Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands: Private Boat Tour, Caves & Beaches

Summary

Speed across turquoise waters to hidden caves, sandy beaches, and island harbors near Dubrovnik

You’ll cruise from Dubrovnik by private speedboat with your own skipper, stopping to swim through glowing blue caves on Koločep Island and wander barefoot along Lopud’s soft sand beach before tasting local wine on peaceful Šipan Island. Expect laughter, salty air, fresh seafood—and memories that linger long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the slap of salt on my lips as our boat pulled away from Dubrovnik’s old port — that sudden feeling you get when the city shrinks behind you and everything opens up. Our skipper, Marin, grinned and cranked up a bit of music (Croatian pop, not what I expected). The Atlantic Marine boat felt solid but fast, with a bimini top that actually did save us from roasting. Twenty minutes later we were drifting off Koločep Island, water so clear it looked fake. Marin pointed out the Blue Cave and handed us snorkels — I hesitated at first (cold!), but once inside, the light was this weird electric blue that made everyone laugh nervously. My friend tried to say “plava špilja” and got it totally wrong; even Marin chuckled.

Lopud Island came next — slower pace here. We wandered barefoot down to Šunj Beach, which is somehow both lively and lazy at once. Kids played picigin in the shallows while a waiter carried cocktails past sunbathers who didn’t seem in any hurry at all. I ordered grilled calamari that tasted like someone’s grandmother actually made it (maybe she did?). There was sand everywhere — in my bag, between my toes — but I didn’t care. That stretch of turquoise water just kept pulling your eyes back.

If you do the full-day trip (which we did), Šipan Island is worth it just for the quiet. The harbor’s tiny; a fisherman waved as we docked. We found this little wine bar right by the water where locals were arguing softly about olive oil — or maybe politics? Hard to tell after a glass of their white wine. The air smelled faintly herbal and salty at the same time; I still think about that moment sitting there watching boats bobbing gently in the sun. On the way back, everyone was quieter — sun-drunk or just thinking about how close Dubrovnik suddenly felt again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Elafiti Islands by private boat

• Depart from Dubrovnik by speedboat
• Visit Koločep Island and harbors
• Swim and snorkel in Blue and Green Caves
• Travel to Lopud Island
• Relax at Šunj Beach and enjoy local bars
• Head to Šipan Island
• Swim at Šikirica Lagoon
• Explore Šipan fishing harbor and wine bar
• Return to Dubrovnik

Top questions

How long does it take to reach the Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik?

It takes about 20 minutes by speedboat from Dubrovnik to Koločep Island in the Elafiti Islands.

Are swimming and snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for guests who want to swim or explore caves during the tour.

Is lunch included during the private boat tour?

No set lunch is included, but there are local restaurants on Lopud Island where you can buy food.

How many people can join this private boat tour?

The private Atlantic Marine speedboat can accommodate up to 11 people per tour.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel or port?

Yes, port pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

What are some highlights of this Elafiti Islands day trip?

You’ll visit Blue & Green Caves on Koločep, relax at Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, and taste local wine on Šipan Island if you choose a full-day tour.

Can families with children join this boat tour?

Yes, families with children are welcome; life jackets are provided for safety.

Is this private boat tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

This tour may not be recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to movement onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes port pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, all fuel costs covered by your skipper Marin (or whoever’s at the helm), use of towels and snorkeling gear for those cave swims, plus drinks—beer, wine, water or soft drinks—onboard while you listen to music through Bluetooth speakers and try not to spill anything when someone hits a wave just right.