Private boat Tour – Dubrovnik Old Town and Elaphite islands

Exploring Dubrovnik by Sea: A Deep Dive into the Private Boat Tour of Old Town and Elaphite Islands

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Dubrovnik’s legendary coastline, this private boat tour could be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have—and it sounds like an excellent way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots without feeling rushed or crowded.

One thing I love about this experience is its personalized nature. With a private boat accommodating up to 12 people, you won’t be part of a giant tour group. Instead, you get a flexible, intimate adventure, tailored to your preferences. Plus, snorkeling equipment and drinks included make it a well-rounded day, combining relaxation, exploration, and fun in the sun.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t ideal if you’re easily seasick or prefer guided group activities with fixed schedules. It’s a more relaxed, customizable ride, suited best for those who appreciate a gentle, scenic cruise and spontaneous discoveries. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a day on the water, this could be perfect.

In summary, this tour appeals most to travelers who want a luxurious, flexible experience with knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and lots of opportunities to swim and snorkel in pristine waters. Now, let’s look closer at what makes this tour stand out — and whether it’s a good fit for your Dubrovnik trip.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size for intimacy and flexibility
• Scenic Routes: Covers Old Town, city walls by sea, Lokrum, and the Elaphite Islands
• Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, exploring caves, and undiscovered beaches
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup, and drop-off included
• Food & Drinks: Water, soft drinks, and wine served on board for a relaxing day
• Flexible Routing: Open to suggestions and tailored to your preferences

An In-Depth Look at the Private Dubrovnik Boat Tour

Setting Out from Dubrovnik’s Coast

The adventure begins at Lapadska obala 28, right in the heart of Dubrovnik. The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a big plus if you’re staying centrally. Once aboard the comfortable boat, with its leather seating, sun deck, and inside cabin, you immediately get the sense you’re in for a relaxed day. The boat is well equipped, with all permits and devices for safe navigation, as confirmed by travelers who appreciated the careful organization.

This private setup means you get undivided attention from your captain, who doubles as a guide. Many reviews mention how personable and accommodating the crew is—”James was awesome and very accommodating,” says one traveler—highlighting the importance of having a crew that makes the experience feel natural and engaging, rather than rushed or robotic.

The Route and Its Highlights

The main route includes a lap around Dubrovnik’s famous city walls by sea, providing a fantastic perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll also visit Lokrum Island, known for its lush greenery and historical ruins, and the Blue Cave, a highlight for lovers of natural beauty and snorkeling.

The tour is open to suggestions, which is refreshing. If you want to linger longer at certain spots or skip others, your captain seems willing to accommodate. “We loved the way our guide explained everything and took us to secret bays,” one review states, emphasizing the personalized touch.

Why This Trip is Worth It

What makes this tour truly stand out is the combination of stunning scenery and flexibility. When you’re on a private boat, you can enjoy the peace of pristine waters, jump into hidden coves for a swim, or explore caves at your own pace. Many reviews rave about the “crystal clear” waters and excellent snorkeling, with one traveler mentioning how “Rocco was super nice and fun, and we had a great time,” highlighting the friendly atmosphere.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear is a thoughtful touch, especially as some travelers loved discovering underwater life. Plus, drinks are served up throughout the day—water, wine, and soft drinks—making it an easy, refreshing experience.

Comfort and Safety

The boat’s size—up to 12 passengers—means it’s comfortable without feeling crowded. The boat is designed for safety, with all necessary permits, and it’s even suitable for small children, thanks to the interior cabin where naps or quiet moments can be taken. For families, this could be a wonderful way to experience Dubrovnik from the water without the chaos of large tour groups.

The Food and Drinks

While the tour doesn’t specify detailed meal options, many reviews mention “delicious food,” and the included drinks are a nice bonus. Being able to enjoy wine or soft drinks while admiring the scenery adds a layer of leisure that makes this trip feel like a floating escape.

The Price and Overall Value

At around $839 for the entire group (up to 12 people), this tour offers quite good value considering the personalized service, private transport, and all the included activities. Comparing it to group tours, the price may seem high but reflects exclusivity and flexibility. Travelers often comment on how much they appreciated the tailored experience and the quality of their guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re seeking a personalized, relaxed day at sea with the flexibility to choose your stops. It suits couples, friends, or small families who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing without rigid schedules. If you’re after a structured group tour, this might not be your best choice, but if you value comfort, customization, and a quiet escape, it’s a fantastic pick.

Final Thoughts

This private Dubrovnik boat tour seems like a solid option for travelers wanting a luxurious, intimate day on the water. The attention to detail—from the comfortable boat to the flexible routing—appears to be a highlight, especially with guides who are friendly and attentive. You’ll see Dubrovnik from a new angle, discover secret beaches and caves, and enjoy good food and drinks in a beautiful setting.

If you’re comfortable with the price and looking for a less crowded, more personalized adventure in Dubrovnik, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty—no rush, just a gentle cruise along Croatia’s stunning coast.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the boat is equipped with a cabin inside, making it suitable even for small children who might need a nap or a quiet space.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes all taxes and fees, water, wine, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, a driver/guide, local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and private transportation.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The tour provider is open to suggestions and requests, so you can tailor the stops to your interests, whether that’s more snorkeling, caves, or beaches.

What if the weather isn’t good on the day of my tour?
Most bookings can be canceled for free up to 24 hours before, and if the weather is poor, they’ll offer an alternative date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy the sights.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Dubrovnik city area, making it convenient to start your day without hassle.

What if I want to go beyond the standard route?
You’re encouraged to communicate your preferences. The captain is happy to accommodate your interests, making for a more personalized experience.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and flexible day on the water in Dubrovnik, this private boat tour offers a wonderful way to see the coastline and islands with comfort and personal attention. It’s a great choice if you value quality time on a quiet, beautiful sea with some snorkeling and cave exploring thrown in.