Reviewed · BLUE CAVE TOURS

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour

5.0 · 19 reviews 8 hours (approx.) From $600 Operated by ToDo Dubrovnik · Bookable on Viator
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A day that ties together the Blue Cave glow and the Elafiti Islands slow pace is an easy sell. You get a proper island-hopping route, with time to swim, snorkel, and hang on beaches like Lopud while still seeing multiple islands off Dubrovnik.

I especially like that this is a private group up to 6, so you can actually enjoy the day instead of being herded. I also like the practical basics included, like drinks on board, towels, and snorkeling gear. One thing to plan for: the tour price does not include the fuel surcharge, so your final total will be higher once you add that.

Because this is a marine day, the experience needs good weather. If conditions are poor, the day can change, or the provider will offer another date or a full refund.

Key things to know before you go

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - Key things to know before you go

  • Private boat format (up to 6): your group only, not a mixed crowd.
  • Blue Cave with swimming time: plan to use the included towels and snorkel kit.
  • Lopud as a highlight: sandy beach time plus a chance to stroll the town.
  • Multiple islands in one day: Lopud, Šipan (Suđurađ), and Koločep (Kalamota).
  • Drinks included on board: water, wine, beer, and soft drinks.
  • Fuel surcharge + optional upgrades: your extras can add up if you say yes to everything.

A private boat day: what the Elafiti Islands format does well

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - A private boat day: what the Elafiti Islands format does well
This tour is built for a classic Dubrovnik day trip goal, see more than just the city, without losing the comfort of being on the water. The routing hits the big shoreline islands in the Elafiti group, so you get that “islands off the coast” feeling fast.

I like that the schedule mixes picture-perfect stops with real time to do stuff. You are not just taking photos from the boat. You are expected to swim, snorkel, and enjoy beach time.

More Blue Cave boat trips:

Price and logistics: where the value is, and where costs rise

The listed price is $600.11 per group for up to 6 people, about an 8-hour day. That can be good value if you travel in a small group, since you are splitting a private boat cost rather than paying per person for a crowded cruise.

What you get in the base price helps justify it: drinks on board (water, wine, beer, soft drinks), towels, and snorkeling equipment, plus floaties. If you plan to swim and snorkel anyway, those “extras” are the sort of things that would cost more if you booked them separately.

Two cost points to keep in mind:

  • A fuel surcharge of €120 per booking is not included.
  • Lunch is not included, even though the skipper may take you to a restaurant option during the day.

Optional add-ons can also add up, like a wine tasting, SUP, GoPro, drone filming, or extra fruit. If you want a low-stress day with minimal surprises, decide in advance what you truly want.

The 8-hour rhythm: how to think about time on multiple islands

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - The 8-hour rhythm: how to think about time on multiple islands
This is an “island sampler” day, not a slow cruise. Each stop is fairly time-boxed, with a mix of swimming time and short town or village breaks.

That approach works best when you show up with a simple plan: swim first at stops where the conditions look good, then use land time for walking and photos rather than trying to do a long checklist. Your skipper’s job is to keep the day moving while still letting you enjoy the water.

If you tend to get hangry fast, plan for lunch to be a separate decision. If you like to linger, note that the day still has multiple stops, so you’ll want to choose what you extend when the moment feels right.

Blue Cave stop: why the light matters and how to make it count

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - Blue Cave stop: why the light matters and how to make it count
The Blue Cave is popular for a reason. Sunlight enters the opening and reflects through the cave water, creating that electric blue look that makes people want to swim right away.

This stop is short, around 20 minutes, and the time is there for a quick swim or snorkel and a good look from the water. Since the cave experience depends on conditions, take it as “time to enjoy,” not “time to perfect.” If the water and light are working, go in and enjoy the moment.

Practical tip: put on your snorkel gear early, so you lose less time to changing and getting settled. Also, bring a waterproof approach for your phone or camera, even if towels are provided.

Sunj Beach on Lopud: sandy water where you can actually relax

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - Sunj Beach on Lopud: sandy water where you can actually relax
On Lopud, the schedule includes Sunj Beach for about 1 hour. This is the type of beach day that feels restorative, because the water is described as shallow and calm, with clear sea views.

A sandy beach plus calm water usually means an easier swim and less stress than rocky coasts. It is also a nicer choice for snorkeling, because you can spend time without feeling like every wave is a workout.

The beach area is set up for comfort, with things like beach bars and restaurants. So if your group wants a coffee, a snack, or an adult drink after swimming, you can usually find that kind of convenience on site.

Lopud Island town time: what you do on land (and why it’s worth it)

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - Lopud Island town time: what you do on land (and why it’s worth it)
After Sunj Beach, the tour includes about 1.5 hours on Lopud Island, with a chance to enjoy Lopud Town. This is where the day becomes more than “beach and swim.”

Lopud Town has charming stone buildings and a quieter feel than Dubrovnik. You also get historical landmarks you can look for on your walk, like the Franciscan Monastery and the Church of St. Mary.

This is a great fit if you like mixing nature and culture without turning the day into a museum march. The land time is short, so you’ll want to pick a direction and do a loop, rather than trying to see everything in one hour and a half.

Practical tip: comfortable shoes help here. Sun time can leave you with soft sand, but the town streets are the kind where you’ll want traction.

Suđurađ on Šipan: a calmer island village break

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - Suđurađ on Šipan: a calmer island village break
Next up is Suđurađ on Šipan, also about 1.5 hours. This is a peaceful coastal village stop, with a harbor that makes the place feel grounded and local.

You’ll also have a chance to see historical highlights, including a Renaissance-era castle. That kind of structure gives you a focal point for photos, even if you only have time for a short stroll.

Šipan Island is known for olive groves and vineyards, so if you like walking or cycling trails, this stop fits your vibe. And when you think about food, the description points to local cuisine like fresh seafood and locally produced wines and olive oil.

Since lunch is not included in the tour price, this portion of the day is where you’ll likely decide whether to eat on-site or wait for a stop your skipper recommends.

Koločep Island (Kalamota): the greenery and a small Blue Cave moment

Private Full day Elafiti islands and Blue cave tour - Koločep Island (Kalamota): the greenery and a small Blue Cave moment
The day ends with a stop on Koločep, also known as Kalamota, for about 30 minutes. It’s a shorter stop by design, so treat it like a final swim and scenery burst.

Koločep is described as serene, with lush greenery, pine forests, and clear waters. There are sandy beaches for relaxing and swimming, and there is even mention of a small Blue Cave adding charm.

Because your time here is limited, go with a “choose your moment” approach. If you see good water conditions, grab a quick swim. If the light is fading or the water is rough, stay on the shore side and enjoy the views instead.

Skipper matters: why Paulo’s flexibility is a big deal

The biggest difference between a good boat tour and a great one is how the skipper runs the day. Here, that matters because the itinerary includes multiple islands and your best experience depends on the sea and the timing.

One review mentioned Paulo, and the standout theme was flexibility. He adjusted time based on what the group wanted, like spending more time exploring an island versus getting in the water and sunbathing.

That kind of flexibility is not just “nice.” It helps you avoid the frustration of feeling rushed. If your group loves swimming, you can lean into it. If you want more town time for Lopud Town or Suđurađ, you can.

Paulo also explained details about local culture and took the group to a delicious restaurant for lunch. That is a real value add, because lunch planning in a foreign place can be stressful when the day is already packed.

Included gear and drinks: the small comforts that prevent a rough day

This tour includes a set of basics that make the water time smoother:

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Floaties
  • Towels
  • Drinks on board, including water, wine, beer, and soft drinks

Towels and snorkeling gear are a big deal because you do not want to spend your day hunting for rentals or trying to pack your own. Floaties are helpful if your group includes mixed swimmers or you just want an easier time floating.

The drink selection matters too. Wine and beer onboard can make the day feel like a holiday rather than a chore, as long as your group keeps it moderate. Water and soft drinks are included as well, so you can pace yourself.

What to pack for comfort (and for better photos)

Even with towels included, you still want to prep like a swimmer. Bring a swimsuit you can re-wear under dry clothes, and pack a dry set in a bag you can close tightly.

You’ll likely want:

  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Sunglasses with a secure strap
  • A waterproof phone pouch
  • Reef-safe style sunscreen if you have one
  • Light layers for wind on the return

If you care about photos, this tour lists optional upgrades like a GoPro and drone filming, but they are add-ons. If you do not add them, rely on your own camera setup and enjoy the day instead of turning everything into a shoot.

Who should book this private Elafiti and Blue Cave tour

This is a strong choice if you want an active day without doing everything yourself. It works best for groups who:

  • Prefer private over crowded boats
  • Plan to swim or snorkel at least once
  • Want a mix of beaches and a bit of island village atmosphere
  • Like having a skipper who can adjust time

It also fits couples, small families, and friend groups up to 6. Since the tour notes most travelers can participate and service animals are allowed, it is broadly practical for many visitors.

If you hate long days on the water, this might feel like a lot, since you are combining several stops into one day. In that case, consider it only if you truly want the full Elafiti route.

Should you book this tour?

If you want the Blue Cave experience plus multiple Elafiti islands in one day, this private tour format makes a lot of sense. The combination of included drinks, snorkeling gear, and real time at Lopud and Suđurađ gives you a good “value per hour” feel, especially for small groups.

Book it if you’re excited to swim, and if your group likes flexibility from the person driving the day. If you are mainly looking for a long, slow beach day with zero schedule pressure, you may find the multi-stop structure a bit intense.

FAQ

FAQ

How many people are in the private tour?

It is a private tour/activity, and it runs for your group only, up to 6 people.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes a skipper, drinks on board (water, wine, beer, soft drinks), towels, snorkeling equipment, and floaties.

What is not included?

Lunch is not included. A fuel surcharge of €120 per booking is also not included, and there are several optional add-ons like SUP, GoPro, and drone filming.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, and the tour also provides floaties.

Do I need good weather for this tour?

Yes, this experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English and you receive a mobile ticket.

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