Small group by premium yacht to Elaphite

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Croatia, this small-group yacht tour to the Elaphite Islands offers a blend of exclusive sights, relaxed pace, and genuine local flavor. Designed for those who want more than a crowded cruise, it promises personalized service, scenic stops, and plenty of opportunities to unwind or explore. We’ve gathered insights from recent travelers to help you decide if this trip fits your style.

What we love most about this experience is its attention to small-group intimacy—you won’t be jostling with hundreds—and its diverse itinerary that balances must-see sights like the Blue Cave with lesser-known gems. The open bar and snorkeling gear included add to the value, making it feel like a well-rounded adventure. One point to keep in mind, however: the tour’s success does depend on weather conditions, especially when it comes to visiting the Blue Cave.

This tour is perfect for travelers who seek a personalized, relaxed day at sea with plenty of scenic beauty and authentic island experiences. Families, couples, and even small groups of friends will find it’s a flexible and memorable option. If you’re after a more crowded, hurried sightseeing day, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving quality, comfort, and genuine Croatian charm, it’s a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized service and fewer crowds
• Diverse itinerary covers Blue Cave, hidden caves, beaches, and charming villages
• Inclusive open bar offers beer, wine, champagne, soft drinks, and snacks
• Snorkeling gear included enhances the chance for underwater exploration
• Comfortable private transportation with pickup from Dubrovnik hotels
• Weather-dependent cave visits may vary, so flexibility is key

An in-depth look at the Dubrovnik Yacht Tour

Why choose this tour?

This tour is a great option if you value personalized attention and want to avoid the bustling crowds often found on larger cruise ships. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the small-group format allows for a more intimate experience, where your skipper can cater to your preferences and share insights about the region. The price, around $155 per person, is reasonable considering the inclusions—snacks, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and private transport are all part of the package.

The start: seamless pickup and early excitement

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, which is both convenient and sets a relaxed tone for the day. Departing at 11:00 am, you’ll head to the nearby marina where your sleek, well-maintained yacht awaits. The short 15-minute ride from your hotel means you’re not wasting hours getting to the boat, and you’re immediately into the adventure.

The itinerary: a balance of highlights and hidden gems

Stop 1: Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave
The Blue Cave on Kolocep Island is what many travelers come for. When weather conditions cooperate, you’ll witness its otherworldly glow, a magical spectacle created by sunlight filtering through underwater openings. It’s a highlight that often appears in Croatian travel photos, and for good reason. The cave’s atmosphere feels almost surreal, perfect for photos or just soaking in the moment.

The tour allocates about 2 hours here, giving ample time to marvel at the cave, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Since the Blue Cave visit depends on weather, some travelers have shared that poor weather can prevent access—something to keep in mind when planning.

Stop 2: Sunj Beach on Lopud Island
Next, the yacht heads to Lopud Island, renowned for its sandy beaches and scenic walks. Sunj Beach is described as an oasis of tranquility, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and soaking up the sun. It’s clear that many visitors find this stop to be a highlight—one reviewer called it a beautiful island with peaceful swimming spots.

You’ll have about 2 hours here, providing enough time to relax, snorkel in the clear waters, or explore the lovely coastline. The soft sands and gentle waves make it a family-friendly stop, while the scenic surroundings appeal to everyone.

Stop 3: Lopud Village
To cap off the day, the boat anchors near Lopud Village, a quiet spot where you can wander through narrow streets, admire historic architecture, and enjoy the coastal serenity. This is a perfect place to soak in local life, with some travelers noting the slow pace and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s included and what to expect

The tour’s price covers a lot more than just transportation. You get all taxes and fees, plus an open bar featuring beer, wine, champagne, soft drinks, and water—ensuring you stay refreshed. Snacks like chips and nuts are included, and snorkeling gear is available for underwater exploring.

The yacht itself is described as a premium vessel, and the crew—comprising an English-speaking skipper and crew—are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. Several travelers mention how well they were looked after, with comments like “Filip was amazing” and “Captain Branco and Toni looked after us faultlessly.”

The experience: what travelers say

From the reviews, it’s clear that this tour appeals to a broad range of travelers. One family shared that it was “the best day of our trip so far,” citing the accommodating service and fun crew. Others appreciated the peaceful stop at Lopud for swimming and paddleboarding, even when the Blue Cave was inaccessible due to weather.

Guests also loved the informative commentary, fun music, and the overall relaxed feel of the trip. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment was a definite bonus for those wanting to explore beneath the surface, especially in the clear waters around Lopud.

Pricing and value

While $155 per person might seem steep at first glance, considering the inclusions—private transportation, snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and a well-maintained yacht—the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for a personalized, flexible experience that avoids the crowds and offers authentic island encounters.

Practical considerations

Since the Blue Cave visit is weather-dependent, it’s wise to be flexible with your expectations. If the weather’s uncooperative, the crew will adjust the itinerary, possibly skipping the cave but still offering a wonderful day on the water. Booking five days in advance is recommended, as the tour tends to fill up, especially during peak season.

Who would enjoy this tour?

This experience is ideal for families with kids, couples seeking a romantic day, or small groups wanting a more intimate way to explore the Elaphite Islands. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate flexibility, comfort, and authentic local scenery. If you’re looking for a crowd-free, well-organized adventure with a touch of luxury, this tour fits the bill.

On the other hand, if your primary goal is to visit the Blue Cave regardless of weather, or if you prefer a longer, more comprehensive sightseeing trip, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up: a top choice for relaxed, authentic island hopping

This small-group yacht tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and personal service. The inclusive drinks and snacks, snorkeling gear, and intimate group size create a feeling of luxury without the price tag of a private yacht. Its highlights—like the Blue Cave and Sunj Beach—are genuinely stunning, while the stops in Lopud Village give a glimpse of local life that bigger cruises often miss.

Travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and flexibility will find this experience suits their style perfectly. It’s especially fitting for those who want a memorable day of exploring without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy the best of Croatia’s coast, this tour delivers a memorable, well-organized adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and soak in the scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from your Dubrovnik hotel, making start-up easy and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with specific stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized atmosphere.

What is included in the price?
All taxes, fees, an open bar with beer, wine, champagne, soda, bottled water, snacks, snorkeling equipment, and private transportation are included.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, or the tour may be rescheduled if weather conditions are poor.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during the stop at Lopud Island.

What if the Blue Cave can’t be visited?
The crew will adjust the itinerary—many travelers appreciated the other stops, like Lopud and Sunj Beach, which are equally beautiful.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 5 days ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely, the relaxed pace and shallow waters make it family-friendly, and reviews highlight trips with kids.

What are the main highlights?
The Blue Cave, Sunj Beach, Lopud Village, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters are top attractions on this trip.