Private speedboat tour to the islands

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and craving a personalized way to explore its nearby islands, a private speedboat tour offers just that—intimate, flexible, and visually spectacular. While many tours pack you on large boats with strangers, this experience caters solely to your group, allowing for a tailored adventure that emphasizes comfort and unique sights. Think swimming in cave pools, exploring charming villages, and skipping the hustle of crowded tours—all with the sea breeze in your hair.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility and the chance to customize your itinerary—whether you prefer a half-day escape or a full-day adventure—plus the ability to choose between the Elaphiti Islands, Korcula, or Mljet. Also, the emphasis on authentic experiences, like cliff-jumping and visiting less-frequented bays, makes this a standout. A small potential drawback? The fuel surcharge—which can add up—so keep that in mind when budgeting. Still, if you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized sea adventure that offers stunning views and genuine exploration, this tour is ideal for couples, families, or small groups craving a private escape.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
• No crowds, with exclusive use of the speedboat for your group
• Multiple options for half-day or full-day excursions
• Visits to scenic islands like Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan, with opportunities for swimming, exploring villages, and cave adventures
• Includes snorkel gear and refreshments for a comfortable day on the water
• Rated 5.0/5 from 38 reviews, with 100% recommending it

What Makes This Tour Special?

The appeal of this private speedboat tour lies in its customization. Unlike large group cruises that follow a set schedule, this trip puts you in the captain’s seat—well, figuratively. You decide whether to focus on the Elaphiti Islands, Korcula, or Mljet, and choose your stops along the way. It’s a highly adaptable way to experience Dubrovnik’s coastline, offering both sightseeing and relaxation.

The Itinerary in Detail

Kolocep Island is your first stop—just about 20 minutes from Dubrovnik. Known for its two villages—Gornje Celo and Donje Celo, it exudes charm, with narrow streets and local tavernas. Most memorable is the Blue Cave, accessible from the south side of the island. While the tour mention suggests visits here are customizable, many travelers love swimming in the caves or simply soaking in the peaceful scenery. The admission is free, so your focus is on enjoying the views and quiet.

Lopud Island follows, famous for its long sandy beach, Sunj. Here, the chance to swim and sunbathe is a big plus—especially for those used to mainland sightseeing. The boat provides cold drinks, beer, and soft drinks, so you can cool off after a swim or just relax on deck. Many reviews highlight how the relaxed atmosphere makes it feel like a true summer day, with one traveler noting, “It was an actual summer day, swim and sunbathe, with drinks on the boat.”

The final popular stop on the Elaphiti Islands is Sipan, the largest and most populated of the group. It’s known for its undeveloped, natural environment—olive groves, turquoise waters, and quiet villages. Visitors often mention the untouched nature and the chance to explore local villages, which adds an authentic touch to your trip.

Additional Stops & Activities

The tour’s flexibility allows for swimming in caves and bays—a highlight for many, especially when combined with the snorkel equipment provided. Some reviews mention the chance to see dolphins, which adds a magical element to the day. For the adventurous, cliff-jumping is an option, though details depend on your captain’s guidance and the conditions of the day.

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is a Quicksilver 675 SunDeck, a modern, comfortable vessel well-suited for small groups. Skippered by a knowledgeable local, the captain’s expertise is often praised—one reviewer called their captain “AMAZING,” emphasizing safety and local knowledge. You’ll be on a skippered craft, which means the focus is on your experience, not navigating.

The use of snorkel gear and life jackets for all ages makes the trip accessible and safe for families. The local taxes are included, and bottled water, soft drinks, and beer keep everyone refreshed. The price of $395.65 covers up to six people, making it quite reasonable when split among friends or family. Remember that there’s an optional fuel surcharge (ranging from $80 to $230 per booking), which is common for private charters, but it’s wise to include this in your budget.

Duration & Booking

Most trips last around 4 to 10 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your preferred pace and stops. Many travelers book 17 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity. The meeting point is centrally located at Lapadska obala in Dubrovnik, conveniently near public transportation, so getting on board is straightforward.

Real Travelers’ Experiences

Feedback consistently highlights the stunning views and the personalized attention. One reviewer raved about their captain Ivan: “His skills and training made us feel safe and relaxed,” adding that he knew exactly where to take them for the best scenery and swimming spots. Another mentioned, “We visited three islands, swam in a cave, and even saw dolphins,” showing how memorable these small details can be.

Many comments focus on the absence of crowds—a real plus in popular Croatia—and how the custom itinerary allowed them to visit their preferred spots without feeling rushed. The friendly staff and multilingual abilities, including French-speaking skippers, also add to the overall positive impression.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you value privacy, flexibility, and authentic encounters. It’s a great fit for small groups, families, or couples wanting a tailor-made adventure on the water. If you’re looking for a relaxing day with opportunities for swimming, exploring islands, and enjoying the scenery without the hassle of large tours, this private trip hits the mark.

However, if your priority is a strictly scheduled, all-included group tour, this might feel too customizable or slightly pricier. Also, keep in mind the fuel surcharge—it’s a small add-on, but worth considering when planning your budget.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour offers a wonderful way to see Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline and islands with a personal touch. The ability to customize your day, combined with stunning scenery, local knowledge, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking more than just a set itinerary. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy intimate moments in secluded bays and villages.

The reviews reinforce that this experience delivers spectacular views, safe handling, and memorable encounters with nature. While the fuel surcharge can add to the cost, the overall value lies in the personalized experience and authentic exploration. For small groups or couples looking for a relaxed, scenic, and flexible day on the water, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 6 people, making it ideal for small groups, families, or couples.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the use of snorkel equipment, life jackets, the skipper, local taxes, and refreshments like bottled water, soft drinks, and beer.

Are drinks provided on the boat?
Yes, you’ll find bottled water, soft drinks, and beer available during the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, but the minimum drinking age is 18.

How long does the tour last?
It varies from about 4 to 10 hours, depending on your chosen itinerary and stops.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik, which is easily accessible by public transportation.

Are the stops customizable?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary—visiting islands, caves, beaches, or villages based on your interests.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a fuel surcharge?
Yes, ranging from $80 to $230 per booking, which is paid separately.

Can I book last-minute?
Most travelers book about 17 days in advance, but last-minute availability depends on current bookings.

This private speedboat tour combines the thrill of the open sea with the tranquility of secluded islands, making it a fantastic way to experience Dubrovnik’s coast from a fresh perspective. Its personalized nature ensures your Croatian island adventure is memorable, relaxed, and uniquely yours.