Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Tour with 6.5m/21FT SunDeck Boat

Discover the Beauty of Dubrovnik’s Elaphite Islands by Private Boat

This Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Tour with a 21-foot SunDeck boat promises a peaceful, personalized day on the water, exploring Croatia’s stunning islands away from busy cruise ships and crowded tours. Imagine setting your own pace, choosing how long to linger at each spot, and enjoying the privacy of your own boat with a skipper. It’s an excellent way to see the islands at your leisure while soaking up the sun and splashing in crystal-clear waters.

What we love most about this experience is its flexibility—whether you want to spend hours snorkeling around islands or relax on deck with a cold drink, this tour adapts to your preferences. Plus, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a seamless adventure. A potential downside? Because it’s a private tour, it might feel a little pricier than group excursions, but the added comfort and customization often justify the cost. This experience suits travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day on the water, especially those who appreciate flexibility and a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Customizable tour with a dedicated skipper, perfect for intimate groups.
• Inclusive Pricing: Fuel, drinks, insurance, and final cleaning are included—no hidden costs.
• Flexible Itinerary: Choose your stops among Koloep, Lopud, and Sipan, and decide how much time to spend at each.
• Highlights: Explore the Blue and Green caves, swim, snorkel, relax on beaches, and visit charming island towns.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics effortless.
• Age and Motion Sickness: Not suitable for people over 95 or over 70, and those with motion sickness should consider this before booking.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This private boat tour offers an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. For travelers who prefer a laid-back yet engaging day, the ability to craft your own experience makes it stand apart from traditional group excursions. The size of the boat—6.5 meters (about 21 feet)—provides enough space for comfort without feeling overwhelming, and the cozy nature encourages a more intimate connection with your surroundings.

The inclusion of a skipper means you don’t need to worry about navigation or fuel costs—everything from the boat rental to fuel is covered in the price, which is a plus for budgeting. Plus, the availability of drinks (beer, water, juices) adds a refreshing touch, especially on hot summer days.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Dubrovnik, the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, easing the transition to a day on the water. Once aboard, you can set your course toward the Elaphite Islands—Koloep, Lopud, and Sipan are the main options, with the itinerary flexible to your interests.

Koloep Island is renowned for its vibrant Blue and Green caves, a highlight for many travelers. The vivid waters and enchanting caves are a must-see, with some reviewers noting that the Blue Cave, in particular, offers a mesmerizing display of colors. You might find yourself marveling at how nature creates such stunning spectacles of light and color.

Lopud Island offers a perfect beach day opportunity, with Shunj Beach and Veliki Zali being popular spots among visitors. Expect to find soft white sands and clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The southern end of Lopud is also known for snorkeling, giving you a chance to explore underwater life.

Sipan Island brings a touch of history and local culture. Visitors can wander through small towns, visit a 15th-century church turned museum, or explore the Skocibuha castle. These stops are great for those interested in learning about the area’s past while enjoying a relaxed pace.

Swimming and Snorkeling in the Adriatic

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The islands’ waters are often described as incredibly transparent, making it easy to spot marine life and underwater landscapes. Reviewers mention enjoying the chance to find secluded bays—perfect for cooling off and relaxing away from the crowds.

Cultural and Culinary Highlights

While the tour does not include lunch, there are plenty of chances to grab a local meal or a refreshing drink ashore. Some travelers have enjoyed visiting taverns on Lopud, sampling regional specialties, or simply soaking in the island atmosphere. The 15th-century church-turned-museum on Lopud adds a cultural dimension, giving insight into the area’s history.

The Experience on the Boat

Many reviews note that the boat is well-maintained and comfortable, with a sun deck ideal for lounging and sunbathing. The skipper is typically friendly and knowledgeable, willing to share insights about the islands or help find the best spots for swimming.

A couple of reviewers mentioned that timing can be flexible, allowing for a more relaxed experience without the rush of scheduled group tours. It’s a good idea to communicate your interests beforehand, whether that’s more snorkeling, beach time, or visiting specific sites.

Practical Aspects and Value

Cost-wise, at $588 for up to five people, this private tour offers good value for a personalized experience. It’s especially appealing for families or groups who want to avoid crowded boat trips. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics straightforward, removing the hassle of organizing transport to a departure point.

What you need to bring is minimal—just a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear—things you’ll appreciate having on hand as you switch between sunbathing and swimming.

Accessibility and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for those over 95 years or over 70 years, and travelers with motion sickness should consider their comfort level on a boat. The tour’s flexibility, however, makes it easy to tailor your day to your preferences, provided you’re comfortable with a moderate boat ride.

Final Thoughts on Value

While the price might seem high compared to group tours, the personalized nature and all-inclusive pricing—no extra fuel or hidden charges—make this a compelling option for travelers wanting a stress-free, customized day. The ability to choose your stops and spend as much time as you wish enhances overall value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Elaphite Islands tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups who value flexibility, comfort, and a personal touch. It’s ideal if you’re looking to avoid crowded excursions and prefer a more relaxed, intimate experience. If you’re interested in swimming, cave exploration, and cultural sights, this trip covers those interests comfortably.

It’s also a good fit for travelers staying in Dubrovnik who want a seamless, all-in-one day without the hassle of organizing multiple transport or tour groups. However, those prone to motion sickness or traveling with elderly over 70 should weigh comfort carefully, as boat rides can be moderate in duration.

FAQ

How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to 5 guests, making it perfect for small groups or families wanting privacy and space.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, the tour includes beer, water, and juices, so you can stay refreshed during the day.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are options to buy local food on the islands if you wish.

Can I customize my stops?
Yes, the experience is flexible—choose among Koloep, Lopud, and Sipan, and decide how long to stay at each.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for swimming and sunbathing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, children comfortable with boat rides and swimming should enjoy the day. Keep in mind the age restrictions (not suitable for over 95 or over 70).

How long is the boat ride?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the tour involves multiple island stops, so expect a few hours on the water with ample time on each island.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers fuel, insurance, and final cleaning—no hidden fees.

This private Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands tour offers a well-rounded, flexible approach to exploring Croatia’s stunning islands. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, customized day on the water filled with swimming, caves, and island charm—without the bustle of large group tours. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or a family adventure, this experience stands out as a comfortable, value-packed option.