7 BEST Dubrovnik Boat Tours In 2026 (To Elaphiti Islands & Beyond!)

Last updated on June 1st, 2026 at 05:19 pm

Looking for the best boat tours from Dubrovnik this summer? You’re in the right place! Exploring the coastline by boat is one of the highlights of visiting this part of Croatia!

Dubrovnik is known for its wonderful location along the Adriatic coast with lush island scenery and clear turquoise waters, and a boat tour from Dubrovnik’s Old Town harbour makes it super easy to get out there and do some serious exploring and island-hopping – it’s one of the best ways to spend your time!

Whenever I’ve stopped in Dubrovnik (several occasions now), I always make sure to book a boat trip, there are so many incredible places nearby, including the stunning National Park on Mljet Island and the Elaphiti islands, my personal favourite area to visit by private boat tour away from the crowds for the most special day out with your loved ones!

Below, I’ll share the best Dubrovnik boat tours and my top picks, here are the sea escapes worth your time!

Best Boat Tours From Dubrovnik (My Top Picks)!

Short on time? These are the Dubrovnik boat tours I’d personally recommend booking first!

• Best Overall – Private Elaphiti-Islands
• Best Adventure – Mljet National Park
• Best Luxury Experience – Private Yacht Charter
• Best Sunset Tour – Private Sunset Cruise

Visiting Dubrovnik between June and September? The best boat tours often sell out several days ahead – especially private Elaphiti Islands tours and sailing trips.

THE 7 BEST BOAT TOURS FROM DUBROVNIK CROATIA

1. ElaPHiti Islands FULL-DAY PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT TRIP

• Tour Length: 8-hrs
• Tour Type: Private – custom (max 7 people)
• Best for: Luxury & scenery!

Island-hopping the scenic Elaphiti islands is one of the most popular things to do off the coast of Dubrovnik, and this private boat tour in Dubrovnik is one of my personal favourites in the region for visiting tranquil bays, authentic villages, crystal clear water swim spots and beautiful secluded waterfront restaurants for lunch like BOWA on beautiful Sipan Island – with their dreamy overwater cabanas!

A private boat tour from Dubrovnik town harbour is by far the best way to experience the coastline of Dubrovnik away from the tourist trail and overcrowded boat excursions – you’ll have the chance to visit places only accessible by boat (around 6 or 7 spots), including perfect beach coves on unspoilt Kolocep Island and stop for as long as you like as the itinerary is fully customisable! Check availability for this private islands boat trip!

For all island lovers, this is easily one of the most picturesque boat trips in Croatia – especially if you want a more stylish and relaxed alternative, I personally think private boat tours around Dubrovnik are absolutely worth it for the flexibility, quieter swimming spots and a calmer atmosphere!

This full-day Elaphiti Islands private speed boat tour includes:

• Speed boat
• Fully customised service
• Ice-box full of drinks (alcohol & soft)
• Floating devices
• Snorkeling masks
• Towels

See the full Elaphiti boat tour details & secure your spot in advance!

My favourite Dubrovnik boat trip: If I could only recommend one boat tour, it would be the stylish private Elaphiti Islands trip. It felt far more relaxed and exclusive than the larger speedboat tours, and swimming in the quiet coves around Sipan and Kolocep was honestly one of my favourite experiences in Croatia – and the incredible lunch spot at BOWA (see above pic!)!

2. Mljet National Park FULL-DAY SPEEDBOAT (SMALL GROUP)

• Tour Length: 10-hrs
• Tour Type: Small group (capped at 12 persons)
• Best For: Secret adventures!

A top adventure-style speed boat tour that takes you across to the unique and beautiful island of Mljet, which is almost entirely within the National Park boundaries – famed for its lush green interior, turquoise water lakes and serene atmosphere. You’ll be a little more off the beaten path visiting hidden gems for a more adventurous day out on the water!

Mljet is a totally different landscape from anywhere else near Dubrovnik, it’s truly one of the best boat tours from Dubrovnik for those looking to be active and surrounded by gorgeous unspoilt nature – and this small group tour capped at 12 guests ensures you have a relaxed experience!

At nearly 5,400 hectares of land, you can’t hope to see it all, but you will discover the highlights including the two striking saltwater lakes, hidden Saplunara Beach and the Odysseus Cave, set amongst rocky landscape and the best thing is you’ll see a variety of places by boat and land – you can even hire a kayak, bike or walk along the chalky lake paths – one of my top pastimes of the area!

This boat tour to Mljet National Park includes:

• Speed boat
• Bottled water
• Snorkelling gear
• Wind jackets

View the full Mljet Island tour details & available dates!

Tip! If you’re staying for 3 days in Dubrovnik or more, I recommend including a boat tour into your itinerary on the 3rd day after you’ve finished sightseeing!

3. ELAPHITI ISLANDS (SMALL-GROUP) FULL-DAY SAILING

• Tour Length: 8-hrs
• Tour Type: Small group (capped at 6 people)
• Best For: Scenic sailing days!

If you fancy sailing around the Adriatic’s turquoise waters instead of a speedboat, this Dubrovnik boat tour offers guests a delightful semi-private scenic tour of Dubrovnik’s coast and islands at a slower pace on a beautiful sail boat capped at just 6 people for the upmost comfortable and serene experience – a million miles away from the larger commercial boats!

It’s a boutique-style small group island tour, which usually departs with around five guest (there were only three on my tour) heading towards the stunning Elaphiti Islands of Sipan and Lopud, in the sunshine with a lovely sea breeze and tranquil atmosphere for the ultimate relaxing day out on the water!

I love this sail boat tour from Dubrovnik for simply watching passing landscapes and swimming in secluded bays – the real beauty of this Dubrovnik boat tour is that there’s room for sunbathing on deck, swimming off the boat and stopping for a lovely seaside lunch in Sipan surrounded by olive groves and pretty stone houses!

It’s the ideal choice for those who prefer a more personalised service – all the stops are perfectly timed and depending on the month you might catch one of Dubrovnik’s magnificent sunsets on your return – especially later in the season!

Tip! Couples or honeymooners can reserve the sailing tour privately, it’s well worth the splurge!

This Elaphiti Islands sailing trip includes:

• Sail boat
• Small group (max 6)
• Bottled water
• Snorkelling gear

Reserve your spot on this premium Dubrovnik Islands sailing experience!

If you’re planning several boat trips during your stay, I highly recommend basing yourself in Dubrovnik Old Town for easy access to the old town harbour and excursions. You can read my full guide on where to stay in Dubrovnik here.

4. HALF-DAY BLUE CAVE (SMALL GROUP) LUXURY BOAT TOUR

• Tour Length: 4-hrs
• Tour Type: Small group (capped at 15 people)
• Best For: Half-day adventures!

A very easy and enhanced half-day tour exploring the mystical Blue Cavern with crystal-clear blue waters for swimming just off Dubrovnik’s coast and beautiful beaches and caves of the most popular Elaphiti Islands by stylish speedboat, which is capped at around 15 guests (usually 10) to ensure a social, but not overly crowded atmosphere!

It’s one of the best boat tripss from Dubrovnik for those on a tighter schedule and for solo travellers who want to see more gems in the Adriatic without committing to a full day, with this fixed itinerary you’ll swim in the Blue Cave, Sunj Beach on Lopud Island and my favourite spot on Koločep Island – the scenic caves (around 3 spots)! View the full tour details!

I recommend the morning tour for calmer waters and a more peace away from the full tourist boats, the afternoons tend to be a lot busier in popular spots and in the afternoon you still have time to enjoy lunch and other attractions of Dubrovnik Old Town like the cable car for sunset or walking the walls!

This Blue Cave small group boat tour from Dubrovnik includes:

• Small group (max 15)
• Snorkel equipment
• Drop-off/pick-up
• Complimentary drinks
• Handy AM or PM departures!
• 3 Locations

See availability on this popular half-day boat tour experience!

5. luxury PRIVATE YACHT CHARTER – CUSTOM

• Tour Length: 4-8- Hrs
• Tour Type: Private (12 people max)
• Best For: Luxury Travellers

A top-tier choice for exploring Dubrovnik’s coast, this private luxury yacht charter is fully customisable and is the ultimate way to experience the Elaphiti Islands, hidden gems and secluded beach coves (well away from the typical tourist trail) with the entire boat and crew to yourselves! It offers total flexibility – if you love a swim spot or cove you can stay longer and there’s a spacious and stylish sundeck for relaxing and sunbathing!

You’ll make arrangements beforehand for which islands, attractions, beaches (don’t miss unspoilt Kolocep Island) and even lunch options best suites your style, then leave it to the experts to arrange your perfect trip, but I recommend reserving lunch at BOWA on olive grove Sipan Island it’s a beautiful place, especially if you’re booking a full day tour, which is best to properly explore the coast, relax and make use of the stand-up paddle boards!

This is easily one of the most scenic and luxurious boat tours from Dubrovnik, if you want a more superior and personalised service, you can’t get better than a luxury private charter – it’s my top recommendation for honeymoons and group luxury or celebrations!

This luxury yacht charter from Dubrovnik includes:

• Luxury yacht
• Taxes, fees & handling charges
• Shower & Toilet
• Fully customised service
• Refrigerator
• Water, soft drinks, beer
• Snacks
• Snorkel masks
• Stand-up Paddle Boards
• Scuba Equiment

See summer availability for this luxury Dubrovnik boat tour!

6. PRIVATE SUNSET SAILING & LAPAD

• Tour Length: 2-Hrs
• Tour Type: Private (8 people max)
• Best For: Romantic couples

A relaxing sunset sailing trip is one of the best ways to escape the crowds for a couple of hours at sunset and set sail from Lapad Bay across to Dubrovnik Old Town walls where you’ll see the most magnificent skyline!

This is a great option if you prefer a sailboat to a speedboat for a more relaxing and peaceful venture, you can actually choose between arriving at the Elaphiti Islands or Dubrovnik Old Town, but I prefer the latter as you get to see the walls and rooftops from a totally unique perspective!

The coastline is wonderful at this time, there’s very few boats and you won’t get sunburned, just bring some drinks, snacks, music and a cover up – sometimes the evening air is chilly, but this is one of the best Dubrovnik boat tours for romantic couples!

This romantic sunset sailing Boat Tour from Dubrovnik includes:

• Bottled water
• All fees & taxes

View this sunset sailing boat trip from Dubrovnik!

7. PRIVATE DUBROVNIK SUNSET & PROCESCCO CRUISE

• Tour Length: 1.5 Hours
• Tour Type: Private (10 people max)
• Best For: Romantic couples

This romantic sunset tour cruise is one of my favourite mini luxury boat trips from Dubrovnik, a 1.5hour tour that focuses on the legendary sunsets from Dubrovnik’s coastline, positioning the boat perfectly across Adriatic for the golden hour – a view that’s hard to beat!

It’s a boutique-style experience with your nearest and dearest heading towards the horizon, gliding past the old town walls, in the low light, sea breeze and tranquil atmosphere, it’s incredibly special even though the tour is only short – it’s all about the sunset!

I love this sunset luxury boat tour from Dubrovnik for relaxing and enjoying the scenic setting and breath-taking skyline (see below)! And the beauty of this Dubrovnik boat tour is that it slots perfectly into your evening – bring along your evening cover-up and a playlist to make it extra comfortable and fun!

This Dubrovnik Sunset Boat Tour includes:

• Private luxury charter
• Fuel
• Local skipper
• Snacks
• Unlimited drinks & fine Croatian bubbly

See available departure dates on this private sunset & prosecco tour!

Which Dubrovnik boat tour should you choose?

• Best overall – Private Elaphiti-Islands
• Best luxury experience – Private yacht charter
• Best for couples – Sunset sailing cruise
• Best island-hopping experience – Private Elaphiti Tour
• Best half-day escape – Small group Blue Cave cruise
• Best for nature & adventure – Mljet Island

Why take a boat trip from Dubrovnik?

A boat tour from Dubrovnik is the easiest way to escape the crowds and discover nearby coastal hidden gems – from tranquil islands, over water restaurants to secret swimming spots you can only reach by boat! It’s the perfect complement to cobbled lanes and busy heritage sites, and with departures right from the Old Town harbour, it’s one of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik!

TIPS FOR BOOKING DUBROVNIK BOAT TOURS

When To Visit The Coast

For the best experience, great weather, warm sea and fewer crowds, mid-May to early June or September are the best times to visit Dubrovnik’s coast and islands! July and August is the busiest (private tours are best here) and the off season maybe too cold to swim!

Start Early

Morning boat trips from Dubrovnik typically have calmer water, better swimming with clearer views for photos and best of all fewer crowds around popular spots, plus the sun is not as intense!

Pre-book Tours

If you’re hoping to go on a private Dubrovnik boat pre-booking is best as tours sell out quickly in summer, especially during the peak season late June until August! Secure your Dubrovnik boat trip well ahead to save time and hassle later on!

Check Rental Boat Size

If you want more space, look closely at the maximum guest count of your private or group boat tour, often a boat will feel very busy if it actually reaches max capacity!

Private Boat Tours ARE Worth It!

Private tours are well worth the splurge if you’re travelling as a couple, family or small group. You’ll usually get a far more relaxed experience, more flexibility with swimming stops and the chance to avoid some of the busier crowds around the popular Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave – also you can arrange your own special lunch venue!

Booking Tips

Booking Dubrovnik excursions is easy with Viator and Get Your Guide, I use them constantly as their customer service and cancellation options are fantastic. For example, you can cancel or change dates with just 24 hours’ notice – book your Dubrovnik boat tours securely – and for peace of mind in case your plans alter!

Check Inclusions

Not every boat comes with the same things, some offer towels, a cooler box and drinks while private tours make a point of including a personal guide and fuel (for private boat rentals it’s not a given).

What To Pack

• Chic cover-ups – Hvar sun is strong!
• Waterproof phone case
• Hat, sunglasses, SPF 30-50
• Swimwear and thick towel (for the pebbles)
• Drinks & snacks
• Water shoes for swimming & pebble beaches
• Trainers for National Parks
• Cash & card

BOAT TOURS FROM DUBROVNIK: FAQ

Are boat tours from Dubrovnik worth it?

Yes, boat tours from Dubrovnik are absolutely worth it and are easily one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik. From swimming in the crystal-clear coves of the Elaphiti Islands to visiting incredible destinations like Miljet Island and the Blue Cave, you’ll experience a far more serene and scenic side of Dubrovnik!

What is the best boat tour from Dubrovnik?

The best boat tour from Dubrovnik is the private Elaphti boat tour around the picturesque Elaphiti Islands, which allows you to experience 6 to 7 places – beyond the usual spots of Kolocep, Sipan and Lopud, including hidden-gem beach coves, clear water swim spots and chic overwater restaurants at a calm pace with a lovely atmosphere – overall this is my top day trip from Dubrovnik!

Can you go island hopping from Dubrovnik?

Yes, the best islands to hop around from Dubrovnik for the day are the Elaphiti Islands, a small group if islands just 25 minutes from the shore, which consist of 8 major islands (most visited are Kolocep, Sipan and Lopud) and 5 more smaller islets! I recommend a private boat trip to see more gorgeous secluded bays away from the main islands and tourist trail (most group tours follow the same set route).

Can you go on a boat trip from Dubrovnik to Hvar?

No, a boat trip from Dubrovnik to Hvar would not be worthwhile, as the journey takes around 3-4 hours one way, you will not see much at all given the timings, it will feel very rushed and your boat trip will be more like a taxi service. Hvar is a stunning island and is best explored over a few days!

Is it better to book a private or group boat tour in Dubrovnik?

A private boat tour will give you more space, relaxation and flexibility – if you want to stay in swim spots longer and choose restaurants for drinks or lunch in secret bays, the experience is more calm and you’ll avoid the crowds and waiting around, the splurge is worth it for a touch of luxury, group boat tours are great for solo’s.

What are the best boat tours from Dubrovnik old town?

The best boat tours from Dubrovnik are Elaphiti Islands, specifically unspoilt Kolocep Island and Sipan Island with gorgeous olive groves and stone houses and the blue cave and caverns for swimming, while Mljet Island combines idyllic nature and natural landscapes for a wonderful day out! Departures leave from Dubrovnik Old Town, perfect if you are staying for around 3 days in Dubrovnik!

How far in advance should you book Dubrovnik boat tours?

You should book Dubrovnik boat tours a couple of weeks in advance, especially in the peak summer months when boat trips are among the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik Old Town!

Still planning your itinerary?

Still building your Dubrovnik trip? I’ve linked my most helpful Dubrovnik planning guides below – from where to stay, to day trips, to how to plan your days in the old town!

• Dubrovnik Travel Guide – top tips & need to know for first time visitors!
• Where To Stay In Dubrovnik – the best areas, boutique hotels & luxury stays!
• How To Spend 3 Days In Dubrovnik – top itinerary planning tips for Dubrovnik!
• Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik Old Town – heritage sites, attractions & experiences!
• Day Trips From Dubrovnik – heritage town, islands, & waterfalls worth visiting!
• Best Restaurants In Dubrovnik – from rooftop terraces to hidden gems!
• Day Trip To Cavtat – how to plan your visit & what to see!

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