Imagine cruising along Croatia’s sparkling Adriatic in a small, private boat, with the wind in your hair and the chance to snorkel into caves, jump off cliffs, and soak up some of the finest scenery the Dalmatian coast has to offer. For around $140 per group, you get up to 10 people the opportunity to explore either Hvar or Bra on a half-day adventure that mixes sightseeing with fun-filled activities.
The tours are quite flexible, starting from Makarska Harbour and heading either toward Hvar’s famous Blue Cave and Mala Stiniva Beach or the hidden gems of Brac, including Golden Horn and Biskup Beach. What we love about this experience is how personal it feels — it’s a private boat, with a knowledgeable skipper, that lets you tailor the time spent at each stop.
One of the biggest draws is the chance to swim, snorkel, and even cliff jump, turning a scenic boat ride into an active adventure. Plus, if luck’s on your side, you might even spot some dolphins—just like other happy travelers have. On the downside, the additional costs for fuel and skipper (ranging from €200 to €300 cash) do add to the price, so it’s worth factoring that in. This tour suits travelers who are looking for a flexible, personalized day at sea with plenty of opportunities for exciting activities and photo-worthy moments. Families, couples, or small groups who love the idea of a private escapade will find this especially appealing.
Key Points
- Private experience with a maximum of 6 or 10 people, ensuring personalized attention.
- Flexible itinerary options for Hvar or Bra, with stops at beaches, caves, and scenic spots.
- Activities include swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and the chance to see dolphins if luck permits.
- Additional costs for skippered boat and fuel are paid in cash on the day of the tour.
- Suitable for active travelers who enjoy water-based adventures and scenic sightseeing.
- Not suitable for non-swimmers, babies, or those prone to seasickness.
Croatia’s coast is a showcase of natural beauty, with jagged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and secluded beaches. This private boat trip from Makarska promises to bring you close to some of the most iconic and hidden spots, all while offering a comfortable, personalized experience.
The itinerary is divided into two appealing options. For those choosing the Hvar route, you’ll start with a roughly 50-minute drive from Makarska Harbour to the island of Hvar. The first stop is Mala Stiniva Beach, a tiny cove with spectacular cliffs and clear waters. Here, you’ll have about 50 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or tackling a cliff jump if you’re feeling brave. The water here is famously clear, making it perfect for underwater exploration, and the surrounding cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop.
Next, you’ll move on to Little Blue Cave, a highlight of the tour. You’ll have the chance to swim into and explore this natural grotto, where sunlight filters through the water, illuminating the cave in a mesmerizing blue glow. Inside, the deep waters are ideal for snorkeling, and the limited space adds an element of adventure.
After the cave, the route takes you to Pokrivenik Beach or alternatively Nugal Beach—depending on your preferences. Both are stunning spots for a quick dip and some relaxing time on the sand. The drive back to Makarska offers panoramic views, completing your half-day of extraordinary scenery.
If you opt for the Bra route, the tour begins similarly but heads toward Golden Horn or Bol. These spots are renowned for their sweeping beaches and crystal waters. You’ll spend about an hour at either, enjoying swimming, snorkeling, or exploring local towns. Following that, the boat ventures to Biskup Beach, a pristine, unspoiled spot where you can enjoy untouched nature and clear sea. The final stop often includes Spilice or Puntica Bay, offering additional chances for swimming and relaxing in quiet beauty.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of active, hands-on experiences and scenic sightseeing. We loved the way it balances adventure and relaxation, with plenty of time for swimming and exploring. The skipper’s local knowledge adds value, guiding you to the best spots and sharing fascinating tidbits about the area.
A key advantage is the chance to see dolphins, which many travelers have reported catching glimpses of, adding an element of magical surprise. The boat itself is well-equipped, with snorkeling gear, life jackets, Bluetooth audio system, and sun protection, ensuring comfort during your outing.
However, it’s important to note the additional costs — the skipper plus fuel fee — which is paid in cash on the day. For the QuickSilver 605, it’s €200 for up to 6 people, and for the Jeanneau Cap Camarat 7.5, it’s €300 for up to 10 people. While these add to the overall expense, they reflect the private, personalized nature of the experience.
What’s missing from the tour is catering or food, so if you want snacks or drinks, you should bring your own. The boat does have an ice box with water bottles, which helps keep everyone hydrated.
Reviews paint a picture of a highly enjoyable and well-run tour. Janet’s family of 11 raved about it, emphasizing the attention from the skippers and the fun activities like cliff jumping. She described it as a fantastic half-day trip. Sara called it a 10/10 experience, highlighting how pleasant and memorable it was.
Daisy’s review captured the overall enthusiasm, mentioning how her family loved every aspect of the day, from scenic views to water activities. This suggests that the tour is especially good for families or groups seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
- Duration: Around 4 hours, with flexible timing at each stop.
- Group size: Max 6 or 10, depending on the boat.
- Cost: $140 per group, plus €200-€300 cash for skipper and fuel.
- What to bring: Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, snacks, and perhaps a waterproof phone case.
- Not suitable for: Non-swimmers, very young children under 1, or those prone to seasickness.
- Language: Tours are offered in English and Croatian, making communication straightforward.
- Booking: You can reserve now, with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
This excursion is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day on the water. If you enjoy water activities and stunning scenery, and prefer a small group rather than a crowded tour bus, you’ll find this a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for families with children, active couples, or small groups of friends eager to explore Croatia’s coast from a unique perspective.
If you value authentic moments, scenic beauty, and the thrill of snorkeling or cliff jumping, this tour offers a memorable adventure. It’s less about structured sightseeing and more about experiencing the coastline on your own terms—a true highlight of any Dalmatian itinerary.
Choosing this private half-day boat tour from Makarska means greeting the Croatian coast in style, comfort, and fun. It combines personalized service with the chance to explore iconic and secret beaches, caves, and scenic spots that shape the region’s reputation. Whether you’re looking for an active day of swimming and jumping or simply want to soak up the views and enjoy some quiet time by the sea, this tour delivers.
Travelers who appreciate small-group adventures, value local insights, and desire a flexible itinerary will find this experience especially rewarding. It’s a great way to create lasting memories in Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian waters, with the added bonus of professional skippers making sure everything runs smoothly.
If you’re ready for a half-day escape on the water — with plenty of photo opportunities, water fun, and scenic beauty — this private boat tour from Makarska could be just the ticket.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private boat (Quicksilver 605 or Jeanneau Cap Camarat 7.5), snorkeling equipment, life jackets, an icebox with water, watershower, and Bluetooth audio.
How much does the extra skipper and fuel cost?
It costs €200 in cash for the QuickSilver option (up to 6 people) and €300 cash for Jeanneau Cap Camarat (up to 10 people). This fee covers the skipper and fuel on the day of the tour.
Can we bring our own food?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks or meals, as the tour does not include food. The boat has an ice box to keep drinks and snacks cool.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It is suitable for children who are comfortable in water, but not recommended for babies under 1 year or very young children. Always check with the operator if you have specific concerns.
What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Water shoes can be helpful for rocky beaches.
Do we have to decide whether to do Hvar or Bra beforehand?
Yes, you choose your preferred route when booking. Both options provide different scenic experiences, but both include stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change unexpectedly.
This private boat tour from Makarska offers a fantastic blend of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation, all tailored to your group. Whether you’re seeking an active day with cliff jumps, exploring caves, or simply soaking in the views, this experience will leave you with lasting memories of Croatia’s stunning coastline.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Makarska
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Makarska
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Makarska
More Tour Reviews in Makarska
More Makarska experiences we've covered
- Full-Day Makarska to Krka Park Private Tour with Free Detour
- Makarska: 3 island, Golden Horn, Cave, Cliffs, Lagoon, Jelsa
- Makarska: 2-Hour Golden Horn Beach Stop & Secluded Bays Tour
- Bacina Lakes Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour
- E-Bike Tour at Historical Villages of Makarska
- From Makarska: Medugorje Day Trip
- From Makarska: Mostar Day Trip
- From Makarska: Biokovo Skywalk Entry Ticket with Transfers
- Hvar and Brac Boat Tour with Lunch
- Dubrovnik Guided Tour & Free Time From Makarska Riviera
- Day trip to Trogir and Split from Makarska Riviera
- Private Luxury boat from Hvar, Bra and Vis Destination