Dubrovnik looks different when you approach it from the water. This private boat outing pairs dramatic sea views with island time, so you get both city drama and calm coves in one go. I like that it’s built for your group, not a crowded schedule, and it includes alcoholic drinks plus soft drinks so the trip starts feeling like a day out, not a chore.

Two things really stand out: you get snorkeling equipment and you’re served drinks and water aboard. The other big win is the captain energy—people name captains like Matija, Mateo, and Luksa for being professional, helpful, and great at finding swim spots. One consideration: the final cost can rise with the fuel surcharge (higher for full day, lower for half day), and the outing depends on good weather.

Key Points You’ll Care About

• Private for your group: you and your party, not a mixed group packed onto one boat
• Drinks included: soda/pop, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages on board
• Snorkeling gear provided: you can gear up without hauling your own setup
• Captain-led route ideas: islands and swim stops timed for the best use of your hours
• Dubrovnik’s forts from sea level: city walls, Fort Sv. Ivan, and Fort Lovrijenac views
• Fuel surcharge may apply: 90 EUR half day or 120 EUR full day on top of the base price

Dubrovnik From the Water: City Walls and Island Escapes

This tour is one of the simplest ways to see Dubrovnik without spending your whole day walking stairs. From the deck, you get a moving viewpoint: city walls slide past, forts rise out of the water, and islands feel like an instant change of pace.

The day starts with sea-level sights that most people only get to photograph from land. You’ll see the Dubrovnik city walls along with Fort Sv. Ivan and Fort Lovrijenac from the water. It’s the kind of viewpoint that makes you understand why Dubrovnik was built to watch and defend this coastline.

Then the tour shifts into island time. You’ll spend set blocks getting off the boat when it makes sense, with options to swim, walk, or just hang in the sun. The pacing works well if you like a mix: one part “wow, that’s Dubrovnik,” one part “okay, now I want water and shade.”

The itinerary is organized around several islands, with Lokrum, Koločep, Lopud, Šipan, and Sudurad on the menu. Even when you only have an hour here or there, you can still do something: a short hike, a village stroll, or a swim break with snorkeling gear.

Price and Value for a Private Group Boat

Let’s talk about the math, because this tour’s real value depends on how you assemble your group and how long you book.

The base price is listed at $417.74 per group (up to six people). That’s the cost of having a private boat rather than paying per person on a shared tour. In plain terms: if you have a full group, your per-person price drops quickly.

But check the details on the add-ons. A fuel surcharge is listed separately: 90 EUR for a half-day and 120 EUR for a full day. That means your true “all-in” total is the base group price plus whichever fuel amount fits your duration. If you’re traveling for a shorter window, the half-day option can be a smart way to keep costs down while still getting the key viewpoints.

Also note that “up to five” appears in the tour highlights wording, while the price section says up to six. When you book, I’d treat the group cap as “small group, likely 5–6,” and confirm your exact passenger limit with the provider before you lock it in.

If you’re deciding between this and a shared excursion, here’s the reason to lean private: you can spend time at the stops that match your vibe. You’re not forced to move as a pack. With captains named like Matija, Mateo, and Luksa, you’re also buying a lot of on-the-spot decision-making—especially when it comes to where to swim.

What the Boat Experience Feels Like (Drinks, Snorkel Gear, and the Captain)

This is a boat tour where the small comforts matter. The tour includes bottled water, soda/pop, and alcoholic beverages. That sounds like a “nice touch,” but it changes the feel of the day. You’re not hunting for drinks at each stop, and you can settle in right away.

Snorkeling gear is included, so you can actually use it. You won’t need to track down masks or wait in line for rentals. That’s especially useful because the best moments for snorkeling tend to be short and weather-dependent. Having gear ready on board means you can take advantage when conditions cooperate.

The boat experience also seems tied to the quality of the captain. Multiple guides are named in feedback: Matija, Mateo, Nichola, Luksa, and Mathia. Common themes show up: clean and comfortable boat, professional and courteous approach, and a willingness to tailor decisions to the group. One person specifically pointed out that the captain picked swim spots and kept things running smoothly.

One practical note: this is a speedboat style experience, so you’ll feel movement. If you’re sensitive to speed or choppier water, plan for that mentally. The trade-off is a big one: you cover multiple islands without the long ferry delays.

Stops That Matter: Lokrum, Koločep, Lopud, Šipan, and Sudurad

The itinerary is designed around islands that give you different options for how you spend your time on land and in the water. Each stop is time-boxed, and most include a free admission ticket note, meaning you generally won’t face surprise entry fees at the named points.

Lokrum Island (about 1 hour)

Lokrum is a nature park with animals like rabbits and peacocks, which makes it feel playful and alive. You can cruise around the island, or you can choose to visit Lokrum directly. If you like simple exploration, this is where you can wander, take photos, and enjoy a quick escape from Dubrovnik’s main crowds.

There’s also the option to explore the fort and monastery areas on Lokrum. Even if you don’t want a long walk, the island’s layout makes it easy to pick a route and move at your own speed within the hour.

Potential drawback: since your time is limited, you’ll have to choose between a swim-focused visit and a land-walk focused visit. If you’re the type who wants both, you’ll still be able to do something, but you’ll likely prioritize one.

Koločep Island and the Blue Cave swim (about 1 hour)

Koločep is built for water time. The highlight here is swimming around the Blue cave area. With snorkeling equipment available, you can gear up and focus on what’s visible underwater rather than just floating.

You’ll get a full hour, which is enough time to warm up, swim, and then decide if you want a second pass. The cave stop is one of those moments where the boat’s positioning matters. A good captain can help you maximize time in the water rather than wasting minutes getting everyone settled.

One consideration: cave areas can be sensitive to conditions. If the water isn’t cooperating, your captain may adjust the plan slightly. That’s not something you can fully control as a passenger, so bring a little flexibility into your expectations.

Lopud: Sunj Beach + a village walk (about 1 hour each)

Lopud splits the day’s island mood. First you hit Sunj Beach on Lopud, with time for sand-and-sun relaxation. It’s a different vibe from the cave swim: slower, more laid-back, and easier if you’re traveling with people who don’t want to snorkel.

Then you move to Lopud’s village area. You can walk through the village, visit the monastery, and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. This is the stop I’d recommend for travelers who want a change of scenery that includes streets and views rather than only water.

Because these are two separate 1-hour blocks, you can structure your time well:

• if you want sun and rest, prioritize Sunj Beach
• if you want photos and strolling, prioritize the village and monastery area

Šipan lunch option (about 1 hour)

On Šipan, the tour includes time framed around lunch. The lunch is optional, with the note that lunch isn’t included in the tour package. If you book a full day, this is a good moment to sit down and reset—especially after two island stops that lean more active.

If you skip lunch, you still have an hour to enjoy the island surroundings. The key is that the tour gives you a real break rather than turning everything into a continuous swim-and-go loop.

Sudurad bay stop (about 15 minutes)

Sudurad is short: about 15 minutes. That means it’s less about a long walk and more about quick views and a quick stretch of legs. If you want a dramatic photo moment or a moment of stillness, this is often where it happens.

Short stop time is a mixed bag. It can feel rushed if you want to explore. On the other hand, it keeps the whole day moving so you still get the big highlights.

How You’ll See Dubrovnik’s Forts and Old Port From Sea

After the island time, the route returns you to Dubrovnik’s coastline with sea-level landmark views. You’ll see the Bay of Lapad, then continue toward the old port area.

From the water, you’ll spot Revelin Fortress from the sea, which gives you a very different angle than a land viewpoint. You’ll also get views of Mount Srd as part of the coastal scenery. The big value here is perspective: Dubrovnik’s defenses and geography make more sense when you see how the shoreline shapes movement.

If you’re someone who likes structure in your sightseeing, this part works. You’re not guessing where to stand for photos or which wall segment to walk to. The boat brings the view to you.

One practical note: since you’re on a boat for several hours, plan for sun and wind exposure. You’ll likely get more sun than you expect, especially if you’re focused on scenery instead of sunscreen.

When Lunch Happens (and When It Doesn’t)

Lunch is optional on the Šipan stop, and it’s not included. That’s a smart setup because it lets you choose what fits your appetite and budget rather than forcing one fixed menu.

Here’s how I’d think about it:

• If your group wants a proper break, use the Šipan hour to eat and slow down.
• If you prefer light snacking, you can skip lunch and use the time for a quick stroll or more relaxed viewing from the boat and shoreline.

Because the tour includes drinks and water onboard, you aren’t left thirsty while you decide. That’s one of the quiet advantages that makes optional lunch feel easy.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private outing works well if you want a mix of iconic Dubrovnik views and island time without committing to a full day of walking. It’s also a good choice for groups who value comfort and control: you’re not stuck waiting for slower moving people, and you can stay aligned with what your group actually wants to do.

It’s especially attractive for:

• couples who want a special day without a shared-group feel
• families or friend groups that can spread the cost across a small headcount
• people who like swimming and want snorkeling gear ready on board
• travelers who prefer sea views for fort and wall photography

If you’re traveling solo and looking for the cheapest option, it may not feel cost-effective. But if you can share with a full group, the private setup makes the pricing easier to justify.

Also, because the tour requires good weather, I’d book it for a day you’re comfortable keeping flexible. Good conditions make the difference between a great day and a “we had to adjust” day.

Should You Book Dubrovnik Boating’s Private Boat Tour?

My take: you should book it if your priority is time-efficient island swimming plus sea-level Dubrovnik landmarks, with drinks and snorkeling gear included. The biggest reasons people love this kind of trip are practical: it’s private, it’s easy, and the captain names coming up—Matija, Mateo, Nichola, Luksa, and Mathia—consistently point to a polished, accommodating experience.

You might skip it if you’re on a tight budget and can’t handle the fuel surcharge possibility. Also skip if you know you’ll hate boat movement or you’re planning for weather that’s unpredictable for your travel dates.

If you want the strongest odds of a great day, go with a full group, keep a little flexibility for weather, and treat the island stops as choices: pick the best match for your mood—swim, stroll, or a bit of both.

FAQ

How long is the private boat tour?

The experience is listed as lasting about 4 to 8 hours, depending on the option you choose.

What is the price and group size?

The price is $417.74 per group, up to six participants. The highlights also mention up to five participants, so it’s best to confirm your exact passenger limit when booking.

What’s included on the boat?

Snorkeling equipment, soda/pop, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are included.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Scalini Palace, Boškovićeva ul. 3, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Does this tour require good weather?

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