Private boat trip to the Elafiti islands. All included

Traveling through Croatia’s Dalmatian coast often means visiting Dubrovnik, but the true magic lies just beyond the city walls—on the Elafiti Islands. This private boat experience promises a flexible, personalized day exploring Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, with all the comforts and extras you could want. We’re sharing an honest look at what makes this trip special and what to consider before booking.

What really caught our eye about this outing is its customizable nature—you’re in charge of your schedule, deciding how long to linger on each island or beach, and the skippers are local and eager to help craft your ideal day. Plus, the all-included setup means no hidden fees, drinks, gear, or surprises. While the price per boat might seem steep at $414 for up to four people, the tailored approach and all-inclusive setup make it quite competitive for a private experience.

That said, one consideration is the flexibility in timing—since it’s custom, you’ll want to coordinate carefully if you have specific time constraints. This tour is best suited for travelers craving a private, intimate experience with a bit of luxury, particularly those who want to avoid large crowds and have the freedom to explore at their own pace.

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized day on the water with knowledgeable guides and full control over your itinerary, this trip could be a perfect fit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling as a small group, or simply want a serene escape from busy Dubrovnik, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Tailor-Made Experience: You choose how long to stay on each island or beach, making your day truly personalized.
• Local Guides: All skippers are local, providing authentic insights and helping craft an authentic Croatian experience.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Drinks, snorkeling gear, fuel, towels, and even a private guide are included, so you won’t face unexpected costs.
• Flexible Duration: Ranges from 4 to 8 hours, allowing you to customize the length based on your interests and schedule.
• Multiple Stops with Variety: Visit three islands—Koločep, Lopud, Šipan—and enjoy caves, beaches, and private swimming spots.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Priced per boat, suitable for up to four people, making it intimate but also cost-effective for a private adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

This trip stands out because of its completely flexible itinerary. Unlike group tours with fixed schedules, here you set the pace. We loved how the trip begins with a panoramic view of Dubrovnik’s old town, giving you a stunning introduction to the area from the water. The skippers will tell you about Dubrovnik’s history if you’re interested, adding an educational touch without overwhelming the experience.

After that, the boat heads out to the Elafiti Islands, a trio of charming spots each with their own vibe. Koločep is perfect for a quick sightseeing stop and a bit of beach time, while Lopud is known for its lovely promenade and longer stops—perfect for exploring or relaxing by the sea. Šipan offers a quieter, more private feel, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

One of the highlights for many is the chance to visit caves, including the Blue Cave, which makes for great photos and snorkeling. The private stops at beaches and private areas for swimming and snorkeling mean you can enjoy the water without feeling rushed. The skippers are happy to help with gear, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll find all you need included.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Gru Market

The trip kicks off from Dubrovnik’s Gru Market, which is convenient and central. From here, the boat quickly offers you a panoramic view of Dubrovnik’s impressive city walls and old town. If you’re a history buff or just love good scenery, this first glimpse sets the tone for a memorable day.

Koločep: An Intro to the Islands

Your first stop is Koločep, often called Kalamota, a peaceful island with a relaxed vibe. Here you’ll get about an hour for sightseeing and free time. You might find this is just enough to take a quick walk or dip your toes in the water before heading to the next stop.

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Lopud: The Longer Stop

Next up is Lopud, where you’ll spend around two hours. This island is known for its lush greenery, sandy beaches, and a charming seaside town. Many reviews mention that the skippers provide local insights, making the visit more meaningful. You’ll have time to explore, find a nice spot for lunch, or simply lounge on a beach.

Secret Stop: A Hidden Gem

The boat then stops at a “secret” spot—a private area for swimming and relaxing. This is a bit of a surprise for travelers, and many find it to be a highlight—an exclusive chance to unwind in calm waters.

Šipan and Return

The final island stop is Šipan, which is quieter and more residential. It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk or more swimming before heading back to Dubrovnik. The journey back is a good time to relax, reflect on your day, and enjoy the views.

Duration & Customization

The entire experience lasts between 4 and 8 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each spot. Because it’s tailor-made, you can decide to spend longer in one place or skip an island entirely if you prefer.

What’s Included & What You Should Know

All-Inclusive Comfort

For $414 per boat (up to four people), everything is included: the skipper, fuel, drinks (beer, water, wine, Coca-Cola), towels, and snorkeling gear. This makes it an easy, stress-free choice—no extra charges or hidden fees. It’s perfect if you want to relax rather than worry about costs or planning.

No Extra Charges

The tour explicitly states there are no additional costs. If you want to snorkel or take photos, gear is provided free of charge. You can also enjoy drinks onboard and during stops, which is a nice touch, especially on warm days.

Meeting & Flexibility

The meeting point is at Gru Market, but the provider will contact you beforehand to confirm details. The tour is hosted in English and designed for private groups, creating a more intimate experience.

Cancellation & Payment

Flexible policies include free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip and the option to reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans might shift.

Our Honest Take on the Experience

The biggest selling point here is customization. Unlike larger, more structured tours, you can craft your perfect day at sea. The local guides add value by sharing insights that make the islands even more special. Several reviews praise the “knowledgeable guides” for making the trip more meaningful.

The scenery is of course stunning—crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and the historic backdrop of Dubrovnik create a perfect setting. The flexibility to stop wherever you want—be it for snorkeling, a quick sightseeing walk, or just relaxing—means you’re in control.

On the flip side, at $414 for a private boat, this isn’t the cheapest option, but when you consider the inclusions and privacy, it’s reasonable. Groups larger than four will need to consider additional boats or look elsewhere.

Some travelers might find the timing a bit tricky if they have limited hours or specific plans. Because the trip is flexible and private, it requires a bit of planning and communication to get the most out of it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for small groups or couples seeking privacy and flexibility. If you love tailored adventures, enjoy snorkeling, or want a peaceful day away from crowds, this tour hits the spot. It’s also perfect if you value local insight and want to learn more about Dubrovnik and its surrounding islands from guides who know the area well.

However, if you prefer large-group tours or have tight schedules, you might find this too flexible or expensive for your needs. It’s best for travelers who want to control their day and relax at their own pace, rather than follow a fixed itinerary.

FAQs

How long does the trip last?
The duration can be from 4 to 8 hours, depending on how long you choose to spend at each stop and your preferences.

What is included in the price?
All costs per boat are covered—this includes the skipper, fuel, drinks (beer, water, wine, Coca-Cola), towels, and snorkeling gear. There are no extra charges.

Where does the tour start?
The starting point is Gru Market in Dubrovnik. The provider will contact you beforehand to confirm details.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the trip is tailor-made, so you can choose which islands to visit, how long to stay, and which stops are most appealing to you.

Is this trip suitable for families?
The experience is private and flexible, so it can work well for families or small groups, especially if you want a more personal, relaxed day on the water.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip. Payment is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides speak English and are there to help make your day enjoyable and informative.

Final Thoughts

This private boat trip to the Elafiti Islands offers a personalized, relaxed way to explore some of Croatia’s most scenic spots. The combination of local guides, all-inclusive amenities, and the freedom to craft your day makes it stand out from typical group excursions. While it’s priced at a premium, the peace of mind and tailored experience can make it worth every kuna, especially if you’re after a more intimate adventure.

It’s a fantastic choice for small groups or couples who want to avoid crowds and enjoy the water on their own terms. The trip’s flexibility means you can focus on what matters most to you—whether that’s snorkeling, sightseeing, or just soaking up the sun.

If you’re looking for a quiet, private, and customizable day at sea in Croatia, this experience ticks many boxes. Just be sure to communicate your preferences ahead of time so you can truly make the most of it.

Note: Always check availability and confirm details with the provider before booking, as plans may vary slightly.

You can check availability for your dates here: