4h / 6h / 8h Elaphite Islands Tour with 7.5m/24FT SunDeck Boat

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Elaphiti Islands by Private Boat: A Detailed Review

If you’re considering a day on the water around Dubrovnik, a private Elaphiti Islands tour offers a personalized way to see this stunning archipelago. With options for 4, 6, or 8 hours aboard a 7.5-meter SunDeck boat, this experience promises flexibility, intimacy, and the chance to craft your perfect day at sea. But like any adventure, it has its nuances—so let’s dig into what makes this tour special, and who it’s best suited for.

Two things we really like about this experience are its completely private nature and the flexibility it offers. You get your own skipper who acts as both captain and guide, and you can tailor your stops — whether that’s for a quick swim, a scenic cave visit, or a leisurely lunch. The second highlight is the boat itself: a well-sized, comfortable vessel that’s perfect for relaxed, intimate cruising along Croatia’s coast. An aspect to consider is the price point—at about $782 for up to six guests, it’s an investment, but one that often offers excellent value given the exclusivity and customization.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value private experiences, scenic flexibility, and authentic local charm. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, families wanting a personalized day out, or groups who simply prefer the freedom to set their itinerary without crowds. If you’re after a rigid schedule or a large group experience, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: No other guests, your choices dominate the day.
• Flexible Duration: Options from 4 to 8 hours suit different schedules.
• Ideal for Swimming & Snorkeling: Access secluded beaches and caves at your pace.
• Includes Private Transfer: Hassle-free start from your accommodation.
• Great for Food Lovers: Optional stops at local restaurants or beach bars.
• Highly Rated: Consistently earns glowing reviews for service and scenery.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Booking and Planning

Booking this tour means you’re getting a truly tailor-made experience. The process, according to reviews, is smooth, with most travelers booking about two months in advance—signaling its popularity. The price of around $782 for a group of up to six makes this a significant but justifiable expense for those seeking exclusivity and control over their day. Plus, the inclusion of a private transfer from your Dubrovnik accommodation simplifies logistics—no need to worry about finding a meeting point or standing in line.

The Boat: Comfort and Practicality

The SunDeck boat, measuring 7.5 meters (24 feet), is described as perfect for a small group seeking comfort and stability. It’s big enough to comfortably lounge, with enough space for swimming gear and snorkeling equipment. The boat is described as exactly as advertised, and reviews note that it provides a great platform for sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying the sea breeze.

The Itinerary: Fully Flexible and Personalized

The beauty of this tour is how much you control the stops. The itinerary includes five popular spots:

• Blue Cave on Kolocep Island: A quick 45-minute swim and snorkel stop in this iconic sea cave. The clear waters and interesting rock formations make it a highlight, especially for those who love underwater exploration.
• Green Caves on Kolocep: After the Blue Cave, your skipper may suggest a visit to the Green Caves, which offer more snorkeling and a different visual experience.
• Sunj Beach: Known for its sandy shores, Sunj Beach is where you can try the local game called “picigin,” a fun, beachy Croatian pastime. Relaxing here for about an hour gives you a break from swimming and a chance to soak up the sun.
• Lopud Island: This charming island features a 15th-century Franciscan monastery and the Church of St. Mary. You can stroll through the small village, tour historic sites, or relax at one of the local restaurants serving Dalmatian dishes. The 1.5-hour stop is praised for offering a taste of local life.
• Sipan Island: The last stop includes a chance to visit Skocibuha Castle, known for picturesque views and a glimpse into the area’s history. The stop here lasts around 45 minutes, with optional entrance fees.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxation

Guests love the freedom to swim and snorkel as much as they like. The caves and beaches are often described as secluded and less crowded—ideal for those wanting a peaceful escape. Several reviews mention how enjoyable it was to relax on the boat, sip cold drinks, and enjoy the scenery without the hustle of larger group tours.

Dining and Additional Stops

While the tour includes stops at beaches and islands, there’s also the option to arrange a meal at a local restaurant. Skippers can recommend places for authentic Dalmatian cuisine, making the experience more than just sightseeing—it’s also about savoring local flavors.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The reviews echo the value of this tour:

• Connie_S called it “amazing,” highlighting how helpful and friendly the crew was, especially Dragan, the skipper. She appreciated the inclusion of drinks and the boat’s quality.
• Tracey_C noted how Ivan allowed them to pick and choose their itinerary, emphasizing the flexibility as a major plus.
• Jodie_D summed it up as “fantastic,” praising the scenery, weather, and the fact that everything was up to us.

The overarching comment? This private tour offers a unique, intimate, and customizable way to experience the Elaphiti Islands, standing out against larger, more rigid group excursions.

The Practical Details

Duration and Timing

Options range from 4 hours to 8 hours, allowing you to tailor your day based on your interests and stamina. Most travelers find that a 6-hour trip hits a sweet spot—enough time to hit key stops without feeling rushed. The tour starts with a pickup from your accommodation, which is included, and you’ll meet your skipper at the port.

Cost and Value

At around $782 for up to six people, this breaks down to roughly $130 per person for that small group—an amount that can seem steep but is justified by the level of privacy, flexibility, and personalized service. Reviews suggest it’s especially worthwhile when you value comfort, custom itinerary, and avoiding crowded tourist spots.

Weather & Cancellation

The experience is weather-dependent, with a full refund offered if canceled due to poor weather. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, giving some peace of mind should a weather change occur.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for those who appreciate privacy and flexibility. It’s perfect if you want to avoid crowded tour buses and prefer to explore at your own pace, making spontaneous stops for swimming, photos, or relaxing. It’s also ideal for groups or families eager for a personalized experience with knowledgeable skippers who can suggest hidden gems or local eateries.

In The Sum Up

This private Elaphiti Islands tour offers a rare combination of intimacy, customization, and scenic beauty. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want to avoid cookie-cutter tours and instead craft a day that matches their interests. The boat itself is well-rated, and the flexibility to choose stops—be it caves, beaches, or historic sites—means you’ll be making your own adventure.

While it’s an investment, the value comes in the form of private space, personal attention, and tailored experiences. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and scenic day on the Croatian coast, this tour is worth considering.

Ideal for couples celebrating a special day, small groups seeking privacy, or anyone wanting a flexible, scenic escape from Dubrovnik’s crowds.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable on a boat and enjoy swimming and exploring caves. The tour’s flexibility makes it a great choice for family outings.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, skipper, and private transfer from your accommodation. Optional restaurant stops or entrance fees for certain sites are not included but can be arranged.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. The reviews mention that guests are allowed to bring their own drinks, and some drinks are provided onboard.

What if the weather turns bad?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If the weather is poor on the day, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll get a different date or your money back.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary from 45 minutes at the Blue Cave to 1.5 hours on Lopud Island. The length can be adjusted based on your preferences.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews indicate the boat is exactly as advertised, suitable for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

What’s the typical group size?
Up to six guests, making it an intimate experience—perfect for small parties or families.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 58 days ahead, especially during peak season, to secure their preferred date and time.

Choosing a private boat tour of the Elaphiti Islands from Dubrovnik means opting for a personalized, scenic adventure at your own pace. It’s a wonderful way to discover hidden coves, enjoy local flavors, and skip the crowds—perfect for those who value authenticity and comfort on their Croatian holiday.