A day on a speedboat turns the Adriatic into your playground. This 5-hour cruise from Makarska hits the famous Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat) beach, then follows up with swim-and-snorkel time at quiet bays on Brac before returning to town. It’s the kind of trip where the biggest plans are simple: hop off, get in the water, and enjoy the views from up high.

I especially like two things. First, snorkeling gear and safety gear are included, so you can spend less time shopping for extras and more time enjoying the water. Second, the tour includes an admission fee for Golden Horn beach, which makes that iconic stop feel more “complete,” not just a quick photo break.

One thing to keep in mind: this isn’t a good match if you get motion or sea sickness, and there’s no restroom on board. Plan around that, and you’ll have a much smoother day.

Key Highlights You’ll Want to Know Before You Go

• Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat) beach time with admission included
• Snorkeling equipment included, plus safety gear
• A guide named Greg who shares destination stories and goes the extra mile
• Two quiet swim bays with crystal-clear water time
• Pickup may be available, with an exact time confirmed the day before
• Lunch and an on-board restroom are not included, so plan accordingly

Setting Off From Makarska: Your 5-Hour Speedboat Rhythm

This tour runs about 5 hours and takes off from the Rent a Boat Makarska location (Promare Charter, Marineta ul. 12). You’ll feel the pace right away. Speedboats aren’t about drifting slowly past coastlines; they’re about speed, angles, and big views of Brac’s rugged shoreline as you go.

The group size stays capped at 48 people, which helps keep things organized without feeling crowded. It also makes it easier to find your spot on board for shade or sun. You’ll be on the water long enough to enjoy that “we’re really going somewhere” feeling, but not so long that the day turns into a slog.

If weather isn’t good, the tour requires solid conditions. That matters because this style of day is built around water time, not just a bus-and-walk itinerary on land.

Zlatni Rat Beach in Bol: Golden Horn Time That Actually Works

The headline stop is Zlatni Rat Beach, also known as the Golden Horn. You get time here to swim and snorkel, and the admission fee is included. That’s a small detail with a big impact: it removes one more ticket step and helps you settle in faster once you arrive.

Bol’s beach setting has an easy, postcard quality, but what I like most is that you’re not limited to standing near the waterline. The plan includes downtime where you can choose your pace—float, swim, snorkel, or take a walk. If you want to stretch your legs, you can walk to Bol’s old town and wander through old stone streets with colorful Mediterranean flowers.

Practical note: the better you plan your water time, the happier you’ll be. Snorkeling requires a bit of physical effort and a bit of comfort in open water. If you’re confident in the water, this stop can be the emotional highlight of the day.

Between Stops on Brac: Snorkeling in Two Hidden Bays

After Golden Horn, the cruise shifts to the quieter side of Brac. You’ll head to two hidden bays with time to swim and snorkel in clear water. This is where you’ll likely feel the contrast: the first beach is famous and scenic; the bays are more about calm water and getting that “we found a good spot” feeling.

Snorkeling gear and safety equipment are provided, which is a big deal if you’re traveling light. You don’t have to rent equipment separately or worry about whether you have the right mask fit.

One useful detail from the experience: cold water is part of the package. Even if you’re visiting in warm weather, expect the sea to feel cooler once you’re in it and once you’re back on the boat. If you tend to get chilly fast, plan for it so the fun stays fun.

Also, the cruise day uses the boat to move you between stops, not to keep you entertained with activities. The main event is the water time. If you want quiet, this section delivers.

Blue Lagoon and Jelsa Town: How to Use the Stops You’ll Have

The tour title promises Blue Lagoon and Jelsa Town, and that naming isn’t random. This trip is structured around three areas: Golden Horn, the Blue Lagoon-style water time, and time related to Jelsa.

Here’s how I suggest you think about it. Your schedule has multiple “mini missions.” You’ll want to prioritize comfortable gear at the water stops, then switch gears for whatever time you’re given near Jelsa and the shoreline area. If you’re the type who likes to take photos, this is where you do it—when the boat pauses and you can stand somewhere and really look.

Since lunch isn’t included, use any land/shore time to make small choices that keep you comfortable. You’ll probably feel hungrier than you expect once you add sun, movement, and swimming. If you wait until you’re starving, your decisions get worse.

Your Guide Can Make (or Break) the Day: Greg’s Storytelling Touch

The standout detail that shows up again and again is the guide experience, especially when Greg is leading. What makes him memorable isn’t just being friendly. He tells short, destination-focused stories when you arrive, which turns the day into more than scenery.

There’s also a practical side to that helpful energy. When someone couldn’t manage a deeper water try for a shell during the last stop, Greg swam about 8 meters down to help retrieve it. That’s the kind of extra effort that makes people feel taken care of, not just processed.

If you like guides who chat without turning it into a lecture, you’re in good shape here. The trip has time to breathe and time to enjoy the water, and the guide’s role feels like an add-on that improves the experience instead of taking over.

Price and Logistics: Is $96.12 a Good Value?

At $96.12 per person, the value comes down to what you’re not paying for separately. This price includes bottled water, snorkeling equipment, safety equipment, and insurance. It also includes the admission fee for Golden Horn beach. Those items add up quickly if you have to arrange them on your own in a coastal town.

What’s not included is also important. Lunch isn’t included, and there’s no restroom on board. That means the total cost of “being comfortable” may rise slightly depending on how you handle food and breaks. If you’re the kind of traveler who relies on a sit-down meal at set times, this itinerary might feel limiting.

Also, pickup can be offered, and if it is, the exact time is confirmed the day before. That helps, but it also means you should stay flexible on timing. A day like this runs on weather and sea conditions as much as it runs on the clock.

Good to know: mobile tickets are used, and it’s offered in English. That reduces friction when you’re trying to coordinate with a group.

Practical Tips for a Smoother Day on the Water

Here’s how you can make this speedboat day feel easy instead of chaotic.

First, dress for sun and splashes, not for a dry day. Bring swim-ready clothing and a plan for what you’ll do with wet items. You’ll want simple gear you can manage quickly between snorkeling and stepping back on board.

Second, pack with the no-restroom reality in mind. If you’re someone who needs frequent restroom access, this is a key consideration. The tour doesn’t provide that on board.

Third, if you’re tempted to skip breakfast or a snack, don’t. Lunch isn’t included, and water time plus sun can make you feel hungry faster than you expect.

Fourth, consider your sea comfort. This is specifically not recommended for people with sea or motion sickness. Even if you’re usually fine, speedboat movement can be enough to tip you over the edge.

Finally, take weather seriously. The tour requires good weather and will be adjusted if conditions are poor—either a different date or a full refund.

Who Should Book This Makarska Speedboat Tour

This is best for you if you want a high-mobility water day. You’ll like it if you enjoy swimming, want included snorkeling gear, and prefer short stops with real time in the water over long transit days.

You’ll also appreciate it if you like your destinations explained. Having a guide who tells stories at each arrival—like Greg’s approach—adds context without slowing the day down.

This trip may not be your best choice if:

• you have trouble with motion or sea sickness
• you need restroom access on board
• you’re looking for a slow, purely land-based sightseeing day
• you’re traveling with anyone over 70, since it’s not recommended for that age group

Should You Book? My Decision Guide

If your ideal day includes Golden Horn at Bol, snorkeling gear that’s already handled, and two quieter swim bays after the main beach stop, this tour is a strong fit. The price feels fair when you count what’s included—especially snorkeling gear, safety gear, insurance, and the Golden Horn admission.

I’d book it if you’re flexible, comfortable on a boat, and happy to keep the day simple: swim when you can, explore the brief land moments when they’re offered, then head back to Makarska.

If you’re unsure because of sea comfort or restroom needs, take that seriously. A great route can still be the wrong experience if your body won’t cooperate.

FAQ

How long is the 3 Islands speedboat tour from Makarska?

It runs for about 5 hours.

How much does it cost per person?

The price is $96.12 per person.

What’s included in the tour price?

Bottled water, snorkeling equipment, safety equipment, insurance, and admission for Golden Horn beach are included.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included.

Is there a restroom on board?

No, a restroom on board is not included.

Is pickup available?

Pickup is offered, and the exact pickup time varies by location and is confirmed the day before your tour.

You Might Also Enjoy

Speed Boat Tour to Elaphiti Caves and Sandy Beach from DubrovnikMakarska: 3-Island Golden Horn and Blue Lagoon Speedboat TourGlória: Sunset Speedboat Cruise with Drinks and SnacksFrom Omis: Blue Cave & 5 Island Speedboat Tour