Makarska Ferries

The port of Makarska plays a key role in the ferry network of Croatia, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 3 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Makarska serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Makarska, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Korcula - Makarska, Bol - Makarska connecting Makarska with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Krilo Kapetan Luka run regular services from Makarska, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Makarska offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Makarska is well-connected to major Croatian cities, with Split being the nearest transportation hub just 60km northwest along the coastal highway. Buses run regularly from Split (approximately 1-1.5 hours) and Dubrovnik (3 hours), making it easily accessible for travelers. If arriving internationally, Split Airport is the closest option, followed by a bus or taxi transfer to Makarska. The ferry terminal is centrally located near the main promenade, with local buses and taxis readily available. For those driving, several public parking areas are available near the port, though spaces fill quickly during summer months.

Nestled between the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and the dramatic peaks of Biokovo Mountain, Makarska represents the heart of the stunning Croatian Riviera. This charming port town blends Mediterranean atmosphere with Croatian heritage, offering visitors a perfect balance of natural beauty and vibrant coastal culture. As an important ferry hub along the Dalmatian coast, Makarska serves as both a captivating destination and a gateway to Croatia's beloved islands.

Makarska enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild winters. The peak tourist season runs from June through August, when temperatures average 26-30°C and the town pulses with energy and events. May and September offer an excellent balance of warm weather, swimmable sea temperatures, and fewer crowds, making them ideal for visitors seeking a more relaxed experience. The Makarska Cultural Summer, featuring various performances and exhibitions, runs throughout July and August. Ferry services operate year-round but increase in frequency during summer months, with additional routes to nearby islands.

Makarska serves as an excellent launching point for exploring Croatia's celebrated islands. The island of Brač, famous for its distinctive Zlatni Rat beach, is accessible via a 50-minute ferry journey. Hvar, known for its lavender fields, historic Venetian architecture, and vibrant nightlife, can be reached in approximately 1.5 hours. The peaceful island of Korčula, with its medieval walled town and alleged birthplace of Marco Polo, makes for a fascinating day trip or longer stay. For the adventurous traveler, seasonal catamarans connect Makarska with more distant islands like Lastovo and Mljet, offering opportunities to explore untouched natural paradises.

Makarska's stunning beaches, particularly the main city beach with its pine-fringed promenade, offer perfect spots for swimming and sunbathing in the crystal-clear Adriatic. The Franciscan Monastery houses a fascinating Malacological Museum with one of Europe's finest seashell collections, while the central square's St. Mark's Church provides a glimpse into local history. Food enthusiasts should sample fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants, where specialties include black risotto, grilled fish, and pašticada (marinated beef stew). The Kačić Square and harbor area come alive in the evenings, with cafés and bars offering local wines and spirits against the backdrop of moored fishing boats and yachts.

Makarska's natural harbor has been used since ancient times, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. The town's name likely derives from the Makarski dialect word 'makar,' meaning 'coastal settlement.' Despite its peaceful appearance, Makarska has survived numerous historical challenges, including a devastating earthquake in 1962 that destroyed much of the old town, leading to careful reconstruction. The town sits at the foot of Biokovo Nature Park, home to over 1,500 plant species, including many that exist nowhere else on Earth.