This private boat day is built for people who want snorkeling time and island scenery without the city heat and chaos. You’ll cruise west from Dubrovnik and spend the day hopping between Kolocep, southern Mljet, and the Elaphite Islands, with flexible stops that feel more like you’re hanging out at sea than rushing through checklists.

I really like two things about this trip. First, the water-first rhythm means you’re not stuck watching from shore—you’re getting in the swim at multiple stops. Second, you’ll be out on a small Beneteau Flyer 850 with real comfort onboard (sun shade, a freshwater shower, and easy-to-use extras like snorkel gear and a paddleboard).

One thing to consider up front: fuel is extra and paid in cash to the skipper (€300 per booking). Also, the day depends on good weather, so your timing can shift if conditions are rough.

Key points worth knowing

• Private group up to 7 on a Beneteau Flyer 850 Sun Deck Cruiser
• Blue Cave snorkeling on Kolocep plus a lagoon swim at Mljet’s Lemuni
• Flexible stop times that adapt to your pace and comfort
• Snorkeling equipment, paddleboard, and drinks included onboard
• Fuel (€300 cash) and lunch are the two big add-ons to budget for

Why this boat day feels better than staying in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is stunning, but on a hot day it can wear you down fast. You’ve got stone streets, crowds, and that feeling you need to keep moving just to stay comfortable. This is the opposite plan: you leave the hectic core behind and spend your time where the air is cooler and the views are larger than any viewpoint.

The best part is how the day is designed. Instead of a long, tight schedule, you get flexible time windows that your skipper adjusts based on wind, sun, and how you’re doing. That flexibility matters because a “perfect” plan on paper can fall apart when the sea is choppy or the sun feels relentless.

If your goal is to get away from people, swim in clear water, and hunt for quiet coves, this day fits the mood.

The Beneteau Flyer 850: comfort on a fast, small boat

You’ll be on a Beneteau Flyer 850 Sun Deck Cruiser (up to 8.7 meters long, 3.0 meters wide). With a cruising speed around 22 knots, you’re not spending the day crawling along the coast—you’re making real progress between islands while keeping the ride compact.

What I like about this boat setup for a day like this:

• Sun shade (bimini-top) for when the sun gets intense
• Swim ladder so getting in and out of the water is easier
• Freshwater shower for rinse-off between swims
• Refrigerator so cold drinks stay cold
• Power (220V) and USB outlets, plus Bluetooth stereo
• Toilet onboard (small detail, big peace-of-mind)

The deck layout is also made for a small group. It’s comfortable for up to eight passengers plus crew, which keeps things from turning into a sardine situation. For a private tour, that small size is a big part of why it feels relaxed.

Kolocep and the Blue Cave: swim-first snorkeling time

Your first stop is Kolocep Island, with time focused on the Blue Cave. The schedule gives you about 45 minutes, but the exact timing stays flexible based on conditions and your comfort.

Here’s how to think about this stop: it’s not a “walk around” kind of location. It’s a water stop. You’ll want to be ready to get in quickly and make the most of whatever visibility and light you get. Even a short window can feel long when the water is inviting and the cave is right there.

Practical tips that help:

• Wear water-friendly footwear if you’re the cautious type getting in and out
• Keep your sunscreen on board, but apply before you go in if you can
• If you’re snorkeling, use the provided gear so you don’t waste time figuring out fit

You’ll have your snorkeling equipment available, and since admission for this stop is included, you can focus on the swim rather than logistics.

Mljet’s Lemuni Lagoon: your best chance to slow down

Next comes Mljet, and specifically the southern side where you’ll swim and explore Lemuni Lagoon. You’ll have around 3 hours here, with admission included. Lunch is optional, so this is also your built-in break from the “constant hopping” feeling.

This is the stop where the day can feel most peaceful. A lagoon setting tends to give you calmer water and more room to float, snorkel, and just take a breath. You’ll likely spend time in the water, then step back onto the boat to cool down and decide what you want next.

Since lunch isn’t included, you’ve got choices:

• If you want a simple break, you can keep it light and use the included drinks
• If you want a proper sit-down meal, you’ll need to plan around what’s available on the island

This stop also makes the day worth it even if you’re not obsessed with snorkeling. It’s one of those places where the water setting does the work for you.

Sipanska Luka, then the Elaphite coves for more swimming

After Mljet, you head to Sipanska Luka, where you explore parts of the western Elaphite Islands, including Jakljan and Sipan (often paired with stops around Prijezba and the local harbor area). You get about 2 hours here, with admission free for this part of the plan.

This leg is a mix of shoreline time and water time. You’ll have a chance to stroll, then return to swimming and exploring. It’s a good balance if you like the idea of changing scenery without giving up the sea.

Finally, you’ll switch back fully to water mode with additional swimming and snorkeling in the Elaphite island coves. This is shorter—about 1 hour—but that works well because it keeps the day from dragging. Coves are great for quick swims: you can go in, float, check out the shoreline, and come back without losing the whole afternoon to travel time.

If you’re trying to escape crowds, this is also where you’ll feel it most. Coves tend to thin out quickly, especially when you’re not doing the most popular viewpoint loop.

What’s included, what’s extra, and how to budget like a pro

This excursion is priced at $1,403.97 per group for up to 7 people, and it runs about 8 hours. For many people, that “per group” structure is the real value, because you’re paying for a private boat (not a shared cattle-car ride).

What’s included:

• Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
• Skipper/crew
• Local taxes
• Snorkeling equipment
• Paddleboard use
• Drinks: water, fruit juices, sodas, and beer
• Admission tickets for Kolocep Blue Cave and Mljet Lemuni Lagoon, plus Elaphite stop tickets as listed
• Mobile ticket

What’s not included:

• Fuel costs, paid directly to the skipper in cash: €300.00 per booking
• Lunch

Two budgeting tips:

1. Don’t ignore the fuel. Even if you’re comparing prices online, fuel can be the difference between “reasonable” and “surprise.”
2. Decide on lunch style before you board. If you want a sit-down meal, plan your timing around that choice.

Value-wise, I think this is strongest if your group likes spending time in the water and wants quiet coves more than hour-by-hour sightseeing.

Pickup, timing, and how the skipper shapes your day

A private boat trip lives or dies on the skipper’s decision-making. Here, you’re not locked into rigid timing, and your comfort is part of the plan. You’ll get pickup offered, and you’ll also use a mobile ticket.

In the past, this operation has had skippers who really connect with the day—names like Iso, Peter, and Esso show up in firsthand accounts, and the common thread is hands-on, friendly service. One person even mentioned the skipper helping map out an itinerary that matched what they wanted to do, which is exactly what you hope for on a private excursion.

Here’s what you can do to get the best version of the day:

• Tell the skipper what you want most: snorkeling time, quiet coves, or longer lagoon lounging
• Ask how the sea looks right now so you can choose the smartest swim windows
• Be honest about your energy level; the flexibility is there to use

The boat moves fast, but the experience is meant to feel unhurried once you’re in the water.

What to bring so you’re not stuck dealing with beach chaos

This is a swim-heavy day, so pack like you’re going to play in the sea, not like you’re going to a museum.

Bring:

• Towels and swimsuit
• Sun block
• Camera (this route is made for it)
• Something to keep essentials dry if you’re taking photos

The boat includes a freshwater shower, but you’ll still want a towel ready for the post-swim reset.

Also, keep your clothing simple. When you’re bouncing between water and deck, complicated outfits become annoying fast.

Who this private boat tour is best for

This is a great fit if you:

• Want a private day for up to 7 people
• Prefer swimming, snorkeling, and coves over city walking
• Like a flexible schedule rather than a forced march
• Are traveling as a couple, small group, or honeymoon type of itinerary where you want the day to feel personal

It’s also a smart choice if you’re in Dubrovnik during warmer months and you want relief that isn’t just a museum stop.

If you’re hoping for long land excursions and big walking tours, this may not match your style. This day is about water.

Should you book the Elaphite Islands & Mljet private boat day?

I’d book it if your vacation rhythm includes one or two perfect “do less, swim more” days. You’re paying for privacy, small-group comfort, and a route that targets water time: Kolocep Blue Cave, Mljet’s Lemuni Lagoon, and Elaphite coves.

Skip it (or at least rethink) if:

• You hate weather-dependent plans
• You don’t want the extra €300 cash fuel payment
• You’re not interested in snorkeling or swimming

If you want my practical verdict: this is one of those Dubrovnik excursions that can feel worth every dollar when the sea is cooperative and your group is ready to be in the water.

FAQ

How long is the private boat excursion?

It runs for about 8 hours.

How many people can join?

It’s a private tour for your group, up to 7 people.

Where do you pick up and drop off?

Pickup and drop-off are offered at the hotel or port.

What boat is used?

The tour uses a Beneteau Flyer 850 Sun Deck Cruiser.

What’s included for swimming and snorkeling?

Snorkeling equipment is included, and there’s also use of a paddleboard.

Are entrance tickets included for each stop?

Admission tickets are included for the Kolocep stop (Blue Cave) and the Mljet Lemuni Lagoon stop, and the Elaphite stop is marked as included. The Sipanska Luka stop is listed as free.

What extra costs should I expect?

Fuel costs are not included and are paid directly to the skipper in cash (€300.00 per booking). Lunch is also not included.

Is the tour dependent on weather?

Yes. It requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.