Find and book ferry tickets to and from Makarska
An iconic view of Makarska
Makarska boasts 10 ferry routes operated by 1 top-tier ferry companies. Get ready for a convenient sailing experience from Makarska, with schedules perfectly tailored to the seasons, ensuring you always find your ideal departure.
Makarska offers connections to popular routes like Bol - Makarska, Korcula - Makarska, Pomena - Makarska. You can customise your trip by choosing between a swift high-speed ferry to get there in a flash or a classic vessel for a more scenic, relaxing journey. From quick local hops to leisurely overnight voyages, your adventure starts here.
Getting to your destination is a breeze with several excellent ferry operators departing regularly from Makarska. You'll find companies like Krilo Kapetan Luka ready to whisk you away.
Each offers a variety of onboard amenities to make your journey pleasant, from comfortable seating and delicious food and drink options to private cabins and even vehicle transport.
With a range of ticket options available depending on the company and vessel, there's something to suit everyone, whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a business trip.
Whether you're dreaming of an escape, making your way back to the comfort of home, or embarking on a brand-new journey, your perfect voyage begins right here with Makarska.
Route Overview
Date Updated: 2025
Reaching Makarska's Shores
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.
Popular Routes
Makarska: The Jewel of the Croatian Riviera
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.
When to Experience Makarska's Magic
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.
Ferries to and from Makarska
Island Adventures from Makarska Harbor
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.
Coastal Pleasures in Makarska
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 Hidden Stories
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.
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