Private boat tour from Dubrovnik/Cavtat to Elafiti islands

Exploring Croatia’s Elafiti Islands by Private Boat: A Detailed Look

Imagine cruising across crystal-clear waters, with the gentle sun warming your skin and the sound of waves as your background music. That’s what a private boat tour from Dubrovnik or Cavtat to the Elafiti Islands promises. This experience offers a perfect blend of scenic sightseeing, swimming in secluded spots, and exploring caves—an ideal way to see Croatia’s stunning coast away from the crowds.

One of the standout features of this tour is the personalized service—a dedicated skipper takes you to some of the most beautiful and lesser-known spots, providing insider tips and local knowledge. What we love most is the flexibility: you can customize your stops, whether it’s jumping from rocks into turquoise waters or leisurely exploring caves.

However, keep in mind that fuel costs are not included in the price, which can add to the overall expense if you’re planning a longer trip. This tour suits travelers who appreciate privacy, comfort, and authentic experiences—those looking for a relaxed, tailor-made day on the water rather than a large group excursion.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Your own skipper guides you, making the experience flexible and intimate.
• Ideal for swimming and exploring: Stops at caves, sandy beaches, and scenic spots allow for plenty of water activities.
• Comfortable boat with amenities: Sun deck, shaded area, and music add to the comfort.
• Cost considerations: Fuel is extra, so budget accordingly if planning a longer trip.
• Authentic local insights: Guides share knowledge about the islands, caves, and best spots to visit.
• Suitable for most travelers: Not ideal for children under 3, those with mobility issues, or seasick-prone visitors.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Choosing a private boat tour from Dubrovnik or Cavtat means you’re getting a more intimate, flexible way to explore the Elafiti Islands. Unlike crowded group excursions, this one allows you to set the pace, visit exactly what interests you, and enjoy the comfort of a well-equipped motorboat.

The company, Karuzo Tour, provides a 7.7-meter boat with a 250 HP Honda engine, comfortably accommodating up to 10 people—though most groups tend to be smaller for a more exclusive experience. The boat features a front sun deck perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun, as well as a shaded back sitting area. It also comes with snorkeling gear and a CD/MP3 player, making it easy to enjoy your favorite tunes and explore the underwater world.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point: Cavtat

This tour kicks off in Cavtat, a charming coastal town just 15 km south of Dubrovnik. It’s a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik itself, surrounded by lush nature and a peaceful bay. Many travelers find Cavtat’s relaxed vibe a nice prelude to the day ahead.

First Stop: Kolocep Island

Kolocep is the smallest of the Elafiti Islands, famous for its sparkling waters and unspoiled nature. Here, you’ll find pristine spots for swimming and exploring caves. Reviewers mention the waters are “sparkling pure” and the scenery untouched, perfect for a peaceful escape. The guide will likely point out the island’s caves and bays, ideal for snorkeling or just paddling around.

Second Stop: Lopud Island and Sunj Beach

Lopud is known for its long, shallow sandy beach, Sunj. According to reviews, the beach extends nearly a kilometer, making it perfect for families or those who enjoy relaxing on soft sand. The shallow waters mean you can walk quite a distance before swimming—great for small children or anyone preferring lighter water conditions.

Recreation lovers can indulge in volleyball, tennis, or simply relax at seaside cafes. Some guests mention that the lunch reservation at a local restaurant in Lopud was a highlight, with seafood like seabass earning rave reviews.

Third Stop: Sipan Island and Vrbova Bay

Sipan is the largest of the Elafiti islands and offers a more isolated, authentic experience. The guide might take you to Vrbova Bay, known for its tranquility and beautiful scenery. It’s a perfect spot for swimming or just soaking in the views. While not explicitly listed in the original info, the reviews note that guides like Antonio help tailor the experience, including booking local restaurants and taking you to special spots.

Cave Exploration and Rock Jumping

One of the tour’s highlights is exploring caves on Kolocep and possibly jumping off rocks into the blue waters—a fun, adrenaline-filled activity. Reviewers mention that guides often take travelers to hidden gems, which adds to the sense of discovery.

What Makes This Tour Valuable

The flexibility of a private tour is perhaps its greatest asset. You can decide how long to linger at each stop, whether to snorkel, relax, or explore caves. The skipper’s local knowledge ensures you see the best spots, including Blue Cave (if included) and less crowded bays.

On top of that, many reviewers have praised their guides—Antonio, for example, is described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. According to feedback, he managed the pace perfectly, asked what your wanted to see, and even booked a restaurant for lunch, adding a lovely personal touch.

The cost of $455 for up to 2 people might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the private experience, the boat amenities, and all-day flexibility, it offers excellent value—especially if split between two travelers. Additional expenses, like fuel (~$80 for a 4-hour trip or more for longer), are paid in cash, so budgeting ahead is wise.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Bring essentials: sunglasses, hat, swimwear, change of clothes, sunscreen, and cash for fuel and extras.
• Book in advance: to secure a preferred date, especially in the busy summer months.
• Consider your comfort: this tour isn’t suitable for young children under 3, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness.
• Plan for a full day: the tour can run 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preference, with the longer trips covering more islands and caves.
• Expect a relaxed pace: the boat comfortably accommodates lounging, swimming, and sightseeing, but don’t expect a frantic itinerary.

Authentic Experiences Reported by Reviewers

Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious local food as highlights. One reviewer appreciated how their skipper, Luksa, knew “some lovely spots to explore,” making the last day in Croatia truly memorable. Another noted that the guides asked where guests wanted to go, emphasizing the personalized approach.

The blue and green caves were among the most photographed moments, with travelers loving the chance to swim in clear waters and explore caves with snorkel gear. The lunch in Lopud received particular praise; fresh seafood like seabass perfectly complemented the leisurely pace.

Who This Tour Best Suits

This private boat experience is ideal for couples, friends, or small families seeking a relaxed, customizable day on the water. It’s perfect for travelers who value personalized service and authentic exploration over large group tours.

If you’re dreaming of crystal waters, hidden caves, and scenic beaches, and want to avoid the crowds, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with a full day on a boat and prepared for cash payments for fuel.

However, if you prefer a guided group with a fixed schedule or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind the fuel costs which are paid separately—budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts

A private boat tour from Dubrovnik or Cavtat to the Elafiti Islands offers an intimate, flexible way to discover Croatia’s coast. You’ll love the personalized guidance, stunning scenery, and opportunities to swim and explore caves that aren’t accessible by land. The boat’s amenities and the relaxed pace make for a memorable day, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or small group.

While the price may seem high initially, the exclusivity, comfort, and tailored experience deliver solid value—particularly when shared between two travelers. It’s a chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots with a local guide who’s eager to make your day special.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic adventure on the water, this private Elafiti Islands tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a dedicated skipper, drinks, and snorkeling gear. The boat is equipped with a sun deck, shaded area, and music system for a comfortable experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not part of the package, but guides often help book local restaurants like the one in Lopud, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

How much does fuel cost and is it included?
Fuel is not included in the price. It costs around $40 for a sunset tour, $80 for a 4-hour trip, and $120 for an 8-hour trip, payable in cash on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old, and those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should consider their comfort level.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for fuel and any extras.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the skippers are flexible and will ask for your preferences, whether it’s visiting specific caves, beaches, or islands.

In essence, this private boat journey offers a fabulous way to see the Elafiti Islands in comfort and style, with the knowledge and friendliness of guides making your day even more special. Whether it’s your first time in Croatia or a repeat visit, it’s a memorable way to enjoy the coast’s natural beauty at your own pace.