Makarska: Sea kayaking & snorkeling adventure

For travelers eager to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast beyond the usual photo spots, the Makarska sea kayaking and snorkeling tour offers a delightful mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local charm. Starting from Cvitaka Beach, one of the most beautiful spots on the Makarska Riviera, this trip takes you along emerald waters, past cliffs and hidden coves, ending in a peaceful Dalmatian fishing village called Bratu. The tour lasts around three hours, making it an accessible yet memorable way to experience the area’s natural splendor.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its small-group format—limited to just ten participants—and the attention to exploration and personalized guidance. The guides, who are fluent in English and Spanish, not only lead you safely along the coastline but also ensure you get plenty of opportunities to snorkel, swim, and capture stunning aerial photos thanks to the included drone footage. Two things I especially like: the stunning coastal views from the water and the professional drone photography that creates lasting memories.

On the downside, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent. Poor sea conditions could mean rescheduling or cancellation, so flexibility is key. Also, as the experience involves paddling and swimming, it’s best suited for those comfortable with water activities—non-swimmers or mobility-impaired travelers might find it less suitable.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Personalized, small-group adventures ensure a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Expert guides like the warm and knowledgeable team from MPL Nautika add a lot of value.
• The stunning scenery includes cliffs, coves, and Mount Biokovo as a dramatic backdrop.
• Underwater snorkeling gear allows you to explore the vibrant marine life off the coast.
• The drone footage—both photos and videos—is a highlight, offering a memorable keepsake.
• Tour timing is flexible, with options for morning or evening sessions, but weather can influence schedule.

Starting Point: Cvitaka Beach – A Beauty to Begin With

Your adventure kicks off at Cvitaka Beach, one of the jewel spots along the Makarska Riviera. Its shimmering white pebbles and crystal-clear waters set the perfect scene for a water-based outing. The location itself hints at the natural beauty awaiting you just off the shore. Being a popular launch spot for water sports like parasailing (which shares the same meeting point), it’s a lively yet relaxed environment that feels genuine, not overly commercialized.

The Coastal Paddle: Nature’s Masterpiece Unfolds

Once on the water, you’ll find yourself paddling along a coastline that’s equal parts dramatic cliffs and secluded coves. The guides expertly navigate the route, pointing out features like the Love Bridge at Krvavica Marina, an impressive concrete arch that’s both romantic and photogenic. From the water, you’ll gain a fresh perspective of Makarska’s towering Mount Biokovo, a rugged mountain range that forms an awe-inspiring backdrop.

Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful the coastline looks from the kayak, with Samuel, who participated in April 2025, noting: “We enjoyed the tour and saw many fish while snorkeling.” The route is curated to showcase hidden beaches and quiet spots, making it a perfect escape from crowded tourist areas.

The First Stop: Krvavica Marina and the Love Bridge

This iconic structure isn’t just a pretty photo; it symbolizes romance and connection. Professional drone photographer guides film and photograph the group here, capturing aerial shots that are included in your free package. These images help you relive the experience and offer a unique perspective you might not get elsewhere.

The Main Attraction: Bratu Village

The highlight of the trip is stopping at Bratu, a traditional Dalmatian fishing village. Surrounded by pines and charming stone houses, Bratu’s tranquil atmosphere is perfect for a swim and snorkel. Here, you’ll receive snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater scene, which many reviewers rave about. Samuel remarked: “Saw many fish while snorkeling,” confirming the marine life is lively and worth investigating.

The water in this area is described as “crystal-clear,” which makes for excellent snorkeling opportunities. The tour includes fresh fruit and water at this stop—an appreciated touch that helps you recharge before heading back.

The Return Paddle: A Quiet Reflection

Paddling back to Cvitaka Beach, you’ll enjoy the last views of Makarska’s coastline, feeling both invigorated and relaxed. It’s a gentle, scenic end to a well-curated trip, with the guides ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe. As the tour winds down, you’ll get your drone photos and videos, a perfect souvenir of this memorable excursion.

Value and Practicality: How Does It Stack Up?

At $51 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of high-quality kayaks, snorkeling equipment, waterproof bags, and the professional drone footage. The experience’s small-group nature means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides’ knowledge adds an educational layer to what might otherwise be a simple paddle.

One potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to reach the meeting point on your own—something to keep in mind when planning logistics. Also, the 3-hour duration balances enough time on the water without it becoming tiring, but do prepare for some paddling, especially in the morning sessions when cliff jumping is offered (though that’s not available in the evening).

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience appeals to active travelers who enjoy water sports, scenic landscapes, and authentic local culture. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or individuals comfortable with swimming and paddling. Families with children and non-swimmers might find it less suitable unless they’re very confident in the water. The guided aspect and beautiful scenery make it especially appealing for those wanting a balance of adventure and relaxation.

Weather and Rescheduling

Since the tour depends on good weather and sea conditions, flexibility is critical. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you’ll have the option to reschedule or get a full refund. The guides are transparent about this, so I’d recommend checking the forecast ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

If you’re craving an authentic Croatian coastal adventure that’s active but not overly strenuous, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of adventure, all under the guidance of friendly and knowledgeable locals. The inclusion of drone photos means you’ll have fantastic memories to share and cherish, making it a worthwhile investment. It’s also a great choice if you want a smaller, more personal group experience rather than a large, tour-bus style outing.

However, if you’re not comfortable in the water or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The activity requires paddling and swimming, so prepare accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting around 9:00 AM or later, depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers kayaks, paddles, life jackets (for children and adults), snorkeling gear, waterproof bags, drone photography, and refreshments like fruit salad and water.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour begins and ends at the same location as parasailing, but hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel. Dress for comfort and sun protection.

Can I do this tour if I don’t swim well?
The tour involves swimming and paddling. Non-swimmers might find it challenging; it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tour operations are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Are children allowed?
Yes, life jackets are provided for children, and small groups mean the experience can be tailored for families, but children should be comfortable with water activities.

Is cliff jumping part of the tour?
Cliff jumping is available in the morning sessions but may not be offered at all times or during evening tours.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

To sum it up, the Makarska sea kayaking and snorkeling adventure is a well-balanced, authentic activity that’s perfect for travelers seeking a blend of physical activity, natural beauty, and memorable photos. Whether you’re paddling past dramatic cliffs, swimming in crystal waters, or capturing aerial shots of the coastline, this tour offers genuine value in a stunning setting. It’s suited for those who appreciate small-group tours, active exploration, and local charm, making it a highlight for many visitors to Dalmatia.