Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands: Private boat tour with caves

Summary

Set out from Dubrovnik for caves, quiet bays, and island villages

You’ll glide across turquoise waters from Dubrovnik with a local skipper guiding you through sea caves and island villages on your private Elafiti Islands tour. Swim in glowing caves, wander Lopud’s quiet lanes, enjoy cold drinks onboard—and bring home GoPro footage of your best (and worst) dives for memories that last long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the water changed color as we left Dubrovnik behind—grayish-blue near the harbor, then suddenly this clear turquoise that almost looked fake. Our skipper, Luka, handed me a cold drink and grinned like he’d seen this reaction before. The boat felt just right—not too fancy, not cramped—and there was music if we wanted it (we did). I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air, and someone’s towel kept flapping in the breeze. It all felt easy.

We stopped at the Blue Cave first. Luka tossed us snorkels and told us to swim straight into the darkness—he promised it would be worth it. He was right. Inside, everything glowed blue from below. I tried to take a photo but mostly just floated there, listening to my own breathing echo off the walls. Later we drifted past Koločep’s cliffs; he pointed out a spot where his cousin used to cliff-jump as a kid (I passed on that one). We could’ve stayed longer or moved on—no pressure at all.

Lopud Island was quieter than I expected. We wandered up through narrow lanes lined with fig trees and old stone houses—one woman waved from her doorway and offered us slices of something sweet (I still don’t know what it was). Back on board, Luka showed us how to use the GoPro camera so we could film our awkward dives. I’m not sure who laughed harder when I belly-flopped—me or him.

There wasn’t really a schedule; if we wanted more time swimming or just sitting in some hidden bay doing nothing, that was fine too. The sun started dipping low by the time we headed back toward Dubrovnik, but nobody seemed in a hurry. I keep thinking about that moment—the light on the water, everyone quiet for once except for Luka humming along to some old Croatian song.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Elafiti Islands Half-Day Tour

• Explore Elafiti Islands by speedboat
• Snorkel and swim in hidden bays
• Visit villages and enjoy local seafood

Top questions

How long does the Elafiti Islands private boat tour last?

The tour lasts about four hours total.

Which islands are visited during this half-day trip?

The usual stops include Koločep and Lopud islands near Dubrovnik.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for guests to use during swim stops.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, bottled water and alcoholic beverages are available during the trip.

Can we use an underwater camera during the tour?

A GoPro camera is provided for guests to use; edited footage is sent after.

Is there flexibility in how long we stay at each stop?

Yes, you can choose to spend more or less time at each location as you wish.

Does this private boat tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the departure point in Dubrovnik.

Are infants allowed on this Elafiti Islands boat trip?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes a private speedboat with local skipper, bottled water and alcoholic drinks onboard, use of snorkeling equipment and JBL boombox for music if you want it, free Wi-Fi throughout the trip, plus an underwater GoPro camera with edited video sent after your return—so you can relive those swim dives even after you’re back home.