Dubrovnik & Elaphite Islands: Private Speed Boat Tour with Caves & Beaches

Private speed boat adventure to Elaphite Islands caves beaches and city walls

You’ll skim along Dubrovnik’s coast by private speed boat, see the city walls from a new angle, snorkel hidden bays around the Elaphite Islands, and sink your toes into Lopud’s sandy Sunj beach. With local stories (and maybe a cold beer in hand), each stop feels personal—not staged—and by sunset you’ll understand why people here love these islands so much.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Cavtat or Dubrovnik harbor by private speed boat with an experienced skipper guiding you to panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s city walls and through Elaphite Islands’ caves and bays; snorkeling equipment is provided along with water, soft drinks, wine or beer throughout the trip—so you can just relax between swims or while soaking up local stories on deck before heading back in golden afternoon light.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private speed boat tour around Dubrovnik

• Start panoramic cruise around Dubrovnik coast
• Visit Elafiti Islands caves and bays
• Relax at Sunj beach on Lopud island
• Explore Šipan island and visit Bowa restaurant
• Optional visit to Pasjaca natural beach

The Experience

We stepped onto the dock in Cavtat just as the sun started biting through the morning haze—there’s this salty tang in the air that wakes you up faster than any coffee. Our skipper, Luka, waved us over with that easy Croatian smile and a quick “Dobro jutro.” I liked him instantly. The speed boat felt solid under my feet (I always expect a wobble), and before I’d even tucked my bag away we were gliding out past Dubrovnik’s old city walls. Luka pointed out where Game of Thrones filmed some scenes, but honestly, seeing those walls from the water is something else—you get why everyone wanted to defend this place.

The engine kicked up and suddenly we were slicing across blue so clear you could spot sea urchins on the rocks below. There was wind in my hair and a weirdly comforting slap-slap of waves against the hull. We passed tiny fishing boats—one old guy gave us a nod—and then Luka handed around cold beers (or juice if you wanted). He told us stories about growing up on Šipan, how his uncle still fishes every morning. We stopped at one of the Elaphite Islands for snorkeling; I hesitated at first because I’m not exactly Jacques Cousteau, but the water was warm and it smelled faintly of pine needles mixed with salt. My mask kept fogging up—I probably looked ridiculous—but floating there watching silver fish dart past was worth it.

Lopud’s Sunj beach surprised me—soft sand instead of pebbles, which is rare around here. You have to wade out forever before it gets deep enough to swim. Some local kids were playing picigin (kind of like volleyball but splashier), and for a minute I almost joined in but chickened out. Lunch was at this place Luka recommended on Šipan—Bowa, right by the water, with grilled fish and oysters from Ston. It wasn’t cheap but honestly? Still thinking about those oysters now.

On the way back, everything felt quieter—the kind of tired where your skin feels tight from sun and salt. We passed Pasjača beach too; Luka said if you’ve already seen the Elaphiti Islands he can take you there instead next time. The light over Dubrovnik was gold by then and I just sat there, letting it all soak in. Sometimes these tours feel rushed or fake but this one… I don’t know, it felt like someone sharing their backyard with you.

Top questions

How long does it take to reach Šipan island from Dubrovnik?

Šipan is about 8.3 nautical miles (12.5 km) from Dubrovnik; travel time by speed boat varies but usually takes under an hour.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this private speed boat tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your tour price.

Can families with small children enjoy Sunj beach?

Yes, Sunj beach on Lopud island is shallow for about 100 meters out—perfect for families with young kids.

Are drinks provided during the day trip to Elaphite Islands?

Water, juice, Coca-Cola, Fanta, wine, and beer are included on board.

Is lunch included at Bowa restaurant on Šipan?

No, lunch at Bowa is not included; guests pay separately if they choose to eat there.

Can I bring my service animal on this speed boat tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

If I've already visited Elaphite Islands can we go somewhere else?

If you've seen the islands before your skipper can take you to Pasjača natural beach instead.