Hvar (Hidden Bays) & Brac (Golden Horn) PRIVATE full day tour

Explore Croatia’s Iconic Islands on a Private Full-Day Boat Tour

This private full-day boat tour offers an intimate way to experience the stunning islands of Hvar and Brac from Makarska. Priced at $406.28 per group (up to 6 people), the tour provides a 9-hour adventure filled with swimming, snorkeling, and exploring scenic spots accessible only by boat. The tour is highly recommended, boasting a perfect 5.0-star rating from 71 reviews, with 100% of participants endorsing it as worth booking.

The experience begins at 9:00 am from Palladium Rent a Boat in Makarska, with all taxes, fees, and snorkeling gear included. This tour suits those seeking a personalized, flexible day on the water—ideal for families, friends, or small groups. While it offers many highlights, guests should be aware of additional costs for the skipper fee and fuel surcharge.

Key Points

• Private boat experience for up to 6 people at $406.28 total
• 9 hours of sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring
• Visit Hvar‘s hidden bays, Vrboska, Zeevo, and Mala Stiniva
• See Brac’s Golden Horn beach, famed for its shifting pebble tip
• All snorkel gear and bottled water provided
• Optional skipper fee and fuel surcharge apply; lunch not included

How This Tour Stands Out: Private, Personalized, and Flexible

This full-day private boat tour emphasizes personalized service with a dedicated boat and your own group. The skipper guides you to exclusive spots like Irje Beach and Zeevo Island, places that are only reachable via boat. With snorkeling gear included, you can easily enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Croatia’s coast.

The 9-hour duration allows enough time to visit multiple locations at a relaxed pace, with the flexibility to spend more or less time at each stop. The tour includes free time for exploring Vrboska, a charming town often called the “Little Venice,” and swimming at various scenic spots. The private nature of the trip ensures your group can customize the experience based on your interests.

Irje Beach on Bra Island: A Quiet Paradise

The tour’s first stop is the peaceful bay of Irje on Bra Island. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and rocky shoreline bordered by pine trees, this secluded spot is perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkeling. The calm environment makes it an ideal location to relax away from crowds, especially since it is accessible only by boat.

Guests appreciate the serene setting, which offers total serenity and an authentic experience of Croatia’s untouched nature. The 40-minute stop allows plenty of time to enjoy the water, take photos, or simply soak up the quiet beauty of the bay.

Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn): Croatia’s Most Iconic Beach

Next, the tour visits Zlatni Rat, also called the Golden Horn. This famous white-pebble beach is well-known for its dynamic shape, which shifts with the tides and winds. Visitors have free time to swim, sunbathe, or stroll along the shoreline, taking in the spectacular views.

The hour spent here gives ample opportunity to relax on the pebble beach and take memorable photos of one of Croatia’s most recognizable beaches. Its unique shape and constant movement make it a fascinating site for both photography and leisure.

Vrboska: Discover the “Little Venice” of Hvar

Vrboska offers a two-and-a-half-hour period of free time to explore on your own or enjoy a lunch break. This charming town features narrow, winding canals, traditional Dalmatian houses, and stone bridges, creating a quaint and peaceful atmosphere.

Guests enjoy wandering through its streets, browsing local shops, or sitting at a waterfront café. The relaxed pace ensures you have enough time to soak up the local vibe or even grab a quick ice cream before heading back to the boat.

Zeevo Island and the Blue Lagoon: Snorkeling and Peaceful Hideouts

The tiny island of Zeevo presents a blue lagoon that’s perfect for snorkeling, floating, and soaking up the peaceful island vibes. This uninhabited location is only accessible by boat, making it an exclusive escape. The 45-minute stop here is ideal for relaxing in calm waters and exploring underwater life.

Nearby, the tour stops at Mala Stiniva, a hidden bay surrounded by dramatic cliffs. It’s a popular spot for cliff jumping and swimming, with crystal-clear waters and a rugged, scenic backdrop. This 30-minute visit encourages adventure, whether for jumping or just unwinding in the quiet bay.

The Allure of Mala Stiniva for Cliff Jumpers and Swimmers

Accessible only by boat, Mala Stiniva is known for its crystal-clear water and spectacular cliffs. It’s a spot that attracts those eager to cliff jump or simply enjoy a swim amid stunning scenery. The surrounding cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, making it a highlight for adventure seekers and those seeking a more active experience.

The 30-minute stop offers enough time to explore or test your nerve with a jump, while still leaving plenty of time in the day for other locations.

All-Inclusive Pricing and Additional Costs

The tour includes a boat rental, all taxes, fees, insurance, final cleaning, and bottled water. Guests also have use of snorkeling equipment, making it easy to enjoy the water.

However, there are additional costs to consider: a skipper fee of $100 (standard) or $200 (premium), and a fuel surcharge of $150. Lunch is not included, giving guests the flexibility to plan their own meals or purchase locally. These costs are clearly outlined, ensuring transparency.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at Palladium Rent a Boat, Marineta ul. 15 in Makarska. The boat departs promptly at 9:00 am, with the activity concluding back at the same meeting point. The private nature of the tour means no large groups, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

Since the tour is full-day, travelers should wear comfortable clothing and bring essentials like swimsuits, towels, and sun protection. The mobile ticket feature allows for easy access, and most travelers can participate with no special physical requirements.

The Experience and What Past Guests Say

Guests consistently praise the professionalism of the crew and knowledgeable guides, with Luka, Ante, Petar, and Karlo standing out as standout skippers. The flexibility of the tour allows for customized experiences, and the hidden spots visited are often highlighted as the trip’s best parts.

Many reviews mention how snorkeling, cliff jumping, and visiting secluded beaches make the day memorable. Several guests appreciate the friendly, helpful attitude of the staff and the smooth organization that makes the day relaxing.

The Best Fit for This Tour

This private boat trip is ideal for small groups seeking an intimate, flexible day on the water. It suits those interested in exploring lesser-known spots, enjoying snorkeling, and having free time in picturesque towns like Vrboska. The cost and additional fees should be considered when planning, but the personalized experience and beautiful scenery offer excellent value.

This tour particularly appeals to those who appreciate professional guides, customized itineraries, and exclusive access to Croatia’s stunning islands. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends who want a relaxed, scenic cruise with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and adventure.

This full-day private boat tour combines scenic cruising with visits to some of the most iconic and secluded spots around Hvar and Brac. From the peaceful waters of Irje Beach to the famous Golden Horn, the tour showcases Croatia’s natural beauty and hidden treasures. The 9-hour experience offers an ideal balance of relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

The dedicated skipper, snorkeling gear, and flexible schedule make this trip a standout choice for anyone wanting a personalized and scenic day at sea. The high praise from previous guests confirms its quality, making it a top recommendation for small groups eager to discover Croatia’s lesser-known waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The price covers boat rental, all taxes, fees, insurance, final cleaning, bottled water, and use of snorkeling equipment.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the chance to bring your own or purchase locally at stops like Vrboska.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops vary from 30 minutes at Mala Stiniva to 2 hours and 30 minutes at Vrboska, providing a good mix of activity and relaxation.

What additional costs should I expect?
Guests should budget for a skipper fee of $100 or $200 (depending on the option) and a fuel surcharge of $150.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private experience, the tour can be tailored within the scheduled stops, but specific customization details depend on the operator.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include swimming and snorkeling at Irje Beach, visiting Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), exploring Vrboska, and cliff jumping at Mala Stiniva.

What makes this tour different from others in Makarska?
The private, personalized nature and access to hidden bays and less crowded beaches set this tour apart, offering a more relaxed and exclusive experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, with snorkeling gear provided and stops at calm waters, it is suitable for families with children who are comfortable in the water.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sun protection, and any personal items needed for a full day at sea.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour offers free time at key locations, and the skipper can adjust the pace within the scheduled stops, making it a relaxed day tailored to your interests.

This private Hvar and Brac full-day boat tour offers a perfect combination of scenic beauty, secluded beaches, and personalized service, making it an excellent choice for discovering Croatia’s most stunning islands with comfort and flexibility.