Dubrovnik: Private Boat Island Tour

Imagine cruising on a sleek, modern boat through the shimmering waters of the Dalmatian coast, visiting secluded caves, pristine beaches, and charming islands—all with a local skipper who knows every secret spot. That’s the essence of the Dubrovnik Private Boat Island Tour, a highly-rated experience designed to give you a personalized, authentic taste of Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline. With options ranging from half-day adventures to full-day explorations, this tour promises a flexible schedule tailored to your preferences.

What truly sets this experience apart is the local knowledge of the guides—skippers born and raised in Dubrovnik, who love sharing stories and showing you their favorite hidden corners. Plus, the boat itself is brand new, fully equipped, and ready for snorkeling, relaxing, and exploring. The only potential snag? The extra fuel costs, paid in cash, can add up depending on the duration of your trip. But overall, this tour offers fantastic value, especially given the private, customized nature of the experience. Perfect for small groups, families, or couples looking for a more intimate, authentic day on the water.

If you’re someone who loves discovering off-the-beaten-path locations, enjoys swimming in crystal-clear lagoons, or simply wants a relaxing yet adventure-filled day, this boat tour will suit you perfectly. It’s a chance to see Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands from a unique perspective—guided by locals who are passionate about their home.

Key Points

• Tailored Experience: Completely private and customizable to your interests and pace.
• Local Skippers: Guides born and raised in Dubrovnik, with extensive knowledge and stories.
• Variety of Tours: Ranging from 2-hour sunset cruises to 8-hour full-day adventures.
• Stunning Sights: Blue caves, green caves, crystal lagoons, and scenic islands.
• Inclusive Amenities: Drinks, snorkeling masks, towels, floating devices, and Bluetooth speakers.
• Extra Costs: Fuel is paid in cash; optional island lunches start around €50 per person.

The Experience: What to Expect from Your Dubrovnik Private Boat Tour

Starting Point and Flexibility

Your adventure begins right at the Dubrovnik port, where your skipper will be waiting at the pier, ready to take you on a personalized voyage. The beauty of this tour is that it’s entirely private—you and your group, with no strangers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a peaceful escape, or craving adventure, your skipper will tailor the trip accordingly.

The Itinerary: Your Custom Day on the Water

The tour options are flexible, but here’s a detailed look at what you might experience:

Half-Day (4 hours): A Quick Escape

Most guests opting for the 4-hour tour head straight for the Blue Cave on Koločep Island, which is a highlight for many. Its glowing blue waters make for perfect photos and swimming. The skipper may also show you Green Caves and several lagoons, all perfect for a refreshing dip.

A visit to Lopud Island’s unj Beach, one of the largest sandy beaches in the area, is often included. Here, you can relax on the soft sands or grab a snack at a seaside café. The reviews highlight how responsive and friendly guides like Antun and Marko are, often jumping in the water with you or helping you explore caves safely.

Extended Exploration (6 hours): More Time, More Adventures

With an extra two hours, you’ll have time to explore the 16th-century Franciscan monastery on Lopud, stroll through historic churches, and admire old palaces. The scenery becomes more diverse, and you get a better chance to enjoy leisurely swimming and snorkeling. The guides are praised for their openness to suggestions, which allows you to include more secluded spots or skip certain areas if you prefer.

Full-Day (8 hours): The Ultimate Island Hopping Day

If you’re eager to fully unwind, this is the way to go. You’ll see all three main islands—Koločep, Lopud, and Ipan—at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for swimming, picture-taking, and exploring. Many reviews mention stopping at island restaurants—your skipper can recommend the best local spots, with meals starting around €50 per person.

Guests often find the full-day trip to be the most rewarding, as it combines caves, beaches, historical sites, and scenic views. It’s ideal if you want to avoid rushing and truly soak up the beauty of the Croatian coast.

Sunset Tour (2 hours): Romantic and Relaxing

This evening cruise offers a different, more contemplative experience. Viewing Dubrovnik’s Old Town from the water at sunset, with some music and a glass of wine or champagne, creates a perfect romantic escape. Many reviewers mention how magical the golden hour feels from the sea, making this a memorable choice for couples.

The Details That Matter

What’s Included?

The tour package covers drinks (white wine, local beer, water, Coca-Cola) stored in an ice box, snorkeling masks, towels, floating devices, and Bluetooth speakers for your playlist. The boat itself is brand new and equipped with all necessary safety and comfort features, ensuring a secure, enjoyable ride.

Not Included: Additional Costs to Keep in Mind

Fuel costs are paid in cash on the boat—€70 for 4 hours, €80 for 6 hours, and €100 for 8 hours. While this might seem like an extra hassle, these are transparent costs reflecting the actual fuel used, which is appreciated by many reviewers. Drinks are not unlimited, so if you want more than what’s provided, you might consider bringing your own or purchasing at island restaurants.

Optional food stops at local eateries are available, and the skipper can help you choose based on your preferences. Expect to pay around €50 per person for a meal, which is typically worth it given the fresh, seaside atmosphere.

Duration and Group Size

Pricing is for groups of up to 6 people, making it ideal for families, friends, or intimate couples. The flexibility in duration means you can pick a shorter trip for a taste of the islands or a full-day adventure to explore everything at a leisurely pace.

Meeting Point and Convenience

Your day begins with the skipper waiting at the pier next to the boat. After your adventure, you’ll return to the same spot, simplifying logistics. This straightforward setup is a plus, especially for those unfamiliar with Dubrovnik.

What to Bring

Swimwear, sun protection, and a good camera are essentials. The tour involves caves, beaches, and snorkeling, so be prepared for water-based fun.

Authentic Experiences and Guide Insights

Many reviews praise the local skippers—Antun, Marko, Borna, Nikola—by name for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They’re described as attentive, helpful, and eager to tailor the experience to your interests. For example, Lewis highlights how Antun “held our hand” during cliff jumping and even jumped in himself, showcasing a genuine passion for sharing the experience.

Several reviewers mention that guides often go beyond just driving the boat—they help with gear, recommend hidden spots, and even join in on activities like cliff jumping or swimming. This personal touch transforms a simple boat ride into a memorable, authentic Croatian adventure.

Safety and Comfort

Guests frequently mention feeling confident in the skippers’ control of the boat. The boat is described as new, well-maintained, and equipped with everything needed for a safe journey. The guides’ local knowledge means you’re taken to the best spots—avoiding tourist crowds or finding peaceful, lesser-known areas.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $352 might seem on the higher end, it’s for a private experience for up to 6 people, which makes it comparable or cheaper than group excursions. The personalized itinerary, exclusive access to caves, and the chance to swim in stunning lagoons justify the price. Many reviews emphasize how the guides’ knowledge, local stories, and flexibility make this trip a worthwhile investment in a memorable Croatian holiday.

The experience is especially beneficial for small groups or families who value personalized service and want to avoid crowded tours.

Who Will Love This Experience?

• Adventurers and water lovers: The caves, lagoons, and cliff jumping spots appeal strongly to thrill-seekers.
• History and culture buffs: The guides’ stories and knowledge add depth to the trip.
• Couples seeking romance: The sunset tour, with its golden views and relaxed vibe, is perfect for romance.
• Families or friends: The flexibility and private setting make it suitable for all ages.

This is not a mass-market, cookie-cutter tour. Instead, it’s a customized, local-led experience that feels personal and genuine.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, all tours are fully private for your group, with no strangers joining.

How long does each tour last?
Options range from 2 hours for the sunset cruise to 8 hours for a full island-hopping day.

What is included in the price?
Drinks, snorkeling masks, towels, floating devices, and Bluetooth speakers are included. Fuel costs are extra and paid in cash.

Can I choose where to go?
Absolutely. The skipper recommends spots but is happy to tailor the itinerary based on your preferences.

Are meals included?
No, but the skipper can take you to island restaurants, with meals costing around €50 per person.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sun protection, a camera, and anything else you want for water activities.

Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, many reviews mention families with children. The guides are attentive to safety and comfort.

How do I pay for the fuel?
Fuel costs are paid in cash on the boat, depending on the trip duration.

In Summary

The Dubrovnik Private Boat Island Tour offers a flexible, personalized way to experience the best of Croatia’s coast. With local guides who know every secret cave and lagoon, you’ll enjoy a day filled with stunning views, swimming, and stories—without the crowds. The private setting, attentive service, and beautiful scenery make it a standout choice for small groups, couples, or families wanting an authentic, memorable adventure.

If you love being on the water, exploring hidden spots, and enjoying tailored experiences, this tour fits the bill perfectly. The combination of excellent guides, well-maintained boats, and beautiful scenery makes it a worthwhile splurge—especially if you prioritize quality and authenticity over generic group excursions.

For those seeking a flexible, intimate, and genuinely local experience, this boat tour offers a fantastic way to discover Croatia’s coastal treasures at your own pace.