Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Fullday Tour

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave by Private Boat

Imagine spending a full day on the water, drifting between stunning islands with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you. That’s what the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Full-Day Tour promises—a relaxed yet adventure-packed escape from busy city streets into the calm, turquoise waters of Croatia’s Adriatic coast.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s completely private, so your experience is tailored to your group’s pace and interests. Second, it combines the thrill of visiting famous sights like the Blue Cave with the serenity of sunbathing on quiet beaches. And third, your guide’s local insights elevate the trip, making it far more than just a boat ride.

That said, the price of around $710 for a group of up to four might be a consideration for some. While it offers excellent value for a personalized, all-day experience with extras like drinks and snorkeling gear included, it’s not the cheapest way to see the islands. Still, for those craving flexibility, comfort, and a touch of exclusivity, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love customized adventures, scenic cruising, and authentic local encounters. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a relaxed day on the water, it’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

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Key Points

Private, customizable experience with a dedicated skipper
Includes snorkeling gear, drinks, towels, and fuel
Visits multiple islands: Kolocep, Lopud, Sipan, plus the famous Blue Cave
Ideal for those seeking relaxation, scenic views, and local flavor
Price reflects a personal, all-inclusive day, good value for small groups
Flexibility and local expertise help you avoid crowds and discover hidden gems

A closer look at the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Tour

Looking for more options in Dubrovnik? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What to Expect at the Meeting Point and Initial Transfer

The adventure begins early at Sunshine Sailing Dubrovnik, located at Lapadska obala 4. You’ll meet your skipper and board a comfortable speedboat, with water, soda, beer, and white wine already aboard for your enjoyment. The private transfer from your accommodation is included, so no fuss getting to your start point.

The tour kicks off around 10:00 am, allowing you to make the most of the full day ahead. The boat is spacious enough for relaxed lounging, and the crew is known for their friendly, knowledgeable approach—an important detail that reviews frequently highlight.

Exploring Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave

Your first stop is Kolocep Island, where your guide will take you into two picturesque turquoise caves. These caves are a highlight, especially for snorkeling enthusiasts eager to swim in clear waters and admire the underwater formations. The guides are well-versed in the best times to visit to avoid crowds—a tip that comes straight from seasoned reviewers who appreciated the expertly timed visits.

Next, you’ll head to the Blue Cave, one of Croatia’s most famous natural wonders. While the tour description does not specify the cave’s exact opening hours, visitors often praise the experience of seeing the sunlight illuminate the water in such a unique, almost surreal way. The nearby green caves are also a bonus, adding more opportunities for exploration and photos.

Sunbathing and Swimming at Lopud’s Sunj Beach

The tour’s second island stop is Lopud, renowned for its wide, sandy Sunj Beach. Tourists love this spot for its secluded, tree-lined setting, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Reviewers mention that Sunj is “far from the rest of the island,” which makes it feel like your private paradise. It’s a great place to unwind, soak up the sun, or paddle in the calm waters.

Beyond the beach, the group visits the main port and cultural district, where you can stroll among local cafes, shops, and historic sights. The balance here between leisure and cultural exploration ensures the experience appeals to both relaxation seekers and history buffs alike.

Exploring Sipan Island and Local Flavors

The last island on the itinerary is Sipan, where the focus shifts to local life and tastings. You might choose to enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant, featuring fresh fish caught daily by local fishermen, and vegetables from nearby gardens. The reviews mention that wine tasting on Sipan is a highlight—Croatian vineyards produce some great varieties, and your skipper can guide you to the best spots.

Some travelers appreciated that the guide customizes the route to fit their preferences, including visiting quiet bays or small villages. The tour’s flexibility means you won’t be rushed, and if you want more time in certain spots, your skipper is happy to accommodate.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s all-inclusive nature is a major plus. You’ll get snorkeling equipment, towels, drinks, water, and fuel, making it easy to relax and focus on the scenery. The skipper’s local knowledge and friendly attitude heavily contribute to the positive reviews, with many mentioning how he expertly timed stops and shared interesting stories about the islands.

Lunch, however, is not included, leaving you free to choose a local restaurant or pack a picnic. The flexibility to decide how and where to dine adds to the personalized feel of the experience.

Duration, Price, and Overall Value

The full-day tour lasts about 8 hours, providing ample time to visit all the highlights without feeling rushed. For $710.91 per group, the experience offers excellent value for a private, tailored adventure that includes drinks, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable skipper.

When compared to group or public tours, this private option offers more flexibility, less crowding, and the chance to explore hidden spots at your own pace. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the customized route and the skipper’s local insights made a noticeable difference, turning a simple island tour into a memorable experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviews consistently praise the skipper, often named Sran or Gigi, for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to avoid crowds. One traveler noted, “He knew exactly when to visit each spot to avoid the crowds,” which is a real advantage when trying to enjoy Croatia’s popular sights without the hassle.

Many reviewers also mention the cleanliness and comfort of the boat. It’s well-equipped, with towels and goggles provided, and the crew’s attention to detail makes the entire day comfortable and enjoyable.

The wine tasting on Sipan and the lunch options are also frequently highlighted, especially for food and wine lovers. The “fresh daily catch fish” and local wines are described as authentic and delicious, adding a gourmet touch to the relaxing day on the water.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for small groups, couples, or families wanting a personalized experience with flexibility and insider knowledge. If you enjoy scenic cruising, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and tasting local wines, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer not to be part of large groups and want to explore at their own pace.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private activity, so only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored experience.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 10:00 am from Sunshine Sailing Dubrovnik, giving you a full day to enjoy the islands.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, soda, beer, and white wine are included, so you can relax and sip as you explore.

Can I bring my own lunch?
The tour does not include lunch, so you can choose to bring your own or eat at a local restaurant on Sipan or Lopud.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore underwater in the caves and around the islands.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands & Blue Cave Full-Day Tour delivers a well-rounded experience combining natural beauty, cultural sights, and a personalized touch. The local skipper’s knowledge and flexibility are key ingredients that elevate it beyond a standard boat ride.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day at the beach, an adventure exploring caves, or sampling local wines, this tour adapts to your desires. The high ratings and consistent rave reviews demonstrate it’s a trusted choice for travelers wanting a more intimate and authentic taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline.

Overall, it’s a fantastic option for small groups or couples who value comfort, customization, and insider tips. For those willing to invest in a memorable, private day on the water, this tour truly offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor—making it one of the best ways to discover the Elafiti Islands.