Private boat tour skippered by a local expert – fully customizable

Introduction

Looking for a way to see Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast without the crowds? This private boat tour out of Trogir offers a flexible, personalized way to explore some of the region’s most beautiful spots. Whether you want to hop between tiny islands, snorkel in secluded bays, or just cruise along while soaking up the views, this experience can be tailored to your interests.

What we really like about this tour is how customizable it is. You can either let your skipper suggest an itinerary based on local knowledge or design your own route. Plus, the ability to spend as long as you want at each swimming or snorkeling stop means you won’t feel rushed—something many travelers appreciate when exploring Croatia’s coast.

That said, a potential drawback is understanding the additional costs involved. Fuel and skipper fees aren’t included in the base price, so it’s good to be prepared for those extras. Also, while the size of the boat varies, not all options are suitable for every activity, such as visiting the Blue Cave — so plan accordingly.

This tour is especially well-suited for groups who value privacy, flexibility, and a more intimate experience on the water. If you’re traveling with friends or family, and want to steer clear of busy tourist spots while discovering hidden gems, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Fully customizable experience lets you choose your route or get local recommendations.
• Multiple boat options cater to different group sizes and preferences, from mid-sized to luxury yachts.
• Flexible timing and stops give you the freedom to linger at favorite spots or explore quickly.
• Includes snorkeling gear and bottled water, making it easy to enjoy water-based activities.
• Additional costs apply for fuel and skipper fees, so budget accordingly.
• Booking is private, so only your group will participate, ensuring privacy and personalized service.

Why a Private Boat Tour Could Be Just What You Need

If you’re tired of crowded tour buses or packed group excursions, a private boat offers a more relaxed, personal way to see Croatia’s coast. You get to set the pace, spend more time at the spots you love, and avoid the typical tourist rush. It’s perfect for travelers who want a tailored experience, whether that’s exploring hidden coves, enjoying a quiet swim, or stopping for a scenic lunch.

The beauty of this experience is that it’s not a “set in stone” itinerary. Instead, you and your skipper decide what to do. You might spend part of the day exploring small bays, then head to a quiet restaurant on an island, or simply cruise along enjoying the scenery. This level of flexibility is hard to find on standard tours.

What really elevates this experience is the opportunity to customize your schedule. The skippers are local experts, so they know the area inside out and can suggest great spots you won’t find in guidebooks. This personalized touch makes for a memorable day on the sea.

The Boats and How They Affect Your Experience

Options range from a mid-sized 22-ft boat suited for small groups up to 6 people, to larger speedboats and luxury yachts accommodating up to 11 or 10 guests respectively. The smaller boat is perfect if you’re a tight-knit group wanting intimacy and simplicity, but keep in mind it’s not suitable for certain activities like visiting the Blue Cave, which requires a bigger or more equipped vessel.

The larger speedboats and yachts are equipped to reach more distant islands and are suitable for all Dalmatian destinations, including popular spots like the Blue Cave. They also provide a smoother ride in choppier conditions, which is helpful if the weather turns windy.

From reviews, it’s clear that most guests appreciate the quality and comfort of the boats, along with the professionalism of their skippers. Many mention the boats’ cleanliness and the well-maintained equipment, including snorkeling gear and bottled water.

The Skippers and Their Role

The skippers are the real stars of this tour. Several reviews highlight how friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful the skippers are. For example, Donna raved about Duje, calling him “absolutely fabulous” and noting he listened carefully to what they wanted. Similarly, Marin and Toma are praised for their local insights and ability to adapt to weather conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

Having a skipper who understands the area makes a big difference, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Croatia’s coast. They can recommend the best swimming spots, restaurants, or hidden beaches, adding extra value to your day.

It’s worth noting that the skipper’s fee is an extra cost—$100 for medium and large boats, and $150 for the luxury yacht—but most reviews suggest it’s well worth it for the level of service and local knowledge you receive.

Itinerary and Stops

The great thing about this experience is the flexibility in itinerary and stops. While there’s a starting point at Trogir, what you do next is entirely up to you. Some common highlights include:

• Secluded bays and coves: Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the boat away from crowds.
• Nearby islands: Depending on your chosen route, you might visit islands like Šolta or Brač, known for their beauty and tranquility.
• The Blue Lagoon: A popular stop for many, praised for its turquoise waters and scenic surroundings. Several reviews mention how well navigated the waves are thanks to skippers’ skills, even on windy days.
• Local eateries: Many skippers recommend or arrange for a delicious seafood lunch at quiet restaurants, often with options for fresh fish or traditional Croatian tapas.

Some guests mention their skippers going above and beyond, like arranging special lunch spots or suggesting unique swimming locations. Whether it’s a quick dip, a longer snorkel, or a scenic cruise, your skipper will help craft the perfect day.

Water Activities and Amenities

Snorkeling gear is included, so you can easily dip into the water at various stops. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the snorkeling opportunities, with clear water and interesting marine life. Bottled water is provided onboard, keeping everyone hydrated during the day.

The boats are well-equipped, and the flexible timing allows you to stay longer at a favorite spot or move on quickly if you prefer. This freedom makes the experience feel less rushed and more tailored to your pace.

The Costs and Value for Money

The base price of around $479.57 covers the boat and your private group—up to 6 people for the smaller boats. Larger boats can accommodate more guests but come with additional costs for fuel and skipper fees. Expect to pay an extra $100 for mid-sized or larger boats, and $150 for the luxury yacht.

While the additional costs might seem like a surprise at first, most reviews agree they’re reasonable considering the premium experience and personalized service. For instance, one guest noted a fuel bill of about $200 for a day, which was a bit of a shock but justified given the distances traveled and the boat’s efficiency.

This tour offers good value, especially when you consider the exclusivity, flexibility, and local expertise involved. It’s ideal for groups wanting a private, stress-free day on the water without the rigid structure of larger tours.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour from Trogir stands out as a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s coast for those who value customization and privacy. With options for boats of different sizes and the freedom to craft your own itinerary, it appeals most to travelers who want more control over their day and aren’t afraid to pay a little extra for a tailored experience.

The skippers are consistently praised for their professionalism and local knowledge, making each trip feel personal and safe. Whether you’re after quiet swimming spots, island-hopping, or a scenic cruise, you’ll find this tour adaptable to your desires.

While additional costs like fuel and skipper fees mean you should budget accordingly, many guests see this as part of the overall value—getting a private, flexible experience that’s worth every euro. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or friends wanting a memorable day on the water that’s free from crowds and packed schedules.

If you’re seeking an authentic, customizable day on Croatia’s beautiful coastline, this tour could be just what you need. Just be sure to communicate your preferences upfront so your skipper can help you make the most of your time on the sea.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Absolutely. It’s designed for private groups up to 6 people with the mid-sized boat, and larger boats accommodate more guests. It’s perfect for friends or small families wanting a tailored experience.

Can I choose my own itinerary?
Yes. You have the option to suggest your own schedule, or you can rely on your skipper’s local knowledge for recommendations. The flexibility is one of the tour’s biggest strengths.

What boats are available?
Options include a mid-sized 22-ft boat (up to 6 guests), a larger speedboat for up to 11, and a luxury 33-ft yacht for up to 10 guests. The choice depends on your group size and preferred comfort level.

Are snorkeling gear and water provided?
Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included and available for use during your stops. Bottled water is also provided onboard to keep everyone hydrated.

What costs are additional?
Fuel and skipper fees are extra. Expect to pay around $100 for the skippers (depending on boat size) and additional fuel costs, which are not included in the base price.

How long does the tour last?
The duration can range from approximately 3 to 9 hours, depending on your preferences and schedule. You can customize the length to suit your day.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The activity can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather is poor. You will be offered an alternative date or a full refund if weather conditions make the tour unsafe or unpleasant.

Is this a shared tour?
No, it’s fully private. Only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized and exclusive experience.

Who should consider this tour?
Travelers who appreciate flexibility, privacy, and expert local guidance. It’s especially suited for groups wanting to explore hidden gems at their own pace without the bulk of large tour groups.