Elaphite Islands & Mljet – Private Boat Excursion from Dubrovnik

If you’re looking to escape the busy streets and scorching heat of Dubrovnik, a boat trip to the Elaphite Islands and Mljet offers a peaceful, scenic alternative. This private excursion promises a day of swimming, snorkeling, and exploring secluded spots, all aboard a comfortable Beneteau Flyer cruiser. From what we’ve seen in reviews and itineraries, it seems like a wonderful choice for travelers craving a personalized and relaxed experience – especially if you love being on the water and discovering lesser-known beaches and caves.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the flexibility of the itinerary and the quality of the boat and crew. The stops are designed to give you plenty of time to swim, relax, and explore without feeling rushed. Plus, with a knowledgeable skipper at the helm, you’ll get more than just a scenic cruise—you’ll enjoy insightful guidance along the way. A possible drawback? The cost is on the higher side, but considering the private, tailored experience, many might find the price justified. This is best suited for those who want a more exclusive, personalized day on the water and don’t mind paying a premium for comfort and flexibility.

If you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or someone who appreciates quiet moments away from crowds, this tour might be just what you need. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a private, intimate experience over group tours, and who want to explore the islands at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Only your group participates, giving you freedom to customize stops and activities.
• Comfortable boat with modern amenities: The Beneteau Flyer is well-equipped, offering shade, water, snacks, and entertainment.
• Flexible itinerary: The stops and timing are adjustable based on your preferences and the skipper’s guidance.
• Ideal for swimming and snorkeling: Multiple opportunities to dive into the water in scenic coves and caves.
• Includes local taxes and some equipment: Snorkeling gear, paddleboard, beverages, and transfers are covered.
• Additional costs: Fuel and lunch are extra, which can impact your overall budget.

The Experience: A Detailed Look

Getting Started and What’s Included

The tour kicks off with hotel or port pickup, eliminating the hassle of navigating Dubrovnik’s busy streets. Once aboard the sleek Beneteau Flyer 850 Sun Deck Cruiser, you’ll immediately notice the modern comforts—there’s a sunshade, freshwater shower, stereo, and plenty of space to relax. The boat can comfortably host up to 8 guests plus the skipper, making it perfect for small groups, couples, or even a family looking for privacy.

Your guide and skipper are there to make your day special, providing safety equipment and tailored suggestions for stops depending on the weather and your preferences. The experience includes local taxes, beverages (water, fruit juices, sodas, beer), and the use of snorkeling and paddleboarding gear. Just remember, fuel costs (around €300) and lunch are extra.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

First stop: Koločep Island and the Blue Cave
This early highlight offers a chance to explore the Blue Cave, which is known for its striking light effects. You’ll be able to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, with admission tickets included. The flexible schedule means you can spend as much time as you like—about 45 minutes—making it a relaxed start to your day. One reviewer shared how they loved the personalized itinerary, saying, “Iso helped curate an itinerary that he thought we would enjoy, was a pleasure to be with.”

Second stop: Mljet Island and Lemuni Lagoon
This is the star of the tour for many. Mljet’s southern beaches and the Lemuni Lagoon are postcard-perfect. The lagoon’s still waters are great for swimming and exploring. You can also opt for lunch at Bowa Restaurant, which some guests mention as a memorable highlight, though it’s an optional extra. The three-hour stop here gives plenty of time to soak in the scenery and relax. Reviewers noted that “we enjoyed a day of sun, ocean, and lunch,” emphasizing the leisurely pace.

Third stop: Sipanska Luka and the Elaphite Islands
Next, you’ll visit the western Elaphite Islands, including Jakljan and Sipan. You’ll have time to walk around, swim, and explore at your own rhythm. This part of the tour is praised for its peacefulness, with one guest mentioning it as a “memorable day.” The two-hour stop is perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying the beautiful surroundings without feeling rushed.

Final stop: Additional swimming and snorkeling
Your skipper may suggest one more stop in a cove for some final dips and underwater exploration. This quick, flexible stop usually lasts about an hour and is a favorite among guests for the chance to cool off in pristine waters.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert guidance and customization: Multiple reviews emphasize the value of having a friendly, knowledgeable skipper who tailors the day based on your interests and the weather. “Iso was a pleasure to be with,” said one guest, highlighting the importance of good company and guidance.

Comfortable and well-equipped boat: The Beneteau Flyer 850 Sun Deck Cruiser is praised for its modern amenities—think sunshade, stereo, freshwater shower, and USB outlets—making the day not only scenic but also comfortable.

Flexible schedule and stops: The itinerary is not rigid, allowing you to spend more or less time at each destination, which is a real plus for those who prefer a personalized pace.

Authentic local experience: The tour includes visits to less crowded spots and hidden bays, perfect for escaping tourist crowds and enjoying nature in peace.

The Financials: Is It Worth the Price?

At around $1,400 for up to 7 people, this private tour isn’t cheap. But when you weigh the exclusivity, personalized service, and luxury of the boat, many travelers agree it’s a worthwhile splurge. The price covers the boat, skipper, all included equipment, and local taxes—things that can easily add up if you rent boats or book separate excursions.

However, keep in mind that fuel costs are paid separately, and lunch isn’t included. If you’re planning a full day of exploring and swimming, budgeting an extra €20-€30 per person for a meal might be wise. The flexibility of the stops and the private nature of the tour make it a good value for those seeking a tailored experience rather than a crowded group trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a private, relaxed day out on the water. It suits those who appreciate comfort, personalized attention, and the freedom to customize their stopovers. If you’re an avid swimmer or snorkeler, you’ll love the multiple opportunities to enjoy the clear waters.

However, if you prefer structured, fixed schedules or are traveling on a tight budget, this might not be the best fit. Also, since lunch and fuel are extra costs, it’s best suited for those willing to spend a bit more for a premium experience.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a peaceful, personalized way to explore Dubrovnik’s scenic waters and hidden islands, this private boat excursion checks many boxes. The combination of a modern boat, flexible itinerary, and friendly skipper promises a memorable day, especially if you love swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the water. While it comes with a premium price tag, the exclusivity and comfort often justify the cost.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving an intimate experience, away from the crowds, with plenty of time to soak in the stunning scenery. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a luxurious day on the sea, this trip could become one of your favorite Dubrovnik memories.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel or port pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.

What is the boat like?
The boat is a Beneteau Flyer 850 Sun Deck Cruiser, equipped with modern amenities like a sunshade, stereo, freshwater shower, and USB outlets. It comfortably accommodates up to 8 guests plus the skipper.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 8 hours, with flexible stops to suit your pace and preferences.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but you can purchase it on Mljet or bring your own. The tour includes beverages and snacks.

What activities can I do?
Swimming and snorkeling are the main activities, with equipment provided. You can also use the paddleboard if you like.

Are the stops customizable?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted based on your interests and weather conditions.

How much does fuel cost?
Fuel costs (€300 per booking) are paid directly to the skipper in cash and are not included in the base price.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it’s suitable for travel groups comfortable on boats and interested in water activities.

What should I bring?
Towels, swimsuits, sunblock, your camera, and any personal items you want for water activities.

How do reviews describe the experience?
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and personalized service, making it a highly rated, memorable trip.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, private day out on Croatia’s fabulous waters, this tour offers a great mix of adventure and comfort. Just be prepared for the extra costs if you want to make the most of it, and enjoy exploring Dubrovnik’s secret spots from an entirely new perspective.