REVIEW · DUBROVNIK
Exclusive Luxury Yacht Tour of the Elaphiti Islands
Book on Viator →Operated by Dubrovnik Charters · Bookable on Viator
A yacht day off Dubrovnik sounds simple, but it works because you hop between islands fast. I love the private feel (up to 12 people) and the way the route mixes swimming and classic sights without long bus rides. One thing to consider: it’s a good-weather outing, and you won’t get your money back if you cancel too late.
You’ll also like how the crew keeps things easy and flexible. Captain Pero and deck hands like Anton, Antonio, Mirko, Jakov, Mateo, Mirco, and Pedro get praised for being attentive and professional, and that matters when you’re choosing the best time to reach coves. The only real drawback is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need a plan for eating ashore.
In This Review
- Key things that make this yacht day work
- A luxury yacht day that saves you from the cruise-ship chaos
- Price and group math: what $2,831.25 really means
- Meeting Dubrovnik: Gruž Port, pickup timing, and what to watch for
- On board: cleanliness, stocked drinks, and a crew that handles the details
- Stop 1: Lopud Island for island calm and Šunj Beach swimming
- Stop 2: Koločep Island and the Blue Cave snorkeling stop
- Dubrovnik from the water: city walls without the line
- Sunj Beach again, but with more breathing room
- Šipan Island: villages, churches, and olive-grove country time
- Koločep Lighthouse: cliff-jump energy and a short adrenaline hit
- Passing Lokrum Island: a classic coastline sight on the way
- Snorkeling and kayaking: how to plan your water time
- What’s included (and what’s not) for a smoother day
- Who this private yacht charter is best for
- Should you book this yacht day?
- FAQ
- How long is the Exclusive Luxury Yacht Tour of the Elaphiti Islands?
- What’s the group size for this private tour?
- Where do we meet for the tour?
- Is pickup available?
- Is the tour in English?
- What’s included in the price?
- Is lunch included?
- Are alcoholic drinks served to everyone?
- Is there a mobile ticket?
- What happens if weather is poor?
Key things that make this yacht day work

- Private group experience (up to 12) for a calmer, more personal pace
- Blue Cave snorkeling on Koločep with clear water and a photo-friendly blue glow
- Multiple island stops built around swimming beaches and small-town views
- City walls from the water for a totally different Dubrovnik angle
- Beer, wine, coffee/tea, and bottled water included on board
- High praise for crew timing and sea-spot selection, including quieter cave time
A luxury yacht day that saves you from the cruise-ship chaos
Dubrovnik is packed, especially in summer. What you’re buying here is an escape route: you spend the day on the water, then pop ashore for brief, well-timed stops. The result is that you see more coastline in less time, with far fewer crowds than you’d expect on land.
The biggest value for me is the balance. You get sea views and island scenery, but you also get real downtime: sun-soaked deck time, cold drinks, and chances to swim or snorkel whenever the conditions look best. If you want a day that feels like a vacation, not a checklist, this format fits.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Dubrovnik
Price and group math: what $2,831.25 really means

The total price is $2,831.25 per group, for up to 12 people, for about 8 hours. That pricing model usually favors groups—families, friend crews, or two couples traveling together.
Here’s the practical math:
- If you fill all 12 spots, it works out to about $236 per person.
- If you only book a smaller group, the per-person cost rises.
So the “value” depends on who you bring. If you can gather a full group, this can feel like a bargain compared to paying for separate tours or trying to recreate this day with multiple taxis and timed tickets.
Meeting Dubrovnik: Gruž Port, pickup timing, and what to watch for

You meet at Gruž port, Obala Ivana Pavla II 47, Dubrovnik. There’s also pickup offered, but the details are sent to you 24 hours before the tour, so don’t leave it until the last minute to confirm your message.
The tour runs during set daily windows that change by season (earlier start times in May/early June, longer availability in mid/late summer and early fall). Plan to be ready at the pickup time you receive, and give yourself a buffer to avoid stress in a busy port area.
If you hate uncertainty, this is one place to stay organized. Get your pickup confirmation message, double-check the meeting address, and keep your phone charged for the mobile ticket.
On board: cleanliness, stocked drinks, and a crew that handles the details

The reviews put a lot of weight on service. People describe the boat as immaculate and tidy, with a well-equipped setup for time on the water. One recurring theme is how attentive the crew is—people name Captain Pero and crew members like Anton, Antonio, Mirko, Jakov, Mateo, Mirco, and Pedro as particularly helpful.
This matters because a luxury yacht day lives or dies on logistics: where you anchor, how you manage swim stops, and how easily everyone gets what they need. You’re also getting coffee and/or tea, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages (beer & wine, rose/white) included, plus the “relax and enjoy” rhythm that you don’t get with crowded tours.
Also note the age rule on alcohol: if you’re under 21, you’ll be served non-alcoholic drinks. Service animals are allowed too, which is good to know for planning.
Stop 1: Lopud Island for island calm and Šunj Beach swimming

Lopud Island is where the day starts to feel like a real beach escape. You’ll spend about 2 hours there, with time for an easy rhythm: swim, relax, and enjoy that Lopud pace where things feel slower and the water looks inviting.
The standout moment here is Šunj Beach. It’s described as a sandy shoreline with clear water and gentle waves—exactly the kind of spot you want if you’re traveling with a mixed group (some people want to swim a lot, others want to hang out and take it easy).
A practical consideration: you’re on the water, so wear what you can move in comfortably. Bring swim gear and plan for how you’ll handle shade (the beach setting may not offer much structure for everyone).
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dubrovnik
Stop 2: Koločep Island and the Blue Cave snorkeling stop

Koločep is the island stop where the day gets more “wow.” You’ll have about 1 hour there, and the big highlight is snorkeling in the Blue Cave.
What makes this special is the combination of conditions and effect. People describe crystal-clear water and a magical blue light underwater. Even if you’re not a “serious snorkeler,” this is still the kind of stop that gets you photos you’ll actually want to keep.
In addition to the cave time, Koločep is known for a quieter feel: pine forests, small historical sites, and scenic walking. If you want a break from water time, this is the stop where a short stroll can work.
One consideration: snorkeling is weather-dependent in a real way. If visibility or sea conditions are off, the crew may shift how you spend your time in the water—so stay flexible and listen to instructions.
Dubrovnik from the water: city walls without the line

You’ll get a 30-minute stop that focuses on Dubrovnik’s famous city walls—but from the seaside angle. Seeing those medieval stone fortifications from the water gives you scale in a way land viewpoints can’t. The wall system looks dramatic when it rises right out of the sea, and you understand how defensive the city really was.
This is also a smart timing move. Instead of spending extra hours battling transit and crowd flow, you get the view quickly and then return to sea time.
The drawback here is time: 30 minutes disappears fast. If you want photos from several angles, plan your priorities and move quickly when you’re on that stop.
Sunj Beach again, but with more breathing room

It’s easy to think you’re just repeating yourself when Lopud’s beach is part of the plan. But the time structure matters. You’re not doing a rushed “quick dip and go” here—you’re given about 2 hours for Šunj Beach, which means you can settle in.
This is a good section for:
- families who need a slower pace
- anyone who wants a “real swim” after the earlier cruising time
- groups where not everyone wants snorkeling
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to take one small goal (like swim first, then lounge), this stop supports that.
Šipan Island: villages, churches, and olive-grove country time
Šipan is the island stop built for variety. You’ll spend about 2 hours here, with a feel that’s more “island life” than just swimming.
You can expect:
- picturesque villages
- historical sites like churches and summer villas
- nature time through olive groves and vineyards
- local seafood at small restaurants (with the chance to relax on the water as well)
Why this is valuable is that it breaks up the day. Half the day is sea-focused, and the other half gives you a sense of how these islands function beyond tourism. It’s also a strong fit for history lovers who want something gentle rather than museum-heavy.
A consideration: this isn’t a full guided tour of every site. You’re sampling and moving, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for short walking segments rather than long sightseeing circuits.
Koločep Lighthouse: cliff-jump energy and a short adrenaline hit
Near the end, the plan includes a 30-minute swimming spot connected with the Kolocep Lighthouse area. This is where the day adds an action moment: cliff jumping.
If you enjoy jumping in from height, this is the kind of stop that turns a good day into a memorable one. If you prefer staying safe and low, you can still enjoy swimming and water play—just skip the jump part.
The main thing to remember is that this activity will depend on conditions and comfort level. Follow the crew’s lead, and don’t treat it like a theme park. Water clarity and safety rules matter more than bravery.
Passing Lokrum Island: a classic coastline sight on the way
Along the cruise route, you’ll pass Lokrum Island. It’s one of those Dubrovnik-area islands that adds character to your viewpoint even when you’re not stopping to explore for hours. Think of it as part of the scenery layer—one more visual cue that you’re in a whole island chain, not just a one-island day.
It’s also the kind of moment where you’ll appreciate being on a yacht. From the water, the coastline looks layered and connected, and you get a better sense of geography than you would from streets.
Snorkeling and kayaking: how to plan your water time
The day includes snorkeling and may also include kayaking excursions as part of the overall plan. That gives you two ways to enjoy the water: one more stationary and photo-friendly (snorkeling), and one that lets you move at your own rhythm (kayaking).
Practical advice for making this work:
- If you’re serious about snorkeling, prioritize the cave time and avoid booking yourself too many “optional” stops.
- If you’re kayaking, be ready for a change in schedule based on sea conditions.
Also, consider how your group handles water activities. If you have swimmers and non-swimmers in the same group, the stops and variety help. People can choose their version of the day without it turning into arguments over where to go next.
What’s included (and what’s not) for a smoother day
Included onboard:
- Coffee and/or tea
- Bottled water
- Alcoholic beverages: beer & wine (rose/white) for guests 21+
- A private experience for your group of up to 12
Not included:
- Lunch
This is the one planning gap. If lunch isn’t covered, you’ll want to decide how you’ll handle it in advance. Some people prefer a quick meal ashore when there’s time on an island like Šipan. Others bring snacks for the day and save a proper meal for after the cruise.
Either way, don’t assume you’ll be fed a full lunch onboard. You’ll have drinks and refreshments, but you should plan food like a responsible adult.
Who this private yacht charter is best for
This is ideal if you want:
- a high-comfort way to see the Elaphiti Islands
- swimming spots and water activities without a crowded tour feeling
- a group where together time matters, not just the destination
It also works well for families because crew members get praised for being patient with young kids and for helping everyone have a good day. The experience is described as suitable for most travelers, which suggests there’s enough flexibility for different comfort levels.
If you’re a solo traveler looking for cheapest cost, this likely won’t be your best match. The pricing is group-based, so it shines when multiple people share the charter.
Should you book this yacht day?
If your goal is a calm, sun-and-sea day with real swimming and a strong Dubrovnik view from the water, I think it’s an easy yes. The reviews highlight the crew’s professionalism, the boat condition, and the quality of the sea stops—especially the Blue Cave snorkeling. Add in included drinks and coffee/tea, and you’re not constantly spending money just to stay comfortable.
I’d hesitate only if you’re traveling when weather reliability is low for you, or if you strongly want lunch provided. Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your meal moments around the island times.
If you can gather a group (closer to 12 is best), book with confidence and keep your day light: swims, photos, and island views. That’s what this trip is built for.
FAQ
How long is the Exclusive Luxury Yacht Tour of the Elaphiti Islands?
It’s about 8 hours.
What’s the group size for this private tour?
It’s a private tour/activity for your group, with a maximum of up to 12 people.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Gruž port, Obala Ivana Pavla II 47, Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered, and pickup details are delivered 24 hours before the tour.
Is the tour in English?
Yes, it’s offered in English.
What’s included in the price?
Included items are coffee and/or tea, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages (beer & wine: rose/white).
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included.
Are alcoholic drinks served to everyone?
Alcoholic drinks are served only to travelers 21 years old and above. Under 21, guests will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Is there a mobile ticket?
Yes, you’ll receive a mobile ticket.
What happens if weather is poor?
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

































