Sun, Sea& Speed: Private boat tour to Dubrovniks Blue Cave!

Planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast often involves dreams of turquoise waters, hidden caves, and scenic islands. If you’re looking for a way to combine comfort, speed, and authentic experiences, a private boat tour from Cavtat to Dubrovnik’s Blue Cave might just be your perfect day. This review explores what you can expect from the Sun, Sea & Speed adventure, highlighting its strengths and considerations, so you can decide if it’s right for your Croatian holiday.

We’re impressed by the blend of personalization and stunning scenery that this tour offers. The chance to play your favorite tunes on the boat’s Bluetooth radio adds a fun, relaxed touch, and the knowledgeable skipper provides insight into the area’s natural beauty. One potential consideration is the extra cost for fuel, which isn’t included in the tour price, so budgeting accordingly is wise. This experience is likely best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, unspoiled nature, and a bit of luxury — especially families, couples, or small groups wanting a tailored day out.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with a knowledgeable skipper showing the best of the Elaphiti Islands.
• Stunning stops at Blue Cave, Green caves, Sunj Beach, and other hidden gems.
• Comfort and convenience with sunbathing mats, standard amenities, and the ability to customize your playlist.
• Extra costs like fuel are separate, so budget ahead for a full day.
• Authentic local experience with a boat designed for both speed and comfort, departing from Cavtat.
• Ideal for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and relaxed day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to a Scenic Croatian Day

Our review focuses on a tour that promises a blend of adventure and comfort. The Sun, Sea & Speed private boat trip, based on what travelers have experienced, takes you out from Cavtat—a charming town just 15 km south of Dubrovnik—and whisks you around some of the most beautiful spots along the Dalmatian coast.

What we love about this tour is how it combines scenic drives around the Old Town of Dubrovnik with actual explorations of caves and beaches. You get a taste of natural beauty and the authentic charm of the islands, all while enjoying the freedom to customize your experience with your favorite music and a relaxed pace. Plus, the boat itself is designed for comfort, with sunbathing mats, a toilet, shower, and sink.

A possible drawback is the additional fuel surcharge, which isn’t included in the price — so it’s worth planning for an extra €40 to €150, depending on your chosen length of trip. Still, many find the overall value worthwhile considering the stunning scenery and personalized service.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a luxurious yet authentic experience, want a private setting away from large crowds, and enjoy being on the water. It’s perfect for those traveling with family, friends, or a small partner group willing to pay a premium for flexibility and exclusive access to Croatia’s natural wonders.

What to Expect on the Tour

Departure from Cavtat

Your journey begins in the picturesque town of Cavtat, a quiet yet beautiful starting point. The boat, a sleek Mercan Excursion 34, offers both speed and comfort, making the roughly 15-minute cruise to the islands a smooth ride. The vessel’s design maximizes both leisure and practicality, equipped with sunbathing mats, a toilet, and showers—ideal for a full day on the water.

Scenic Drive and Old Town Views

As you glide along the coast, the skipper often takes a panoramic drive around Dubrovnik’s Old Town, providing stunning views of the city walls, historic buildings, and the shimmering Adriatic. This is a chance to snap photos from the water, capturing the blend of medieval architecture and natural beauty.

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Exploring the Kolocep and the Green Caves

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the visits to the Blue Cave and Green Caves on Kolocep Island. These caves are renowned for their mesmerizing colors—the Blue Cave with its luminous water, and the Green Cave with its unique hue. Your skipper, often very knowledgeable, will guide you through the best spots to enjoy the natural light shows and encourage you to moor up, jump in, or snorkel in the clear waters.

One traveler shared, “Nick was very knowledgeable about the caves and the area,” emphasizing how a guided private experience enhances the visit. You’ll appreciate the lack of rush — the tour allows you to moor up and enjoy the caves at your own pace, rather than feeling pressured to move on quickly.

Sunj Beach on Lopud Island

Next, the boat heads toward Lopud Island, famous for its almost kilometer-long sandy beach. Ideal for families, Sunj Beach’s shallow waters allow for easy swimming after a 100-meter walk, which is perfect for small children or anyone not keen on deep water. The beach is a lively spot for relaxing, picnicking, or engaging in beach games like volleyball or tennis.

Discovering Ipanipan and Other Hidden Gems

Depending on your chosen duration, your skipper might take you to Ipanipan, the largest island of the Elaphiti archipelago, known for its tranquil bays and local flavor. With just over 400 residents, the island offers a taste of authentic island life. You might also visit Bowa, a posh restaurant and beach bar, renowned for fresh oysters and seafood — though they are on the pricier side.

Food, Beverages, and Relaxation

Your boat comes stocked with refreshing beverages such as local wine, water, Fanta, and Coke, all included. You can also request special food and drink services for an extra fee—perfect if you want to indulge in Croatian seafood or oysters. The boat’s design supports a leisurely day, with plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

The Experience in Detail

The Skipper and Personal Service

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, noting how their insights enrich the experience: “Nick was very knowledgeable about the caves and the area.” The skipper’s role isn’t just to drive but to share local stories, point out hidden spots, and ensure you’re comfortable.

The Boat and Comfort

The Mercan Excursion 34 offers a modern, well-maintained vessel that balances speed with comfort. The sunbathing mats are a thoughtful addition, allowing you to relax while cruising or parked in serene spots. Standard amenities like the toilet and shower are convenient touches that elevate the experience beyond a simple boat ride.

The Cost and Value

At $282 for a group of up to three, the tour leans toward the premium side. However, considering the private nature, customizable itinerary, and luxurious boat features, many see it as good value. Extra costs for fuel—ranging from €40 to €150 depending on trip length—are paid separately in cash, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Authenticity and Flexibility

Unlike larger group tours, this private experience offers flexibility. You’re free to spend more or less time at each stop, and your playlist can reflect your mood. “It felt expensive but we thoroughly enjoyed it,” shared one traveler, underlining how personalized service can make the cost worthwhile.

Authenticity and Connectivity

Many travelers value the chance to connect to the boat’s Bluetooth radio and play their own music, creating a more relaxed and personal atmosphere. This small touch helps make the journey feel like a floating private yacht rather than a conventional tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized experiences, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or families looking to explore Croatia’s islands without the crowds and with the added comfort of a private guide.

If you’re someone who enjoys natural landscapes, snorkeling, and discovering hidden spots, this tour will appeal. It’s also a great choice if you want the flexibility to customize your day, play your favorite music, and really soak in the stunning surroundings.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more structured, group-oriented tour, you might find other options more suitable. Remember that the extra fuel costs are not included in the initial price, which could influence your overall budget.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a wonderful blend of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. The ability to customize your experience, combined with the scenic beauty of the Blue and Green caves and the Elaphiti Islands, makes it a memorable way to explore Croatia’s coast.

Travelers who prioritize personal service, scenic stops, and a relaxed vibe will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s a chance to see some of Croatia’s best natural sights from the water, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way. The tour’s design for comfort and flexibility makes it a standout choice for those wanting to enjoy Croatia’s coastline at their own pace.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a private, scenic escape with stunning views, natural caves, and a friendly guide, this experience is well worth considering. Just be prepared for the extra fuel costs, and you’ll be set for a memorable day at sea.

FAQ

How many people can join the tour?
This private tour is designed for groups of up to 3 people, making it ideal for small parties seeking a tailored experience.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Cavtat, a charming seaside town located about 15 km south of Dubrovnik.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, skipper, snorkeling equipment, water, soda, alcoholic beverages, life jackets, pool noodles, and standard amenities like a toilet and shower.

Are there additional costs I should know about?
Yes, fuel is not included and must be paid in cash on the boat. Fuel surcharges vary depending on the trip length, from €40 to €150.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, particularly because of Sunj Beach’s shallow waters, making it safe for small children. However, parents should consider the trip length and comfort needs.

Can I play my own music?
Absolutely. The boat has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to play your favorite tunes during the cruise.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can usually customize the stops and timing with your skipper, within the limits of the planned duration.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, water shoes, and a change of clothes for after swimming.

This private boat tour from Cavtat offers a blend of scenic beauty, personalized service, and flexibility—perfect for travelers eager to explore Croatia’s hidden gems with comfort and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: