Makarska: 3-Island Speedboat Golden Horn & Blue Lagoon Tour

A Quick Introduction to the Makarska 3-Island Speedboat Tour

This Makarska speedboat experience is a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic spots in just half a day. You start from the lively promenade in Makarska, heading out on a small-group adventure that takes you across three beautiful islands, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and snap photos of dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The tour covers the famous Golden Horn, the tranquil town of Vrboska on Hvar, and the Blue Lagoon on Zeevo, giving you a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty and charming coastal villages.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances popular sights with hidden gems — especially the stop at Nugal Beach, which offers a peaceful photo opportunity away from the crowds. Plus, the small-group size (limited to 12 guests) ensures you get personalized attention, making the experience feel comfortable and relaxed. The crew, led by a skilled skipper, is often praised for their friendliness, efficiency, and local knowledge.

One potential drawback? The itinerary’s inclusions are mostly about swimming, photos, and sightseeing. If you’re after a more cultural or culinary experience, this might feel a bit light on that front. Also, the tour’s weather dependence means if the wind or rain spoil the day, your trip could be rescheduled or refunded — so flexibility is key.

Key points/Takeaways

• Small group size (max 12) creates a relaxed, intimate vibe
• Famous sites like Golden Horn and Blue Lagoon are complemented by lesser-known stops like Nugal Beach
• Ideal for water lovers — plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities
• Efficient itinerary packed into 5 hours, with smooth boat transfers and stops
• Professional crew and a knowledgeable skipper make for a friendly experience
• Weather-dependent activity, so check local conditions before booking

Discovering Croatia’s Best on a Speedboat from Makarska

If you’re craving a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline without the hassle of a full-day tour or crowded boat trips, this 5-hour speedboat outing from Makarska is a smart pick. I found it to be particularly appealing because it offers a compact, action-packed day that hits the highlights — and leaves plenty of time to relax and soak up the scenery.

Getting Started at Palladium Rent a Boat

Your adventure begins at the Palladium Rent a Boat stand on Makarska’s main promenade. The check-in is straightforward, and you’ll want to arrive about 15 minutes early to get briefed on safety and to meet your skipper. The boats are well-equipped with sunshades, music, life jackets, and ladders for easy water access, which keeps everyone comfortable during the day.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day’s journey is arranged to maximize your time enjoying Croatia’s famous sights and hidden treasures. The first stop is just a quick 10-minute cruise from the harbor to Nugal Beach, a secluded cove framed by rugged cliffs that make for fantastic photos. You won’t spend long here — about 10 minutes — but it’s enough to appreciate the untouched beauty and snap some shots of the dramatic surroundings, much appreciated by past guests who call it a “perfect photo break.”

Next, you’ll cruise around 50 minutes to Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat) on Bra Island. This is Croatia’s most photographed beach, famed for its shifting shape that responds to the wind and currents. The boat docks right at the tip of the beach, giving you a full hour to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel. One reviewer loved this stop, saying, “Golden Horne was a fine but the beach itself is talked up to be one of the wonders of the world, which is very hard to live up to. Beautiful and nice, but not an 8th wonder of the world.” Still, it’s undeniably one of the most iconic beaches in Croatia and well worth the visit.

The trip continues with a 22-minute cruise to Vrboska, a picturesque village often called “Little Venice” because of its peaceful canals and stone architecture. Here, you’ll have about an hour to wander the quiet streets, relax at a café, or enjoy a quick lunch — many recommend Trica Gardelin for espresso and local pastries. One reviewer described Vrboska as “a small and quiet town,” perfect for a laid-back break from busy tourist spots.

From Vrboska, you’ll head to the Blue Lagoon on Zeevo Island, just a 13-minute boat ride away. This bay boasts crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Spend roughly 25 minutes enjoying the silence, the water’s warmth, and the chance to spot fish below the surface. The glowing reviews highlight the beauty of this spot: “The last stop was Lantina Beach and that was wonderful. The boat stopped to let us swim and enjoy the warm and crystal blue water.”

Finally, a scenic 50-minute cruise takes you back to Makarska, with sweeping views of Bra, Hvar, and Zeevo on the horizon. Many travelers find this peaceful cruise to be a perfect way to wind down, with some even calling it a highlight of the trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

What sets this tour apart is the combination of iconic beaches, charming towns, and hidden coves. The stops are thoughtfully planned, giving you a good mix of active swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. The inclusion of snorkeling sets and the chance to capture breathtaking photos at every stop make it worthwhile for those who want memorable moments.

The small group size — usually no more than 12 participants — allows the crew to offer a more personalized experience. Guests often praise the crew’s friendliness, especially noting how the skipper makes the ride fun and engaging. One review mentioned, “The crew was incredibly kind, welcoming, and made us feel like VIPs,” which is a testament to the positive atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear, towels, and water shoes — the water is warm, but stones and rocks might be slippery
• Pack snacks and drinks if you want more variety than the provided water
• Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and safety instructions
• Weather can influence your trip — in case of rain or strong winds, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded
• Limitations: No pets, babies under 3, or people with mobility issues; restroom facilities are only available during stops
• Enjoy the scenery and take lots of photos — the views of cliffs and coastlines are stunning

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is especially suited for water lovers, small groups who appreciate personal attention, and those eager to see the most photographed beaches and quaint Croatian villages. It’s ideal if you want a flexible, fun-filled day that balances sightseeing with swimming. Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility or those traveling with very young children.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a half-day escape into Croatia’s natural beauty, this speedboat trip from Makarska delivers. It’s a wonderful way to visit Croatia’s most iconic beaches, like Zlatni Rat, while also exploring peaceful towns like Vrboska and swimming in crystal-clear waters at Zeevo’s Blue Lagoon. The small group size, knowledgeable crew, and breathtaking scenery make it a trip that many travelers find rewarding, especially if they want an active, memorable day on the water.

The tour’s value lies in its efficient itinerary and intimate atmosphere. For around five hours, you get a taste of Croatia’s best — stunning beaches, charming villages, and beautiful coastline — all without the crowds or hassle of bigger tours. If you’re after an authentic taste of the Dalmatian coast with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photography, this experience is a very good choice.

This tour suits those who love the outdoors, want a relaxed pace, and appreciate local charm. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a memorable, scenic adventure that captures Croatia’s essence on the water.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, with departure times usually at 8:00 AM or 1:30 PM. Always check availability for your preferred time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins from Palladium Rent a Boat on the main promenade in Makarska and ends back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, snorkeling set, taxes & fees, and a bottle of water.

Are meals or drinks provided?
No, food and other drinks are not included but you are welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with limited mobility.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is dependent on weather conditions. If the weather is unfavorable, your trip may be rescheduled or refunded, so stay flexible and check local forecasts.

This small-group speedboat trip from Makarska offers a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s best beaches and charming coastlines. With well-organized stops, friendly crew, and stunning scenery, it’s a memorable adventure that captures the essence of Dalmatia’s natural beauty.