Full-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675

This private speed boat day around Dubrovnik is a smart way to see the Elafiti Islands without being stuck to a public ferry schedule. I love that you can choose your pace island by island, especially on Blue Cave at Koločep, where the plan is to anchor near the cave so you can swim in. I also love the onboard practical stuff, like snorkel equipment and a GoPro camera for the water moments, plus bottled water, beer, and soft drinks.

One heads-up: there is no pickup or drop off, so you need to get to Lapadska obala 4 by yourself, and the captain runs the tour only in good weather. If you hate boats, or you want a purely walking-only day, this route is built for water time first.

Key highlights worth caring about

• Private routing across Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan so the skipper can tailor stops to what you actually want to do
• Blue Cave access at Koločep, with snorkel gear and a GoPro included for cave-and-coast memories
• Sunj beach time on Lopud, with a real sandy beach break and the option to relax onboard or go ashore
• Monastery and village wandering potential on Lopud, including Dominican and Franciscan sites and Đorđić-Mayneri park
• Šipan’s slower, more local feel, with olive, pine, birds, and home-made goods like olive oil and marmalade

Why Elafiti Islands by private speed boat beats a ferry day

The Elafiti Islands are close to Dubrovnik, but they still feel like a different world. Going by private speed boat is the difference between a quick, crowded hop and a full-day rhythm where you decide when to stop, swim, and explore.

With up to 6 people on board, you get a calmer, more personal day. And the “private” part matters more here than it does on land tours. On water, those extra minutes add up, and the skipper can adjust the plan based on what the sea and your group feel like doing.

You’re also buying more than travel time. You’re buying variety in one day: cave swim on Koločep, sandy beach on Lopud, then Šipan’s more residential, nature-forward side. It’s a great way to get the Adriatic vibe without spending your whole trip in transit.

Quicksilver 675 setup, what it includes, and why it matters

This is a full-day charter with the Quicksilver 675, and your group size is capped at 6. That’s a sweet spot. You’ll have enough space to spread out and relax, but it still feels like a private outing rather than a small bus.

What’s included is very practical for an ocean day:

• Snorkel equipment and life jackets for adults and children
• Bottled water, plus beer and soft drinks
• Skipper and all taxes, fees, and handling charges

A big value point is the snorkeling gear being included. You do not want to spend part of a perfect day bargaining with a rental shop or trying to make do with poor-fitting masks. The included life jackets also make it easier for groups with kids, since everyone can wear one without extra effort.

Also, the tour notes that GoPro is provided. That means you can focus on the moment instead of worrying about whether your camera gear is ready. Cave swims and cliff scenery can turn into great photos fast, as long as you’re prepared to get wet and have a quick plan for where you’ll swim and where you’ll stand back on the boat.

Getting to the start: Lapadska obala 4 and how to time your day

The meeting point is Lapadska obala 4, Dubrovnik, and the tour ends back there. There is no pickup or drop off, so plan your morning like you’re meeting friends at a dock, not like you’re being collected from your hotel.

Because the tour is about 8 hours, I recommend you treat it like a day trip with a real schedule. Eat something before you go, or plan an easy meal right after, since meals are not included.

Also, remember the minimum drinking age is 18. If your group includes teens or kids, that is fine. Life jackets are provided for children too, but the beer and alcohol part is still restricted.

Lastly, the activity runs in English, and you’ll get a mobile ticket. That usually means less waiting around and fewer paper hassles, which is exactly what you want when you’re trying to get onto the water.

Koločep Island: Blue Cave swim, two villages, and cliff cruising

Koločep is one of the closest Elafiti Islands, about 20 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik. It’s known for two villages: Gornje Celo and Donje Celo. But the main reason people want Koločep on their day is the Blue Cave on the south side.

Here’s what you can expect in practice:

• You’ll stop for around 2 hours, and because it’s private, your time is flexible
• The skipper anchors near the cave, so you can swim in from the boat
• Snorkel masks are provided, and you’ll also have a GoPro camera available
• After the cave, you cruise along the cliffs

That “anchor near the cave” detail is the difference between a view-only stop and a real water stop. You’re not forced to judge the cave from a boat at a distance. You can swim in, snorkel, and see why this spot is famous.

The practical consideration is that a cave swim is still a swim. You’ll want to go in feeling comfortable in the water and ready to move with your group. Wear swimwear you can handle, and have a plan for getting back aboard, since everyone will need to coordinate around the boat’s steps and the timing of the anchor hold.

If you want an active moment that feels like you earned it, Koločep is the place. And if your group wants more relaxing time, you can keep it lighter since it’s private, not a rigid schedule.

Lopud Island and Sunj Beach: sandy relaxation plus village culture options

Lopud is famous for Sunj Beach, a sandy spot that makes the day feel like a true summer break. The stop is about 3 hours, and again, it’s private, so you can split your time between boat and shore.

On the boat, you’ll have refreshments like cold water, beer, and soft drinks. That matters because it keeps the day easy. After a swim session, it’s nice to cool off without changing plans every few minutes.

You get two ways to enjoy Lopud:

• Stay mostly on the boat if you want to relax and keep things low effort
• Go ashore for beach time and village wandering

The bonus is that after the sandy beach, you can explore Lopud’s village. The tour highlights a few specific cultural stops and sights:

• Dominican and Franciscan monastery sites
• Đorđić-Mayneri park
• Small churches and more around town

That blend is useful if you have a mixed group. Some people want sun and swimming, others want to stretch their legs and see how locals live. Lopud gives you that without forcing everyone to choose just one style.

A small drawback to consider: Lopud’s beach time is sand and sun. If your group is more into quiet bays and snorkeling than beach lounging, you might want to keep the beach portion shorter and use your Lopud hours for a mix of shore exploring and water time.

Šipan Island: the largest Elafiti feel with olive groves, birds, and local goods

Šipan is the largest and the most densely populated of the Elafiti Islands. That means the feel changes. Instead of just “quiet scenery,” you get a more lived-in island vibe, with residents who still make things and keep routines.

This stop is about 3 hours and is framed around untouched nature, turquoise sea views, and the mix of green olive and pine trees, plus birdsong. It’s a great late-day island because you can shift from peak swim energy to slower exploration and viewpoints.

The tour also points to local home-made production, including:

• wine
• olive oil
• marmalade
• fruits and vegetables

Now, you should think of this as a “taste of island life” rather than a formal food tour. The data here emphasizes the setting and the possibility of seeing local life, not a scheduled tasting experience. Still, if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to wander past small shops and imagine how people live, Šipan tends to satisfy that instinct.

The other reason Šipan belongs on this private route is flexibility. With a private skipper, you can shape your final stop based on what your group has left in the tank. Want secluded bays and less walking? You can likely plan for that. Want a bit more village time or scenic stops? That tends to be easier when you’re not tied to a ferry timetable.

What makes this day worth paying for, not just “another boat trip”

At $598.87 per group (up to 6), the math can work well if you price it against the reality of a day on the water. Per person, it can be around the $100 range, depending on how many people you actually have. Then factor in that snorkel equipment, life jackets, a skipper, bottled water, and beer or soft drinks are included.

A smart way to judge value is to compare how many “paid add-ons” this replaces. A private boat can turn into chaos if you then have to budget for gear, drinks, and a guide. Here, those core pieces are already covered.

Just be aware of the extra cost that is not included: there’s a fuel surcharge of €100 per booking. That surcharge is worth considering when you’re comparing this to other options. Also, meals are not included, so plan one good meal before or after the tour.

One more value point that you feel in your bones: time control. The tour is private, and the itinerary says your skipper will tailor stops to your preferences. On islands like these, that matters because conditions and group energy change throughout the day.

When a boat day goes wrong, it’s usually because you feel rushed, or because you didn’t get to do the one thing you came for. This route is built to protect the highlights. It gives you Blue Cave access, a sandy beach break, and an island with a more local pulse.

Water time planning: what to pack and how to stay comfortable

Since this is centered on swimming, anchoring, and island time, your packing list should be simple but deliberate.

Bring:

• a swimsuit or quick-dry layer you can wear immediately
• a towel you do not mind getting sandy or wet
• sunscreen and sun glasses with a strap if you use them often
• a dry bag or small waterproof pouch for phone and wallet

The tour provides snorkeling masks and life jackets, so you do not need to bring that gear. Still, it helps to practice using your mask once you’re aboard so you’re not fiddling later in the cave.

Also, be realistic about the “speed boat” aspect. It can move fast, and spray happens. If you get motion sick easily, take that seriously before you book. If you are fine with boats and you want a lively day, you’ll likely love the energy.

Finally, bring the attitude that this is a day on the move. Even when you stop, the boat keeps you in the action. That’s part of the appeal.

Who should book this Elafiti private speed boat day

This tour fits best if you want:

• a private day with a small group (up to 6)
• real swimming time, including Blue Cave
• a mix of beach, cave, and village exploration in one long day
• English-speaking guidance and a skipper who can tailor the day

It is also a good choice if your travel style is flexible. The itinerary mentions that you can choose how much time to spend at each stop and what activities you want to do. That flexibility is perfect for mixed groups: couples, friends, and families who don’t all want the same pace.

If you’re traveling with kids, the included life jackets for children are a practical comfort. If your group includes adults who want beer and soft drinks, the onboard refreshment helps keep everything relaxed.

The one possible drawback to think through

The big tradeoff is tied to the same strength: you’re on a speed boat, and it depends on weather. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. So yes, plans are protected, but nature still controls whether you get the day.

Also, there’s no meal included. If you prefer a cooked lunch in the middle of your excursion, you’ll need to solve that yourself.

And since there’s no pickup or drop off, make sure your meeting time is realistic. If you’re late, you’re late, and with boats that’s not a small issue.

Should you book this Quicksilver 675 Elafiti tour?

If you want a day that feels like you’re doing something special, not just checking boxes, this is a strong pick. The demand looks high, and the feedback score is perfect, which usually means people are happy with the basics: the boat day, the smooth running, and the fact that you actually get to do the highlights.

Book it if:

• your group is 4 to 6 people and you want private value
• you want Koločep’s Blue Cave experience and actual water time
• you like a balanced day, beach plus village plus nature

Skip or consider other options if:

• you hate boats or you’re prone to motion sickness
• you need guaranteed meals and a fully land-based schedule
• you don’t want to handle getting to Lapadska obala 4 on your own

FAQ

How many people are on the private boat?

The private speed boat tour is for a group of up to 6 people.

How long is the Elafiti Islands tour?

It runs for about 8 hours.

Where do we meet in Dubrovnik?

You meet at Lapadska obala 4, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Is hotel pickup or drop off included?

No. There is no pickup or drop off.

What’s included on board?

Snorkel equipment, life jackets for adults and children, bottled water, beer, soft drinks, and a skipper are included.

Does the tour run in any weather?

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