Private Boat Tours Dubrovnik to island Korcula

If you’re considering a day trip from Dubrovnik to Korcula by boat, this private tour could be exactly what you’re after. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we love about this experience are the personalized service and the stunning scenery you’ll be treated to—cruising past islands, vineyards, and the Peljesac Peninsula. Plus, the fact that it includes hotel pickup and drop-off makes it super convenient.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at around $1,500 for up to four people, it’s not exactly a budget option, but the value is reflected in the private, tailored experience and the many stops along the way. This kind of tour suits travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and a glimpse into Croatia’s diverse coastline without feeling rushed.

If you’re the kind of person who appreciates a mix of sightseeing, scenic cruising, and some independent exploration, this trip could be a highlight of your Croatian trip. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of luxury and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your group.
• Stunning coastal views of islands, vineyards, and the Peljesac Peninsula.
• Flexible stops for swimming, exploring towns, and relaxing on beaches.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
• Expert guides with local knowledge enhance the experience.
• All-weather operation ensures the tour runs regardless of weather, with potential rescheduling if needed.

The Route and What You’ll See

This tour is designed to give you the most scenic and culturally rich parts of Croatia’s coast. It kicks off at 10:00 am from Dubrovnik, and you’ll spend about 9 hours on the water and on land. The itinerary isn’t rigid, but here’s a detailed look at the highlights.

Koločep Island and Blue Cave Snorkeling

Your day begins with a stop at Koločep Island, a popular spot for snorkeling, particularly in the Blue Cave. We love the idea of starting with some water fun—who doesn’t enjoy crystal-clear waters and a chance to see marine life up close? The stop is about 45 minutes long, so it’s enough time to cool off and snap some photos.

Sipan Island

Next up is Sipan, another peaceful island where you can take a quick swim or grab a coffee. It’s a lovely, quiet spot for a short refresh and offers a taste of island life. Again, you get around 45 minutes here, which feels just right—enough to relax without losing the momentum of the day.

Korcula Old Town Exploration

The true star of the tour is Korcula Old Town. Your guide—who is described as professional and knowledgeable—will help you navigate the historic streets, including sights like Marco Polo’s house, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and the Bishops Treasury. You’ll have around 2 hours to explore independently, giving you the freedom to wander at your own pace.

We loved the reviews mentioning “full local knowledge and tips,” which means your guide isn’t just pointing out sights but sharing stories and insights that add depth to the experience. Many travelers noted that exploring Korcula on their own allowed for a more personalized visit, whether that meant lingering in cafes or browsing local shops.

Moro Beach and Waterfront Dining

After exploring the town, you’ll head to Moro Beach Stupe for about 2 hours. This is a great spot to relax, swim, and enjoy a waterfront restaurant with scenic views. It’s a perfect blend of leisure and scenery, with reviews mentioning the “great waterfront restaurant” and “wonderful beach concept.”

Coastal Cruising and Hidden Bays

The tour also includes sailing along the south side of the Peljesac Peninsula, giving you a chance to see hidden bays, vineyards, and famous bays like Zljana and Trstenik. You’ll also pass the Mljet channel, an ancient sea route connecting European cultures, and see the highest point of Mljet Island from afar.

This part of the trip is all about enjoying the scenery—expect plenty of photo opportunities—and listening to your skipper’s stories and insights.

Optional Stop at Marculeti Beach

The itinerary mentions a stop at the well-known sandy beach of Marculeti. While the exact time isn’t specified, it’s an additional chance to relax or take a swim in pristine waters.

The Experience and What It Means for You

Value is a key point here. For about $1,492, your group of up to four will have a private boat, a skipper, a guide, refreshments, and hotel transfers—all of which can add up if booked separately. Many reviewers highlighted the good value for money, especially when considering the personalized service and flexible itinerary.

The guides seem to be a major highlight—stories, local tips, and a friendly attitude make a big difference in creating a memorable day. As one reviewer put it, “our skipper Frano was great—flexible and open to adapt the tour to our preferences.”

The scenery is simply stunning. Cruising past islands, vineyards, and the rugged coastline offers visual riches that make the journey worthwhile. And being on a private boat means you avoid crowded ferries and can enjoy the views at your own pace.

Logistics are streamlined with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Starting at 10:00 am, the tour lasts roughly nine hours—ample time to experience several highlights without feeling rushed.

The Downsides and Considerations

This tour is quite expensive compared to some group options or ferry rides, but that’s typical for private experiences. If you’re on a tight budget, you might find cheaper day trips, but they probably won’t offer the same level of comfort or flexibility.

Weather plays a role—while the tour operates in all weather conditions, foul weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so keep an eye on forecasts.

It’s also worth noting that the itinerary includes some longer stops (up to two hours), so if you prefer a more structured, fast-paced activity, this might feel a bit leisurely.

Children can join, but they should be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is primarily suited for those interested in sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying scenic cruising.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you value personalized service and flexibility, this private boat tour is perfect. It’s suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want to explore Korcula without the crowds and with the comfort of a private vessel.

Travelers interested in history and culture will appreciate the guided walk through Korcula, especially since the guide shares local knowledge and stories.

Those who love scenery and outdoor activities—snorkeling, swimming, relaxing on beaches—will find this tour hits all the right notes.

It’s ideal for people comfortable with a full-day outing that includes some time on the water and independent exploration, rather than a rigid schedule.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
Your group gets a private boat with skipper, a guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, light refreshments, snacks, and beverages onboard. VAT is included too.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a fuel surcharge that can be up to $1,000 per booking, depending on the circumstances. You might want to clarify this with the provider.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour has a set route, the reviews suggest the skipper is flexible and willing to adapt based on your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for those interested in sightseeing and relaxing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You’ll see the Elaphite Islands, Mljet Island, Peljesac Peninsula, and possibly stop at Marculeti Beach. The Mljet channel and the highest mountain on Mljet are also visible from the water.

Are there options for food onboard?
Snacks and drinks are included, but you can ask for catering services if you’d like a more substantial meal.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this experience is booked 12 days ahead, so planning early is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour from Dubrovnik to Korcula offers a balance of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and relaxed stops. The personalized approach, guided insights, and stunning views make it stand out compared to typical group excursions. It’s a good choice if you’re after comfort, flexibility, and a truly immersive day on the water.

While it’s on the higher end price-wise, many travelers find the experience well worth it, especially when considering the private service and the chance to explore both Korcula and surrounding islands at your own pace.

This tour is best suited for those who want a seamless, luxurious way to see the coast and islands, pairing scenic beauty with cultural highlights. If you enjoy a leisurely day with a bit of adventure, this could be a memorable part of your Croatian trip.

Ready for a relaxing, scenic cruise with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying Croatia’s coast? This private boat tour could be just the ticket.