Islands & Caves Private Tour with pickup, drinks & fuel included

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, chances are you’ll come across options to explore the beautiful Elaphiti Islands. One standout choice is the Islands & Caves Private Tour with pickup, drinks & fuel included offered by AdriaWave Dubrovnik. This 8-hour adventure promises a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation, all tailored to your group. From what I’ve gathered, it’s a solid option whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it’s private, meaning you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, which adds a layer of comfort and flexibility. Second, the offered drinks, including alcoholic beverages, make it feel more like a leisure cruise rather than a hurried sightseeing rush. That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone—if you’re on a tight budget, the $429.22 price for a group up to 6 might seem a bit steep, especially since lunch isn’t included and is left to your own arrangements.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized experience with a knowledgeable skipper, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and appreciate the chance to explore multiple islands at a relaxed pace. If you’re okay with a flexible schedule, and interested in seeing everything from sea caves to sandy beaches, this could be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Only your group participates, allowing a tailored experience.
• Includes drinks and fuel: Alcoholic beverages and water are on the house, making it a laid-back day.
• Multiple stops for swimming and exploration: From famous caves to quaint villages, there’s variety.
• Longer duration: Around 8 hours gives plenty of time without feeling rushed.
• Not including lunch: You’ll need to plan a meal, but the tour offers restaurant suggestions and can book tables.
• Good reviews for guides and scenery: Consistently praised for knowledgeable skippers and stunning views.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Blue Cave Dubrovnik

The adventure begins with a trip to the Blue Cave, which is only accessible by boat. This is a highlight for many, thanks to the chance to swim in the glowing, clear waters. The tour supplies snorkels, so gear isn’t a concern. Visitors mention the cave is a must-see and something you wouldn’t want to miss, especially because it’s a boat-only access point.

A reviewer described it as “an amazing experience,” emphasizing how enchanting and photogenic the cave is. Expect about 30 minutes here — enough time to take photos and enjoy the swim, but don’t expect a long stop.

Kolocep Island and Green Caves

A quick boat ride then takes you to Kolocep Island, home to the green caves. There are three caves in total, each with its own charm. The first is large and accessible for swimming, making it a gentle warm-up. The second cave is darker and smaller, offering a more adventurous feel. The third is a little more interesting for those who love exploring tight spaces or simply want to see a different kind of sea cave.

This part of the tour is relaxed, and the reviewers note the caves are free to explore (no extra tickets). You’ll have around 45 minutes in this area, enough to swim, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery.

Exploring Kolocep Village

Next, you’ll visit a small fishing village on Kolocep, where you can take a walk around, browse a tiny shop, or sip coffee by the sea. The laid-back vibe is appreciated by visitors, who say it’s a lovely spot to soak in local life without the crowds.

Sunj Beach on Lopud

Moving on to Lopud, the tour stops at Sunj Beach, famous for its sandy stretch and shallow waters—great for kids or anyone wanting to just lounge and soak up the sun. It’s about an hour here, giving enough time to swim, relax, and grab a drink at one of the beach bars.

Exploring Lopud Village

The trip includes a longer stop on Lopud, around three hours, which allows for exploration beyond the beach. Visitors have enjoyed wandering through the streets and visiting the monasteries—the Dominican and Franciscan. The option to rent a golf cart or just stroll on foot means you can tailor your visit. Many found this part peaceful and charming, with comments praising the guides’ local recommendations.

Sipan Island and Sjekirica Beach

Next, your boat heads to Sipan, the largest of the Elaphiti Islands. Here, you can explore a small fishing village or relax at the famed Bowa restaurant in a beautiful bay—perfect for a leisurely lunch if you plan ahead.

Before wrapping up, the tour visits Sjekirica Beach or Sikirica Cove, a favorite spot for swimming and snorkeling, thanks to its clear, shallow waters and sea vegetation. Reviewers describe it as “paradise” for water lovers, with about an hour allocated for swimming and relaxing.

What You Get and What You Need to Consider

Included in the Price

The tour’s $429.22 fee covers private transportation, fuel, snorkeling gear, bottled water, sodas, and alcohol. Having drinks included is a definite plus, making the day feel casual and indulgent. The boat is air-conditioned, and lifejackets are provided, adding to safety and comfort.

What’s Not Included

Lunch is not part of the package, but the guides are happy to recommend restaurants and even book tables for you. This flexibility allows for a meal of your choice, whether you fancy seafood or something more casual.

Practical details to note:

• The tour is booked on a mobile ticket system and offers pickup service, which is very convenient if you’re staying outside the city center.
• It’s designed for most travelers, with good weather being a must for the best experience.
• The group size is small, up to six people, meaning a more intimate and flexible experience.

The Experience

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Kiko and Bruno, who are praised for their friendliness and local insights. The boat ride itself is described as “lovely,” with some noting that windy days can make the water splash more, but that’s part of the adventure.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusions—private boat, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a full day of exploring—many find the price reasonable. The private aspect means you can customize your stops and pace, which adds to the overall value. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the spectacular scenery and the personalized service.

The Authentic Voice of Reviewers

One happy traveler shared, “We could not have asked for a more perfect day. Our skipper, Bruno, was super accommodating and even booked us a delicious lunch.” Others appreciated the flexibility and the chance to see multiple islands in one day.

A couple of reviewers mentioned the weather could be windy, which might mean getting a bit wet or splashing on the boat, but overall, they still had a fantastic time. Several called it one of the highlight experiences of their trip, emphasizing how guided tours with knowledgeable skippers make all the difference.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a personalized, relaxing day exploring Croatia’s islands, this private boat tour seems like a strong contender. The focus on swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying scenic spots offers a true escape from city life. The inclusion of drinks, the flexibility of stops, and the small group setting all contribute to a memorable experience.

This trip works well if you appreciate laid-back adventures and want to see the highlights without rushing. It’s especially suitable for those who value local insights, customization, and a private vibe. If you’re traveling with a group who enjoys water activities and charming villages, it’s unlikely you’ll be disappointed.

However, keep in mind the price point—it’s an investment—and plan for lunch separately. Also, be aware that the experience depends heavily on weather conditions, so a calm day will maximize your fun.

FAQ About the Islands & Caves Private Tour

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, fuel, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, sodas, and alcoholic beverages. You’ll have a dedicated guide and a boat just for your group.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, giving plenty of time to explore multiple stops and relax.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but guides can recommend restaurants and help with reservations if you wish to dine out during the trip.

What is the boat like?
It’s a private boat equipped with air conditioning, lifejackets, and snorkeling gear. The vessel is designed for comfort and safety.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility to spend more or less time at certain locations, and guides are usually accommodating.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the shallow waters at beaches like Sunj make it family-friendly, but always check individual needs and water conditions.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, it can be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered if canceled due to weather.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 30 days ahead, which is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Final Words

This private Elaphiti Islands tour from Dubrovnik offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and personalized service. It’s well-suited for those who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy the comfort of a dedicated guide. The mix of caves, beaches, and small villages makes it a comprehensive and relaxing day out.

While it’s not the cheapest option around, many reviews highlight the value of the experience—from the knowledgeable guides to the stunning surroundings. If you love water-based adventures and want a flexible, private day on the Dalmatian coast, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.