Elaphiti Islands Private Boat Tour: Lopud, Šipan & Koločep

Summary

Adriatic day trip to Lopud Šipan Koločep with private boat

You’ll drift from Dubrovnik across bright water to Lopud’s sandy beaches, swim at Šunj where legends linger, taste salt on your lips at Šipan among old olive groves, then slip into Koločep’s blue cave before heading home sun-dazed—with pickup, drinks and plenty of time to just be out there.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first slap of salty air when we left Dubrovnik’s harbor—somehow sharper than I expected, almost sweet. Our skipper, Luka, grinned and asked if we wanted music or just the sound of the Adriatic. We went with silence for a while, just waves and the engine’s low hum. I’d read about the Elaphiti Islands but didn’t realize how close they felt—Lopud was our first stop and it took maybe 45 minutes? Hard to keep track when you’re watching sunlight flicker off the water like that.

Lopud itself felt sleepy in a good way. There were kids chasing each other barefoot near the pier and an old woman selling figs under a faded umbrella. Luka pointed us toward Šunj beach (“go left at the church—you can’t miss it”) and told us about that local legend: if you swim here with someone you love, you’ll never part. I’m not superstitious but we swam anyway—the sand is soft and squeaky underfoot, and there’s this faint smell of pine needles everywhere. We tried to say thank you in Croatian (“hvala!”) but probably got it wrong; she laughed anyway.

Šipan was next—more rugged somehow, with these old stone villas half-hidden behind olive trees. Luka knew everyone; he waved at a fisherman fixing his nets who shouted something back I couldn’t catch. We wandered up a rocky path past dry grass and cicadas buzzing so loud it was almost funny. There’s history here you can feel even if you don’t know all the details—something about old families from Dubrovnik building summer houses here centuries ago. It made me wish I’d paid more attention in history class.

Koločep was our last island before heading back—a quick stop but worth it just for that blue cave. The water was cold at first but so clear I could see my toes dangling above smooth stones below. We snorkeled for a bit (gear was included), then just lay on the sun-warmed rocks listening to nothing much except distant voices and gulls overhead. By then my hair was stiff with salt and I didn’t care at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Elaphiti Islands at your pace

• Visit Lopud Island beaches and gardens
• Explore Šipan Island and historic villas
• Stop at Koločep Island for caves and beach

Top questions

How long does the Elaphiti Islands private boat tour last?

You can choose between a 4-hour or 8-hour tour duration.

Which islands are included in this Elaphiti Islands tour?

The tour visits Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep islands.

Is pickup included from my hotel in Dubrovnik?

Yes, pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan or car are included.

Can children join this private boat trip?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by adults; infants can ride in a pram or sit on an adult's lap.

Are drinks provided during the boat tour?

Yes, bottled water, soda/pop, and alcoholic beverages are included on board.

Is snorkeling equipment available on this day trip?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your tour.

What should I bring for this Elaphiti Islands day trip?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and any personal items you need; most essentials are covered.

Are service animals allowed on this private tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off by comfortable minivan or car from Dubrovnik hotels or meeting points; all taxes and fees; use of snorkeling gear; bottled water, soda/pop plus some alcoholic drinks kept chilled in the onboard fridge; sunshade and sundeck for relaxing between swims—and plenty of time to wander each island at your own pace before returning salty-haired in the afternoon or evening.