Dubrovnik: Private Boat Island Tour

Thinking about exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast? This private boat tour from Dubrovnik promises an intimate and personalized experience, letting you see the islands through the eyes of locals. Whether you’re after idyllic beaches, caves, or charming villages, this tour offers a flexible and relaxed way to enjoy the region’s best.

What we appreciate most about this experience is its customized approach—the skipper is a Dubrovnik native who knows these waters intimately. Plus, the stunning scenery—crystal lagoons, caves, and lush islands—makes every moment memorable. However, a potential consideration is the cost, which may seem steep for some, but the personalized service and flexibility tend to justify it.

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a laid-back, authentic adventure away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re the type who values local insights, scenic beauty, and the chance to tailor your day, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your preferences.
• Local guide who shares insider stories and takes you inside caves.
• Flexible durations from 2 hours to full day for different interests.
• Crystal-clear water, caves, and beaches ideal for swimming.
• All-inclusive drinks, towels, snorkel gear, and Bluetooth speakers enhance comfort.
• Additional fuel costs paid in cash, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Dubrovnik Private Boat Tour

Starting Point and Duration

You’ll meet your skipper at Lapadska obala 31, a convenient location in Dubrovnik. The tour’s duration varies from 2 hours for a sunset cruise to a full 8-hour day, offering plenty of options for how much time you want to spend on the water.

Pricing and Value

At $339 for up to 8 guests, this isn’t the cheapest activity around, but it packs in substantial value. The price covers a private, fully customizable experience, including a brand new boat, snorkeling equipment, towels, and an ice box stocked with local drinks. Additional costs like fuel (paid in cash) are modest, ranging from $60 to $80 depending on the tour length.

What’s Included

The tour makes it easy to relax and enjoy without worrying about extras: ice-cold drinks (local beer, white wine, water), snorkeling gear, and Bluetooth speakers for music. Your skipper is at your service, ready to assist with anything you need, whether that’s capturing photos or finding the best swimming spots.

Tour Options and Highlights

4-Hour Tour — The Quick Escape

Ideal if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the islands. Expect to visit Koloep Island, home to the mesmerizing Blue Cave and Green Caves, plus several lagoons perfect for swimming. You’ll stop at two villages and visit Unj Beach on Lopud, one of the region’s largest sandy beaches.

What travelers loved: “Most often, guests visit the island of Koloep, where you can explore the stunning Blue Cave, Green Caves, and several crystal-clear lagoons ideal for swimming.” (Review)

6-Hour Tour — Extended Exploration

With more time, you can delve deeper. Beyond the highlights of the 4-hour trip, this tour includes visits to historic sites like the 16th-century Franciscan monastery on Lopud, old palaces, and scenic spots. If you’re interested in a bit of history along with your swim, this is a good choice.

What travelers loved: “He totally planned the entire trip around what we wanted, and gave good suggestions.” (Review)

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8-Hour Full-Day — The Ultimate Getaway

The full day lets you relax at your own pace, visiting all three main islands: Koloep, Lopud, and Ipan. You can swim, snorkel, explore old towns, and even enjoy a local seaside lunch—skipper can point you to the best spots. This tour is perfect if you want to escape for a lazy day filled with scenic beauty and cultural sights.

What travelers loved: “Although it was a bit too cold to swim, I still wish we booked the 6-8 hour option rather than our 4-hour trip.” (Review)

2-Hour Sunset Cruise — Romantic and Relaxing

This short but sweet option offers breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town from the sea, especially at sunset. With good music and a glass of wine or champagne, it’s an ideal choice for couples or anyone looking to unwind at day’s end.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Local Skipper and Insider Knowledge

Having a native Dubrovnik guide is a huge plus. As one reviewer noted, “Marko was proactive and made the experience very fun and personal.” Your skipper isn’t just a driver but a storyteller who shares stories about the islands, making the trip more engaging and authentic.

Caves and Lagoons

Exploring inside the Blue and Green Caves is a highlight. The caves are renowned for their stunning light effects and crystal-clear water—great for swimming and photography. The caves’ accessibility and the chance to jump in with your guide make this a memorable part of the trip.

Flexibility and Personalization

All tours are completely private, allowing you to choose your stops and pace. From relaxing on beaches to exploring historic sites, your day is tailored to your interests.

Comfort and Convenience

The boat is brand new with all equipment, including snorkeling gear, towels, and Bluetooth speakers. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and towels on-board makes it a comfortable luxury.

The Authenticity and Experience

According to reviews, many guests appreciate the personal touch and local insights. As one said, “The guide had a story about each stop,” adding an enriching layer to the adventure. Even in cooler weather, guests expressed that they still valued the flexibility to choose a longer tour and the quality of the skipper’s knowledge.

The scenery is undeniably stunning—crystal lagoons, caves, lush islands—but it’s the service and personal attention that elevate this experience. Guests consistently mention how friendly and accommodating the crew is, which turns a boat trip into a memorable outing.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear and a towel, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Prepare cash for the fuel surcharge—$60 to $80 depending on your tour length.
• Book ahead to secure your preferred time, especially during busy seasons.
• If you’re considering a full-day adventure, plan for a seaside lunch on Lopud or Ipan; your skipper can recommend good options.
• Remember that the boat ride involves cave exploration and swimming—dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes or sandals for walking on islands.
• Sun protection is key—bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• If you want to capture memories, bring a waterproof camera or phone in a waterproof case.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private boat tour is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting a flexible day on the water, or small groups looking for an authentic, personalized adventure. It’s ideal for those who value expert local guides and want a customized itinerary without the hassle of larger tour groups.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed, and flexible day that mixes natural beauty with cultural sights, this tour hits the mark. It provides a luxurious yet authentic way to experience the Dalmatian coast, guided by locals who truly love their islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the tours?
Tours range from 2 hours for a sunset cruise up to 8 hours for a full-day adventure. You can select based on your schedule and interests.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a private boat, local skipper, snorkeling gear, towels, and an ice box with drinks like water, beer, and white wine.

Are meals included?
Not automatically, but your skipper can take you to a local seaside restaurant on islands like Lopud or Ipan. Expect to pay around $50 per person for lunch.

Do I need to pay extra for fuel?
Yes, fuel costs ($60-$80) are paid in cash on the boat, depending on the tour length.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. All tours are private and customizable, allowing you to focus on what interests you most.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore underwater spots comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Towels are supplied.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be family-friendly, especially if children enjoy swimming and exploring caves.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making it a flexible booking option.

This Private Boat Island Tour from Dubrovnik offers an ideal mix of scenic beauty, personalized service, and local insights. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to escape the crowds, see the islands at their own pace, and experience the Adriatic in a relaxed, authentic way. The combination of stunning caves, crystal lagoons, and charming villages guarantees a memorable day. While it costs a bit more than some group tours, the quality of the experience and the flexibility make it well worth considering for your Dalmatian adventure.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful day on the water, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm—guided by locals who love sharing their home.

You can check availability for your dates here: