Dubrovnik: Private speedboat tour-caves, beaches, snorkeling

Discover Dubrovnik’s Hidden Gems on a Private Speedboat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Croatia, this private speedboat tour around Dubrovnik’s Elaphiti Islands might just be the experience you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this particular trip myself, I’ve read through detailed reviews and descriptions, and it sounds like a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the area—with a few things to keep in mind.

What really stands out for me are the stunning cave visits and the chance to relax on unspoiled beaches. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel around crystal-clear waters makes it appealing for those who love a bit of underwater exploration. That said, one point to consider is that the tour doesn’t include food or towels, so you’ll want to pack accordingly if you plan to spend a lot of time lounging or swimming.

This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a flexible, scenic adventure with a small group vibe. If you’re after a memorable day on the water, with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing, this could fit the bill—especially if you enjoy a bit of comfort, good company, and a relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and flexible: The tour is for groups up to four, making it intimate and customizable.
• Includes drinks and music: You’ll get beer, wine, water, Coke, and onboard tunes, creating a laid-back atmosphere.
• Focus on highlights: Visiting the Blue Cave, Sunj Beach, Ipan Island, and Koloep Village offers a mix of natural beauty and charming local culture.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Expect plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water in calm, transparent seas.
• No food or towels included: Remember to bring your own essentials for comfort and convenience.
• Weather dependency: Strong winds can alter the route or timing, as experienced by some travelers.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins at Gruz Market, a convenient meeting point in Dubrovnik, making it easy to connect with your skipper and crew. From there, the boat heads out on a scenic ride to the famous Blue Cave, one of the area’s signature sights. The Blue Cave’s vivid blue glow is mesmerizing, and many find it a highlight of any trip to the Dalmatian coast.

Next stop is Sunj Beach, a sandy stretch of shoreline that offers a peaceful retreat away from busy tourist spots. During our review, one traveler mentioned spending 60 to 90 minutes here, relaxing and swimming in the calm, transparent waters. It’s perfect for a quick dip or just lounging with a drink in hand.

Following Sunj, the boat moves on to Ipan Island, where you’re given a couple of hours of free time. This small island isn’t as built-up as some others, so it makes for a genuinely quiet spot for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring. Having this window of relaxed time is great for soaking in the scenery at your own pace.

On the way back, there’s a stop at Koloep Village, a car-free island with charming paths and traditional stone houses. It’s an excellent chance to walk around, take photos, and experience a bit of local island life. One review even noted the pleasure of walking through this quiet village without the noise of cars, making it a peaceful end to the day.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes a variety of drinks—beer, wine, water, and Coke—perfect for keeping refreshed during hot summer days. The onboard music adds to the relaxed vibe, making it feel like a floating lounge.

Since the tour is private, you’ll have the benefit of a more personalized experience, with your own skipper explaining the sights and navigating carefully. This was appreciated by previous guests who noted their skipper’s friendly attitude and careful driving.

However, keep in mind that food and towels are not included, so plan accordingly. Bringing along snacks, a towel, and sun protection will help maximize your comfort.

Fuel costs aren’t included either, but since this is a private tour, your fee probably covers that. Also, if wind conditions are strong, the route might change—something that happened in a review where weather prevented returning to the original start point.

How Good Is the Value?

At $471 for a group up to four, you’re paying roughly $118 per person if you split evenly, which is quite reasonable considering the private nature of the trip. You get a full six-hour experience with multiple stops, drinks, and the chance to snorkel and swim in some of the most beautiful waters around Dubrovnik.

For many travelers, the value is in the flexibility and personalized service. Sharing the boat with only a few others means fewer crowds, more direct attention from your skipper, and a more tailored itinerary. If you’re someone who appreciates a peaceful, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming, this outing delivers.

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Authentic Traveler Feedback

One reviewer, Bruna, summed it up with a glowing 5-star review: “The contact with Antonio was really nice and easy since the beginning and our skipper was a super nice guy, explaining the places and driving carefully. They had white wine, coke, water, and cold beer. We enjoyed a lot our 6 hours ride, swimming in very transparent and calm water! We could not go back from where we started because of strong wind but there was already a driver to bring us back to our car. We totally recommend this boat trip!”

This kind of feedback reinforces that the experience is both enjoyable and well-managed, even when weather conditions aren’t perfect.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private speedboat tour is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want an intimate experience and aren’t fussed about the absence of included food or towels.

While not specifically tailored for families with young children, older kids who enjoy water activities and boat rides could find it enjoyable—just keep in mind the need to bring your own supplies to stay comfortable.

This trip is best for those who want to see the Blue Cave and islands with fewer crowds, and who value personalized service over large-group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meeting point for the tour?
You’ll meet at Gruz Market, which is a central and easily accessible location in Dubrovnik.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 6 hours, giving you ample time to explore each stop and enjoy swimming and relaxing.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll have beer, wine, water, and Coke available onboard.

Is food provided?
No, food is not included, so bringing snacks or picnic items is a good idea.

Can I bring a towel?
Towels are not included, so it’s recommended to bring your own if you plan to swim or sunbathe.

What if the weather is bad?
Strong wind or weather conditions might change the route or prevent returning to the original start point, but the crew will ensure your safety and comfort.

Is snorkeling part of the experience?
Yes, snorkeling is available, allowing you to enjoy the clear waters around the islands.

Can I book this tour with flexible payments?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik private speedboat tour offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and personalized service. You’ll visit iconic sights like the Blue Cave, unwind on peaceful beaches, and enjoy some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean. The small-group style and inclusion of drinks and music make it feel like a floating lounge—perfect for a laid-back day on the water.

While it’s not a full-day adventure with included food, the flexibility and scenic stops make it a worthwhile choice for travelers who value quality time on the sea and stunning views. If you’re after an intimate, scenic experience in Croatia’s Dalmatian coast with a friendly crew, this tour could be just what you need.

In the end, this experience is best suited for those who want a calm, scenic, and customizable boat day—especially if you’re keen on visiting the Blue Cave and enjoying quiet beaches away from the crowds. Keep in mind the importance of packing your own essentials, and be prepared for weather-dependent changes. For a peaceful, private day on the water, it checks many boxes—and leaves you with plenty of beautiful memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: