Private Speedboat Guided Tour: Explore the best of Dubrovnik Islands

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Islands by Private Speedboat: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a day on the water exploring the stunning Dubrovnik islands, a private speedboat tour could be just the thing. This experience promises a personalized adventure where you get to set the pace and choose your stops, all led by a knowledgeable skipper. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special, and here’s the scoop for anyone who wants a flexible, intimate way to see the area’s highlights.

What we love about this tour? First, the customizable itinerary means you’re not stuck following a rigid schedule—perfect if you want to spend more time swimming or relaxing at a particular spot. Second, the private aspect offers an exclusive, relaxed vibe that’s especially great for couples or small groups who want to avoid crowded tours. The only thing to consider? The price is on the higher side, but when you factor in the private boat, drinks, and snorkeling gear, it can feel like good value for a tailored day out.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate flexibility and comfort. If you’re after a personalized experience that combines scenic views, cultural stopping points, and opportunities to swim and unwind, then this private speedboat trip could be perfect. It’s less suited for those on a tight budget or looking for a quick, no-frills activity—this is about enjoying a curated day with your group.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: You can customize your stops and pace with a dedicated skipper.
• Includes drinks and snorkeling gear: Sip local wines or soft drinks while exploring the sea.
• Multiple stunning stops: Visit islands like Lopud, Sipan, Kolocep, and Sunj Beach.
• Admire iconic sights: Get views of the old town walls, Lovrijenac fortress, and Blue Cave.
• Comfortable group size: Up to 12 people, making it intimate yet social.
• Weather-dependent: The tour only runs if the weather permits, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Discovering Dubrovnik’s Coastal Gems

We loved the way this tour offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing—without the chaos of crowded boat tours. The private boat setup means your skipper is focused on your group, making sure you hit the sights you’re most interested in and adjust the schedule if needed. The tour’s duration of around eight hours provides ample time to enjoy each stop, soak up the sun, and have a few drinks in between.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour kicks off with a panoramic view of the Dubrovnik old town walls, which is a highlight in itself. Your skipper will share some local legends, giving you a taste of Dubrovnik’s fascinating history while you take in the sweeping views. This initial point sets a relaxed tone, allowing you to appreciate the setting before heading off to explore.

Kolocep Island is the first official stop, where the Blue Cave awaits. This is a real crowd-pleaser among travelers. The cave’s entrance may look tiny from the outside, but once you swim through, you’re greeted with an astonishing display of sea colors and formations. Snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to explore underwater. One reviewer noted, “We went to multiple stops around the islands where we got to swim in the Adriatic Sea and experience nature firsthand.”

Next up is Lopud Island, known for its charming village and scenic spots. Many guests use this stop for a leisurely lunch—either on the boat or at a local restaurant—before exploring the old botanical gardens or walking through the village streets. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and soak in the local vibe. One traveler mentioned, “Lopud offers many interesting sites and buildings to visit,” which adds a cultural touch to your day.

Sunj Beach on Lopud is a perfect spot for relaxing. The fine sandy beach invites you to unwind, sunbathe, or take a dip. It’s a favorite for those who want downtime amid their island hopping. A visitor described it as “enjoying some free time sunbathing,” perfect for recharging before the next stop.

Sailing onward, Sipan offers a glimpse into the traditional fishing village of Sudurad. While only a brief stop, it provides picturesque views and a chance to learn about the island’s noble past. One review described it as “enjoying the rocky beach and the beautiful view,” highlighting the peaceful, scenic atmosphere.

The tour’s finale involves visiting the Blue Cave on Kolocep, where the sea has carved out three remarkable caves along the cliffs. The sea’s abrasive effect has created these natural formations, and they make for fantastic photo opps and exploration. As one reviewer put it, “You can experience the enchantment of the caves and marvel at their natural beauty.”

The Experience on the Water

The boats used are comfortable, with room to relax whether you prefer soaking up the sun or staying shaded in the back. With a group of up to 12, you get a cozy, private feel that’s ideal for small groups, couples, or even a family, provided everyone is comfortable on a boat for a few hours. Guests praise the skippers, with names like Niksa and Antonio, for their friendliness and local knowledge. One reviewer said, “Nothing was too much trouble,” emphasizing the personalized service.

Drinks, Snorkeling, and the Overall Value

Included in the tour are local wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—perfect for toasting to a great day or cooling off after swimming. The use of snorkeling gear is also part of the package, allowing you to explore underwater life at the caves and around the islands.

Pricing at $803.29 for the entire group might seem steep at first glance, but when you break down the experience—private transportation, guided stops, drinks, snorkeling gear—it’s quite fair for a tailored day on the water. Plus, the reviews consistently highlight the excellent guides and beautiful scenery as major value-adds.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Duration and Timing: The tour lasts around 8 hours, which is enough to cover multiple stops without feeling rushed.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about six days ahead, so plan accordingly, especially in peak season.
• Weather Dependence: The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.
• Additional Costs: There’s a fuel surcharge of 100 EUR payable in cash on the day—something to keep in mind for your budget.

What Travelers Say

The feedback from past guests is glowing. One said, “Our skipper Niksa was kind and understanding,” despite some initial confusion about the meeting point. Another mentioned, “Nick was such a great guide,” highlighting the personalized attention. The overall consensus? This is a fantastic way to experience the Dubrovnik coastline in style and comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private speedboat adventure is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day on the water. It suits couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups of friends, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere compared to crowded group tours. If you’re looking for a scenic, cultural, and fun-filled day with the option to swim and enjoy drinks along the way, this tour hits the mark.

However, those on a tight budget or with limited mobility might find the cost and boat-based nature a little restrictive. Also, since weather plays a role, it’s good to have a backup plan if conditions aren’t ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, which allows for a relaxed and personalized experience.

How many people can join?
Up to 12 people can participate, making it intimate without feeling crowded.

What’s included in the price?
You get the boat rental, a skipper/host, snorkeling equipment, and drinks—both soft drinks and alcohol like beer and wine.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible, and your skipper will tailor stops based on your preferences.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the stops, swim, and relax.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a 100 EUR fuel surcharge payable in cash on the day of the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore underwater caves and the sea life around the islands.

What about food?
Lunch isn’t included but can be arranged on the islands if you choose. The tour itself doesn’t provide food, focusing instead on sightseeing and swimming.

Do I need prior experience?
No experience is needed; a skipper guides you throughout, ensuring safety and fun.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a private speedboat tour around Dubrovnik’s islands offers a focused, flexible, and comfortable way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. With stunning views, personalized stops, and drinks included, it’s a day that balances adventure and relaxation. If you’re after a memorable experience tailored to your interests, this tour delivers a great mix of scenery, culture, and fun on the water.

While it’s on the pricier side, most travelers agree that the intimacy, flexibility, and the chance to escape the crowds make it worth considering. It’s best suited for those who want a curated day with a small group or partner, who appreciate good guidance and a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and local drinks.

For anyone eager to explore Dubrovnik’s coastline in style and comfort, this private speedboat adventure is a solid choice that offers both the sights and the laid-back vibe the Croatian coast is known for.

Feel free to reach out if you’re curious about more details or want tips on making the most of your Croatian island trip!