Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Fullday Tour

Experience the Charm of Dubrovnik’s Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave in a Private Full-Day Tour

Imagine gliding over the shimmering waters of the Adriatic, visiting three beautiful islands—Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan—and ending the day with a visit to the famous Blue Cave. For around $710 per group, you get a private 8-hour adventure with a knowledgeable skipper, personalized to your pace and interests. This tour is designed for those who love a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and authentic local experiences, all with the comfort and flexibility of a private boat.

What we love about this tour is its customizable nature—your skipper, Srdan, or whomever is guiding, will tailor the stops to avoid crowds and maximize your time in peaceful spots. We also appreciate the inclusion of snorkeling gear, towels, and drinks, making it easy to relax and enjoy. However, a potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included; you’ll want to plan for that, especially if you’re hungry after all the swimming and exploring.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized experience with flexibility to explore at their own pace, enjoy crystal-clear waters, and discover lesser-known beaches and attractions. It’s ideal for those who love water activities, local cuisine, and wine tasting—the latter being a highlight on Sipan Island.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: Tailored to your group’s interests and preferred pace.
• Includes Drinks & Equipment: Water, soda, beer, wine, towels, and snorkeling gear are all provided.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Kolocep caves, Lopud’s Sunj Beach, and Sipan’s wine and dining options.
• Expert Skipper: Guides with extensive local knowledge, ensuring you visit the best spots and avoid crowds.
• Ideal for Relaxed, Authentic Experiences: Perfect for those who want a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor.
• Cost-Effective for Groups: About $710 for up to 4 people, offering excellent value for a private boat tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Tour

The Starting Point: Port Gšuz and First Impressions

Your adventure begins at Port Gšuz, where a private transfer drops you off at the meeting point—Sunshine Sailing Dubrovnik. From here, you meet your skipper and step into a comfortable speedboat, ready to explore. The early morning start at 10:00 am ensures you get the most out of the day, and the 8-hour duration offers ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

The tour’s private nature means no noisy groups or rushed schedules—just your family or friends with a dedicated guide. The boat is loaded with snorkeling gear, towels, and drinks—a thoughtful touch that adds comfort and convenience.

First Stop: Kolocep Island and the Caves

Our first destination is Kolocep Island, a peaceful and somewhat lesser-visited gem. The highlight here is entering two striking turquoise caves by speedboat, which instantaneously makes you feel like you’re in a movie scene. The caves are perfect for a quick swim or snorkel to explore the underwater world.

Reviews highlight the quality of this part: one traveler notes, “Knowing so many great spots & times of day to visit,” which hints at their guide’s expertise. The calm waters and natural beauty of Kolocep are especially appreciated, with visitors often commenting on the lack of crowds and tranquil scenery that make for a peaceful escape.

The Highlight: Blue Cave and Green Caves

Next, you’ll visit the Blue Cave, famous for its shimmering, vivid blue light that filters through the water, creating a magical ambiance. This is a must-see in the region, and the tour’s flexibility allows you to linger or move on depending on your mood. Nearby, the green caves add another layer of color and intrigue to your underwater explorations.

Second Stop: Lopud Island and Sunj Beach

The second island is Lopud, renowned for its sandy Sunj Beach, a favorite among travelers. The privacy of the beach, tucked away behind trees, provides a perfect spot to sunbathe, swim, or just relax without the crowds often found at more popular beaches. One reviewer describes it as “hidden in the trees far from the rest of the Island,” emphasizing its peaceful charm.

After soaking up the sun, you’ll explore Lopud’s main port, a lively area filled with cafes, shops, and historical sights. This blend of natural beauty and cultural charm gives you a well-rounded experience of the island.

Third Stop: Sipan Island and Local Flavors

The last island is Sipan, home to quaint villages like Sura. Here, your guide can recommend a local restaurant to enjoy fresh fish caught by local fishermen and vegetables from nearby gardens—an authentic taste of Dalmatian cuisine. Many reviews mention the quality of the food and the chance to sample local wines—a highlight for wine lovers.

Sipan also offers opportunities for wine tasting on the island’s vineyards, often regarded as among the best in Croatia. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes this a fitting end to your day on the water.

The Return: A Relaxing Ride Back

After exploring Sipan, your skipper will navigate back to Port Gšuz, wrapping up an 8-hour day filled with swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation. The round trip is smooth and comfortable, with plenty of opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Authentic Experiences and Why They Matter

Guides like Srdan often receive praise for their local knowledge, which elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride. As one reviewer notes, “He knew exactly when to visit each spot to avoid the crowds,” illustrating the value of a guide’s expertise. The ability to customize the route—whether prioritizing quiet beaches, scenic caves, or cultural sites—means your trip can be tailored to your preferences.

The inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear allows you to focus on enjoying the moment, not worrying about logistics. The crystal-clear waters and peaceful beaches are what make this tour stand out, offering a genuine escape from busy tourist spots.

The cost, averaging around $177 per person for a private experience, is a reasonable investment considering the personalized service, exclusive access, and inclusions like drinks and gear. Many reviews confirm excellent value, especially when you consider the flexibility and comfort provided.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers immense value, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to dine at Sipan or nearby. Also, weather can impact the experience—bad weather might mean rescheduling or a different route—so flexibility in your plans is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized experiences, water-based adventures, and authentic local flavor, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Adriatic, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax. Families, small groups, or couples celebrating a special occasion will find this private tour offers both intimacy and flexibility.

FAQs about the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling gear and towels, making it ideal for families. Just ensure children are comfortable on boats and in water.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a hat, and possibly some snacks. The tour provides water, soda, beer, wine, towels, and snorkeling equipment.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are the stops flexible?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows your skipper to customize the route and timing based on your interests and weather conditions.

What’s the main highlight?
Most travelers rave about visiting the Blue Cave and the tranquility of Sunj Beach on Lopud. Many also enjoy the wine tasting and local cuisine on Sipan.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s plenty of opportunity to dine on Sipan or bring your own snacks.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to poor weather.

How many people can fit in the boat?
Up to 4 people per group, making it a very personalized experience.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, your skipper acts as a guide, sharing local insights and helping you avoid crowds.

What makes this tour worth the price?
The combination of private, flexible scheduling, inclusive drinks and snorkeling gear, and the chance to explore lesser-known, peaceful spots makes it a strong value.

Summing Up: Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This private Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave tour offers a tailored, relaxing, and scenic way to experience Croatia’s stunning coast. For those who want to escape busy tourist crowds and enjoy a customized itinerary, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized adventure with plenty of swimming, cultural sights, and local flavors.

Because of its flexibility, it suits travelers who want to balance sightseeing with leisure—whether you’re keen on admiring the caves, lounging on tranquil beaches, sampling wine, or all of the above. Many reviews highlight the friendly guidance, quiet, beautiful locations, and excellent value, making it a top choice for a memorable day at sea in Dubrovnik.

This tour is a smart choice for those who want a personalized, comfortable, and memorable adventure that showcases the best of the Elafiti Islands, blending natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation into one seamless experience.