Private Boat Tours Dubrovnik Elaphiti islands & Blue cave

Exploring the Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave from Dubrovnik on a private speedboat offers travelers an intimate look at Croatia’s stunning coastlines, vibrant sea caves, and charming islands. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on 62 glowing reviews, promises a tailored experience with flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. Whether you opt for the 4-hour quick jaunt or the full 8-hour voyage, this trip is designed for those who want to venture beyond the crowded streets of Dubrovnik and truly connect with the natural beauty of the Adriatic.

What we love most about this experience is the ability to customize stops and the genuine local knowledge of the crew, especially the skippers like Jure and Franco, who are praised for their professionalism and friendly demeanor. A potential consideration is the additional fuel surcharge—this can vary depending on your itinerary and can add up, so it’s worth budgeting for beforehand. This private tour suits travelers looking for an exclusive, flexible day on the water, perfect for couples, families, or small groups eager to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: No crowded group tours—your itinerary, your pace.
• Expert guides/skippers: Knowledgeable and friendly, with reviews highlighting exceptional service.
• Multiple stops: Including Blue Cave, beaches, charming villages, and optional restaurants.
• Flexible duration: Options for 4 or 8 hours, allowing more time for swimming and exploring.
• All amenities included: Snorkeling gear, wifi, stereo, fridge, with breakfast on the boat if you like.
• Extra costs: Fuel surcharges apply, so budgeting for this is recommended.

What makes this private boat tour stand out?

This Dubrovnik tour is designed to give you an intimate and flexible experience of the Elaphiti Islands, with no other groups sharing your boat. For a price of around $431.62 per group, up to three people, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. Reviews consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the crew—skippers like Jure and Franco are often singled out for enhancing the experience with their local insights and personalized service.

Because it’s private, you can decide how long to stay at each stop, whether that’s lounging on pristine beaches, exploring quaint villages, or diving into caves. Plus, the inclusion of amenities like snorkel equipment, wifi, and stereo means you’re set for a comfortable, fun day on the water.

What is the itinerary like?

The tour’s core appeal is its customizable itinerary, with some standard stops that most guests appreciate. Here’s a detailed look at what you might experience:

Blue Cave Dubrovnik

This is often the first stop, and it’s a highlight for many travelers. The Blue Cave provides an opportunity to see the underwater world in a stunning natural setting. The reviews mention that this activity allows you to avoid tourist crowds and discover a peaceful, magical part of the coast. The cave is free to enter, and the experience lasts about an hour. Visitors note that the boat’s equipment makes swimming and snorkeling easy and enjoyable.

Sunj Beach

A favorite for families and sunbathers, Sunj Beach is the most popular sandy beach on the islands. Because the water is shallow, it’s especially kid-friendly. Reviewers love the relaxed atmosphere and the shallow waters, making it perfect for a laid-back swim or sunbathing session. It’s a good spot for a quick stop to soak up the sun and unwind.

Sudurad Village

This charming old port is where many guests choose to disembark and explore. The village boasts sights like a Renaissance castle and fortified church tower. Reviewers mention that sailing through the bay to see these sights offers a peaceful and scenic experience, and many enjoy just strolling through the quaint streets. It’s an authentic taste of island life with fewer travelers.

Sipan Island & Optional Bowa Restaurant

The optional stop at Bowa Restaurant offers a taste of Mediterranean cuisine in a private bay setting with a beach, lounges, and cabanas. Reviewers highlight that the restaurant is a great place for a leisurely lunch and that the private beach adds to the exclusive feel of the trip. The cost of this stop is included if you choose it, but it does extend your tour to about two hours.

Lopud Island

Famous for its historical architecture and medieval charm, Lopud Island is often described as a highlight. The village features buildings from the Renaissance through the 1920s, including the Grand Hotel. Reviewers love the stunning architecture and the chance to explore a less commercialized part of the islands, with about an hour to soak in the sights.

Optional Dubrovnik Sea View

Some tours offer an extra option to see Dubrovnik’s city walls from the sea, adding a spectacular perspective of the Old Town’s fortifications. Extra fuel surcharges apply, so it’s worth considering whether this is a priority for you.

How does the experience feel day-to-day?

Guests consistently mention how the boat’s amenities—including wifi and stereo—make the day more enjoyable. The boat is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with many appreciating that it’s not rundown or overcrowded.

Swimmers and snorkelers will love the sea caves and peaceful bays, with many reviews emphasizing the quality of the swim spots. One guest noted that their guide, Frankie, helped them take great pictures and was very patient, enhancing the experience for family and photography enthusiasts alike.

The flexibility is a big plus. Several reviewers highlight how they appreciated being able to decide the timing of each stop, whether they wanted more swimming or sightseeing. This tailored approach distinguishes the tour from typical group excursions and provides real value for those wanting a personalized adventure.

How about the guides and crew?

The quality of the guides and skippers is a recurring theme in reviews. Many guests mention Frankie, Jure, and Captain Maro, praising their professionalism, local knowledge, and friendly attitude. One guest said, “Our skipper was extremely professional and had great knowledge of the area,” which perfectly sums up what many travelers experience.

Guests also appreciate how the crew listens to their requests—whether it’s stopping at a specific beach, finding a great lunch spot, or just relaxing on deck. This personalized touch, paired with their ability to explain the history and points of interest, makes the day both fun and informative.

What about the price and additional costs?

While the base price is $431.62 for up to three people, there are fuel surcharges that vary, starting from $70 and going up to $250 or more, depending on the length of your tour and stops. This means you should budget an extra amount for fuel, especially if planning a longer 8-hour trip.

Guests agree that considering all amenities, the flexibility, and the exclusive nature of a private boat, the value is excellent. Many reviewers say they felt it was worth the cost, especially given the personalized service, comfort, and unique access to spots others can’t reach.

How does weather impact the tour?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if the weather turns poor, a full refund or reschedule is available. Guests praise the flexibility offered in bad weather, which adds peace of mind.

This private boat trip in Dubrovnik is best suited for small groups, couples, or families looking for an exclusive, customizable day on the water. If you enjoy flexibility, scenic swims, authentic island visits, and professional guides, this experience hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and explore at their own pace.

The high-quality amenities, attentive service, and personalized stops mean that this tour offers excellent value for those who prioritize comfort and genuine local insights. Keep in mind the extra fuel surcharge, and plan accordingly—adding to the overall quality and flexibility of the experience.

If you’re after a laid-back yet adventurous day, with the option for a luxurious lunch or a quick swim, this tour is a fantastic way to see Dubrovnik’s nearby islands in style.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip travel from selected Dubrovnik hotels, making logistics straightforward.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a soft carry bag, towels, swimsuits, camera, and sun cream. The boat offers amenities like wifi and snorkel equipment, so pack accordingly.

Can I bring my own food and beverages?
Absolutely, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks on board for a personalized experience.

How long is the tour?
Options are available for approximately 4 hours or up to 8 hours, depending on your preference and booking choice.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for families with children, especially at beaches like Sunj.

Are there any additional costs?
Fuel surcharges are extra and vary from $70 to $250 or more, depending on your chosen itinerary and stops.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Can I customize my stops?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows you to decide how much time to spend at each location, making it highly flexible.