Makarska: 3-island Speedboat Cave & Blue Lagoon Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands without spending a fortune or committing to a full-day tour, the Makarska: 3-island Speedboat Cave & Blue Lagoon Tour might be just what you need. This roughly five-hour adventure takes you on a swift, scenic ride to Hvar, Bra, and Zeevo islands, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. It’s a well-organized trip that has earned a near-perfect rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 22 reviewers, many of whom rave about the stunning scenery and friendly guides.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances exploration and relaxation. You’ll love the chance to swim in hidden bays accessible only by boat, especially the Pokrivenik bay on Hvar, which feels like discovering a secret spot. The highlight for many is the Little Blue Cave near Hvar—small but beautiful, with no queues or entry fees, and the chance to swim right in front of it. The Blue Lagoon on Zeevo, with its palm-lined bar and inviting waters, is equally tempting for a quick dip. The tour also includes a side trip to Jelsa, the most popular town on Hvar’s north side, offering a taste of local life.

One thing to consider is the timing—the tour departs twice daily, at 8 am and 1:30 pm, which might influence your plans, especially if you prefer a more relaxed start or want to maximize daylight. Also, while the experience offers excellent value for the price, lunch isn’t included, so bringing your own snacks or planning a meal afterward might be wise.

Key points / Takeaways

Stunning small caves and bays accessible only by boat make for a memorable swim and photo opportunity.
The Little Blue Cave offers a queue-free, fee-free visit with the option to swim, unlike the larger, often crowded Blue Cave on Bievo.
The Blue Lagoon on Zeevo Island features a waterfront bar and crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling off.
The small group size (limited to 12 participants) helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
The crew is praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, especially to young travelers—one review mentioned a guide who encouraged a child to help steer the boat.
The itinerary balances active time with leisure, with about an hour in Jelsa for exploring or relaxing over coffee.

An in-depth look at the Makarska speedboat tour

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Makarska.

Starting from Makarska’s Palladium Rent a Boat

The journey begins at the Palladium Rent a Boat stand on the main promenade in Makarska. This is a straightforward meeting point, which is great if you’re already exploring the bustling seaside town. The staff is friendly, and you’ll be introduced to your skipper who will guide you through the day. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with plenty of space and good visibility for sightseeing.

The 40-minute cruise to the first stop

The first leg of the trip takes about 40 minutes and provides a perfect chance to get a feel for the Croatian coast. Expect to see dramatic cliffs and possibly spot some local wildlife or fishing boats. The ride is smooth, thanks to the experienced skipper, and the scenery is a highlight in itself.

Pokrivenik: a hidden bay with snorkeling

The first stop after the cruise is Pokrivenik, a quiet bay on Hvar that’s less visited by large tour boats. Here, you’ll have around 30 minutes to swim and snorkel in calm, clear waters. One reviewer noted the “sea being so flat,” making the snorkeling especially enjoyable. It’s a chance to relax and soak in that quintessential Croatian seaside vibe, away from crowds.

The Little Blue Cave: a smaller, crowd-free alternative

Next is the Little Blue Cave, just five minutes from Pokrivenik. Unlike the famous Blue Cave on Bievo, this one has no queues or fees—just a small, beautiful cave that you reach by swimming in front of the boat. You can snorkel inside and admire how sunlight makes the water glow. Several reviewers, like Sophia, mentioned that the guides were “super friendly” and even let a younger traveler help steer the boat—a special touch that adds to the experience.

Here's some more things to do in Makarska

Exploring Jelsa, Hvar’s northern hub

After the caves and bays, you’ll stop in Jelsa, a charming town on Hvar’s north side. You’ll have about an hour here to wander, grab a coffee, or just soak up local atmosphere. Many find this break a perfect way to get a feel for authentic Croatian life outside the tourist hotspots.

Zeevo Island’s Blue Lagoon and Bungalow Bar

Your next destination is the Blue Lagoon on Zeevo Island, a well-touted spot for swimming and relaxing. The lagoon’s waters are famously clear, and the waterfront Bungalow Bar offers drinks and snacks—perfect for a quick refresh. Expect about 45 minutes here, giving you enough time to swim, lounge, or enjoy a cold drink.

Final swims at Zirje Beach and a scenic cruise back

The last stops include Zirje Beach for another swim and snorkel, with a 20-minute dip that leaves you feeling refreshed. The return cruise to Makarska takes about 30 minutes, rounding out a day packed with scenic views and underwater exploration.

Who is this trip perfect for?

If you love small-group adventures, this tour is ideal—limited to just 12 guests, so it feels personal without feeling crowded. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and scenic boat rides, but don’t want to spend a full day away from their base. Families with older children seem to enjoy it, especially since the crew is praised for being friendly and accommodating. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in hidden bays rather than well-trodden tourist spots.

Pricing and value

At roughly five hours, with all fuel, taxes, and snorkeling gear included, the cost feels reasonable, especially considering the small group size and unique stops. Bring your own food and drinks to maximize value and comfort, as nothing is included in the price.

Practical tips for making the most of this tour

Book early—the small group size fills up quickly, especially in peak season.
Arrive prepared with swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera.
Timing matters: choose the departure that best suits your schedule; mornings might be calmer, while afternoons offer more sunlight.
Bring snacks or drinks since food isn’t included, and there are no designated dining stops.
Be ready to swim—this tour is all about enjoying the water, so non-swimmers might find it less suitable unless comfortable with shallow swimming.

Final thoughts

This Makarska boat tour offers a well-rounded, surprisingly intimate glimpse into Croatia’s stunning islands and waters. It’s a trip that’s especially valuable for those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path spots—like the quiet bays and small caves—combined with the fun of a fast-paced boat ride. The friendly guides and beautiful scenery make it stand out, and many reviews emphasize the value for money.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, the variety of stops packed into just five hours makes it a memorable and practical choice for a half-day escape. If you’re seeking a flexible, scenic, and fun way to explore Croatia’s coast without the crowds, this tour deserves a spot on your list.