Dubrovnik Islands Private Rented Boat Cruise

A Deep Dive into Dubrovnik’s Private Boat Cruise — What You Need to Know

Imagine cruising across calm, sparkling waters with the warm sun on your face and no crowds in sight. That’s exactly what the Dubrovnik Islands Private Rented Boat Cruise promises—a flexible, personalized day exploring the Elafiti Islands, famed for their natural beauty and peaceful charm. If you’re after a day of freedom, comfort, and authentic scenic enjoyment, this tour could be your perfect escape.

What strikes us most about this experience is its customizable nature—you decide where to go and what to do, with the guidance of a local skipper. Plus, the chance to relax on deck with unlimited drinks and soak up Dubrovnik’s coastal scenery makes it stand out. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that entrance fees to historical sites are not included, so if exploring local monuments is your priority, you’ll need to budget extra.

This private boat cruise suits travelers craving a laid-back, intimate adventure—families, couples, or groups of friends who love being on the water and want flexibility without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Includes a knowledgeable skipper to navigate and share local insights
• Stunning coastal views and access to unspoiled beaches and caves
• All drinks included, from water to local wines, enhancing the relaxing vibe
• Max group size of 12 ensures intimacy and personal attention
• Ideal for families and groups looking for flexibility and comfort

What Is the Dubrovnik Islands Private Boat Tour?

This isn’t a cookie-cutter, set-it-and-forget-it excursion. It’s a full-day rental of a comfortable 12-meter boat, with a professional skipper at the helm, allowing you total freedom to explore the Elafiti Islands—Koločep, Lopud, and Sipan—at your own pace.

The boat is equipped with essentials like a fridge, CD player, and plenty of life jackets, making it a cozy and secure environment for up to 12 guests. The focus here is on personalized enjoyment—you pick your stops, whether it’s swimming at secluded beaches, exploring caves, or just sunbathing with a glass of wine.

Why Choose This Private Boat Experience?

If you’re dreaming of drifting along Dubrovnik’s coastline, this cruise offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty, flexibility, and comfort. You won’t be tied to a tight schedule or crowded groups—you’re in the captain’s capable hands, and your day is entirely yours.

The tour includes fuel, a skipper, and drinks—white and red wine, water, and soft drinks—so you can stay refreshed without extra hassle. The price, about $923 for up to 12 people, translates to roughly $77 per person, which can be a great value if compared to other group tours or multi-activity excursions.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like?

You’ll start at the Gru Port Parking, where you’ll meet your skipper and board your private vessel. Once on board, the captain will ask what interests you most—swimming, visiting caves, or just relaxing—then tailor the day accordingly.

Expect about 8 hours on the water, with plenty of time for snorkeling, especially at caves like the Blue Cave on Koločep, as mentioned by reviewers. You may also visit sandy Laguna Beach, renowned for being one of the Top 10 beaches in the world, according to some reports.

Your route likely includes stops at Lopud, famous for its beaches and botanical gardens, and Sipán, known for its tranquil ambiance and historical sites. On these islands, you’ll find a mixture of rocky, pebble, and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides—the skippers are described as friendly, accommodating, and eager to customize your experience. One reviewer noted their guide Tino was “extremely friendly” and asked what places they wanted to visit instead of sticking rigidly to a plan. That flexibility is a big plus.

The Blue Cave is consistently highlighted as a must-see, a spot that truly amazes visitors with its natural beauty. Another reviewer mentioned how the boat being wonderfully shaded made the day even more enjoyable, especially in warm weather.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The cost includes gasoline, the skipper, and all drinks, which simplifies planning. However, entrance fees to historical sites on the islands are not included, so if you want to explore museums or other landmarks, you’ll need to take care of those separately.

The boat departs in the late morning (around 10:00 AM) and returns by early evening (around 5:30 PM). The meeting point is at Gru Port Parking, conveniently near public transportation.

The private nature of the tour ensures no noisy groups or rushed stops—just your party, your preferences, and the sea. This setup is perfect for families or groups seeking a relaxed and flexible day with all the comforts of a private boat.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One shared how their family of 10, including children and grandparents, found the day “fun and enjoyable for all,” with particular praise for the boat’s shade and the Blue Cave experience. Others appreciated the personalized itinerary that allowed them to visit their favorite spots.

The value for money is also noted—given the inclusions and privacy, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment for a memorable day on the water.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Dubrovnik boat rental is ideal for groups or families wanting a personalized, relaxed day exploring the islands without the constraints of a large tour group. It suits travelers who appreciate flexibility, comfort, and local insights, especially those eager to swim, snorkel, or just lounge in beautiful surroundings.

If you prefer a more intimate experience where you set the pace and destinations, this private boat cruise offers remarkable value. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy luxury without the hefty price tag—considering what’s included and the flexible itinerary, it’s a smart choice for those looking to combine scenic beauty with comfort.

This experience is less suited for travelers primarily interested in cultural or historical sightseeing—for that, a dedicated monument tour may be better. But if your goal is sunshine, sea, and serenity, you’ll find this cruise hits all the right notes.

FAQ

How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to 12 guests, making it perfect for small groups, families, or friends.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, a skipper, fuel, and unlimited drinks (water, soft and red wine, soft drinks). Entrance fees to sites are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera. Since the boat is shaded, you’ll stay comfortable even on hot days.

Can I customize the route?
Yes. Guests are encouraged to share their preferences—whether to visit caves, beaches, or specific islands—and the skipper will tailor the day.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, typically from around 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Is this a private tour?
Absolutely. Only your group will be on the boat, with no strangers along.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is suitable for children, especially since the boat is shaded and flexible.

What if I want to visit historical sites?
You can explore at your own pace, but note that entrance fees are not covered and need to be paid separately if you wish to visit monuments.

This Dubrovnik boat cruise offers a splendid mix of scenic beauty, personalized service, and relaxed fun—perfect for those who want to enjoy the Croatian coast on their own terms. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or just some quality time on the water, this experience stands out as a flexible, value-packed choice.