Ferry to Makarska

Compare all available ferry crossings and secure the best deals for your journey. At Openferry, we make it easy to find and book ferry tickets to and from Makarska in just a few clicks.

Because ferry travel can be seasonal, frequencies and departure times often change throughout the year. We recommend using our live search to see the most accurate schedules and information for your travel dates including:

Popular Connections: The port of Makarska connects to several high-traffic destinations, including Pomena - Makarska, Korcula - Makarska, Dubrovnik - Makarska.

Top-Tier Operators: Regular services to and from Makarska are provided by leading carriers like Krilo Kapetan Luka.

Amenities vary depending on the specific vessel and operator, but most ferries serving Makarska feature:

Comfortable Seating: Options ranging from standard lounges to premium airplane-style seats.

Dining & Leisure: Onboard cafés and restaurants serving food and drinks.

Travel Essentials: Restroom facilities and, on longer routes, private cabins for added privacy.

Vehicle Transport: Most sailings accommodate cars, motorbikes, and campervans, allowing you to take your own transport to Makarska.

Makarska is currently served by 10 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry operators including Krilo Kapetan Luka.

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.