Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave Private Tour

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave: A Private Boat Tour Review

If you’re planning to visit Dubrovnik and are craving a day on the water, a private tour to the Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave might just be what you need. These tours promise a combination of gorgeous scenery, interesting stops, and the flexibility of customizing your experience, which is a real plus if you prefer avoiding crowded group excursions.

From what we’ve gathered, travelers love this experience for its personalized approach—your own skipper listens to what you want to see and do—and the stunning natural sights like caves and beaches. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks makes it feel like a relaxed day out on the water. However, it’s worth noting that the fuel cost isn’t included in the initial price, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.

This tour seems well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of scenery, water activity, and good company. It’s also attractive to travelers who want the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, avoiding the hassle of organizing transport on their own. If you’re looking for a laid-back day with plenty of flexibility and some scenic highlights, this could be a strong choice.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Your skipper works with your preferences, making each trip unique.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views, caves, and islands that are less crowded and more intimate.
• Snorkeling and wildlife: The Blue Cave and other spots offer great snorkeling opportunities.
• Food is a highlight: Lunch at a local restaurant, often on Lopud Island, offers a chance to enjoy authentic Croatian cuisine.
• Additional costs: Fuel isn’t included—budget approximately $60-$90 extra depending on the tour duration.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for travelers who enjoy water activities and scenic boat trips, but not ideal for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Introduction

The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup, which takes away the stress of getting to the port. Once at the departure point, you’ll meet your captain and crew, who are often praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Expect a quick briefing about the day and a chance to share your wishes for the trip.

The Boat and Comfort

The boat itself is typically described as new, comfortable, and equipped with sound systems, Bluetooth, a shower, and a ladder for easy swimming access. This setup makes for a smooth, enjoyable ride across the water, with plenty of space to relax and take in the views.

Heading to the Blue Cave

One of the highlights is the visit to the Blue Cave, a natural phenomenon with shimmering blue waters that make for incredible photos. You’ll get the chance to snorkel around the cave, admiring the wildlife and the striking light effects. Keep in mind, as one reviewer noted, the high tide might limit access to some caves, so the experience could vary depending on the day’s conditions.

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Exploring the Islands

The most popular stop is Koloep Island, where you can sit by the sea, sip coffee, or wander around. Many guests mention how peaceful these islands are, a perfect escape from the crowds of Dubrovnik. You can also opt for a swim, relax in the sun, or just soak in the scenery.

Lunch Break

A major perk of this tour is the lunch stop, usually recommended by your skipper at a local restaurant, often on Lopud Island. Travelers rave about the delicious food, which highlights Croatian flavors. You’ll have the chance to unwind, enjoy some local wine, and take a break from the boat.

Water Activities & Wildlife

Snorkeling gear is provided, and the crew goes out of their way to make sure everyone feels comfortable exploring underwater. As one reviewer put it, the snorkeling masks and the chance to see the caves’ wildlife add a fun and adventurous element to the trip.

The Return & Drop-off

At the end of the day, your skipper will drop you back at your hotel or accommodation, making the entire experience seamless. The flexibility of a private tour means you’re not rushing or constrained by a large group’s schedule, which many travelers find appealing.

Price and Value

At $412 for a group of up to four people, this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, private boat, and the number of stops included. When you factor in the lunch, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the overall comfort of a private boat, it surpasses many group tours in terms of quality and flexibility. The additional fuel fee—around $60 to $90 depending on the length of your tour—is a common extra, but it’s transparent and easy to budget for.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. For example, one guest said, “Nikolai was very prompt and professional… took us to caves and towns, and dropped us at a restaurant which was wonderful.” Others appreciated the personalized experience, with one saying, “The tour was personalized for us and we loved every second.”

Downsides

The main drawback is that fuel costs are extra and paid in cash, so it’s easy to overlook this when booking. Also, if you’re sensitive to seasickness or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70, which is worth keeping in mind.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a flexible, scenic day on the water with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring less crowded spots, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a personalized adventure.

Travelers who value good food, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery will find this very rewarding. It’s also great if you’re looking to skip the busier, more commercial excursions and prefer a more intimate experience.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, or traveling with very young children or mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s focus on water-based activities and boat travel makes it less suitable for those with certain health considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is generally suitable for those comfortable on a boat and with water activities, it’s best for older children who can handle being on the water and exploring caves. Very young children or those sensitive to seasickness might find it challenging.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is around 4 to 8 hours, depending on the tour length you choose. The price is per group, with options for different durations.

What is included in the tour?
Your tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff, snorkeling gear, a sound system with Bluetooth, cooled drinks (beer, water, Coca-Cola), a shower, and a ladder for swimming. Lunch is not included but is recommended and arranged at a local restaurant.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, and the guides are knowledgeable about the area and its history.

What additional costs should I budget for?
Fuel costs are not included and will be paid in cash on the boat—expect around $60-$90 depending on your chosen tour length.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear. If you plan to snorkel or swim, extra sunscreen and a hat are also useful.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a wonderful way to experience Dubrovnik’s most scenic spots at your own pace. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service, beautiful landscapes, and a mix of relaxing and adventurous activities. While it requires a bit of extra budgeting for fuel and isn’t suitable for everyone, it’s a memorable way to discover the Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave in style and comfort.

If you’re after a peaceful day away from the crowds, with the chance to snorkel in caves and enjoy authentic Croatian cuisine, this tour has a lot to offer. Just keep in mind your own comfort, health, and what kind of experience you’re seeking. Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: