Makarska: 3 Island Speedboat Tour with Little Blue Cave & Lagoon

Discovering Croatia’s Hidden Islands by Speedboat: A Review of the Makarska 3-Island Tour

If you’re looking to see a slice of Croatia’s stunning island scenery in a short, exciting trip, the Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour offers a fantastic way to combine adventure, natural beauty, and authentic coastal charm. This half-day excursion, run by Palladium Rent a Boat, takes you around Hvar, Zeevo, and Bra Islands, with stops at secret bays, a famous blue cave, and a quaint town—perfect for travelers craving a quick but memorable escape from the mainland. At around $97.95 per person, with a rating of 5.0 from 18 reviews, it’s clear many guests find the value and experience well worth the price.

What I love about this tour are two main highlights. First, the small group size and personalized approach—reviews repeatedly mention the friendly guides like Petar and Carlo, who genuinely seem to pour their love for the area into every trip. Second, the variety packed into just five hours—from swimming in secluded bays, snorkeling inside the Little Blue Cave, to strolling through Jelsa, you get a balanced taste of nature and culture. However, a consideration worth noting is that the tour involves approximately two hours of speedboat travel, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more relaxed paces, it might not be your best fit.

Key Points

• Small Group Advantage: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, flexible experience.
• Diverse Highlights: From secret bays and caves to charming towns, the trip offers a variety of Croatian coastal treasures.
• Authentic Local Guides: Guides like Petar and Carlo receive praise for their hospitality and attentiveness.
• Value for Price: The tour covers several stunning destinations in five hours, including swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Free Snorkeling Gear: Use of snorkeling equipment is included, enhancing the aquatic experience.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Expect about 3 hours of leisure swimming and exploring, balanced by scenic boat rides.

A Deep Dive into the Destinations and Experience

Starting Point and What to Expect

Your adventure begins at the PALLADIUM Rent a Boat station in Makarska, where you’re welcomed by a friendly team and introduced to your skipper. With the mobile ticket, the check-in process is smooth. The boat itself is comfortable for the group size, and fuel, taxes, and fees are included—no hidden costs here.

Stop 1: Pokrivenik Bay

The first stop is at Pokrivenik Bay on Hvar Island, a quiet, hauntingly beautiful cove with clear waters. Many guests, including one reviewer named Tmea_K, found the crystal-blue waters an excellent place for swimming and snorkeling, and appreciated the calm, untouched vibe away from crowded beaches. The bay’s seclusion offers a peaceful start to your adventure, and no entrance fee is required.

Stop 2: Little Blue Cave

A short ride from Pokrivenik brings you to the Little Blue Cave, a true highlight. The cave’s name hints at the mesmerizing blue hues inside the cavern—a perfect backdrop for photos. What makes it special is that there are no queues or fees, unlike some more famous caves. You’ll get snorkeling gear and the chance to swim into the cave, experiencing the shimmering colors firsthand. Several reviews, like Malin_S’s, mention spotting dolphins and even a curious octopus during their swim, adding a touch of wildlife magic to the tour.

Stop 3: Jelsa Town

After enjoying the underwater scenery, you’ll dock at Jelsa, a lively town on Hvar’s northern side. With about an hour to explore, you can wander through narrow streets, soak up local charm, or grab a coffee at a seaside café—many travelers find this to be a perfect way to unwind and enjoy authentic Croatian seaside life. The fact that Jelsa attracts over 5,000 visitors daily speaks to its popularity but still retains a welcoming, unhurried atmosphere.

Stop 4: Zeevo Island’s Blue Lagoon

Next, you’ll visit Zeevo Island, a tiny yet stunning island famous for its turquoise waters in the Blue Lagoon. The island measures just 1.5 km long and 200 meters wide, but it packs a punch with its waterfront Bungalow Bar—ideal for a quick drink or snack. The water here is so clear that you’ll want to hop in for a swim, which many reviews suggest is the highlight of the trip. It’s a spot where you can relax, take photos, or snorkel among small fish, making it a favorite for families and solo travelers alike.

Final Stop: Zirje Bay on Bra

The last visit takes you to Zirje Bay on Bra, known for its calm, turquoise waters. This is often described as a peaceful retreat, with just a few boats sharing the bay, ensuring you get a privateish experience. Malin_S reports being “completely happy with the magisk day at sea,” and the quiet environment provides a perfect end to the tour.

Why This Tour Works

What sets this tour apart is the balanced mix of active and relaxed moments. Expect to spend around 3 hours swimming, snorkeling, and strolling, with the remaining time on the boat—cruising past scenic coastlines and through the blue caves. The skipper’s expertise ensures safety and smooth transitions, while the guides’ attentiveness enhances the overall experience.

From the reviews, it’s clear that petar and Carlo make a difference, answering questions thoroughly and creating a friendly atmosphere. The fact that the trip is booked on average 21 days in advance reflects good demand, and having a mobile ticket makes planning easier.

Who will love this? Adventurous travelers who enjoy marine activities will find plenty to love, particularly with snorkeling gear provided. Those wanting a quick, scenic escape with a taste of island life will also appreciate the mixture of sightseeing and leisure.

Potential downsides? The trip involves around two hours of driving on the boat, which could be tiring for some, especially if the sea is choppy. Also, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks is recommended, especially for longer stays in Jelsa or Zeevo.

Final Thoughts: Who is this tour best for?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring several unique Croatian islands without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s suited to those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and picturesque scenery, as well as those looking for a small-group, personalized experience. The price reflects good value, considering the variety of stops and the natural beauty you’ll encounter.

If you’re interested in secluded bays, vibrant azure caves, and charming seaside towns, then this half-day trip delivers all that with a friendly, professional touch. It’s especially well-suited for active families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, including swimming, sightseeing, and travel time between stops.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat, English-speaking skipper, fuel, taxes and fees, and snorkeling equipment.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages to enjoy during free time.

How many people can join?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and personalized.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided for free, but you may bring your own if you prefer.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and families with kids who enjoy water activities should find this a fun outing.

What if the weather is bad?
Your trip depends on good weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 3 weeks ahead, but early reservations are recommended due to limited group sizes.

In a nutshell, this Makarska speedboat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Croatian island life—perfect for those who want a lively, scenic, and personalized half-day adventure. Whether snorkeling inside the Blue Cave, strolling through Jelsa, or relaxing by the Blue Lagoon, you’ll come away with stories and photos that capture Croatia’s charm. Just pack some snacks, tighten your life jacket, and prepare for an unforgettable ride along the spectacular Adriatic coast.