Dubrovnik: Elafiti Islands Private Full Day Boat Tour Escape

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik and craving a break from the city’s lively streets and tourist crowds, a private boat tour of the Elafiti Islands might just be the highlight of your visit. This experience promises a personalized day at sea, tailored to your preferences, with opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore hidden caves, and enjoy stunning scenery away from the hustle and bustle.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility and intimacy. The ability to customize your itinerary with a friendly local skipper means you’re not stuck following a rigid schedule—you’re in control of your day. Plus, the chance to catch a sunset over the Adriatic with a drink in hand truly caps off the experience with a touch of magic.

One point to consider is the price—at $612 for a group of up to four, it’s a bit on the higher end if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, but the private nature and tailored service can make it a worthwhile splurge. This tour is perfect for couples, small families, or friends who want an authentic, relaxed day on the water, away from crowded tour boats. If you’re looking for a flexible, intimate sea adventure, this might be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Flexible, customizable itinerary tailored by your skipper.
• Swim and snorkel in renowned caves like the Blue and Green Cave and discover peaceful bays.
• Visit three distinct islands: Ipan, Lopud, and Koloep, each offering different charms.
• Relax and enjoy the sunset at sea, with a refreshing drink in hand.
• All-day private experience with professional skipper, snorkeling gear, and drinks included.
• Ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a personalized escape from Dubrovnik.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day at Sea

Starting from Dubrovnik, you’ll leave behind the busy streets and embark on a private boat arranged just for your group. The skipper, a local with insider knowledge, will lead you through a day packed with activities, scenic stops, and plenty of leisure. You’ll find that the experience is as much about the journey as the destinations.

Morning: Setting Sail and Exploring Hidden Caves

Your day begins in the morning, with a relaxed departure time that allows you to beat the crowds. The boat, equipped with a cooler of water, juice, beer, and local wine, sets the tone for a laid-back, enjoyable experience.

The first stops are often in search of the Blue Cave—a well-known attraction famous for its glowing blue waters—and the Green Cave, which offers a different and equally enchanting snorkeling environment. These caves are perfect for jumping into the cool, clear waters, snorkeling with provided gear, and marveling at the underwater scenery.

For many travelers, the highlight is the chance to swim in secluded bays and hidden coves that aren’t accessible by land or large tour boats. The skipper’s local knowledge shines here—he knows all the secret spots that are quiet enough for a peaceful swim and provide great photo opportunities with GoPro or other cameras.

Midday: Island Visits and Local Flavor

Next, your route might include stops at the islands of Ipan, Lopud, and Koloep. Each offers a unique flavor. Lopud, for example, is known for its charming village, relaxed vibe, and some lovely beaches. Ipan and Koloep are smaller, less developed islands where you can stroll around, absorb the local way of life, or simply relax on deck.

The flexibility of this tour means you can choose to linger or move on swiftly—your skipper is there to follow your preferences. Some reviews mention that the skipper provides excellent recommendations, helping you find the best spots for photos and relaxation.

Afternoon: Leisure and Sunset

As the day moves into late afternoon, you’ll cruise toward a spot to watch the sunset over the Elafiti Islands. This is a truly memorable part of the experience—seeing the sky turn vibrant colors while the boat gently rocks on the water. Many travelers find this moment especially special, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.

You’ll enjoy your included drinks—perhaps a glass of local wine or refreshing beer—while soaking in the panoramic views. For those with a GoPro or camera, this is your chance to capture some breathtaking shots against the backdrop of the setting sun and the shimmering sea.

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End of the Tour

The experience wraps up back where it began, with the boat returning to Dubrovnik’s coast. The entire day, from departure to return, lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part of the journey at a relaxed pace.

What Makes This Tour Worthwhile

The personalized approach is what we love about this tour. Unlike group cruises, a private boat allows you to skip the crowded spots and focus on what interests you most—whether that’s snorkeling, relaxing on quiet beaches, or simply enjoying the scenery. The skipper’s local knowledge is a real asset, guiding you to the best secret spots and authentic island eateries.

The snorkeling gear and floating noodles included make it easy to stay in the water longer, and the dry bags help keep your valuables safe. Plus, the cooler stocked with drinks means no need to worry about bringing your own refreshments unless you prefer something special.

The price of $612 per group is reasonable considering the exclusivity and tailored nature of the experience, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. For solo travelers or couples, splitting the cost can be a smart way to enjoy a high-quality, private adventure without the crowded group tours.

Authenticity and Customer Feedback

Based on reviews, travelers are particularly pleased with the stunning views and the excellent recommendations from the skipper. One reviewer called it a “wonderful day trip,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the personalized service and the peaceful spots discovered. The inclusion of wine and the opportunity to capture memorable photos with a GoPro add to the overall value.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: The skipper will be waiting next to a specific boat across the street from Ljetnikovac Petra Sorkoevia. You’ll receive a WhatsApp number for easy contact.
• Duration: Expect about 8 hours on the water.
• What to bring: Sun hat, towel, sunscreen—be prepared for sun exposure.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users.
• Cancellation policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Cost Breakdown and Value

Though $612 might seem high for some, remember this includes a private boat, a skipper, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the chance to personalize your day. If you value exclusivity, peace, and making your own schedule, the cost is quite justifiable. Plus, avoiding large, crowded tours adds a level of comfort and authenticity that’s hard to match.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for small groups wanting a personalized, relaxed day at sea. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, families with children (as long as they can handle a full day on the boat), or friends looking to escape the crowds. If you’re seeking a flexible itinerary with stunning scenery and a local touch, this private tour delivers.

Less suited if you prefer a structured schedule or are uneasy on boats, especially for those with back issues or mobility concerns. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, given the nature of boat travel.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a private boat tour of the Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik offers a wonderful blend of freedom, intimacy, and discovery. You get to set your pace, explore secret caves, enjoy tranquil beaches, and bask in breathtaking sunsets—all while being cared for by a knowledgeable local skipper.

The value lies in the personalized service and the chance to avoid tourist crowds, ensuring a more authentic and peaceful experience. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to see Dubrovnik’s nearby islands from a different perspective, this tour provides a memorable day at sea.

If you’re after a luxurious yet authentic adventure that balances guided expertise with freedom of choice, this boat tour is well worth considering. It’s a chance to step away from the busy streets of Dubrovnik and create your own island-hopping story.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from departure in the morning to returning in the evening, giving ample time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private boat with a professional skipper, snorkeling gear, dry bags, floating noodles, and a cooler stocked with water, juice, beer, and local wine.

Do I need to pay extra for fuel?
Yes, there is an additional fuel cost of 90 Euro, payable in cash to the skipper on the day of the tour.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The skipper can follow a suggested route or fully customize your itinerary based on your preferences.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to dine on one of the islands if you wish.

Where do we meet the skipper?
The skipper will be waiting at a designated spot next to a boat across from Ljetnikovac Petra Sorkoevia, and you’ll receive a WhatsApp contact for coordination.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly restricted, keep in mind the full-day boat experience may be best suited for older children who are comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera or GoPro to capture the scenic moments.

To sum it up, this private Elafiti Islands boat tour from Dubrovnik offers a personalized, scenic escape perfect for small groups craving quiet beaches, hidden caves, and unforgettable sunset views. It combines the best of Croatia’s coastal charm with the flexibility and intimacy that larger tours simply can’t match. If you’re after authentic experiences and the joy of exploring at your own pace, this tour deserves a serious look.

You can check availability for your dates here: