BLUE CAVE private speedboat tour with drinks

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik and looking for a way to see the surrounding islands without the crowds? This private speedboat tour to the Elaphiti Islands, including visits to the Blue Cave, is a popular choice—and for good reason. It’s a flexible, intimate experience that allows you to explore at your own pace, with the bonus of included snorkeling gear and drinks.

What we love about this tour is how personalized it is—your group gets exclusive access, and the guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude. Plus, the scenic stops at Koločep and Lopud Islands give you a taste of Croatia’s charming coastal spots. That said, the price point might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, especially considering the fuel surcharge and harbor fees. Still, for many travelers, the value of a private, customizable day on the water outweighs the costs.

This trip suits those who crave flexibility, like discovering hidden beaches, or simply want to enjoy a relaxed, boat-based day with comfortable amenities. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, it offers a chance to see some of Dubrovnik’s most beautiful surroundings with ease—and a bit of luxury.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Fully customizable itinerary to explore at your own pace.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks, snorkeling gear, and life jackets included, no hidden fees.
• Stunning Stops: Visit the Blue Cave, Koločep Island’s caves, and Lopud Island’s sandy beach.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains and guides who share local insights.
• Flexible Timing & Duration: Around 4 hours, with plenty of free time at each stop.
• Private Group: Only your group participates, making it intimate and comfortable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This private speedboat trip is designed for those who want the freedom to choose what they see and do, rather than following a set schedule. The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the visit to the Blue Cave, famed for its glowing, vivid waters. The morning tours, especially between June 1st and September 15th, start bright and early at 8:30 AM, helping you beat the crowds and enjoy the caves in peace.

The ability to customize your itinerary is a real plus. The guide will help you find the best beaches and bars, and you get to decide how long to stay at each spot. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply take photos, you’re in control. The included snorkel hire means you can explore underwater spots without extra hassle, and the alcoholic beverages add a touch of relaxation to your day.

The guides consistently earn praise for their friendliness and local knowledge. Renee from a recent review mentioned how Antun, the captain, was gracious and letting the group choose their activities, which made the experience feel personalized. Similarly, Pavo’s friendly vibe and music made the trip memorable for a group of friends.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Dubrovnik West Harbour

Your adventure kicks off early at Dubrovnik’s Petar Sorkocevic Summerhouse. From here, the boat quickly zips you to the islands, saving precious time that would otherwise be spent on land transport. Early morning is the best time to visit the Blue Cave, especially during high season, as it helps avoid the larger crowds that flock later in the day. The tour’s timing from June to September is designed to optimize light and weather conditions, providing the best possible views.

Stop 2: Koločep Island

The first major stop is Koločep Island, a unique spot with a couple of caves—the famous Blue Cave and the lesser-known Green Cave. The water here is crystal clear, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Walking around this small island offers a break from the boat, and the scenery is one of Croatia’s quieter gems. The fact that admission to the caves is free makes this stop even more appealing.

Stop 3: Lopud Island & Sunj Beach

The next stop takes you to Lopud Island, home to Sunj Beach, which claims the title of the biggest sandy beach in the Dubrovnik area. With 1.5 hours here, you’ll have enough time to relax, dip into the sea, or explore the charming surroundings. The island’s olive and orange trees add a lovely aromatic backdrop, making this spot perfect for a laid-back afternoon.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of around $384 for up to 8 people, you’re getting quite a lot. The tour includes alcoholic drinks, bottled water, snorkel equipment, and the services of a driver guide. The boat provides life jackets suitable for both children and adults, which is reassuring if you’re traveling with kids or less confident swimmers.

However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat onshore during your stops. Fuel surcharges and harbor fees aren’t included in the base price—they’re payable on the boat, ranging from 100 to 150 euros depending on your group size. This aspect is worth considering when budgeting for your day.

The Experience in Practice

The reviews paint a picture of a consistently positive experience. Pavo, who is mentioned multiple times, is praised for his warmth, music choices, and informative commentary. One reviewer noted how Pavo played great music and got close to popular spots early before they became crowded, highlighting the boat’s agility and the guide’s local knowledge.

Many travelers appreciate the flexibility—being able to choose where to spend more time, whether that’s swimming, taking photos, or relaxing with a drink. In fact, Renee said, “He let us decide where we wanted to spend our time,” which is a rare treat on guided tours.

Another aspect that resonates is the beautiful water and scenery. As a boat-based trip, you’re treated to excellent views and access to spots that can be challenging to reach otherwise. The Blue Cave’s glowing waters are a highlight, and the friendly guides help you make the most of it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a personalized experience and values comfort and flexibility over a large group tour, this is a solid choice. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want time to relax rather than follow a strict schedule.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the inclusion of life jackets and the relaxed pace make it suitable for older children, especially those comfortable in the water. The tour’s intimate setting is perfect if you prefer a more relaxed, exclusive day rather than a crowded bus or group activity.

However, be aware that the cost can add up with the fuel surcharge and harbor fees, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly. If you’re looking to explore on your own or on a tighter budget, some of the larger group tours or self-guided options might be better suited.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour to the Elaphiti Islands offers a fantastic way to experience Dubrovnik’s surrounding waters in comfort and style. The blend of customizable stops, included drinks and snorkeling gear, and the chance to explore in a small, private group make it an appealing choice for travelers who prioritize flexibility and personalized service.

The knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery make for memorable moments—whether you’re relaxing on Sunj Beach, discovering hidden caves, or snapping photos of the glowing Blue Cave. The tour is best suited for those who want to enjoy a relaxed, tailored adventure without the hustle and bustle of large group excursions.

While the price might seem high, the private nature of the trip, combined with the inclusions and access to lesser-known spots, offers good value for travelers seeking a special day on the water. If you’re after an authentic, intimate experience that balances sightseeing and leisure, this tour ticks most boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time at each stop for swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers alcoholic beverages, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and the services of a driver/guide. Life jackets are also provided.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, fuel surcharge and harbor fees aren’t included in the base price—they are payable on the boat and range from 100 to 150 euros depending on group size.

What’s the best time to take the tour?
Morning tours run from June 1st to September 15th, starting at 8:30 AM, which helps avoid crowds at the Blue Cave.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the inclusion of life jackets and the gentle pace make it suitable for families with older kids comfortable in the water.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the itinerary is fully customizable, allowing you to choose how much time to spend swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing at each location.

What is the boat like?
The boat is described as comfortable and quick, with a size suitable for small groups of up to 8 people, making it intimate and easy to navigate to various spots.

How far in advance should I book?
Given the popularity and the limited number of groups (up to 8 people per booking), it’s wise to reserve at least a few weeks ahead, especially in peak season.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, private day on the water with stunning scenery and personalized touches, this Blue Cave speedboat tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s highlights.