Private Boat Tours Dubrovnik Elaphiti islands & Blue cave

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s beautiful coastline, a private boat tour around Dubrovnik’s Elaphiti Islands might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and overall high ratings suggest it’s a top choice for travelers wanting comfort, flexibility, and a true taste of the region’s stunning scenery.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the personalized experience means no crowded group to contend with—you get your own private boat and captain, which translates to flexibility and comfort. Second, the variety of stops—ranging from hidden caves to charming islands—offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty and cultural highlights.

That said, there’s a caveat worth considering: additional fuel surcharges can significantly increase the total price, especially if you opt for longer or more extensive excursions. It’s a good idea to clarify what the final cost will be before booking.

This tour is best suited for those who value flexibility, love being on the water, and want a tailored experience rather than a cookie-cutter group activity. Couples, small groups of friends, or even families with older children who appreciate scenic cruising and snorkeling will find this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You’re on your own schedule with a dedicated skipper.
• Multiple stops: Explore islands, caves, and beaches at your pace.
• Includes amenities: Snorkel gear, stereo, wifi, and fridge onboard.
• Weather protection: Fully operable in all weather conditions, with flexible rescheduling if needed.
• Additional costs: Fuel surcharges can add up, so clarify the final price beforehand.
• Ideal for relaxed travelers: Those seeking comfort, privacy, and scenic beauty.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This private boat tour in Dubrovnik offers a way to see the stunning Elaphiti Islands comfortably and intimately. It’s not a hurried, crowded bus tour but a curated experience you can truly personalize. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and skippers who go out of their way to make your day special, whether by recommending great swimming spots, restaurants, or taking you to lesser-known sights.

The scenic cruising along the Croatian coast is one of the tour’s biggest wins. Travelers rave about the beautiful water, dramatic caves, and historical islands, making it a fantastic option for those who want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation. Plus, the fact that you can bring your own food and beverages onboard means you can enjoy a picnic or drinks at your leisure.

However, keep in mind the additional fuel surcharge—it can be substantial depending on the length and stops you choose. It’s a smart move to discuss this beforehand to avoid surprises upon checkout. The tour is flexible in duration—either 4 or 8 hours—allowing you to tailor your day according to your energy levels and interests.

This experience seems suited for travelers who want quality over quantity, value privacy, and appreciate a high level of customization. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion, couples seeking romance, or friends wanting a leisurely day on the water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Blue Cave Dubrovnik

The tour begins with a visit to Blue Cave Dubrovnik—a favorite among visitors. This spot offers a chance to see the vibrant underwater world and enjoy a quick swim or snorkel. The reviews mention the opportunity to avoid tourist crowds and explore this underwater jewel at your own pace, making it a real highlight. Since the cave is a popular activity, your guide’s local knowledge can help you beat the crowds and maximize your experience.

Stop 2: Sunj Beach

Next, you’ll visit Sunj Beach, renowned for its shallow waters and wide sandy stretch. Travel with children or less confident swimmers? This beach is a safe haven where you can relax on the sand, paddle with little ones, or soak up the sun. One reviewer called it an “ideal place for children,” emphasizing its suitability for families or anyone looking for a gentle sea experience.

Stop 3: Sudurad

After a swim, the boat makes a stop at Sudurad, the old port of the nearby town. Here, you can choose to disembark and explore the historic sights, such as a Renaissance castle or a fortified church tower. If you prefer, just sail around enjoying the views. Reviewers appreciated the ease of exploring these sights by boat, noting the charming atmosphere of this small port.

Stop 4: Bowa Restaurant (Optional)

For a more indulgent break, you can opt to visit Bowa restaurant on Island Sipan. This private bay location offers a beach, lounges, and cabanas, perfect for a relaxing lunch. Travelers who selected this stop raved about the delicious Mediterranean cuisine and the excellent setting. Keep in mind, this stop is optional, so if you want to keep it simple, you can skip it.

Stop 5: Sipan Island

Another highlight is the Sipan Island, famous for its historical fortress and beautiful architecture. Here, you can explore at your own pace or simply enjoy the scenic views from the boat. One reviewer mentioned the “great architecture from Renaissance to 20th century,” giving you a glimpse into the island’s layered history.

Stop 6: Lopud Island

Lopud is known for its medieval seafaring past and charming village atmosphere. The Grand Hotel and architecture from the late Renaissance to the 1920s make it a captivating spot for strolling or relaxing. If you’re into history or architecture, this stop offers plenty to admire.

Optional: Dubrovnik Walls from the Sea

For an additional fee, you can see the famous Dubrovnik walls from the water, offering a unique perspective of this iconic site. Although extra fuel surcharge applies, many find it worth it for the unbeatable views.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The boat itself is all yours during the trip, complete with amenities like a fridge, snorkel gear, stereo, and wifi. The tour also includes full refunds and rescheduling options if weather turns bad, which adds peace of mind.

However, some costs are not included: gratuities, fuel surcharges (which can range from $70 up to $250 per booking), and optional stops like Bowa restaurant or the Dubrovnik walls. It’s important to clarify these costs before booking, especially since the fuel surcharge can significantly impact your final bill.

The flexibility to bring your own food and drinks is a plus, so you can pack a picnic or beverages to enjoy during the cruise. Just remember to dress appropriately—comfortable, sun-protective clothing and swimwear are recommended.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Most reviews sing this tour’s praises, often emphasizing the skipper’s professionalism and the beautiful scenery. For example, a guest shared, “Jure was the best skipper and took us to some great places for swimming and snorkeling,” highlighting the importance of a good guide.

Others appreciated the flexibility—one reviewer mentioned how they could choose whether to spend more time swimming or exploring small towns, which is a rare perk in group tours. Many pointed out how the customization made the experience special, and how the boat was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped.

A couple of reviews highlighted the value for money, especially considering the private nature of the trip and the amenities provided. The inclusion of wifi and stereo was also regularly noted as a nice touch for relaxing and listening to your favorite tunes.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private boat experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or friends who want an exclusive, flexible day out. It’s perfect if you love scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring at your own pace. If you’re celebrating something special, like a honeymoon or anniversary, the private setting adds a romantic touch.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family friendly, the shallow beaches and calm waters at Sunj Beach suggest it could work well for families with older children. However, very young kids might need to be cautious around water and cave stops.

If you’re after a luxurious yet relaxed day with personalized service, this tour delivers. Just keep in mind the additional costs for fuel and optional stops, and plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour? The tour duration ranges from about 4 to 8 hours, depending on your chosen option. You can upgrade to a full 8-hour experience if you want more time on the water.

Is the tour private? Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, providing a high level of customization and comfort.

What is included in the price? The boat, amenities like snorkel gear, wifi, stereo, fridge, and the service of a skpper are included. Refunds and rescheduling are available if weather causes cancellations.

Are meals or drinks provided? No, but you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages onboard. You can also opt to visit Bowa restaurant on Sipan Island for a meal.

Are there any extra charges I should know about? Additional costs include fuel surcharges, which vary from $70 up to $250, and optional stops like the Dubrovnik walls.

Can I see the Dubrovnik walls from the water? Yes, for an extra fee, you can get a sea view of the famous city walls.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, towels, sun cream, a camera, and a soft carry bag for your belongings. Snacks and drinks are also recommended.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather? Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, and there is a full refund if canceled due to poor weather.

Can I customize the stops? Absolutely. Your skipper can help tailor the route based on your preferences, whether it’s more swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing.

Is this experience family-friendly? It could be, especially for older children who enjoy swimming and exploring, but parents should consider water safety and the tour’s pace.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik private boat tour offers a fantastic way to experience the stunning Elaphiti Islands and their hidden gems. With knowledgeable guides, luxurious amenities, and the freedom to customize your day, it’s designed for travelers who want more than a standard excursion. The high ratings and enthusiastic reviews speak volumes about the quality and care taken by the crew.

While extra fuel costs can add up, many guests feel the personalized service and scenic stops justify the expense. It’s an ideal choice for those celebrating a special occasion, seeking a peaceful escape, or simply wanting to enjoy Croatia’s coast at their own pace.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and private day on the water, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip to Dubrovnik. Just remember to clarify costs beforehand, come prepared with essentials, and enjoy the journey.

Disclaimer: Always check the latest details and policies directly with the tour provider before booking, as offerings and prices can change.