Private Half-Day Speedboat Guided Tour of Dubrovnik Islands

If you’re dreaming of gliding across the sparkling Adriatic on your own private boat, this half-day speedboat tour of Dubrovnik’s islands might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and it sounds pretty enticing—especially if you love a blend of scenic views, a touch of luxury, and a relaxed pace.

What really caught my eye are the private nature of the tour—only your group on the boat—and the flexibility, with options for morning or afternoon slots. Plus, the drinks, snorkeling gear, and stops at multiple islands add up to a fun, personalized experience. One thing to consider, though, is the fuel surcharge of €70 paid in cash—not a huge surprise, but a good detail to keep in mind when budgeting.

This tour is clearly aimed at those who want a private, customizable adventure on the water, rather than a large group tour. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and unwinding with some good local wine or beer. If a quick, scenic escape from Dubrovnik sounds appealing, read on for the full scoop.

Key Points

• Private tour means exclusive access for your group up to 8 people, with a relaxed, personalized vibe.
• Includes drinks and snorkeling gear, making it easy to enjoy the scenery and aquatic fun without extra hassle.
• Multiple stops at islands and caves offer diverse sights, from historic walls to hidden caves.
• Flexible timing allows you to choose between morning or afternoon, fitting this experience into your schedule.
• Cost per group is around $491, which can seem steep but offers a good value for private, all-inclusive fun.
• Skipper and host are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a warm touch to the adventure.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour is all about enjoying Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty at your own pace, aboard a speedboat suited to your group size. The experience lasts roughly four hours, giving enough time to soak in the sights and have some aquatic fun without feeling rushed.

Starting Point: Dubrovnik City Walls

Your journey kicks off with a panoramic view of Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls. As your skipper narrates some local legends—think of it as a quick cultural appetizer—you’ll get a sense of the city’s history and significance. The views from the water, with the walls rising dramatically from the old town, are genuinely striking. It’s a fantastic way to see Dubrovnik from a different angle, and many reviews highlight how breathtaking this initial perspective is.

Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave

Next, you’ll cruise towards Kolocep Island, home to one of Dubrovnik’s most impressive natural attractions—the Blue Cave. Once there, you’ll have the chance to swim through the cave’s entrance, which appears small from the outside but opens up into a stunning, shimmering chamber. The included snorkeling gear makes exploring the caves and underwater spots accessible, even for beginners.

Lopud Island and a Lunch Break

Lopud Island offers a charming village ambiance, with options to stop at well-loved local restaurants. Many travelers appreciate this pause as a chance to enjoy some fresh Croatian cuisine, though the tour itself doesn’t include lunch—so you might want to plan ahead if that’s a priority. Besides, Lopud has some interesting sights, including old botanical gardens and historical buildings, which add a cultural touch to your day.

Sunj Beach and Relaxation

In the afternoon, Sunj Beach comes into play—a long, sandy stretch perfect for unwinding after your meal. Many reviews mention how relaxing this stop is, especially given its inviting sands and gentle waves. It’s a great spot to sunbathe, dip your toes, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Sipan Island and the Old Fishing Village

Next, you head to Sipan, notable for its historic fishing village, Sudurad. The rocky coast and scenic views make it an excellent photo opportunity, and your guide might share snippets of local history. It’s quieter here, ideal for those who prefer to avoid overly touristy spots.

Additional Cave Exploration

Finally, the tour includes visits to three caves along Koloep’s cliffs, carved out by the sea. These caves are often described as enchanting, with their mysterious openings and intriguing formations. They’re a highlight for many, especially if you enjoy discovering natural marvels.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The package covers boat rental, a knowledgeable skipper, drinks (local beer, wine, water, soda), and snorkeling equipment. This makes it a pretty hassle-free day, especially since you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear or arranging transportation.

However, lunch isn’t included. You can organize a meal on the islands, which many travelers do, or simply enjoy snacks and drinks on the boat. Also, there’s a €70 fuel surcharge payable in cash at the start or end of the trip—so be prepared for that additional expense.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

What stands out from reviews is how much people appreciated their guide’s friendliness, knowledge, and effort to make the trip enjoyable. One reviewer said, “Nick went above and beyond,” and others highlighted the stunning caves and great swim spots. The fact that the tour is private means more flexibility and personalized attention, which many find valuable.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At roughly $491 for a group of up to eight, the cost might seem high, but when you factor in the exclusivity, the drinks, snorkeling gear, and stops at several beautiful islands, it offers good value. This is a luxurious, intimate experience—not a crowded boat ride—so if you’re after privacy and tailored experiences, it’s a solid choice.

Who Will Enjoy This Most?

This tour suits adventurous couples, groups of friends, or families with older children who can appreciate scenic drives, swimming, and relaxing with good drinks. It’s less ideal for those who want a full-day experience or are on a tight budget, but for those seeking a special half-day on the water, it can be quite memorable.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a private, flexible way to explore Dubrovnik’s stunning islands and caves, this speedboat tour ticks a lot of boxes. You get personalized service, gorgeous views, and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. The inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear adds to the laid-back, enjoyable vibe, making it a lovely way to spend part of your Dubrovnik trip.

The tour’s emphasis on small group size and knowledgeable guides means you’ll likely feel well cared for and immersed in the experience. Keep in mind the extra fuel surcharge, and consider whether a half-day suits your pace—it’s perfect if you want a manageable, scenic escape without committing a full day.

This experience would suit travelers who value exclusivity, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury—ideal for creating some memorable moments on your Croatian holiday.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last? Approximately four hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stops and swimming.

What is included in the price? The boat rental, skipper/host, drinks (beer, wine, water, soda), and snorkeling equipment.

Are meals included? No, but you can organize lunch on the islands if you wish.

Is there a surcharge? Yes, a €70 fuel surcharge payable in cash on the day of the tour.

Can I choose morning or afternoon? Yes, you can select based on your schedule and preference.

Is it suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, it’s generally suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

What should I bring? Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps some extra cash for the fuel surcharge or snacks.

How do I cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; the process is straightforward and free of charge.