A boat day off Dubrovnik? That is the whole point. This private Elaphiti Islands tour is built around three island stops, snorkeling time in the Blue and Green caves area, and lots of flexibility so your skipper can steer the day. You also get drinks and fruit on board, plus the chance to add extras like a lunch stop or a wine tasting.

Two things I really liked: the private-boat feel (no waiting around for the next group), and how much water time you get. You’ll spend real time at Koločep, then shift to Lopud’s sand and swimming, and finish with the calmer island vibe on Šipan.

One thing to consider: this is weather-dependent, and the day runs roughly 4 to 8 hours, so you’ll want to keep your schedule flexible and your plans simple for the rest of the day.

Key takeaways before you go

• Private charter, not a cattle-car cruise: only your group on the boat.
• Blue and Green caves area + snorkeling gear: snorkeling time is part of the core plan.
• Longer island time where it counts: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan each get a solid block.
• Unlimited drinks and fruit on board: beer, wine, water, sodas, plus fruit are included.
• Skipper-led customization: you can request secluded spots and adjust the itinerary.
• Optional add-ons cost extra: lunch isn’t included, and an underwater scooter costs 70€ cash.

Price and what you’re really paying for

At $372.63 per person, this is not a budget boat trip. But it does price like a true private charter: you’re paying for a boat and skipper, plus fuel, snorkeling gear, towels, and a full day of on-water hospitality. Most “group” tours get you a quick stop and a short swim before shuttling you onward. Here, you’re set up for longer swims and more control over the order and pace.

The included food/drink setup is also a big deal for value. You get unlimited local beer, wine, water, sodas, and fruits. That matters in Dubrovnik, where snacks add up fast if you’re paying as you go. The trade-off is that lunch is not included, so you’ll either bring your own or let your skipper arrange a lunch reservation for you (usually on one of the islands).

Also note the extras that can change the final bill. An underwater scooter is listed as 70€ cash. Pickup for certain specific hotels/areas can also have an additional 70€ cash charge. In practice, if you want a straightforward “all-in” day, plan on either skipping those add-ons or budget for them.

How the day starts: Old Town port meeting and pickup choices

You meet at Dubrovnik’s Old Town port area near the Lokanda restaurant. You’ll get a safety briefing before you head out, and then your skipper takes over with the plan. If you’re not staying near Old Town, pickup can be arranged—just tell them your hotel or your preferred starting point (Old Town port or Gruz Port are both mentioned as options).

One small real-world tip: in a few outings, guests also got a taxi ride from the hotel to the port. That is the kind of “it just works” service you’ll feel good about, especially if you don’t want to deal with buses or timing on your own.

Because this is a private tour, you’re not stuck with a rigid departure time once you arrive. Your skipper can also tailor the day to weather and your group’s vibe—more secluded swims and coves versus more well-known photo stops.

Koločep Island and the Blue/Green caves: where the water time happens

Koločep is your first island stop, and it’s close to Dubrovnik. That closeness is useful: you’re on the water quickly, and you don’t burn half your morning getting there. This part of the day includes time around the Blue and Green caves area, with snorkeling gear ready.

What I like about this stop is the rhythm. You’re not just “standing and looking.” You’ve got gear, towels, and life vests, and you can choose how long you stay in the water. Some groups also like to swim repeatedly from the same area, because you can settle in and get comfortable rather than rushing from one place to another.

A practical detail: cave time here is described as having admission free. So you’re not hit with extra pay-at-the-stairs costs once you’re on the water.

Potential drawback: if the water is choppy, snorkeling time may feel less relaxing. You’ll still get plenty of swim opportunities, but your skipper may adjust the order or how long you stay depending on conditions.

Lopud Island: Šunj Beach sand time plus optional village strolling

Next comes Lopud, built for that classic Adriatic “longer than you planned” beach feeling. Lopud is famous for the sandy stretch at Šunj Beach, and this is where you can slow down. Expect a mix of sun time, swimming from shore or near-shore, and an easy day pace.

Your boat crew also keeps you topped up: fresh fruits and local drinks are available on board, and you’ve got towels and vests covered. Even if you spend most of your time sunbathing, the boat gives you shade and a comfortable base between swims.

For active folks, snorkeling gear is again there for you to use. And if you want a land break after beach time, there’s an optional visit to the village of Lopud later in the day.

One real value point here: Lopud is a contrast to Koločep. If the first stop feels more “water and caves,” this one feels more “sand, views, and breathing room.”

Šipan and Suđurađ: Renaissance palaces, island pace, and optional tastings

Šipan is the largest and most populated of the Elaphiti islands in this set of stops, but the tone is still relaxed. You’ll visit the seaside town of Suđurađ, where there are two Renaissance palaces tied to the Skočibuha family.

This is the part of the day that leans more cultural and food-oriented. The plan can include tastings connected to local production—homemade goods like wine, olive oil, marmalade, fruits, and vegetables are specifically mentioned as part of what locals are known for. Your captain can also set up a winery option for a wine, cheese, and olive oil tasting.

I like that the tour gives you a way to experience local flavors without forcing you into a set “tourist menu.” When your skipper coordinates it, you’re more likely to end up somewhere that matches the day’s pace and your group’s interests.

You also get one more swim beat before heading back: pebble beaches at a small islet called Sikirica. It’s a simple add-on, but those last minutes matter. They’re usually when the group energy peaks again—after food and a shorter walk, you’re ready to get back in the water.

What makes this tour feel private: flexibility and skipper choices

The best part of this experience is the way it adapts. The day is described as flexible, meaning you can linger where you want, skip something if it’s not your thing, or ask for different types of stops.

In real examples, captains asked upfront whether the group wanted more tourist-style viewpoints or more secluded swimming spots. That question matters because it shapes what you’ll actually do once you’re out there. One group even shared that their skipper adjusted the timing to give them extra cave and swimming time, which is exactly the kind of control you want on a boat day.

You’ll also notice that lunch and extras tend to happen through the skipper. That ranges from booking a waterfront table to adding a winery visit. In one case, a skipper reserved a restaurant table in advance, and the lunch was described as a highlight of the day.

If you care about smooth logistics, this skipper-led approach is a win. You’re not trying to figure out where to eat while standing on a moving boat.

On-board inclusions: drinks, towels, snorkeling gear, and safety gear

This tour includes the stuff that makes boat days comfortable and safe. You get snorkeling gear and beach towels, life vests and safety gear, and fuel. You also get unlimited beer, wine, water, sodas, and fruits.

That package does two things for you. First, it removes decision fatigue. You don’t need to rent equipment or hunt down snacks. Second, it makes the water time more likely to happen, because you’re not thinking about what you forgot at the hotel.

If you’re bringing kids, it helps even more. One review notes how the day stayed relaxed while a skipper focused on safety and attention to the kids’ interests (including suggestions for extra swimming time). Another review highlighted that the skipper kept the group’s experience smooth and fun without rushing.

Optional upgrade: an underwater scooter is listed as 70€ cash. If your group wants an easier way to move underwater, you can add that. If not, snorkeling alone is part of the standard flow.

The “little touches” that show up in real outings

Several reviews mention extras that make the day feel more memorable than a standard boat cruise.

First, the guides and captains’ personalities come through. Names that showed up in praise include Ivan, Gigi, Micheal (Michael), Marko, Bruno, Mattia, Peter, Paulo, and Filip. People consistently called out friendliness, good communication, and the way the skipper explained what you were seeing.

Second, there’s a recurring theme of a skipper lining up a good lunch location. One review described a waterfront restaurant and even a memorable seafood presentation. Another described a lunch reservation that was waiting for them after their swim time.

Third, there are mentions of GoPro photos or video. In one case, a review said there was a GoPro included and that a USB of photos was provided. Another described photos being sent via WeTransfer. Since this isn’t listed in the standard inclusions, treat it as a bonus that may vary by skipper and day.

What to pack so the day feels easy

Because you’re moving between water and beach, think in layers and quick changes.

Bring:

• Swimsuit + a dry layer for after swimming
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• A small dry bag or waterproof phone pouch
• Comfortable sandals or water shoes

You’ll have towels and snorkeling gear provided, plus life vests. Still, you’ll enjoy the day more if you’re ready to re-enter the water without hunting for your basics.

If you get seasick easily, try to come in hydrated and consider travel sickness precautions. The tour requires decent weather, but sea conditions can still vary.

Who should book this (and who might want a different plan)

This tour is a great fit if you want:

• a private boat day without a group schedule
• real swimming time in multiple spots
• flexibility on pacing and stop choices
• included drinks and fruit so you’re not micromanaging costs

It’s also a strong option for families and small friend groups. Reviews mention family-friendly hosting, and the ability to adjust the itinerary to kids’ desire for extra water time is a clear advantage.

You might want to consider a different plan if:

• you prefer all-land sightseeing with minimal time on water
• you’re trying to keep costs very low
• you don’t want alcohol on board (wine/beer are included)

Should you book this private Elaphiti Islands and Blue cave tour?

If you want a Dubrovnik “wow” day that trades crowds for control, this is one of the most practical ways to do it. The included snorkeling gear, towels, and unlimited drinks make it feel like a complete experience, not a short outing with a couple of photos.

My decision rule: book it if you’re the type who enjoys swimming, wants flexibility, and wants a skipper to handle the stops and reservations. Skip it if you’re mainly seeking a guided walking history day—because a lot of the magic here happens out on the water.

If you can, plan to do the full day range (closer to 8 hours). The three main island blocks make more sense when you’re not racing the clock.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The experience runs about 4 to 8 hours, depending on how the captain structures the day and how much time you want at each stop.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private boat tour, so only your group participates.

What’s included in the price?

Fuel, a local skipper, snorkeling gear, beach towels, life vests and safety gear, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. You also get unlimited local beer, wine, water, sodas, and fruits.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch isn’t included, but the captain and guide can arrange a lunch reservation or recommend spots.

Are the cave admissions included?

The stop described for the Blue and Green caves lists admission ticket as free, so you shouldn’t need to pay separate cave admission during that part.

Can the tour be customized for my preferences?

Yes. The itinerary is described as flexible, and the captain can accommodate requests like extra swimming time and can arrange add-ons such as wine tasting or monastery tours.

Does pickup include areas beyond Old Town?

Pickup is offered, and you can share your accommodation or preferred starting point (for example Old Town port or Gruž Port). A separate extra charge is mentioned for pickup/drop-off at certain hotels/areas.

What should I know about weather?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is snorkeling required or limited to strong swimmers?

Most travelers can participate, and life vests are provided. Snorkeling gear is included, but you can still enjoy the day from the boat and at the beaches even if you’re not focused on snorkeling.