Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Private Boat Tour & Snorkeling

Summary

Elaphite islands by private boat caves beaches & old villages

You’ll slip away from Dubrovnik’s bustle by private boat, swimming inside sea caves and wandering through pine forests on Lopud island before lunch by the water. With a local crew guiding you between Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, expect quiet moments in stone villages and plenty of time for snorkeling or just floating under the sun.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the salty air — sharp, almost sweet, as we left Dubrovnik’s harbor behind. Our skipper, Marko, had this easy way about him; he let us pick the playlist (I regret nothing), then pointed out the outline of Koločep as it came into view. The water changed color every few minutes — sometimes turquoise, sometimes almost navy — and I kept thinking how close everything looked until you realize boats move slower than your brain expects. We stopped at a sea cave where the echo made even our bad jokes sound dramatic. I tried snorkeling for maybe five minutes before getting distracted by tiny fish darting around my ankles.

Lopud island felt like a different world. There was this moment walking through the pine forest toward Šunj Beach when all you could hear were cicadas and your own feet crunching on sand. The beach itself is shallow forever — you can wade out so far it feels like cheating. We grabbed cold beers from a little stand (Marko knew the owner; everyone seems to know everyone here) and just floated for a while. Lunch was at a waterfront place in Lopud village — grilled fish, lots of olive oil, and that bread with big salt flakes on top. I tried to ask for extra lemon in Croatian; not sure what I actually said but the waiter grinned anyway.

Sipan was quieter, maybe because it was late afternoon or maybe because Suđurađ village just moves at its own pace. Stone houses with faded shutters, old men playing cards in the shade, that kind of thing. There’s something about wandering those narrow streets with wet hair and sand still stuck to your legs that makes you feel like you’ve really been somewhere — not just ticking boxes off a list. On the ride back to Dubrovnik the sun hit the water in this gold way that made me wish we’d stayed longer. Or maybe just come back another time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Elaphite Islands by private boat

• Swim and snorkel in blue cave
• Relax at Šunj Beach on Lopud
• Explore Lopud village and have lunch
• Visit Suđurađ village on Šipan island

Top questions

How long does the private boat tour from Dubrovnik to Elaphite Islands take?

The timing depends on your booking and what you agree with the crew—usually several hours with flexible stops on each island.

Which islands are included on the Elaphite Islands private boat tour?

Koločep, Lopud (including Šunj Beach), and Šipan are included on this day trip from Dubrovnik.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubrovnik boat tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your day trip booking.

Can I snorkel during the Elaphite Islands private tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for use at sea caves and beaches along the route.

Is lunch included on this Elaphite Islands boat trip?

No set lunch is included but there’s time to stop at a waterfront restaurant on Lopud if you wish—crew can suggest places.

Are drinks provided during the private boat tour?

Yes, water, soft drinks, beer, chips or nuts are available onboard during your trip.

What should I wear for an Elaphite Islands private boat tour?

Comfortable clothing is recommended; no high-heeled shoes allowed on board.

How many people can join one private boat tour?

The motor yacht fits up to 12 people; speedboats up to 7 people per booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Dubrovnik, all taxes and fees covered up front, plus water, soft drinks or beer with snacks onboard. You’ll have use of snorkeling gear (and stand-up paddle boards if you choose a motor yacht), with a local skipper/crew guiding your flexible route between islands before returning whenever you’re ready.