Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands excursion with Jeanneau Runabout

Exploring the Croatian coast often calls for a day away from the crowds and into the serene waters of the Adriatic. This Elaphite Islands tour offers a chance to do just that, cruising comfortably on a Jeanneau Runabout 755, with a small group of up to five travelers. It’s a tailored, private experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, perfect for those who want a personalized touch without the hefty price tag of larger group excursions.

One thing we particularly like about this tour is the flexibility. Your skipper works with you to craft an itinerary that aligns with your interests—whether that’s swimming in secluded coves, exploring historic sites, or simply soaking up the sun with a glass of local wine (which the crew can recommend). Just keep in mind that weather conditions might affect certain stops, like the Blue Cave or Unj Beach, but your skipper will adapt the plan accordingly.

This experience suits those who value authentic encounters, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families wanting a private, intimate day on the water. If you’re after a more guided or structured tour, this might feel too flexible, but if personalized adventure and comfort matter, it could be perfect.

Key Points

• Private, customizable itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences
• Expert skipper with local knowledge and tips on the best spots and dining options
• Scenic stops including the Blue Cave, Lopud’s beaches, and Sipanska Luka
• Comfortable Jeanneau Runabout 755, equipped with safety gear, towels, and refreshments
• Flexible scheduling and weather considerations ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable
• Cost for up to 5 guests at $1,135 offers good value for a private, personalized day

An In-Depth Look at the Elaphite Islands Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

Your adventure begins at the Gru Greenmarket in Dubrovnik, where you’ll meet your skipper and board the well-maintained Jeanneau Runabout. The boat is a thoughtful mix of comfort and practicality, suited for a small group that values intimacy and flexibility. With fuel, soft drinks, towels, and boat cleaning included, the focus remains on enjoying your day without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

The journey typically lasts several hours, during which your skipper will guide you through the scenic coastline and introduce you to the islands’ highlights. The tour is designed to be flexible—if weather conditions aren’t ideal for certain stops like the Blue Cave, your skipper will suggest alternative locations, ensuring your day remains enjoyable.

First Stop: Koločep Island

Koločep is often the initial destination, thanks to its reputation for natural beauty and calm, crystal-clear waters. This small island features secluded coves perfect for swimming and snorkeling, giving you that feeling of escaping into your own private paradise. Reviewers mention loving how undisturbed the beaches are—some describe them as “hidden gems,” ideal for those who want to avoid crowds.

Koločep also has a history of olive groves and vineyards, with some small churches and chapels that add a quaint, historical vibe. If you’re into photography, this island offers some fantastic, quiet spots to capture the essence of the Dalmatian coast away from tourist hotspots.

Proceeding to Lopud

Next on the agenda is Lopud, famous for its lush gardens, charming old town, and sandy beaches—rare on Croatian islands! Guests often rave about the beautiful beaches like Šunj, known for their soft sands and shallow waters, making them perfect for a relaxed swim or sunbathing session.

You’ll also get a chance to visit the Franciscan Monastery, stroll through parks with views over the sea, and perhaps enjoy a refreshing coffee or Croatian tapas at a local restaurant. One reviewer particularly appreciated the stunning views from the Belvedere viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands—a must-see if you like to combine sightseeing with relaxing.

The Largest Island: Ipan (Sipan)

The final major stop takes you to Ipan (also known as Sipanska Luka). Here, the charm lies in walking along the waterfront, browsing local shops, or simply soaking in the architecture and natural scenery. The tour’s flexibility allows your skipper to recommend a restaurant for a leisurely lunch, giving you a taste of authentic Croatian cuisine.

Many travelers enjoy this part of the trip for its relaxed, less commercial vibe, and the chance to explore at their own pace. It’s a perfect spot for some last-minute photos or a quiet moment before heading back to Dubrovnik.

Blue Cave and Unj Beach: Weather-Dependent Highlights

The Blue Cave is often highlighted as a major draw—its stunning interior lit by sunlight filtering through the water. However, as reviews point out, weather conditions like wind and waves can sometimes prevent visits. When this happens, your skipper will suggest alternative locations, such as exploring more coves or visiting different beaches.

Similarly, Unj Beach is praised for its pristine sands and clear waters, but again, weather can influence the ability to stop there. Despite this, the flexibility ensures your overall experience remains enjoyable, even if specific stops are skipped.

Onboard Comfort and Extras

The Jeanneau Runabout 755 is equipped with safety gear, towels, and refreshments, making the cruise comfortable and hassle-free. Soft drinks are included, but food isn’t, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to dine at one of the charming island restaurants.

The boat’s size and amenities mean you won’t feel crowded, and the knowledgeable skipper ensures safety and smooth navigation. Many reviewers mention the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, noting that they often go out of their way to share local insights and recommend hidden gems.

Photos and Memories

If capturing your trip is important, Dubrovnik Water Sports offers tailored photo sessions, allowing you to document your day in stunning settings. Whether you want a quick shoot or a longer session, the team can advise the best spots and times for perfect shots, turning your trip into a visual keepsake.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a private, flexible, and scenic way to experience the Elaphite Islands without the crowds often found on larger tours. The cost of $1,135 for up to 5 people provides a good value considering you’re renting a private boat with a knowledgeable skipper, refreshments, towels, and the opportunity to customize your day.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized adventure, enjoy small-group intimacy, or value local insight over generic sightseeing tours. The ability to tailor the route and stops means you can prioritize beaches, cultural sites, or simply relax and soak up the views—whatever suits your mood.

However, keep in mind that weather might influence your itinerary, so flexibility and patience are key. If you’re someone who prefers a fixed schedule or wants to visit specific sights regardless of conditions, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This Elaphite Islands excursion offers a balanced blend of luxury, adventure, and authenticity. You’ll love the way the boat is equipped for comfort, the flexibility of the itinerary, and the insider tips from your skipper. The stops at Koločep, Lopud, and Sipanska Luka showcase the islands’ natural beauty and historical charm, with options for swimming, sightseeing, and dining all woven into the day.

The experience is particularly valuable for those seeking a private getaway, eager to avoid tourist crowds, and interested in exploring at their own pace. The price reflects a high level of personalization and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for small groups or couples.

While weather can sometimes limit certain stops, the tour’s flexibility ensures you’ll still enjoy a memorable day on the water. If you’re after an authentic Croatian adventure with a relaxed vibe and stunning scenery, this trip might just be your perfect choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Since the tour is designed for small groups and involves boat travel, it’s suitable for families with children who are comfortable on boats. However, very young children or those with mobility issues might find the boat’s size and the nature of the stops less ideal.

How long does the tour last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it typically involves several hours of cruising and exploring, with the flexibility to tailor the itinerary based on weather and preferences.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and personal snacks if desired, as food isn’t included. The boat provides towels and soft drinks, but you might want to pack your camera or phone for photos.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility for changing travel plans. However, booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

What happens if the weather isn’t suitable for certain stops?
Your skipper will adapt the route, replacing stops like the Blue Cave or Unj Beach with alternative locations to ensure you still have a fantastic day.

Is there any special equipment or amenities onboard?
The boat is well-equipped with safety gear, towels, and refreshments for your comfort. There are no specific mentions of onboard dining or entertainment, so plan accordingly.

This private boat excursion to the Elaphite Islands combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and personalized service—perfect for travelers seeking a tailored Croatian adventure away from the crowds.