Private Boat Tour to Elafiti Islands

This private boat tour to the Elafiti Islands promises a perfect escape from Dubrovnik’s bustling streets. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this experience is a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s spectacular coastline at your own pace. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group, this trip offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic scenery.

What we love most about this tour is its customizable nature—you can tailor your stops to suit your interests—and the personalized service provided by your skipper, who seems to be both knowledgeable and friendly. Plus, the chance to snorkel in clear waters and enjoy secluded bays makes it feel like a true getaway. A potential drawback might be the additional fuel surcharge—around €80-€100—which isn’t included in the base price, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for those craving a flexible, intimate adventure on the Adriatic, away from the crowds.

This experience made our article of Top 12 Cruises And Boat Tours In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Stunning scenery and secluded bays perfect for swimming and relaxing
• Expert guides/skippers who know the best local spots
• Snorkeling equipment and drinks included for added comfort
• Flexible duration options from half-day to full-day
• Extra costs such as fuel surcharge are worth planning for

Discovering the Elafiti Islands: A Private Speedboat Experience

This private boat tour offers a refreshing alternative to crowded group excursions. For a set price of around $515.54 per group (up to 4 people), you’ll get exclusive access to the Elafiti Islands, a chain of beautiful islands just off Dubrovnik. The experience typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours, giving you the flexibility to choose a shorter half-day or a more leisurely full-day adventure. The highlight? The ability to tailor your itinerary, with your skipper navigating your preferred route—whether that means more swimming, exploring caves, or relaxing on quiet beaches.

Why Choose a Private Boat Tour?

One of the standout features of this tour is the personalized attention you get. Unlike larger group tours, a private charter allows you to spend more time at each stop or skip certain spots if you prefer. According to reviews, guests appreciate the flexibility—they can linger at a favorite bay or move on quickly if a location isn’t to their taste. This is especially valuable in the Croatian summer, when the crowds can be overwhelming at popular spots.

The Itinerary in Detail

While the tour is flexible, the typical route includes three major stops, each offering distinct experiences. Here’s what you can expect:

Kolocep Island

Just a 20-minute sail from Dubrovnik, Kolocep is known for its two villages—Gornje Celo and Donje Celo—and the famous Blue Cave on its south side. Guests often mention the tranquility of this spot and the chance to see the cave’s shimmering blue waters. Since the tour is private, you’re free to spend about 1.5 hours here, swimming or simply soaking in the peaceful scenery. It’s a great way to start your day with a splash and some photos.

Lopud Island

Next, the boat heads to Lopud, famed for its Sunj Beach, a long stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for lounging, swimming, and sunbathing. With around 2 hours allocated, you can truly relax—maybe take a dip, enjoy a cold drink, or walk along the promenade. Many reviews mention the quality of the snorkeling gear supplied, allowing you to explore the underwater world in calm, clear waters.

Sipan Island

The final stop is Sipan, the largest and most populated of the Elafiti Islands. Known for its untouched nature and turquoise waters, guests often remark on the serenity of this island. The 2-hour visit allows for exploring local villages or enjoying quiet coves away from tourist crowds. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the peaceful atmosphere—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the price are snorkel equipment, life jackets for all ages, bottled water, beer, and soft drinks. Your skipper’s expertise is also part of the package, along with all taxes and fees. This makes the trip quite user-friendly—no hidden costs for the essentials.

However, note that lunch is not included, and you might want to bring your own or plan to dine ashore on one of the islands. There’s also a fuel surcharge of around €80-€100, which is a common practice for private tours to cover fuel costs. The tour doesn’t offer pickup or drop-off from your hotel, but the meeting point at Lapadska obala in Dubrovnik is easy to access via public transport or taxi.

The Skipper: A Crucial Ingredient

Guests consistently highlight the knowledgeable and friendly nature of the skippers. Many reviews mention specific captains by name—Josip, Tony, Ivan, Tom—and describe them as “excellent,” “attentive,” and “informative.” Their local knowledge often results in visits to less crowded, more pristine spots that aren’t on the usual tourist radar.

For example, one traveler appreciated how Ivan took them to hidden coves and even swam alongside them into the Blue Cave, making the experience feel personal and special. Others raved about the warm hospitality and the way skippers tailored the tour to their interests, whether that meant more snorkeling or simply relaxing with a drink.

The Experience: What’s It Like?

Imagine leaving the lively Dubrovnik coast behind and slipping onto a private speedboat with seating for up to four guests. As your skipper takes the wheel, you can sit back and enjoy the breeze and panoramic views. The boat’s speed allows quick access to remote islands, meaning more time for swimming and exploring.

The secluded bays and caves are some of the best parts—many guests mention swimming in crystal-clear waters, with some caves boasting spectacular blue reflections that are perfect for photos. The snorkeling gear provided makes it easy to explore underwater habitats, and many guests enjoy discovering colorful fish and marine life.

Reviews highlight the value of the flexibility. Guests loved how they could spend more time in their favorite spots or skip over areas that didn’t interest them. Several remark on the peaceful, unspoiled nature of the islands, which contrast sharply with the crowded streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

The Value: Is It Worth the Cost?

While the base price might seem high at $515.54 per group, it’s important to consider what that includes: exclusive use of a boat, personalized itinerary, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the expertise of a local skipper. For a small group or family, this level of privacy and flexibility offers excellent value—especially compared to larger, less personalized tours.

Guests often mention the quality of the experience outweighs the price, describing it as “the best day ever” and “absolutely worth every penny.” The extra fuel surcharge is a small additional cost that ensures the boat can access quieter spots and extend the trip’s duration.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring a towel, light jacket, and swimming suit—some reviewers mention that these are helpful for comfort and swimming.
• Consider bringing some snacks or a picnic if you prefer not to buy lunch on the islands.
• The tour is pet-friendly and suitable for children over 18 (who can drink alcohol), making it accessible for families and solo travelers alike.
• The meeting point at Lapadska obala is near public transportation, so getting there should be straightforward.
• Be prepared for the fuel surcharge—you might want to budget an extra €80-€100.

This private boat experience is perfect for travelers seeking a more personalized, relaxed day on the water, away from the crowds. It suits small groups, couples, or families who want to control their pace and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Elafiti Islands. If you’re looking for a luxurious, flexible adventure with snorkeling and secluded bays, this tour offers great value. But if you prefer a fixed schedule or are traveling solo and looking for a cheaper group option, there are other options worth exploring.

In essence, this private Elafiti Islands tour provides a wonderfully intimate way to discover some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal spots. Its customizable itinerary, guided by friendly, knowledgeable skippers, makes it stand out from typical group excursions. Whether you want to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore caves, or relax on quiet beaches, this experience adapts beautifully to your wishes.

For anyone who enjoys personalized service, stunning scenery, and flexible timing, this tour will deliver more than just a day on the water—it offers a memorable Croatian adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value privacy and authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18. The tour is pet-friendly, but you should check with the provider if bringing young children or pets.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snorkel equipment, life jackets for all ages, bottled water, beer, and soft drinks. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are covered.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 4 to 8 hours, with options for half-day or full-day trips, giving you flexibility based on your schedule.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, being a private tour, you can work with your skipper to select stops and duration at each site, making your experience more personal.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik and ends back at the same point.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included; you might want to bring your own or plan to eat on the islands.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, a fuel surcharge (~€80-€100) applies per booking, which covers the boat’s fuel costs.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off. The meeting point is accessible by public transportation or taxi.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimming suit, light jacket, and sun protection. Snacks or drinks are optional, as are personal items like cameras.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, the tour can be booked with at least 24 hours’ notice, making it a flexible option for spontaneous plans.

In essence, this private boat tour to the Elafiti Islands offers a tailored, relaxed way to experience Croatia’s coast. With friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and the freedom to choose your stops, it’s an experience that many travelers find truly worthwhile—and one that creates lasting memories far from the crowds.