Makarska: 2-Island Escape – Hvar, Blue Lagoon & Cliff Jumps

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast often means visiting famous spots like Dubrovnik or Split, but this Makarska-based speedboat tour offers a chance to uncover some of the lesser-known gems of Hvar island. Designed for those craving an adventurous, scenic day on the water, this trip combines stunning natural beauty, fun activities, and charming stops.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to visit exclusive bays accessible only by boat. Second, the variety of activities like snorkeling and cliff jumping keep the day lively. And third, the small group size ensures a personalized atmosphere with plenty of attention from the skipper. One consideration to keep in mind is that there’s no onboard restroom, so planning ahead for bathroom breaks is helpful.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love scenic boat rides, spotting wildlife like dolphins, and exploring unspoiled coastal landscapes. It’s especially great for those seeking a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery without the crowds.

Key Points

• Unique coastal exploration: Visit bays only reachable by boat, avoiding tourist crowds.
• Active fun: Snorkeling and cliff jumps in crystal-clear water.
• Authentic experience: Free time in Jelsa for local sights and cafes.
• Expert guides: Small groups with friendly, knowledgeable skippers.
• Good value: At around $81, offering multiple stops and activities.
• Weather contingency: Full refunds or rescheduling in case of bad weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting Point and Start

The adventure begins on the Makarska waterfront at the Promare Boat Charter desk, just a short walk from the Ferris wheel. The group size is limited to 10 or 12 people, depending on the boat, which means a more intimate and engaging experience. It’s worth arriving a few minutes early to settle in and get comfortable.

Panoramic Cruise to Veliki Pokrivenik

Your trip kicks off with a 35-minute speedboat cruise along the Dalmatian coast, offering sweeping views of Makarska and the surrounding islands. This ride sets the tone for the day—scenic, fun, and a bit exhilarating—thanks to the breeze and the chance to spot local wildlife or even dolphins. This first stop is Veliki Pokrivenik bay, a hidden treasure on Hvar’s north shore.

Veliki Pokrivenik is less crowded than more famous bays, which makes it perfect for enjoying peaceful swimming and snorkeling. The bay features dramatic cliffs, pebble beaches, and a secret cave that adds a sense of adventure. Reviewers mention that snorkelling here is a highlight, with vibrant fish and clear waters that make viewing underwater life easy and enjoyable.

Mala Stiniva: Cliff-Jumping and Stunning Views

Next, you’ll head to Mala Stiniva, a picture-perfect rocky cove with towering cliffs dropping straight into the sea. This spot is renowned for its beauty and the thrill of cliff jumping—if you’re feeling brave. The cliffs provide an adrenaline rush and fantastic photo opportunities.

Travelers like Scott and Hannah highlight Mala Stiniva as a favorite, especially the cliff jumps and the striking scenery. The water is crystal-clear, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling after the jumps. It’s worth noting that some reviews mention staying on Hvar for the night instead of visiting all stops, so if you want to maximize this stop, plan accordingly.

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Jelsa Town: Free Time & Cultural Charm

After the exhilarating jumps, the tour moves to Jelsa, a charming town with a laid-back vibe. Here, you’ll get some free time—perfect for grabbing a coffee, exploring local shops, or strolling through historic streets. Reviewers mention that Jelsa’s picturesque port and pleasant atmosphere make it a delightful spot to soak up local life away from tourist hotspots.

This stop adds a layer of cultural authenticity, giving a taste of small-town Dalmatian life. It’s also a great chance to see some of the island’s history through local monuments and architecture.

Zeevo Islet: Unspoiled Nature & Snorkeling

Across from Jelsa lies Zeevo Islet, an uninhabited, protected landscape renowned for its untouched nature and turquoise waters. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, with clear, calm seas around the island. Many guests enjoy relaxing on the tiny beach or visiting the beach bar if they want a quick drink or snack.

From reviews, it’s clear that Zeevo is a favorite for its serenity and pristine environment. The fact that it’s a landscape protected area makes it feel like you’re discovering a secret paradise.

Return Journey and Optional Dolphin Sightings

The trip back to Makarska offers another scenic ride, often with the chance to see dolphins if lucky—something several reviews mention. Goran, the skipper praised in reviews, is attentive and skilled at navigating choppy waters to ensure everyone’s comfort.

The Value and Practicalities

Price and Inclusions

At $81 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. The price includes a professional skipper, snorkeling masks and snorkels, bottled water, warm jackets, safety equipment, and insurance. There are no additional charges for the stops or activities, making it a transparent option.
A key advantage highlighted in reviews is the quality of guiding and the small group size, which creates a more personalized adventure. Guests frequently mention the friendliness and expertise of guides like Greg and Marco, who go the extra mile—whether that’s taking an extra stop or helping with a flying cap.

What’s Not Included

Food isn’t included, so it’s wise to bring some snacks or plan to grab a bite in Jelsa. There’s no onboard restroom, which is a consideration for longer trips or if you have specific needs. Bottled water is provided, but bringing sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes is recommended.

Timing and Group Size

The tour generally lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that fits well into a flexible Croatia itinerary. The capped group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd and allows for more interaction with the skipper. The boat’s capacity varies slightly, but the small group size is consistently praised.

Weather and Flexibility

Tours are weather-dependent, with full refunds or rescheduling offered if conditions aren’t suitable. This flexibility ensures you won’t be stuck with a disappointing experience due to bad weather.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

What sets this tour apart is its focus on off-the-beaten-path locations. Unlike crowded beaches, the bays visited—Veliki Pokrivenik and Mala Stiniva—offer a more intimate connection with nature. Reviewers mention the opportunity to spot dolphins and the friendly guide’s efforts to enhance the trip (like taking extra stops or sharing local knowledge).

The stop in Jelsa allows travelers to get a taste of authentic Dalmatian life, with some reviewers noting it as a highlight. Zeevo Islet’s untouched landscape offers a peaceful retreat from tourist-heavy spots, adding a sense of discovery.

The combination of activities—snorkeling in azure waters, cliff jumping, and relaxing on quiet beaches—creates a balanced day of adventure and leisure. The small group size ensures everyone feels comfortable trying new activities and asking questions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities like snorkeling and jumping. It’s also suited for those who appreciate beautiful scenery and want to skip the crowds. If you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer a more personalized experience, this small-group tour guarantees that.

However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness, as the ride can get choppy. Since there’s no restroom onboard, it’s better suited for those comfortable with brief stops and quick bathroom breaks.

The Sum Up

This Makarska to Hvar island speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s most stunning, lesser-known spots. With its focus on natural beauty, active fun, and small group intimacy, it stands out as a lively yet relaxed day out. Travelers who love scenic water excursions, snorkeling, and discovering tucked-away bays will find plenty to enjoy here.

The tour’s affordability—considering the stops, activities, and guide quality—makes it an excellent value. Whether you’re seeking a thrill with cliff jumps, a peaceful snorkeling session, or a taste of local life in Jelsa, this experience covers all the bases.

For those wanting a genuine, action-packed day with friendly guides and unforgettable scenery, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 4 hours, providing enough time to explore several beautiful spots without feeling rushed.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, masks and snorkels are provided for all guests at no extra cost, so you can enjoy the underwater scenery comfortably.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and choose to pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Are there any age restrictions?
While the tour is suitable for most ages, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness. The group size is limited to ensure safety and comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a towel, and any personal items you might need for a few hours on the water.

Is food provided during the trip?
No, food isn’t included, so consider bringing snacks or eating beforehand. There are options to buy refreshments in Jelsa or Zeevo.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather isn’t suitable, the trip will be rescheduled or refunded in full, ensuring peace of mind.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
No, there’s no restroom on the boat, so plan accordingly before departing.

This tour is an excellent choice for those craving a fun, scenic, and authentic slice of Croatia’s coastal beauty, with just enough adventure to keep it memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: