3 Islands Speedboat Tour: Golden Horn, Blue Lagoon & Jelsa

The 3 Islands Speedboat Tour: Golden Horn, Blue Lagoon & Jelsa offers a vibrant half-day exploration of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. For $84 per person, this 5-hour adventure departs from Makarska and takes travelers to some of the most scenic spots around Bra and Jelsa Islands. The tour includes 3 swim stops, snorkeling gear, and visits to famous Zlatni Rat Beach and quieter, untouched bays.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its ability to combine popular landmarks like Golden Horn Beach with hidden, tranquil coves that escape the crowds. It’s ideal for those who want a compact, well-organized day on the water, but should be considered by those comfortable with boat rides and active water activities. While the price is competitive, travelers should note that food is not included and there is no onboard restroom.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $84 per person and lasts 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Main Highlights: Includes visits to Zlatni Rat Beach, Zecevo islet’s Blue Lagoon, and Jelsa on Hvar.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: Features 3 swim stops with snorkeling gear provided, perfect for exploring the underwater scenery.
• Scenic Speedboat Riding: The journey offers 20-minute and 35-minute boat sections showcasing rugged coastlines and picturesque islands.
• Small Group Setting: The maximum group size is 10 to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Weather Flexibility: In case of bad weather, full refunds or reschedules are available, emphasizing safety.

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Starting from Makarska for a Coastal Water Adventure

This speedboat tour departs from Makarska and takes about 20 minutes to reach the first stop, Zlatni Rat Beach on Bra Island. You begin the experience with a scenic cruise along the rocky coastlines of Bra, setting the tone with stunning views. The Golden Horn Beach is renowned for its unique shape and crystal-clear waters, giving plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling.

The tour’s logistics are straightforward, with pickup options depending on the chosen package. The focus remains on delivering a half-day of scenic water rides combined with leisure time on the famous sand beach or in secluded bays.

Unveiling Zlatni Rat Beach’s Charm

The Golden Horn Beach on Bra Island is a major highlight of this trip. Travelers get free time to swim and snorkel, which is especially rewarding due to the excellent clarity of the water. The snorkeling gear allows full exploration of the submerged world, with reports of seeing various fish and enjoying the peaceful environment away from crowds.

While the beach can get busy, the early morning timing of this tour helps avoid the worst crowds, and the crystal waters make it a perfect spot for a relaxing swim. For those interested in exploring the nearby old town of Bol, a 20-25 minute walk grants access to charming streets filled with Mediterranean flowers.

Exploring Secluded Bays on Bra Island

After the bustling Zlatni Rat, the boat heads to two hidden bays that are far less traveled by travelers. These untouched coves offer a chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters away from the crowds. The quietness of these bays is a major plus, allowing for peaceful moments immersed in nature.

The timing gives enough opportunity for enjoyable swims and underwater exploration, with safety equipment and snorkeling masks included. These stops provide a refreshing contrast to the popular Zlatni Rat, highlighting the tour’s emphasis on uncrowded natural spots.

Visiting Zecevo Islet’s Blue Lagoon

The journey then takes the boat towards Zecevo Islet, where travelers find a secluded Blue Lagoon. The 30-minute stop here is ideal for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. This lagoon’s calm environment and colorful underwater life make it a favorite for water enthusiasts.

The limited time means visitors should prepare to make the most of the swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The lagoon’s untouched beauty offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for relaxing after the busy Zlatni Rat stop.

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The Jelsa Visit on Hvar Island

Following the water activities, the tour includes a 45-minute stop in Jelsa on Hvar Island for sightseeing and free time. The speedboat ride to Jelsa takes approximately 50 minutes, providing stunning views of the Hvar coastline along the way.

In Jelsa, visitors can explore local streets, enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, or relax at seaside cafes. This stop adds a cultural dimension to the trip, giving a taste of Hvar’s charming town life amid the overall adventure.

Practicalities of the Tour: Logistics and Comfort

This tour’s small group size of up to 12 participants offers a more intimate experience. The group is led by guides who speak Croatian and English, ensuring clear communication and helpful insights. The boat transfers are smooth, with about 20-minute segments between stops, balancing activity with relaxation.

Participants are advised to bring sun hats, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Since no onboard restroom is available, plan accordingly. The tour also excludes food, so travelers might want to pack snacks or plan to dine after the trip.

Safety and Weather Considerations

The safety equipment and snorkel masks provided contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience. The tour has a full refund policy if bad weather makes conditions unsafe. It’s important to note that the trip is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, including back problems or mobility limitations.

The maximum group size varies depending on the boat, with 12 participants being typical. This smaller size maximizes comfort, but travelers should be prepared for boat rides that can be a bit bumpy in rough conditions.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

While many similar tours are available from Makarska, this specific speedboat trip is lauded for its focused stops and personalized group size. The Golden Horn Beach remains a major highlight despite some reviews mentioning overcrowding due to mass tourism. Other tours might include caves or cliff jumps, but this one emphasizes water-based relaxation and secluded bays.

Additional options often feature caves and more extensive sightseeing, but this tour’s strength lies in relaxed swimming stops and direct visits to iconic spots like Zlatni Rat and Jelsa.

Final Thoughts on the 3 Islands Speedboat Tour

This 5-hour adventure delivers a great mix of famous beaches and hidden bays, making it suitable for water lovers and those interested in exploring Croatia’s coastline in a compact timeframe. The included snorkeling gear and scenic boat rides are definite highlights, with personalized small-group service adding to the experience.

While food is not included and restroom access is unavailable on board, the tour’s value for money and beautiful stops make it a worthwhile choice for active travelers who enjoy water-based activities and stunning scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 5 hours, including multiple stops for swimming and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, masks, bottled water, safety equipment, and 3 swim stops are included.

Are meals provided?
No, food is not included, so travelers should bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or people with back problems, mobility issues, or seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a sun hat, change of clothes, and any personal essentials.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds or rescheduling are offered if bad weather makes conditions unsafe.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak Croatian and English.

How crowded does Zlatni Rat Beach get?
It can be crowded due to mass tourism, but arriving early helps avoid the biggest crowds.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure a spot on this small-group tour.

Where does the tour start?
The departure point depends on the selected pickup option, typically from Makarska.

This speedboat trip balances famous sights with peaceful bays, making it a memorable way to experience Croatia’s coastal beauty in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby