REVIEW · ELAPHITI ISLANDS BOAT CRUISES
Full day Private Boat Tour to Elaphite Islands and South Mljet
Six people, one boat, and real island quiet.
This is a full day private speedboat tour from Dubrovnik that trades traffic stress for sea time, with stops built around Mljet National Park area bays and the Elaphiti Islands.
I love the small-group private pace, which lets you linger where you like most, from Saplunara Bay to calmer shoreline moments around the Elafiti coves. I also like the onboard setup, especially the Bimini sun cover, XL flat sundeck for hanging out, a small cabin to change, and a shower so you do not end the day gritty with salt and sand.
One possible drawback is cost and logistics. The group price is $889.38 for up to 6, but you should plan for a fuel surcharge of €220 per booking, and the details list no pick up or drop off, so you will likely need to get to the dock yourself.
In This Review
- Key things that make this tour worth your day
- A private Quicksilver 675 day that skips Dubrovnik transport stress
- How the 8 hours are paced across Mljet and the Elafiti Islands
- Your stop-by-stop rhythm
- Dubrovnik start: local skipper tips, free drinks, and easy snorkeling memories
- Southern Mljet around Saplunara Bay and Limoni Beach
- What to expect in the water
- A consideration with Mljet
- Elaphiti Islands time on Šipan, Lopud, Koločep, and Prozurska Luka
- The best part is the freedom to choose your moment
- Onboard comfort: the details that make or break a boat day
- Drinks and the real-world pacing
- What you should bring
- Price and value for up to six people
- Who this tour fits best
- Should you book this private boat tour or skip it?
- FAQ
- What is the price for this tour?
- How many people can be on the private boat?
- How long is the tour and when does it start?
- Where do we meet, and where does the tour end?
- What boat will you be on, and what comfort features are included?
- Is snorkeling gear included?
- Which places are visited during the day?
- Are meals included?
- Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
- What happens if the weather is bad?
Key things that make this tour worth your day

- Quicksilver 675 private speedboat limited to 6 for comfort, with a smaller, easier day than big-group boats
- Snorkel gear included, plus an underwater camera setup mentioned, with photos sent after the tour
- Free drinks onboard (still and sparkling water, soft drinks, beer), so you can focus on the water
- Mljet time at Saplunara Bay and Limoni Beach with a relaxed 3-hour chunk
- Elaphiti Islands 3 hours covering islands like Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep, plus scenic coves like Prozurska Luka
- Onboard extras that actually help: Bimini shade, sun sundeck, changing cabin, and a shower
Further island-cruise days sailing out of Dubrovnik
- Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks★ 5.0 · 8,823 reviews
- Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Full-Day Cruise with Lunch★ 5.0 · 5,938 reviews
- Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional Lunch★ 4.7 · 4,517 reviews
- Blue Cave, Green Cave & Lopud Beach small group Speed boat Tour★ 5.0 · 2,572 reviews
A private Quicksilver 675 day that skips Dubrovnik transport stress

Dubrovnik days can get busy fast. This kind of outing works because you do not spend your hours wrestling with buses, parking, or complicated connections. You start from the water, then spend the day moving island to island at a comfortable pace.
The boat is a Quicksilver 675 speedboat, described as brand new, with space for up to eight passages but a practical limit of six people for “maximum comfort.” That matters more than it sounds. Fewer bodies on board means you can actually relax, stretch out, and change plans on the fly when you spot a cove that looks better than the one on the brochure.
You also get a simple, helpful onboard rhythm. Water (still and sparkling), soft drinks, and beer are available throughout the tour free of charge, so you do not spend the day stopping for drinks. Add a sound system for your own music or just quiet nature time, and the day feels more like your own floating day plan.
How the 8 hours are paced across Mljet and the Elafiti Islands

Your day runs for about 8 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point. The tour is split into three main chunks, with about 3 hours on Mljet and about 3 hours on the Elaphiti Islands, plus a shorter start period tied to the Dubrovnik departure.
That structure is a good match for the geography here. You are not trying to sprint from beach to beach. You have enough time to do real swimming and still have margin for quiet, shade, and photos.
Also, because it is private, the timing feels less rigid. You can choose where you want to linger longer and where you want to keep things light. That is a real advantage on a boat day, since water conditions can make certain bays the better choice at that moment.
Your stop-by-stop rhythm
- First, you leave Dubrovnik and get a quick orientation and comfort setup onboard.
- Then you head to southern Mljet for swimming in Saplunara Bay and Limoni Beach.
- Finally, you move to the Elaphiti Islands for scenic coves and island views, with a chance to see the vibe of islands like Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep.
Dubrovnik start: local skipper tips, free drinks, and easy snorkeling memories
The morning begins at the meeting point: Lapadska obala 4, 20000 Dubrovnik. From there, you are on the boat and underway, rather than hanging around a harbor waiting for a larger group to assemble.
A big plus here is the local skipper approach. The day is guided by skippers who know the area very well, so you should get practical advice about what you are seeing and what to do to stay safe and comfortable. On a private boat, that makes a difference. When the skipper has local pattern knowledge, you waste less time hunting.
Onboard comfort is handled too, not just promised. The boat has:
- a Bimini (sun cover)
- an XL flat sundeck for lounging
- a small cabin to change out of wet swimsuits
- a shower to rinse off sand after beach time
- a sound system so you can play your own music, or turn it off for peace
There is also a fun memory angle built into the snorkeling plan. The description notes snorkel masks and an underwater camera, with photos sent to you or transferred to your phone after the tour. Even if you are not planning to go deep with the snorkel gear, this kind of add-on turns the day into something you can actually remember later without sorting through blurry videos.
Other Mljet crossings worth putting next to this one
- Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands
★ 5.0 · 360 reviews - Mljet National Park trip – Pure Nature & Island Escape
★ 5.0 · 33 reviews - Private boat tour to Elafiti islands and south part of Mljet 8h. ALL INCLUDED
★ 5.0 · 16 reviews - Unlocking Mljet Island’s Secrets: Private Boat Experience
★ 5.0 · 10 reviews
Southern Mljet around Saplunara Bay and Limoni Beach

Southern Mljet is often described as unspoiled and calm, and the way this tour is paced lets you experience that feeling instead of just passing by. You get about 3 hours on Mljet, with visits that include Saplunara Bay and Limoni Beach, both described as standout swimming areas.
Why I like this setup for your day: these bays are exactly the kind of places where you want time. You can swim, float, and decide if you want to head back to shade. With a private boat, you are not forced to move on just because a schedule says you should.
What to expect in the water
The description calls out crystal-clear turquoise waters for southern Mljet. Translation: plan for bright sun, slippery rocks near shore, and the temptation to spend too long in the water. Bring reef-safe habits if you use them, but more importantly bring practical sun protection.
If you want to snorkel, you already have what you need. Snorkel equipment is included, and the boat setup supports easy in and out of the water, especially with the changing cabin and shower later.
A consideration with Mljet
Mljet time is long enough for you to get what you came for, but it is still one chunk. If you are chasing a specific shore vibe, focus on arriving ready. That means sunscreen, water-resistant footwear if you wear it, and a plan for where you want to spend your “best swim” hour.
Elaphiti Islands time on Šipan, Lopud, Koločep, and Prozurska Luka

After Mljet, you shift to the Elaphiti Islands. The tour gives you another 3 hours, which is a good amount of time to feel the islands without feeling rushed.
The tour highlights islands with different personalities:
- Šipan, described with peaceful villages
- Lopud, known for sandy beaches
- Koločep, tied to more untouched nature
It also calls out Prozurska Luka as one of the scenery highlights.
This mix matters because the Elaphiti feel different island to island. On a day like this, you do not just want a view from a distance. You want the chance to hop into water, see shorelines, and choose a bay that matches your mood.
The best part is the freedom to choose your moment
One reason this tour tends to work for people is the ability to adapt. If you want to swim more and explore less, you can. If you want views and photo time, the boat setup helps too since you can lounge on the sundeck between swims.
And yes, you might be watching for that golden-hour effect. The Elaphiti Islands are often mentioned for relaxed sunset vibes, and with a full day schedule that ends back at the meeting point, you usually have at least some chance to catch late-day light depending on conditions and pacing.
Onboard comfort: the details that make or break a boat day

Boat tours succeed or fail based on small stuff. This one includes several practical items that save you from turning the day into a cleanup project.
I like that they give you:
- a small cabin to change, so you are not stuck finding privacy on deck
- a shower to wash off sand after beach time
- an XL flat sundeck for relaxing between stops
- Bimini shade, which is not a luxury here but a necessity once the sun climbs
- life jackets for adults and children
Even if you only swim once, these details still matter. Changing and rinsing off are the difference between leaving the day feeling comfortable versus feeling sticky and chilled.
Drinks and the real-world pacing
Water and drinks being included is huge. The description lists still and sparkling water, soft drinks, and beer available free of charge. That means you can stay hydrated, keep energy up between swims, and not waste time buying small items in a port.
There is also a note that the boat has a sound system, so you can bring your own music. If you enjoy quiet nature more, you can keep it off. Either way, it is your choice.
What you should bring
The tour covers a lot onboard, but you should still bring the basics:
- Swimwear you can rinse quickly
- Sunscreen and something for sun protection
- A towel, since the shower is for rinsing, not drying all your gear
- A phone or small camera pouch if you plan to capture your own shots
- If you hate carrying wet clothes, bring a small dry bag
Service animals are allowed, and the day is described as easy for most travelers. Still, if you have mobility concerns, you should think through getting on and off the boat and moving between sundeck and changing areas.
Price and value for up to six people

Let’s talk money with real numbers.
You pay $889.38 per group, for up to 6 people, for about 8 hours. That can feel high at first, but the private format changes the math. If you split it among six adults, your per-person cost is roughly $148, before any extras.
Then there are the extras listed:
- Fuel surcharge €220 per booking
- Meal is not included
So, your total day cost depends on how many people are in your group and whether you plan to buy food during the day. The tour does not include a meal, but you may still find lunch options around the islands. Just do not assume a sit-down lunch is included in the price.
For value, I think the biggest wins are:
- The small capacity with comfort features and space to relax
- The private pacing, meaning fewer compromises
- The snorkel gear and drinks included, which usually add up quickly on a boat day
If you are traveling as a couple and paying as just two people, the value shifts. If you can go with a few friends, it becomes much easier to justify.
Who this tour fits best

This is a strong choice if you want a low-stress day built around swimming and scenery, not a checklist.
You will likely enjoy it most if you:
- want a private boat day with a small group
- care about comfortable sun time, not just getting from place to place
- like snorkeling, or at least want gear available without extra planning
- want local guidance from skippers who know where to stop and when
It is also a good pick for groups where everyone has a different energy level. One person can swim and snorkel, another can lounge on the sundeck, and you still get time to enjoy the islands without everyone moving at the same pace.
Should you book this private boat tour or skip it?
Book it if you want a calm, practical boat day in Dubrovnik’s backyard, with snorkeling gear, free drinks, and time for Saplunara Bay and Elaphiti Islands without the usual transport hassle. The onboard comfort details like the shower and changing cabin make it feel like more than a basic sightseeing cruise.
Consider a different option if you know you will need a meal included, or if you do not like budgeting for an add-on like the €220 fuel surcharge. Also, because pickup is listed as not included, plan on getting to Lapadska obala 4 yourself, unless your confirmation explicitly says otherwise.
If you can align timing, group size, and your expectations about meals and meeting logistics, this is the kind of day that turns into a highlight because it is actually built for relaxed time on the water.
FAQ
What is the price for this tour?
The price is $889.38 per group, up to 6 people.
How many people can be on the private boat?
This is a private tour limited to your group, with capacity limited to 6 persons for maximum comfort.
How long is the tour and when does it start?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and starts at 10:00 am.
Where do we meet, and where does the tour end?
You meet at Lapadska obala 4, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.
What boat will you be on, and what comfort features are included?
You’ll be on a Quicksilver 675 speedboat. The boat includes a Bimini (sun cover), XL flat sundeck, a small cabin to change, and a shower to wash off sand from the beach.
Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes. Snorkel equipment is included, along with life jackets for adults and children.
Which places are visited during the day?
You visit southern Mljet, including Saplunara Bay and Limoni Beach, and you also visit the Elaphiti Islands, with highlights that include Prozurska Luka.
Are meals included?
No, a meal is not included.
Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
The details state there is no pick up or drop off. The meeting point is Lapadska obala 4.
What happens if the weather is bad?
This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
More Hours Afloat Off Dubrovnik
Mljet, A Few More Crossings
More Days Among the Elaphiti
Freshly written up around Dubrovnik
Elaphiti Islands Boat Cruises, top to bottom.
★ 5.0Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and DrinksFrom $788,823 reviews
★ 5.0Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Full-Day Cruise with LunchFrom $785,938 reviews
★ 4.7Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional LunchFrom $504,517 reviews
★ 5.0Blue Cave, Green Cave & Lopud Beach small group Speed boat TourFrom $842,572 reviews
★ 4.8Dubrovnik: Blue Cave & Sunj Beach Boat Tour with DrinksFrom $742,206 reviews
★ 4.8Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and DrinksFrom $511,222 reviews
★ 4.5Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and PickupFrom $71999 reviews
★ 5.0Luxury Blue Cave and Elaphiti Islands Small Group TourFrom $83796 reviews
Browse the lists this tour appears in
















