Review · PRIVATE

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik

★ 5.0 · 12 reviews 4 to 8 hours (approx.) From $602 Operated by Cavtat Boat · Bookable on Viator
Book on Viator →

Three islands in one outing, built for real sea time. This private boat trip from Dubrovnik mixes cave visits, snorkel time, and long beach breaks, with a skipper who knows where the best moments happen. You’ll also get big-from-the-water views of Dubrovnik’s old harbor and city walls as you cruise between islands.

I especially like how hands-on the water time is, with snorkeling equipment provided on board and plenty of chances to get in the sea. Lokrum gives you that quick-but-memorable cave experience by boat, and Lopud’s Sunj is a proper sandy payoff when you want to slow down.

One thing to plan for: the listed price covers the tour, but there’s extra cash due on the boat for the skipper and a fuel surcharge, and the whole day depends on good weather.

Key highlights you’ll care about

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Key highlights you’ll care about

  • Private pace for up to 8 people, so you’re not stuck waiting on a big-group schedule
  • Lokrum cave by boat, plus time to swim and even jump from the boat
  • Kolocep Blue Cave snorkeling, with gear provided and a spot where you can stand inside
  • Sunj Beach time on Lopud, including a long window for swimming and sunbathing
  • Scenic sea views of Dubrovnik’s walls and harbor, seen from the water, not postcards
  • Towel, mask, and float help, based on what the skipper provides during the swim breaks

Private Three-Island Boat Time from Dubrovnik: What You Actually Get

This is a private, small-group boat day, designed around time on the water rather than nonstop sightseeing. You start at 10:00 am, and the day runs roughly 4 to 8 hours depending on what the sea and weather allow. The boat experience is offered in English, and you’ll use a mobile ticket, which makes the pre-day part fairly painless.

The big practical win is the group size: it’s up to 8 people. That changes the feel of everything. You can spread out on the boat, get your gear ready without crowding, and have your skipper set the rhythm of swim and cave time. You’re not negotiating with ten other decisions happening at once.

Also, the tour includes basics that make the day easier to manage: bottled water, soda/pop, and a restroom on board. Those small items matter more than they sound when you’re out for hours in full sun, salt spray, and wind.

A few more Dubrovnik trips to weigh up

Lokrum Island: Cave Entrance by Boat, Then Swim and Jump Time

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island: Cave Entrance by Boat, Then Swim and Jump Time

Lokrum is the island right in front of Dubrovnik, and it works because it’s close enough to feel easy while still feeling like you’ve escaped. Your first stop is about 30 minutes, and the highlight is entering the Lokrum cave by boat. Even in a short stop, that’s the kind of moment that gives you a story you’ll remember later.

You’ll also have time to swim and jump from the boat. That can mean anything from a relaxed dip to a more adventurous leap, depending on your comfort level. If you’re traveling with kids or mixed-age groups, this stop tends to work well because you can choose your own intensity: quick swim for the confident, easy wading or holding onto the boat for others.

A nice detail here is the admission is free for this stop. So the value is not only in the experience, it’s also in not having extra ticket costs for individual islands.

What to watch for: with only about half an hour, Lokrum is not a “wander around the island all day” kind of stop. This is about being on the water, seeing the cave from the sea, and getting a swim break before moving on.

Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave: Snorkeling Gear, Standing Room, and Cliff-Jumping If You Want It

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave: Snorkeling Gear, Standing Room, and Cliff-Jumping If You Want It

Next comes Kolocep, where the tour leans hard into the water activity. The stop runs about 1 hour, and the big draw is the Blue Cave. The boat has snorkeling gear, so you can actually use it without scrambling for rentals.

Here’s what makes the Blue Cave special in a practical way: you can enter the cave, and you can stand on your feet inside. That matters because it lowers the pressure. You get the cool-cave effect without needing to be a confident deep-water swimmer.

The sea color in this area is described as blue, and the feeling from a cave like this is that you’re looking at light at a different angle. It’s also set up for real underwater viewing time, so if you like snorkeling or want to try it for the first time, this is one of the best moments of the day to do it.

You can also have the option to cliff jump if you feel adventurous. I like that this is framed as optional. You can treat it as a chance to watch and cheer, or you can go for it if conditions feel right.

What to watch for: snorkeling caves can be affected by wind and visibility. If the water is rough, the skipper may adjust the timing. That’s normal for this kind of tour, and it’s one reason you want a day that’s flexible.

The Scenic Cruising Segment Between Islands: Dubrovnik Walls and Old Harbor from Sea Level

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - The Scenic Cruising Segment Between Islands: Dubrovnik Walls and Old Harbor from Sea Level

On the way toward Kolocep, you get something that’s easy to miss if you only see Dubrovnik from land: the panorama of the city walls and the old harbor from the sea. It’s a slow ride meant for photographs, and it’s a good reminder that Dubrovnik is built like a fortress, with views that change depending on your angle.

This isn’t about landing somewhere and walking around. It’s about turning travel time into a photo moment and, honestly, into a mental breather. After cave and swim moments, these quiet cruising stretches help the day feel balanced instead of nonstop.

My take: if you care about photos, don’t rush through this segment. Bring water-resistant phone protection if you have it, and keep your shot list ready so you’re not fumbling around when the best angle appears.

Same coastline, a different sort of day:

Sipan Island: A 30-Minute Cultural-Scenery Stop Up High

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Sipan Island: A 30-Minute Cultural-Scenery Stop Up High

Sipan is the largest island in this group, and it’s also the one that feels more “island life” than “beach day.” Your time here is about 30 minutes, so the goal isn’t a deep hike. It’s a quick look at a different side of the Elaphiti Islands, with the kind of scenery that makes you understand why people settled here.

The highest point is 243 meters (797 feet). You also get a sense of the island’s shape from the way its two limestone crests sit around a dolomite depression, where agriculture has been practiced. The description of what’s grown there is detailed, including olives, figs, vine, carob trees, almond trees, oranges, and citrus fruit.

Even with limited time, that agricultural mix matters. It’s not just rock and sea. It’s the human side of island nature, where the island’s climate supports long-term cultivation.

What to watch for: Sipan is not a long beach stop. If you’re mainly chasing sand, expect this to feel more observational than playful.

Lopud Island and Sunj Beach: Sandy Time, Historic Corners, and Easy Walking

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Lopud Island and Sunj Beach: Sandy Time, Historic Corners, and Easy Walking

Lopud is the payoff island for most people because it combines a little bit of history with a lot of relaxed beach time. Your stop is about 3 hours, which is long enough to swim repeatedly, sunbathe, and still explore on foot.

There are several sights here, including churches from the 15th and 16th centuries. You’ll also pass or peek at the remains of the Rector’s Palace and ruins of a fortress. If you like small, tangible history over big museum stops, these quick views are satisfying because they feel real and close to everyday life.

The Franciscan Monastery overlooking the village is another highlight. From the water and then from the island, you get a sense of how the Elaphiti communities were set up to watch over the sea route.

Then comes the practical best part: Sunj Beach. It’s described as one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the country, and it’s especially family-friendly because the water is shallow and calmer. If you’re traveling with children, Lopud tends to work better than many rocky stop options.

You can also have lunch at local restaurants. A tip from the skipper’s style that I find smart is to let him suggest a lunch spot and, when possible, help with a reservation. This kind of advice can save time and reduce the scramble when you want food without hunting around.

What to watch for: Lopud is the easiest place to lose track of time, because the beach is inviting. Set a rough plan for when you want to go back to the boat, so you don’t end up sprinting at the end of the island segment.

Snorkeling Gear, Towels, Floaties: How Included Extras Change Your Day

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Snorkeling Gear, Towels, Floaties: How Included Extras Change Your Day

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda/pop, and a restroom on board. That’s a solid baseline, but the best part is how that baseline supports an active day without making you work for it.

From what the skipper provides during the swim stops, you may also have towels, masks, and floaties. That’s helpful because it reduces hassle, and it makes the experience more comfortable if you’re not an everyday snorkeler.

Here’s how I think about it for your decision: if you’ve ever had a beach day get ruined by gear issues, broken straps, or not having the right mask size, you’ll appreciate a setup that’s ready when the boat stops.

Also, having float options can make the whole group calmer. When people feel safe, the day becomes more relaxed, not more stressful.

What to watch for: water time means sun exposure. Bring sunscreen and something for your head, and keep your phone packed in a waterproof pouch if you plan to take pictures in or near the cave water.

Price and Value: What $602 Per Group Really Covers

Private Three island Tour from Dubrovnik - Price and Value: What $602 Per Group Really Covers

The price is listed at $602.06 per group, up to 8 people. That sounds high until you translate it into what you’re getting: a private boat day, multiple cave-and-swim stops, and a longer beach window on Lopud. If you’re splitting cost among even a few people, it becomes competitive with the value of a less private option that might give you less water time and more waiting.

Still, there’s a key detail for value and budgeting. The skipper is paid separately, 100 euros in cash on the boat, and there’s also a 100 euros fuel surcharge paid in cash on the boat. That means your total cost depends on those add-ons.

So my practical advice is to do this math before you book:

  • Start with the per-group price
  • Add the cash on-board costs you’ll owe
  • Divide by your group size to see the real per-person number

If you’re the kind of traveler who hates surprise costs, budget the on-board cash first. If you’re traveling with family or friends and you’re excited about the private pace, this is exactly the kind of tour where the cost feels justified.

Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Might Want a Different Day)

This tour fits best if you want a water-focused day with a private setup. It’s especially good for people who:

  • Want cave time without hunting for separate tickets or transport
  • Like swimming and snorkeling, including cave snorkeling where you can stand
  • Prefer a longer beach break over a quick stop-and-go sightseeing day
  • Travel as a small group and would rather have flexibility than a rigid itinerary

It can also work well for families because Sunj on Lopud is described as ideal for children, thanks to the shallow, sandy beach. The swim breaks on Lokrum and Kolocep still offer options for different comfort levels, including floaties and the ability to watch cliff-jumping rather than do it.

Who might think twice: if you only want land walking, history-heavy museum stops, or a full-day island hike, the time at each stop is fairly short. This is a sea day with some island viewing, not a multi-hour island trekking program.

Should You Book This Dubrovnik Private Three-Island Tour?

I’d book it if you want a day that feels like the Adriatic is the main event. Lokrum’s cave entrance by boat, Kolocep’s Blue Cave snorkeling with a standable spot, and Lopud’s Sunj sandy beach together cover three different moods: adventure, underwater curiosity, and relaxed beach time.

I’d hold off if you dislike add-on cash payments or you’re traveling during a time when weather is unpredictable. This is also not a slow walking tour, so if you want long island wandering, you may find the shorter stops a bit limiting.

Best move for your planning: go in with a clear mindset. Bring swim gear readiness, sunscreen, and a willingness to trade some land time for real sea time. If that’s your kind of vacation, this private boat day is a strong choice.

FAQ

How many people are on the private tour?

It’s a private tour, and your group is the only group participating. The group size is up to 8 people.

Where is the tour located?

The tour is in Dubrovnik, Croatia.

What time does the tour start?

The tour starts at 10:00 am.

How long is the tour?

Duration is approximately 4 to 8 hours.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it is offered in English.

What is included in the tour price?

Included items are bottled water, snorkeling equipment, soda/pop, and a restroom on board.

What is not included?

The skipper costs 100 euros paid in cash on the boat, and there is also a 100 euros fuel surcharge paid in cash on the boat.

Are island admission tickets included?

The stop details list admission tickets as free for each island stop mentioned.

What happens if the weather is poor?

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

Where does the tour end?

The activity ends back at the meeting point.

More like this

Private, compared.

The full Private list →
Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Tour from Dubrovnik (Semi-Private)
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 3,125 reviews· from $134

Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Tour from Dubrovnik (Semi-Private)

Read our review →
Blue & Green Caves Private Boat Tour with Drinks
★★★★★★★★★★4.7· 814 reviews· from $73

Blue & Green Caves Private Boat Tour with Drinks

Read our review →
Dubrovnik Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands with Drinks
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 660 reviews· from $386

Dubrovnik Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands with Drinks

Read our review →
Private Tour: Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
★★★★★★★★★★4.5· 495 reviews· from $296

Private Tour: Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Read our review →
PRIVATE Walking Tour of Diocletian’s Palace & Old Town
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 467 reviews· from $240

PRIVATE Walking Tour of Diocletian’s Palace & Old Town

Read our review →
Tour The Game of Thrones – Private Walking Tour
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 464 reviews· from $185

Tour The Game of Thrones – Private Walking Tour

Read our review →
Private Krka Waterfalls tour with 30min Boat Cruse
★★★★★★★★★★4.0· 458 reviews· from $301

Private Krka Waterfalls tour with 30min Boat Cruse

Read our review →
Private Boat Tours to Elaphite Islands
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 437 reviews· from $604

Private Boat Tours to Elaphite Islands

Read our review →
Scroll to Top

Every kind of Croatian day

Boats, waterfalls, walls and wine — and the best of each.