About this tour
When Tom from our team booked this private speedboat, we got a full day exploring the Dalmatian islands around Hvar and Brač — think hidden sea caves, cliff-jumping spots, and turquoise lagoons. The real pull here is the flexibility: you're not locked into a fixed itinerary, so if the skipper knows a better snorkel spot or the weather shifts, you pivot. It's nine hours of your own boat with an English-speaking local captain, which beats fighting a crowded catamaran. The boats come in three tiers (Standard, Comfort, Luxury), and you're covering fuel separately, so budget accordingly. You'll swim, snorkel, and likely jump off rocks — it's the kind of day that justifies a Croatian coast trip.
Highlights
- Customisable route; swap Blue Cave for Golden Horn or build your own day
- Private boat means you set the pace and anchor where you want
- Cliff-jumping at Mala Stiniva bay; snorkel kit provided
- Professional, English-speaking skippers who know the coast well
- Nine hours of water access; three boat grades suit different budgets
- Fuel charged separately; transparency on actual costs
- Pickup arranged along Makarska Riviera (free from two towns)
- Bottled water and insurance included throughout
What to expect
You'll start with a briefing on your boat — Standard, Comfort, or Luxury fleet — and your skipper will confirm which stops you fancy (Little Blue Cave, Mala Stiniva, Blue Lagoon, or your custom combo). The pace is genuinely yours: anchoring in shallow bays for snorkelling, stopping at cliff-jumping spots if that's your thing, or just drifting to a quieter cove for a swim. Tom found the skippers know the islands intimately, so even if you say "surprise us," they'll have solid suggestions. Expect some boat time between islands — it's not a hop-on-hop-off experience. Water's glassy on calm days, choppier when the wind picks up, which is worth knowing if you're prone to seasickness.
Lunch isn't included, so either bring a picnic or organise a stop at a waterside restaurant (your skipper can advise). Snorkelling is straightforward — the equipment's on board. Be prepared for the fuel cost: €100–250 depending on your boat size and how far you roam. It's factored into the total, but not frontloaded, so confirm with the operator before you leave.
Good to know
This is genuinely private — no stranger-strangers, no set schedule, no rushing. The boat fleet is well-maintained, skippers speak proper English, and the Croatian coast delivers: caves, cliffs, and water so clear you'll see your toes. If you're a small group (up to 6–8 people depending on boat) or a couple wanting a tailor-made day, it beats group tours hands down. The snorkel kit and water are included.
Fuel isn't included upfront — you'll pay €100–250 extra depending on boat size and distance. Standard and Comfort boats add a €100 skipper fee in cash on the day (Luxury includes the crew). It's not a budget option once you add those costs. The experience depends partly on sea state; rough days mean less comfort. Not suitable if you have back problems or poor cardiovascular health (bouncing on a speedboat isn't gentle). Infants must sit on a lap — no dedicated seats.
Bring sun protection, a rash vest, and a waterproof bag. Book in advance, especially summer. Pickup from Makarska and Tučepi is free; other Riviera spots cost extra. Group size is typically 2–8 people. Peak season (June–September) gets busier, but your private boat sidesteps crowding.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.