Makarska: Golden Horn, Cave dive, Cliffs, Blue lagoon, Jelsa

Makarska: Golden Horn, Cave dive, Cliffs, Blue lagoon, Jelsa – An Authentic Croatian Coastal Experience

If you’re considering a day exploring some of Croatia’s most iconic and hidden treasures by boat, this tour from Makarska offers a compelling mix of famous beaches, secret bays, and charming towns. It’s a lively, flexible outing tailored for those who love the water and scenic views, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. We like its focus on authentic experiences—snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and relaxing at quiet spots away from crowded beaches. Plus, the chance to see the Blue Lagoon and charming Jelsa makes it a well-rounded adventure.

That said, keep in mind this is a boat tour, so it’s weather-dependent, and the itinerary may switch around based on sea conditions. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy boat rides, swimming, and exploring islands without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re after a relaxing day on the water with some sightseeing thrown in, this trip hits the mark nicely.

Key Points

• Includes visits to the famous Zlatni Rat beach—an iconic Croatian shoreline.
• Visits multiple secret bays and snorkeling spots with equipment provided.
• Flexible itinerary that may reverse depending on sea conditions.
• A chance to see dolphins in their natural environment.
• Authentic local dining options at the bays, with a bar on Zeevo islet.
• Good value at $90 per person, considering the inclusions and unique stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This speedboat tour from Makarska offers a full day of exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. For around $90, you get to experience some of the most photographed beaches, along with hidden gems that only boat access can provide. The tour is operated by Maris Travel, a provider known for its friendly service and well-organized trips.

It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the water, all while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. The boat is described as comfortable and swift, which helps maximize your time at each stop. The tour lasts several hours, typically with a flexible start and end point at the same meeting spot.

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour starts at Makarska port, where you’ll find the Maris Travel stall near the Hops restaurant bar. From there, the boat sets out across the sparkling waters of the Adriatic, heading toward a series of highlights.

Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn)

The first major stop is at Zlatni Rat, one of Croatia’s most famous beaches. We loved the way the boat drops you right onto the beach’s dock—no walking through busy streets or parking hassles. This pebble beach juts out into the sea, constantly changing shape with the tide and wind. With its shimmering waters and lively atmosphere, Zlatni Rat is perfect for a swim, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views.

A review describes this moment as “beautiful discovery,” noting the ease of access and the chance to enjoy the iconic stretch of coast. For many, this is the highlight—standing on the sand that appears in countless travel magazines.

Secret Bays and Snorkeling

After the initial splash, the tour takes you to several secluded bays on the island of Hvar, including Mala Stiniva and Zeevo Blue Lagoon. These spots are less crowded and excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Snorkeling gear is included, making it simple to get in the water and explore the underwater world.

Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters—one traveler describes it as “a good place to go snorkeling,” emphasizing how calm and inviting the waters are. The tour’s inclusion of snorkeling equipment means you won’t have to bring your own, and you can just focus on enjoying the marine life.

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Zeevo Blue Lagoon and Bar

The Zeevo Blue Lagoon is a tranquil spot where you can swim and relax. There’s a bar on the islet, so you can enjoy a drink or a snack while lounging by the water. This is a perfect pause to unwind, and many travelers mention the delicious local dishes and cocktails in the unique setting of the bay.

It’s worth noting that if you wish to eat or drink at the restaurant in the bay, the advice is to order first, then take a quick swim while you wait. The meals are prepared on natural wood fire, which adds to the authentic, rustic charm—just be prepared for a slight delay if you’re hungry.

Jelsa Town & Little Blue Cave

The tour also includes a stop in Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar known for its relaxed vibe. Here, you can enjoy ice cream, snacks, or just stroll and take in the local sights. The review from Joelle points out that “there are a few comments from the pilot, even if he was very friendly,” indicating that the guide’s commentary adds value to the trip.

The Little Blue Cave on Hvar is another highlight—though it’s not a deep cave dive, you have the chance to see a small, picturesque blue cave that adds a splash of fairy-tale charm to your day.

Flexibility & Additional Information

One nice feature of this tour is its flexible itinerary—depending on sea conditions, the order of stops might reverse. This helps ensure safety and comfort throughout the day.

The tour lasts around several hours, with all transportation, fuel, insurance, and snorkeling gear included. Payment options are flexible, too—pay later if you prefer, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

We found this experience impressive for its combination of well-known sights and lesser-known treasures. The Golden Horn beach is a must-see for travelers who want that classic Croatian postcard shot. The secret bays and snorkeling spots add a sense of adventure and exclusivity, making you feel like you’re discovering the coast rather than just following a crowd.

The authentic local flair at Zeevo Blue Lagoon and Jelsa, along with the chance to see dolphins in free habitat, enrich the trip beyond just sightseeing.

On top of that, reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with friendly commentary and helpful tips. Many travelers mention how much they appreciated the comfortable boat and the efficient organization, which makes for a relaxing day rather than a tiring rush.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the trip offers excellent value, keep in mind that food is not included. You can purchase meals at the bays or in Bol town, so plan your budget accordingly. Also, the tour’s success hinges on weather—seas can be unpredictable, and the itinerary may switch around for safety.

If you’re sensitive to motion, note that the boat can be quick, and some stops involve a short walk or tender to the shore. Remember, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

The meeting point is straightforward—at the Maris Travel stall near Hops restaurant in Makarska—and the trip ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This speedboat adventure is perfect for travelers seeking an active, scenic day with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or groups who enjoy boat rides and want to see iconic beaches like Zlatni Rat without the hassle of navigating themselves.

Those who appreciate a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, with authentic local flavors and stunning landscapes, will find this tour very satisfying. It’s especially suited for travelers who aren’t afraid of a little sea spray and who enjoy discovering lesser-known corners of Croatia with a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re looking for an affordable, fun, and scenic day on the Dalmatian coast, this tour offers a solid, well-organized way to experience some of Croatia’s best highlights.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts several hours, typically around half a day, giving plenty of time for all the stops and swimming.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour, so you can just enjoy the water without extra hassle.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. You can buy meals at the bays or in Bol town.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the Maris Travel stall in front of Hops restaurant and returns there at the end of the trip.

Is the itinerary fixed?
The itinerary can be reversed depending on sea conditions, ensuring safe and comfortable travel.

Are drinks and cocktails available during the trip?
Yes, there’s a bar at Zeevo islet where you can purchase drinks and cocktails.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most travelers find it suitable, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, due to boat rides and water activities.

This Makarska speedboat tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Croatia’s coast, combining famous beaches, hidden bays, and local charm into a memorable day. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, snorkeling adventures, or just a relaxing boat ride, it’s a worthwhile way to see the Dalmatian coast from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: