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

If you’re dreaming of escaping the hustle of Dubrovnik’s old town and cruising through Croatia’s beautiful coastline, the Islands & Caves Private Tour offers a fantastic way to do it. This nearly nine-hour journey takes you through three of the Elaphiti Islands—Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan—with a private boat, drinks, and fuel included. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-structured, flexible, and memorable day for those looking to combine scenic beauty with authentic island experiences.

Two standout features that appeal to us are the personalized nature of the private tour—your group has the boat and guide’s full attention—and the diverse stops, from swimming in caves to wandering charming villages. A possible consideration is the cost, which might seem high at around $429 for a group of up to six, but the value really hinges on the quality of the guide, comfort, and flexibility you get. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a curated, immersive day on the water, rather than a large, crowd-filled cruise.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience tailored to your group for personalized service.
• Includes drinks, snorkeling gear, and fuel, making it convenient and all-inclusive.
• Flexible stops allow for swimming, exploring villages, or relaxing on beaches.
• Knowledgeable guides who customize the day based on your interests.
• Ideal for small groups seeking an authentic, relaxed, yet adventurous outing.
• Cost-effective for those valuing comfort and personalized attention.

This experience made our article of 12 Most Highly Rated Tours & Experiences In Dalmatia.

What This Tour Offers: A Deep Dive

The Islands & Caves Private Tour promises a well-rounded exploration of the Elaphiti archipelago, famous for its natural beauty and peaceful villages. It’s designed as a private experience—meaning only your group joins, and the boat’s schedule can adapt to your wishes. The price tag of $429.22 per group may seem steep initially, but it includes pickup, drinks, fuel, and the use of snorkeling equipment, which simplifies the logistics and enhances the value.

The Itinerary: From Blue Cave to Hidden Bays

The day begins with a pickup, often from your Dubrovnik accommodation, setting a relaxed tone. The first major highlight is the Blue Cave Dubrovnik, a tiny but captivating spot accessible only by boat. We loved the way the tour emphasizes swimming in the clear waters of the cave, with snorkeling gear provided—an experience many mention as magical and refreshing. The cave’s famous blue hue, caused by sunlight bouncing off the water, creates perfect photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll visit Kolocep Island, a short sail away, which offers a taste of local life and natural beauty. Here, the tour stops at three green caves—each different—bringing a sense of adventure and curiosity. One reviewer noted, “you’ll get quite wet if it’s windy,” highlighting the importance of suitable weather and proper gear.

After exploring the caves, it’s time to walk through a small fishing village on Kolocep. Local shops and cafes along the waterfront provide a chance to stretch your legs, sip a coffee, and soak up the slow pace of island life. Many travelers appreciate this authentic slice of Croatia’s coastal culture, with one reviewer mentioning, “it’s lovely to get out of the busy city and just wander around.”

Lopud Island follows, famous for Sunj Beach, Croatia’s most popular sandy stretch. It’s perfect for a relaxing stop—sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a drink at the beach bars. A reviewer described this as “the most famous sandy beach in Dubrovnik,” with shallow waters ideal for families or those who just want to unwind.

The tour also spends a few hours exploring the village of Lopud, where you can visit monasteries or walk along charming streets. Many guests commend the knowledgeable guides for their tips and local insights, making the experience more enriching.

Sipan Island, the largest of the group, offers a tranquil fishing village, Sura, or a visit to the famous Bowa restaurant in a spectacular bay—perfect for a special lunch or just soaking in the views. The flexibility here is appreciated; one reviewer mentioned the tour can be tailored to your interests.

The final stop, Sjekirica Beach, is an idyllic cove for swimming and snorkeling in calm, shallow waters, surrounded by vibrant sea vegetation. With clear blue water and minimal boat traffic, it’s often described as a paradise for water lovers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides most essentials—snorkeling gear, bottled water, soda, alcoholic beverages, and fuel—which means less worry about what to bring. The private transport and air-conditioned vehicle contribute to comfort, especially after a long day on the water.

However, lunch isn’t included. Instead, the guide can recommend restaurants and even book a table for you, which can be a real time-saver and ensures you experience local cuisine without the hassle of planning. The flexibility here is key—some might prefer to pack a picnic, but most seem to appreciate the guided restaurant booking.

The Experience: From the Reviews

The reviews paint a consistent picture of friendly, knowledgeable guides, with Bruno and Kiko earning particular praise. One reviewer said, “Bruno was a fabulous skipper, the free water and alcohol were very much appreciated,” emphasizing how these small touches can enhance the day.

Many travelers mention that the timing is well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to six people) helps create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, especially compared to large tour boats.

Some comments highlight the flexibility of the itinerary, with guests able to customize stops or spend extra time at favorite spots. The scenic views, clear waters, and authentic villages make the day memorable, even for seasoned travelers.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is marketed as suitable for most travelers, a few notes are worth mentioning. The weather can impact the experience—a windy day might mean getting wetter than expected, especially during cave visits. The duration of about 8 hours and 20 minutes means you’ll be on the water most of the day, so comfort and sun protection matter.

Booking in advance—about 30 days ahead on average—ensures you secure a spot, given the popularity of this tour. It’s also worth noting that the pickup is included, making it convenient if you’re staying in Dubrovnik.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private boat trip is perfect if you’re looking for a personalized, flexible day on the water that combines sightseeing, swimming, and small-scale exploration. It suits small groups or families wanting an authentic experience, away from large crowds. If you enjoy snorkeling, relaxing beaches, and charming villages, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s especially great for travelers who value comfort and local insight, thanks to the knowledgeable guides. And for those wanting to sample Croatia’s coastal beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, this all-inclusive tour offers peace of mind.

The Sum Up

The Islands & Caves Private Tour offers a solid combination of natural beauty, personalized service, and local charm. With carefully curated stops, friendly guides, and inclusive amenities, it’s a memorable way to experience the stunning Elaphiti Islands. The flexible itinerary and small group size make for a relaxed, intimate adventure, ideal for travelers who want more than just a ferry ride—something tailored to their interests.

While the price might seem high, the value lies in the comfort, customization, and authentic experiences you gain. It’s best suited for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring, and soaking in the scenery.

If you’re after a beautiful, laid-back day on the water with a touch of adventure and local flavor, this tour could be just the ticket for your Dalmatian escape.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation, making it easy to start your day without extra arrangements.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages are included, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink while cruising.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is provided, and stops at caves and bays are perfect for underwater exploring.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and shallow beaches like Sunj make it family-friendly. Just consider weather conditions.

What about lunch?
Lunch isn’t included, but the guide can recommend and book a restaurant for you, so you can enjoy local cuisine without stress.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

How many people can join?
The tour is private for up to six people, ensuring an intimate experience and personalized attention.

In essence, this private tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, relaxation, and local discovery—a fantastic way to see the Elaphiti Islands with all the comforts and flexibility you deserve.