Private south Mljet & west Elafiti islands tour

Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty is undeniable, and this private south Mljet & west Elafiti islands tour offers a fantastic way to experience its natural wonders away from the crowds. Whether you’re a lover of crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, or picturesque villages, this eight-hour journey takes you through some of Croatia’s most captivating spots. The tour’s personalized approach with a private skipper means you can tailor the experience to your interests, making it a flexible and intimate adventure.

One aspect we really appreciate is the mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and exploring. From the mesmerizing Blue Cave to tranquil beaches like Limuni and Saplunara, there’s a good balance of activity and downtime. The tour also includes stops at uninhabited Jakljan Island and the charming harbor village of Sipanska Luka, providing a well-rounded taste of the region’s diverse scenery.

However, potential travelers should note that the cost, at around $590 for a group of up to six, covers most of the essentials but excludes optional extras like lunch, wine tasting, or equipment rentals. This means the overall value depends on how many of these extras you decide to add. Still, for those seeking a private, flexible day on the water with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and authentic Croatian charm.

This experience suits travelers who want more than just a generic boat ride. If you’re looking for personalized service, stunning visuals, and the chance to discover hidden spots, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially great for small groups or couples who prefer a more exclusive day out exploring Croatia’s coastal gems.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience with a knowledgeable skipper.
• Variety of stops, from caves and beaches to villages and uninhabited islands.
• Excellent value for a full-day, personalized tour—especially with a group up to six.
• Includes snorkeling gear, towels, and drinks, enhancing comfort and fun.
• Flexible optional extras available, such as wine tasting and equipment rentals.
• Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, authentic maritime adventure.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off with a visit to the Blue Cave — a highlight that draws many visitors to Croatia. Known for its captivating blue hues created by the sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening, this spot is a real photo magnet. You’ll get to peer into its crystal-clear waters, and if you’re feeling adventurous, snorkel equipment is included to explore beneath the surface. The famous Blue Cave typically gets crowded, but since this is a private tour, you can enjoy it at a relaxed pace, avoiding the large crowds.

Next, the boat heads to Limuni Beach, situated on southeastern Mljet. Surrounded by pine forests and featuring shallow, calm waters, it’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking up the Croatian sun. The reviewer mentioned the beach’s sandy shores, which is a bonus for those tired of rocky coastlines. Spending an hour here, you can unwind, take photos or paddle around with included floaties.

Saplunara follows, offering a longer stop (around two hours). This bay is famed for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine waters, ideal for a leisurely swim or a seaside lunch. Many guests find the seafood here particularly tasty—refreshing after a morning of sightseeing. The chance to relax on the beach or dip into the clear waters makes this a highlight for many, especially since the region is renowned for its unspoiled natural settings.

Jakljan Island is an uninhabited slice of paradise. With its untouched beaches and peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect spot to disconnect. The review from a past guest emphasizes the island’s serenity and natural beauty, making it suited for those wanting a quiet escape. Since it’s free of crowds and development, you’ll likely enjoy undisturbed views and the chance to snorkel in crystal waters.

The final stop is Sipanska Luka, a charming harbor village on Ipan Island. This spot offers a picturesque setting with traditional Croatian stone houses and a laid-back vibe. You can explore the village’s historic sites or simply enjoy the views of the bay. It’s a relaxed way to wind down the day, before heading back to Dubrovnik.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Stunning Natural Wonders: The Blue Cave alone justifies the trip with its stunning light play and underwater formations. Past guests have praised the guide’s insider knowledge about the best times to visit, helping you avoid the crowds and get the most out of each stop.

Flexibility and Privacy: Being a private tour means you aren’t locked into a rigid schedule. The boat is a small speedboat, which makes maneuvering into narrower caves and secluded coves easier, plus the crew is attentive and knowledgeable, as highlighted by reviews praising guides like Paulo for their hospitality.

Inclusion of Snorkeling Equipment and Towels: These small touches make the experience more comfortable and fun. Guests often mention how the snorkeling gear allowed them to explore beneath the surface, revealing the region’s underwater beauty.

Refreshments and Optional Extras: The tour includes drinks—water, soft drinks, beer, wine—which keeps you hydrated during the day. Optional extras like wine tasting, paddle boards, or a drone for filming can be booked at additional costs, offering ways to enhance your experience if desired.

Value for Money: At just under $600 for a private group of six, the value increases if you add optional extras or plan to indulge in the food and wine options. The flexibility to customize your day adds to its appeal, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who want a more personalized adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Group Size: The 8-hour tour offers enough time to comfortably explore each site without feeling rushed. The maximum group size of 6 ensures an intimate experience, more akin to a private boat than a large sightseeing cruise.

Transportation: The tour is on a speedboat, which allows quick access to remote spots and caves, making the most of the day. Past guests find the boat’s size ideal for maneuvering into narrow caves and enjoying the swift, exhilarating ride.

Price and Extras: While the base price is $590.71 per group, keep in mind that additional costs like fuel surcharge ($230), optional extras, and meals can bump the total up. However, since food and snacks are not included, bringing your own or booking extra can be worthwhile for a full indulgence.

Weather Dependency: Like most boat trips, this tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, flexible rebooking or full refunds are offered, which adds peace of mind.

Booking in Advance: The tour is popular, often booked around 15 days ahead, so planning early is advisable.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

A review from a traveler who found this tour through Instagram highlights the attentive service and top-level hospitality from guide Paulo. They mention that Paulo knew all the “spots for amazing views, crystal clear hidden beaches, and the magical islands,” which suggests that the guide’s local knowledge really enhances the experience.

Another reviewer appreciated the “top level hospitality” provided on a six-person speedboat, emphasizing that the personalized service and insider tips made the trip memorable. The small group setting allows for a flexible and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families or groups of friends.

Final Thoughts

This private south Mljet & west Elafiti Islands tour is a superb way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal sites without the hassle of large crowds. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences, especially if you want to explore caves, beaches, and charming villages in a relaxed but well-organized manner.

For those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic vistas, and a personalized touch, the tour’s inclusion of drinks, towels, and optional extras makes it a versatile choice. The only downside might be the additional costs for extras, but the core experience offers excellent value for a private day on the water.

If you’re seeking a day of discovery, relaxation, and stunning scenery with a knowledgeable crew, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for small groups or couples wanting a tailored adventure that combines Croatia’s natural beauty with personalized service.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and relaxed day.

How many people can join?
Up to six people can join per booking, making it intimate and manageable for small groups.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the use of a speedboat, a skipper, snorkeling equipment, towels, and drinks (water, beer, wine, soft drinks). Optional extras like wine tasting or paddle boards cost extra.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can bring your own or purchase optional food and drinks during stops, especially at Saplunara.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 15 days in advance, as the tour is popular, especially in peak season.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and calm shallow waters at Limuni and Saplunara make it suitable for non-swimmers and children, with proper supervision.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Optional extras like a GO PRO or drone can be booked if you want to capture your trip from new angles.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s best to check the forecast before booking.

This private tour blends the raw beauty of Croatia’s coast with the intimacy of a tailor-made experience, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive day of exploring the Elafiti and Mljet islands.