Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands: Private Boat Tour & Caves

Summary

Private boat trip from Dubrovnik to Elaphite Islands caves and beaches with flexible stops

You’ll slip away from Dubrovnik by private boat with your own skipper, exploring hidden caves on Koločep, relaxing on sandy Šunj beach at Lopud, and tasting fresh seafood if you want lunch onshore. With flexible timing at each Elaphite island stop and all gear included, it’s an easygoing day that feels personal — not rushed.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, we nearly missed the dock because I got distracted by a stray cat stealing someone’s sandwich — classic me. Our skipper, Marko, just grinned and waved us over like he’d seen it all before. The Cap Camarat felt sturdy but still had that salty tang from the sea spray clinging to the cushions. We set off from Dubrovnik and the city faded fast behind us, replaced by this endless blue that made my phone camera useless (the real thing always wins).

The first stop was Koločep for the caves — Green Cave, Blue Cave, then Three Caves (I didn’t even know there were so many colors for water). Marko handed us snorkels and a GoPro; I tried not to panic about dropping it. The water was cold at first but clear enough to see tiny silver fish darting around my toes. Inside the cave it smelled faintly of seaweed and something mineral, and the echo when we laughed was weirdly loud. We could stay as long as we wanted — no rush — which felt rare for a day trip around Dubrovnik.

We drifted next to Lopud island where Šunj beach was this wide sweep of pale sand — softer than I expected. There’s a little village nearby; we wandered up for grilled calamari (Marko said “try the local wine” so we did, maybe too much). The breeze brought in some kitchen smoke mixed with pine needles from somewhere inland. Kids played soccer barefoot on the sand while their parents talked in low Croatian voices. It felt easy, like nobody cared about time or schedules.

Sipan was our last Elaphite island — apparently you only get here if you’re not in a hurry. We didn’t talk much on that leg; I think everyone just watched the light shift across the water and let it sink in for a bit. There’s something about being out there with only your group and a local skipper who knows every inlet by heart — makes you feel both small and lucky at once. I still think about that silence sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour of Elaphite Islands

• Visit Green Cave, Blue Cave, Three Caves
• Relax at Šunj sandy beach and village
• Optional brief visit to third Elaphite island

Top questions

How long does the private Elaphite Islands boat tour take?

The tour can be 4, 6, or 8 hours depending on your preference.

Are drinks included on the boat tour?

Yes, drinks like water, cola, white wine, and beer are included.

Can we choose which islands to visit?

Yes, since it’s private you decide where to go and how long to stay at each place.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for use during the tour.

Is hotel pickup available?

Pickup and drop off are included in your booking.

Can infants join this private boat tour?

Infants can join; they must sit on an adult’s lap or use a stroller/pram.

What food options are available during the trip?

You can stop at restaurants on the islands to enjoy Dalmatian seafood or other dishes if you wish.

Are towels provided on board?

Towels are included for your use during the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, all fuel costs covered by your skipper Marko (or whoever’s guiding), drinks like water or local wine onboard, towels for drying off after swims or snorkeling with provided gear, plus use of a GoPro if you want to capture those cave dives before heading back in the afternoon or evening.