Dubrovnik & Elafiti Islands: Private Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling

Speedboat adventure to Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik old town port with quiet coves and local food

You’ll set out from Dubrovnik by private speedboat with your local guide and cruise toward the Elafiti Islands—Lopud’s lively port cafés, Šipan’s peaceful silence, and hidden coves for snorkeling breaks. Drinks are included on board (yes, beer too), plus all gear you need. It’s a day of sea air, small surprises, and new views you’ll keep replaying long after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Elafiti Islands and Dubrovnik coast

• Visit three Elafiti Islands
• Explore Lopud island port and botanical garden
• Relax on small peaceful island
• Cruise around Dubrovnik city walls and old port

The Experience

I didn’t expect the sea air to taste so sharp when we left Dubrovnik’s old town behind — almost like biting into cold fruit. Our guide, Ivan, handed me a bottle of water (he grinned and said “for later, maybe beer”) as we zipped past the city walls. The engine noise faded into background chatter, and I caught myself just watching the coastline slip away. There’s something about seeing Dubrovnik from the water that makes it feel like you’re looking at a secret version of it, you know?

The first stop was Lopud — Ivan called it “the lively one.” It was busier than I thought but not in a bad way; people wandered along the port with ice creams or coffee, and there were these tangled little streets behind souvenir shops. We ducked into a tiny café for espresso (I tried to order in Croatian — Ivan laughed at my accent), then he pointed out a 13th-century monastery tucked between trees. The sun hit everything hard but there was this coolness under the awnings. I still think about that view from the garden, honestly.

After that came Šipan, which felt like someone turned down all the volume knobs. Just birds and distant clinks from a bar somewhere. We didn’t do much — just walked slowly along the shore and dipped our feet in, then back on board for more cold drinks (beer this time). Snorkeling off one of those tiny coves was surreal; salt stung my nose but I could hear my own breathing echoing in my mask.

On the way back, Ivan steered us close along Dubrovnik’s city walls — he said you haven’t really seen them until you’ve done this loop by boat. He wasn’t wrong. The light was different out there, softer somehow. We drifted for a minute before heading in. Not sure I’ll ever see those colors again quite like that.

Top questions

How long does the private speedboat tour last?

The tour typically lasts half a day but can be customized depending on your preferences.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, cold wine, beer (for adults 18+), water, and Coca-Cola are provided on board.

Can infants or small children join?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are available.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

What islands will we visit on this day trip from Dubrovnik?

You will visit several Elafiti Islands including Lopud and Šipan.

Is hotel pickup included?

No explicit mention of hotel pickup; departure is usually from Dubrovnik Old Town port.

Is lunch included during the speedboat tour?

No lunch is included but there are restaurants and cafés available at Lopud island where you can purchase food.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling equipment for everyone onboard plus cold wine, beer (for adults), water and Coca-Cola throughout the trip. Service animals are welcome; infants can ride safely with specialized seats or in a stroller. You’ll have plenty of chances to stop at island cafés or bars if you want something extra before returning to Dubrovnik’s old town port.