Elaphite Islands: Private boat tour (Barracuda 545)

Exploring the Elaphite Islands: A Private Boat Tour with Stella Maris Dubrovnik Boats

If you’re dreaming of a day surrounded by shimmering waters, hidden caves, and secluded beaches in Croatia, then a private boat tour of the Elaphite Islands might just be your ideal escape. This experience, offered by Stella Maris Dubrovnik Boats on a Barracuda 545, promises an intimate, customizable adventure that takes you beyond typical sightseeing spots. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a small family, or a group of friends, this tour combines comfort, exclusivity, and personalized exploration—all at a reasonable price of around $412 for up to five people.

One of the standout features of this tour? It’s all about flexibility and personalized itineraries. You get to decide how long you want to spend at each stop, which means you’re not locked into a rigid schedule. Plus, with a knowledgeable skipper who doubles as a guide, you’ll get insights about the area while enjoying the ride. That being said, a potential consideration is that this is a private experience, so if you’re looking for a structured group tour with set stops, this might feel a bit too customizable. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers craving a tailored, relaxed day on the water, away from crowded boat excursions.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your preferences.
• Includes hotel transfers, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.
• Multiple stops for swimming, caves, and beaches, with the flexibility to spend more time at your favorite spots.
• All-inclusive pricing covers fuel, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and a GoPro for capturing memories.
• Excellent reviews highlight the boat’s comfort, stunning scenery, and the expertise of the skipper, Leon.
• Optional lunch stops on Lopud and Sipan, with restaurants available but not included in the price.

What to Expect from the Elaphite Islands Private Boat Tour

This tour is designed to show you the best of the Elaphiti Islands, with an emphasis on personalized exploration and comfort. The journey begins with a pick-up service, ensuring your day starts smoothly. From there, you’ll hop aboard the Barracuda 545, a modern speedboat praised for its comfort and clean design, according to reviewer Hanna who called it a “good, new boat” with “beautiful views.” The boat’s size and speed allow for quick, smooth transfers between spots, meaning you spend more time enjoying than traveling.

First Stop: Grebeni Island and the Caves

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to Grebeni Island, a small, uninhabited gem that offers quiet, unspoiled scenery. After that, you’ll head to the Koloep Island, home to three famous caves—Green Cave, Blue Cave, and Three Caves. These caves are the highlight for many, providing excellent opportunities for snorkeling and photos. The Blue Cave, in particular, is a favorite for its vivid colors, and you’ll love the chance to dip into the cool, clear waters.

Reviewers like Charlotte, who called this her “best day during the vacation,” appreciated how the tour allowed visiting multiple caves and snorkeling with ease. The skipper’s knowledge adds to the experience, sharing stories about the caves and surrounding nature, making each stop both fun and educational.

Next: Lopud Island

After exploring the caves, the boat takes you to Lopud, renowned for its sandy beaches—a rarity on Croatian islands—and vibrant promenade. You’ll have the option to swim at Sunj Beach, famed for its soft sand and shallow waters. This stop is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking a quick dip.

If you’re feeling more energetic, you can stroll through Lopud’s town, exploring local cafes and shops. Several reviewers, including Charlotte, loved this part of the trip, noting how well-organized the entire day was, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Final Stop: Sipan Island

The last island in the itinerary is Sipan, which offers a more laid-back vibe with its charming small town and waterfront restaurants. Here, you can choose to grab lunch at a local restaurant—many options are available, though food is not included in the price. It’s a great chance to sample Dalmatian cuisine or simply relax with a drink as you watch boats drift by.

How the Tour Works: Flexibility and Customization

One of the biggest advantages of this private tour is how adaptable it is. You’re not tied to a strict schedule—if a particular cave or beach steals your heart, you can linger longer. The entire trip can be tailored to suit your interests, whether that means more snorkeling, less time at each stop, or skipping some altogether.

The tour durations are flexible, offering either a 4-hour or an 8-hour experience. This allows you to choose a quick taste of the islands or a full-day adventure. According to reviews, this flexibility is a major plus, with Charlotte noting that “all that’s left is to enjoy,” thanks to how well everything is organized.

Included in the Price

The package covers fuel, a skipper who is also a guide, drinks (water, cola, white wine, beer), towels, snorkeling equipment, and a GoPro for capturing your moments. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel are also included, making logistics easy.

What’s Not Included

Food is not included in the price, but you’ll find plenty of restaurants on Lopud and Sipan if you want to indulge in local cuisine. You might want to bring some snacks if you prefer a quick bite before or after the stops.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The highly positive reviews reflect what you can expect: stunning scenery, a friendly, knowledgeable guide, and a smooth, comfortable ride. Hanna called the boat “good, new,” which hints at the vessel’s quality, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. Charlotte emphasized how well-organized everything was, noting that “all that’s left is to enjoy,” which is exactly what a good private tour should offer.

The guide, Leon, received particular praise for his attentiveness and local knowledge, making the experience more enriching. Guests appreciated the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and visit hidden caves that aren’t typically crowded or overrun by travelers.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear and a towel, since swimming and snorkeling are key parts of this tour.
• Consider wearing sun protection, such as hats or sunscreen, especially during summer months.
• Book in advance to secure your preferred date and time, with the option to pay later for flexibility.
• Prepare for optional lunch—you can bring your own snacks or plan to eat at a restaurant on Lopud or Sipan.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip, as the tour is weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled in case of rough seas.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love personalized experiences and want to skip the crowds while exploring Croatia’s stunning coast, this private boat tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for small groups, romantic getaways, or families seeking a flexible day out. The inclusion of hotel transfers makes it especially convenient if you’re staying in Dubrovnik.

Travelers who appreciate snorkeling, caves, and beaches will find plenty of value here, and the ability to customize the itinerary ensures you can focus on your favorite activities. It’s also a fantastic choice for those wanting a luxurious, yet affordable, way to see the islands without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour of the Elaphite Islands offers a unique, tailored way to experience some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal scenery. With a modern boat, a knowledgeable skipper, and the freedom to choose your stops, it’s a great option for travelers craving flexibility and authentic moments away from crowded group tours.

The inclusion of hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and drinks adds to the overall value, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy a full day on the water. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who want a more intimate, relaxed day exploring caves, beaches, and islands at their own pace.

Overall, if you’re after stunning views, personalized service, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, this tour ticks all the boxes. Pack your swimwear, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a memorable Croatian coastal experience.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
The tour is priced for up to five people, making it perfect for small groups, couples, or families.

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, the entire schedule is flexible. You can decide how long to stay at each spot and which islands or caves to prioritize.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel are part of the package, making the start and end of your day seamless.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, the skipper/tour guide, drinks (water, cola, white wine, beer), towels, snorkeling equipment, and a GoPro are all included.

Can I bring my own food?
Food is not included in the tour, but there are restaurant options on Lopud and Sipan if you want to dine ashore.

How long can the tour last?
You can choose between a 4-hour or 8-hour experience, depending on how much you want to see and do.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel are recommended. It’s also good idea to bring some snacks if desired, though drinks are provided.

This private Elaphite Islands tour offers a relaxing yet adventurous way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coast, perfect for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and flexible day on the water.