite stop, describing it as beautiful and unique. The tour drops you here for swimming and sunbathing, giving ample time to enjoy the sweeping views and perhaps even snap a few photos.

Bonus Stop on Island Bra

On the way back, the boat passes near Island Bra, where you’ll find a quiet bay with a beach swing—a perfect spot for a quick swim and some playful photos. Keep an eye out for dolphins, as some travelers have reported spotting them during the trip, adding a touch of magic to the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the most praised aspects is the expert local skipper. Multiple reviews emphasize how Luca and the crew make the experience both safe and enjoyable, often adding extra stops or tips that enhance the trip. “Luca put in a lot of effort,” one guest mentioned, “and we even saw dolphins!”

The scenic diversity is another key feature. From the rocky cliffs of Mala Stiniva to the calm waters of the Blue Lagoon, the contrast keeps the day engaging. The chance to snorkel in the Blue Cave or jump off cliffs makes this more than just a sightseeing cruise; it’s an adventure.

Value for Money

At $90, this trip offers a full day of activity, multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable guide. When you consider the inclusion of insurance and water, it makes for a quite reasonable price. While food isn’t included, vendors at Vala Hrvaska Bay offer local snacks and drinks, adding to the experience without extra hassle.

Practical Considerations

Remember that the itinerary can change based on weather, which is typical for boat trips. If seeing the Blue Cave is a priority, be aware it might be skipped or replaced with an alternative stop. Also, no toilets are onboard, but restrooms are available at Jelsa, Zeevo, and the Vala Hrvaska Bay restaurant.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy being on the water and exploring multiple locations in a day. It’s perfect for families with older children, couples, or groups of friends looking for fun and scenic variety. Those particularly interested in snorkeling, swimming, and cliff jumping will find plenty to love.

If you’re after a relaxed, do-nothing day with lots of lounging, this might not be for you. However, if you seek authentic, picturesque moments with a touch of adventure, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Makarska 3 island tour offers terrific value, especially considering the variety of locations visited and the quality of guides. It provides a genuine taste of Dalmatian coastal beauty—crystal-clear waters, iconic beaches, and charming towns—packed into a single day.

The combination of spectacular scenery, engaging snorkeling, and friendly crew makes it a strong choice for travelers wanting an active, scenic, and authentic Croatian experience. If your goal is to see the highlights of the Dalmatian coast with minimal hassle, this trip is hard to beat.

In contrast, if you prefer a more leisurely, less variable schedule or need specific sites guaranteed, consider other options. But overall, for a well-organized, fun-filled day with fantastic views and a friendly atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour typically lasts a full day, with multiple stops that allow for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore the underwater sights.

Can I choose to skip certain stops?
The itinerary can change due to sea conditions, but generally it follows the planned sequence unless weather or safety concerns dictate otherwise.

Are there food options onboard?
No, food isn’t included, but you can purchase local food and drinks at Vala Hrvaska Bay or other stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and adults, especially those comfortable in the water, as there’s snorkeling and cliff jumping involved.

Are there restrooms on the boat?
No, there are no toilets onboard, but facilities are available in Jelsa, Zeevo, and at Vala Hrvaska Bay.

What should I bring?
A towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler moments.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, so keep this in mind when planning.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
While not guaranteed, some travelers have reported spotting dolphins near the boat, adding a special touch to the day.

This adventure from Makarska offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, active fun, and cultural charm—perfect for those eager to explore Croatia’s coast with a knowledgeable crew and a flexible itinerary. Whether you’re swimming in a cave, lounging at Zlatni Rat, or exploring a quiet town, you’ll leave with plenty of memories—and some great photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: