Dubrovnik Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands with Drinks

If you’re considering a day on the water around Dubrovnik, a private speedboat tour to the Elaphite Islands offers a fantastic blend of scenic views, personalized stops, and a touch of luxury. This experience caters to small groups, making it perfect for couples, families, or friends wanting an intimate escape from the crowds. From what we’ve seen and heard, it’s a chance to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline at your own pace—something very different from the usual cruise excursions.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the customizable itinerary and the refreshing drinks supplied onboard. You’ll love how flexible the tour is—your captain can adapt stops according to your interests, whether that’s exploring caves, relaxing on a quiet beach, or taking in stunning coastal vistas. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and luxury speedboat adds an element of adventure and comfort.

One potential consideration is the price point—around $461.59 for up to 12 people—which might seem steep for some travelers. However, when you factor in the private nature, all the drinks, and the personalized attention, many find it to be good value, especially if you’re traveling with a small group.

This tour is ideal for those who want a tailored, relaxed day on the water—perfect for couples, families with teens, or groups seeking an insider’s view of the islands away from the crowds. If you love scenic boat rides, swimming in calm waters, and enjoying local drinks, this experience hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: The tour is exclusive to your group, allowing for customized stops and flexible pacing.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Beers, wine, soft drinks, and water are provided, making for a relaxed, carefree day.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Gear is included, giving you a chance to explore the underwater world or cool off in crystal-clear waters.
• Stunning Scenery & Unique Stops: From the Blue Cave to historic Lopud Island, you get a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights.
• Efficient Itinerary: The tour covers multiple islands and caves, with options to spend more or less time at each location.
• Great for Small Groups: Up to 12 people means more intimacy and better chances to tailor the experience.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Start with Kolocep Island

The tour kicks off with a quick panoramic look at Dubrovnik’s Old Town, setting the scene for the day ahead. Soon after, you’ll arrive at Kolocep Island, the closest of the Elaphite Islands. Here, the highlight is the famous Blue and Green caves, which are noted for their enchanting colors and natural beauty. With about an hour allocated, you’ll have time to admire the caves, snap photos, and potentially enjoy a swim in the calm waters.

Reviews speak highly of this stop: one guest exclaimed, “My husband and I had a wonderful time island hopping on this beautiful speedboat! Joe was very friendly and knowledgeable.” The caves are a real crowd-pleaser, and being part of a private tour means you won’t feel rushed or crowded.

Next Stop: Lopud Island

Lopud has a long-standing history as a cultural hub, with remnants of monasteries, churches, and noble palaces that paint a picture of its past grandeur. The tour typically spends around two hours here, giving you ample time to explore or simply relax. Many visitors appreciate the chance to enjoy a lunch reservation on the island, with one reviewer calling it “the best lunch we had on our entire trip.” The island’s laid-back vibe is perfect for swimming, strolling, or just soaking up the sun.

Stop at Sudurad Village

The third stop is Sudurad, a charming village where locals grow olives, grapes, and citruses. Here, you’ll get a chance to taste homemade olive oil and local produce, adding a tasty cultural touch to your day. An hour is usually enough to wander the narrow streets and enjoy the authentic Croatian hospitality.

Optional Cave and Beach Visits

The Blue Cave is a major highlight, often included if weather permits. Many guests rave about the experience, with some mentioning its crowding but overall considering it worth the visit. The flexibility of the private tour means your captain can take you to quieter spots or skip busy caves if you prefer.

Water and Snacks

Throughout the day, beers, wine, soft drinks, and bottled water keep you refreshed. Snorkeling gear is provided, so if you’re comfortable in the water, you can explore the underwater scenery or just dip your toes in the sea. Towels and life jackets are also included, adding to the ease of the experience.

The Value of a Private Speedboat Experience

For the price of around $461.59, you get a luxury private speedboat tailored to your group, with all drinks included and a knowledgeable captain guiding you. Many reviewers mention how the personal attention makes the day feel special—one said, “Marin, our skipper, was delightful, very knowledgeable, understood (and spoke) English very well and accommodated our desires.” The ability to customize the stops means you can prioritize what interests you most, whether that’s caves, beaches, or cultural sites.

The tour lasts approximately 4 to 8 hours, offering flexibility if you prefer a shorter or longer day. Some guests choose the 4-hour option for a quick overview, while others, like the reviewer who enjoyed an 8-hour excursion, appreciated the extra time to explore more islands and have a relaxed lunch.

What This Means for You

You’ll love the comfort of the luxury speedboat—fast, smooth, and private—making even a longer day feel manageable. The small group size (up to 12) ensures that the captain can focus on your preferences, making it more like a day out with a friendly guide than a rigid tour.

Authentic Experiences and Feedback from Travelers

The reviews offer a vivid picture of what you can expect. For example, one guest said, “Simon was enthusiastic, personable, and incredibly knowledgeable about the area,” highlighting the value of a passionate guide. Another shared, “We saw the blue cave, but even better, our guide took us to some beautiful spots away from the crowds,” emphasizing how the private setup unlocks access to quieter, less touristy locations.

Many travelers praise the local guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a memorable cultural experience. The lunch on Lopud or the beach bar stops are often described as highlights, offering a taste of local life and good food amid stunning scenery.

The snorkeling gear gets positive nods, with guests noting how it enhances the underwater experience—though the water might be chilly in early summer, a common theme in reviews. The boat’s speed and comfort also get consistent praise for making the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour requires most travelers to be able to participate, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. The minimum drinking age is 18, given the alcoholic drinks provided. Depending on your pickup location—Sheraton, Mlini, or Cavtat—you’ll need to pay a small cash fee of €60 for pickup and drop-off, which is a common and straightforward arrangement.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering some peace of mind. The experience operates only in good weather, so if poor weather cancels it, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

The group size of up to 12 means you’ll have plenty of space, but it’s still intimate enough to form a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. This private setup is ideal if you want to avoid the hustle of large group tours and prefer a more tailored experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for small groups looking for a personalized day at sea. If you enjoy scenic views, cultural stops, and snorkeling, you’ll find plenty to love. Families with teenagers especially appreciate the relaxed pace, the snacks, and the chance to swim. Couples on a honeymoon or celebrating a special occasion find the private setting particularly appealing.

Travelers who want to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s walls, experiencing the islands and caves with local insight, will find this tour offers unmatched flexibility and comfort. It’s also ideal for those who prefer not to be part of a large, crowded group, seeking instead a genuine, relaxed, and fun day on the water.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour to the Elaphite Islands offers a terrific balance of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized service. With knowledgeable guides, exquisite views, and a relaxed, intimate setting, it’s an excellent way to see more of Dubrovnik’s coastline without feeling rushed. The inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and flexible stops makes it a good value for small groups looking to indulge in a memorable day at sea.

While the price might seem high for some, the quality of the experience—private, customized, and full of authentic moments—stands out. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a fun day with friends, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of what Croatia’s coastal paradise has to offer.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? Many travelers mention families with teens enjoying the experience, and all necessary safety gear like life jackets is provided, making it family-friendly. Check the minimum age requirements.

What is included in the price? The cost covers the private boat, fuel, a skilled skipper, all drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, water), snorkeling gear, towels, and all taxes and fees.

Can I customize my stops? Yes, the private nature of the tour allows for some customization, whether you want more cave visits, quiet beaches, or cultural stops.

How long does the tour last? It ranges from approximately 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preference and how many stops you want to make.

Is snorkeling included? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, which allows you to explore underwater or just enjoy a quick swim.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Where do I get picked up? Pickup is available from locations like Sheraton, Mlini, or Cavtat for an additional €60 cash.

How many people can join? Up to 12 guests, making the experience intimate and flexible.

Is there alcohol served onboard? Yes, wine and beer are included, but the minimum drinking age is 18.

This private speedboat tour offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and personalized service that makes for a memorable day—ideal for those who want to see more of Croatia’s stunning coastline with comfort and style.