Private Half-Day Tour Elaphiti Islands by Speedboat, Dubrovnik

Discovering the Elaphiti Islands by Speedboat: A Practical Look at this Dubrovnik Escape

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik and want to experience its gorgeous coastline and nearby islands without the hassle of large tour groups, a private half-day speedboat tour of the Elaphiti Islands might catch your eye. This tour offers a flexible, intimate way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal spots, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling along the way.

What really draws us to this experience are the personal touches—your own skipper and the chance to customize your itinerary. Plus, the chance to see hidden beaches and visit spots like the Blue Cave is definitely appealing. However, it’s worth noting that the price can seem high if you’re just looking for a quick trip, and weather can sometimes be a factor that affects your plans.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, personalized day on the water, especially if you enjoy being in control of your schedule and love exploring at your own pace. It’s also suited for those traveling with a small group (up to six people), making it a nice option for families, couples, or friends wanting a private experience.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with your own skipper ensures personalized attention.
• Great for snorkeling and swimming, with access to hidden bays and beaches.
• Includes drinks and snorkeling gear, making it a comfortable, all-in-one package.
• Weather-dependent, so your plans may change based on conditions.
• Higher price point per group, but reflects the privacy and tailored nature.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic boat day rather than a large group tour.

What to Expect from the Elaphiti Islands Speedboat Tour

This tour is designed to give you a quick, yet immersive taste of Croatia’s stunning coastal scenery. It’s around four hours long, starting at 10 am, with your own private skipper ready to take you to some fabulous spots. The key advantage here is flexibility—your skipper can recommend places to swim or snorkel, and you can decide exactly how much time to spend at each stop. We’ll walk you through what each part of the itinerary offers and share some real-world insights from travelers who’ve been there.

Starting Point: Dubrovnik

The adventure begins with a pickup in Dubrovnik, a detail that adds a layer of convenience for those staying nearby. The boat departs around 10 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a morning on the water. The boat itself is described as modern and comfortable, with ample shade and enough space for everyone. Having your own private boat means you won’t be stuck on a crowded vessel, which many travelers appreciate.

Stop 1: Sunj Beach on Lopud

The first stop is Sunj Beach, an unusual sandy stretch on Lopud Island, reachable within about 30 minutes from Dubrovnik. This beach is often highlighted as a highlight—its sandy shores are a rarity in this region, which more often offers rocky beaches. Several reviews praise Sunj Beach as a peaceful, less crowded spot to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.

Expect to spend around 1 hour 30 minutes here, giving you enough time to unwind and take some photos. Since swimming and snorkeling are key parts of this tour, you might find this stop a great chance to cool off and enjoy the calm waters.

Stop 2: Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave

After Sunj, the boat moves on to Kolocep Island. Here, the main highlight is the Blue Cave, a rock formation with a striking blue hue due to sunlight reflecting inside. Visitors find the cave quite fascinating, and it’s a memorable photo spot. As one reviewer pointed out, this is quite different from the sandy beach—more of a rugged, natural wonder.

Your guide can recommend the best spots for swimming and snorkeling, so expect to get into the water again. The Blue Cave adds a touch of adventure and uniqueness to your trip, and it’s a chance to see how diverse Croatia’s coastline can be.

Final Stop: Dubrovnik Coast & Additional Swimming

Before heading back, your skipper will suggest a final swimming spot along the Dubrovnik coast. This could be anywhere from a secluded cove to a quiet beach, depending on conditions and your preferences. This flexibility allows you to squeeze in a last swim or simply enjoy the scenic views one last time.

What’s Included

• Private boat and transportation means no waiting around or sharing with strangers.
• Alcoholic beverages (wine and beer), along with bottled water and soda, keep you refreshed.
• Snorkeling gear is available for use, so you can explore underwater life comfortably.
• The tour’s price covers these essentials, making it a good value considering the private setting.

Additional Costs & Considerations

Keep in mind there’s a fuel surcharge of $150 per booking, which is not included in the base price. This is common in private tours, but worth factoring into your budget. Weather can also impact your trip—if conditions aren’t suitable, you might need to reschedule or be offered a different date, with a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Real Traveler Insights: What People Say

Overall, reviews suggest that this tour is well-loved for its relaxed pace and personalized approach. One reviewer shared, “We had a wonderful and relaxing experience exploring the islands with our skipper Ivan, who was very accommodating and showed us the best snorkeling spots,” highlighting the value of a knowledgeable guide. Another called it a “super treat,” mentioning how Ivan kept them ahead of crowds and found quiet, scenic places for swimming.

The boat itself receives praise for being modern, cozy, and well-stocked, with soft drinks, wine, and beer available. That makes for a comfortable experience where you’re not just sitting in silence, but actively enjoying your time at sea.

Not all reviews are glowing, though. A couple mention mechanical issues that shortened their trip, but these seem to be rare and outside the control of the operator. It’s good to keep in mind that weather or technical issues can sometimes affect a private boat tour.

Dressed for a Day on the Water

Since this is a boat trip, pack light but bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You’ll want your swimsuit and towel for swimming stops, and snorkeling gear is provided but bring your own if you prefer. Waterproof camera or phone cases are handy if you want to capture the scenery without worry.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At over $1,000 for a group of six, it’s not the cheapest activity in Dubrovnik, but it’s important to weigh what you get. A private tour means no sharing with strangers, your own schedule, and access to hidden spots you might not find on larger group trips. The inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and the flexibility to customize your stops add to the value, especially if you’re looking for a memorable, personalized day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value privacy and tailored experiences. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water with some swimming, snorkeling, and stunning views, it’s a great pick. It’s especially good for small groups—families, couples, or friends—who want to enjoy Dubrovnik’s coast without the hassle of crowded boats or rigid schedules.

While children who are comfortable in the water should have no problem, keep in mind the boat’s limited space and the need for proper supervision around water.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup, making it easy to start your day without logistics worries.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately four hours, starting at 10 am, enough time to see multiple spots without feeling rushed.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to six people per booking, perfect for a small family or group of friends.

Are drinks included?
Yes, wine, beer, bottled water, and soda are included in the tour.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. The skipper can recommend locations or you can decide where to spend more time.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for use during the stops.

In The Sum Up, this private speedboat tour of the Elaphiti Islands offers a comfortable, flexible way to explore Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline. It’s best suited for those looking for a personalized experience with a knowledgeable skipper, plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities, and a relaxing atmosphere. If you’re after a scenic, quiet day on the water with the freedom to set your own pace, it’s likely to be a memorable part of your Croatian trip. Just keep the weather in mind, and be prepared for the higher price point that comes with exclusivity and customization.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to escape the busy city for a few hours, this tour provides a genuine chance to unwind and enjoy some of Croatia’s most beautiful maritime scenery.