Private Boat Tours in Dubrovnik – DUBROVNIK BOATING

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising along Croatia’s shimmering coastline with the wind in your hair and the chance to explore some of the most beautiful islands near Dubrovnik, then a private boat tour might just be what you need. The Private Boat Tours in Dubrovnik offered by DUBROVNIK BOATING promise an intimate, flexible way to see the Elaphite Islands, with the added bonus of tailored stops, snacks, and water activities. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, a careful look at the details, reviews, and itinerary paints a pretty enticing picture.

What caught our eye? First, this is a fully private experience—just your group, which means more flexibility and comfort. Second, the expert guides and stunning scenery are consistently praised in reviews, making it clear this isn’t just a boat ride, but a carefully curated adventure. One possible consideration is the additional fuel surcharge (around 90 to 120 EUR for the full day), which can bump up the price, so it’s worth factoring into your budget. This tour would suit those wanting a personalized, scenic day on the water, especially travelers who love a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying fresh Croatian seafood.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, offering a tailored experience.
• Multiple Island Stops: Visit Lokrum, Kolocep, Lopud, Sipan, and Sudurad—each with unique sights and activities.
• Inclusion of Drinks and Snorkeling: Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear are included, adding fun and convenience.
• Flexible Duration: Ranging from 4 to 8 hours, adaptable to your preferences.
• Scenic Views: From Dubrovnik’s city walls to Mount Srd and the old port, the sea views are spectacular.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5-star rating based on 84 reviews, guests love the experience and guides.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at Scalini Palace, situated conveniently within Dubrovnik, near public transportation options. This makes it easy for travelers to hop on a private boat without the hassle of long transfers. The fact that it’s a mobile ticket further streamlines the process—your adventure starts with a simple booking confirmation.

The Itinerary: A Day on the Water

First, from the sea, you’ll get a quick panoramic view of Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls, fort Sv. Ivan, and fort Fovrijenac. Many reviews highlight how special it is to see these landmarks from the water, giving you a new appreciation of Dubrovnik’s historic defenses and architecture.

Lokrum Island is the first stop. This lush nature reserve is home to rabbits, peacocks, and botanical gardens. The tour allows a cruise around the island or optional land visits, with plenty of hiking and exploring options. Reviewers mention the island’s peaceful vibe, perfect for a quick walk or a photo stop. The admission is free, so it’s mainly about enjoying the scenery.

Next, the boat heads to Kolocep Island, famous for its Blue Cave. Visitors can swim and snorkel in or near the cave, with reviews praising the caves as “fantastic” and the snorkeling equipment as a nice touch. The free access to the cave adds to the appeal, though the highlight for many is the opportunity to cool off and experience the underwater world.

Sunj Beach on Lopud Island is a favorite among travelers who love sandy beaches. The shallow, golden sands are ideal for swimming and relaxing. Many comments emphasize how beautiful and clean Sunj Beach is—an authentic Mediterranean gem.

Lopud Village offers a charming stroll through a traditional Mediterranean village, where you can visit a monastery or simply soak in the laid-back atmosphere. The reviews mention how the guides are accommodating, allowing guests to walk around freely.

Sipan Island is the next stop, where a lunch at a top fish restaurant is available. While this is optional, it’s often highlighted as a delicious part of the trip, giving travelers a taste of local seafood. The reviewers describe the meal as a highlight, with the setting providing a true taste of Croatian maritime cuisine.

Finally, the boat visits Sudurad—a picturesque bay and village, perfect for a quick swim or photo op. An additional scenic stop includes the Bay of Lapad and views of Dubrovnik’s old port and Revelin Fortress, adding a historical perspective to the sea views.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

On this tour, you’re provided with snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages—everything you need for a fun, relaxed day. The flexible duration means you can choose to stay longer or shorter depending on your interests.

However, lunch is optional and not included in the base price. Many reviews mention enjoying seafood at Sipan, which is highly recommended if you want to fully experience the local cuisine. Be aware that there’s a fuel surcharge of around 90-120 EUR for the full-day experience, so budget accordingly.

The Guides and the Experience

Guests consistently praise the guides and captains, calling them knowledgeable and personable. Many reviewers highlight how guides like Matija, Mateo, and Luksa go above and beyond to make the experience memorable, sharing insider tips and ensuring everyone is comfortable and happy.

One reviewer notes that their skipper “pulled out all the stops,” and another mentions that the boat was “super nice” and clean. These details matter because a well-maintained boat and a friendly guide can make a big difference in the overall enjoyment.

The Weather Factor

As with any outdoor activity, weather plays a role. The tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather, which adds confidence for travelers concerned about conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience is perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want a personalized day on the water. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate beautiful scenery, snorkeling, and local food. If you prefer flexibility and a private setting over crowded group tours, this is a strong choice.

Travelers looking for a luxury, guided experience with comfortable boats and knowledgeable captains will find this tour offers good value. On the other hand, those on a tight budget may want to consider the additional fuel surcharge, but many feel the experience’s quality justifies the extra cost.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik private boat tour offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and fun water activities. The customizable itinerary and personalized service make it stand out from standard group excursions. Guests consistently praise the guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience feel genuine rather than touristy.

While the price may seem steep at first glance, the value lies in the intimacy, flexibility, and quality of the experience—plus the chance to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands at your own pace. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to see Dubrovnik’s coast from the water, enjoy snorkeling, and indulge in fresh seafood—all in one memorable day.

Who Should Book?

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized adventure with scenic stops and great guides, this tour is an excellent pick. It suits those who value comfort, authenticity, and freedom to choose how long to spend at each spot. Families, couples, or friends looking for a special day out on Croatia’s shimmering waters will find this experience a highlight of their trip.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring a private, tailored experience.

How many people can join?
The tour is priced per group, up to six people, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are included. Lunch is optional and not included.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and stops.

Are there additional charges?
Yes, a fuel surcharge of about 90 to 120 EUR applies for the full-day tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the stops listed are standard, the private nature allows some flexibility, especially with guides’ knowledge.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled for poor weather, with full refunds offered.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; snorkeling gear is provided, making it family-friendly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Scalini Palace in Dubrovnik, close to public transportation options.

This private boat tour in Dubrovnik offers a chance to see the Elaphite Islands in comfort and style. With stunning vistas, personalized service, and a relaxed pace, it’s a memorable way to experience Croatia’s coast—whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.