Fast water, slow island moments. This private speed-boat day from Dubrovnik lets you hop between the Elaphiti Islands—Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep—with time to choose how long you want at each stop, plus snorkeling gear and drinks onboard.

I especially love the built-in comfort: there’s a sundeck with a shade setup and a fridge, so you’re not baking while you bounce between coves. I also like that Lopud is more than a beach stop—plan for sandy time at Šunj and a visit up to the Temple of Sun.

One possible drawback: the boat ride can feel bumpy, and you’ll be entering water in slightly awkward cave/beach spots, so good swimming comfort helps.

Key highlights worth planning around

• Private group size (up to 6) means a calmer day and easier coordination around swims and photo stops.
• Choose your stop time at islands, so you can go long on beach time or keep moving for more sights.
• Lopud’s mix of sand, old stone lanes, and forest paths makes it feel like a true island escape, not just a transfer stop.
• Snorkeling equipment is included, which helps you get more from Koločep’s clear water and coves.
• Onboard wine and beer (plus water and soda) keeps the mood relaxed while you coast between islands.

Why this speed-boat loop beats a ferry day

If your plan is Dubrovnik sightseeing plus island time, a speed boat is a smart shortcut. You trade some sitting and waiting for motion—and that motion is exactly what you need to reach coves and viewpoints on the Elaphiti Islands without losing half your day.

The route is designed for variety. You get an island with classic sandy beach time (Lopud), one with calmer small-port life and big olive production (Šipan), and one that’s made for swimmers and people who like exploring rocky edges (Koločep). Each stop has a different “feel,” so you don’t get the same postcard over and over.

One more practical perk: with a private group capped at 6, you can actually spend time where you want—on a beach, in shade, or lingering near the boat while others take a swim. That freedom matters when the weather shifts or when someone in your group needs an extra minute.

Lopud Island: Šunj beach, old lanes, and the Temple of Sun

Lopud is usually the island people remember. It’s known for sandy beaches, rocky paths through older forest pockets, and scenic walks that mix olive groves and vineyards. If you like wandering but still want an easy place to land for a swim, this is the balance.

Your stop here can stretch based on whether you booked a shorter or longer tour. Even better, you can choose how long you stay on this stop, so you can build your day around either:

• a long, laid-back beach session at Šunj, or
• a “walk and explore” block through the island’s old stone houses and historical feel.

Here’s the Lopud detail I’d plan for: the island is home to one of the oldest botanic gardens in Europe. Even if you don’t treat it like a museum, it’s a great change of pace from salt air and sun. You also get the fun local oddities—Lopud is known for the oldest palms in Europe growing.

Then there’s the viewpoint stop: a museum called the Temple of Sun. The effect inside is described as different shades moving around as you walk in, which makes it feel more like an experience than a quick photo stop. If your group likes small surprises, this is a good place to slow down.

Food and drinks are easy to find because Lopud is inhabited. You’ll find places to grab cocktails, meals, olive oil, and local wine. That matters if you want the boat day to end with something more than snacks on the deck.

One caution: the boats can be bouncy, and Lopud’s best lounging tends to involve walking a bit from wherever you park/land. If you have mobility constraints, you’ll want to decide early whether you’re prioritizing sand time over walking.

Šipan: olive trees, late-Gothic landmarks, and fishing-port life

Šipan is a different kind of island. It’s the biggest of the Elaphiti Islands and is noted for being in the Guinness book for the biggest number of olive trees on one island. That olive focus shows up in the whole vibe—less resort energy, more “how people live.”

Your stop is flexible here too. You can keep it simple—coffee and rest in the old fishermen’s port—or add a short sightseeing walk. The best part is that the island still feels less commercial, because some areas are far from Dubrovnik and tourism never fully took over.

For sights, keep an eye out for the late-Gothic Rector’s Palace and the ruins of archbishop’s palaces. Even if you just glance at them from the right angle, they help explain why Šipan was once a chic summer getaway for Dubrovnik families who built villas.

The port area around Suđurađ is where Šipan really breathes. You’ll see fishing boats, stone houses, and the sense of daily routines—small and big boats coming and going, plus children selling seashells at the port. If you want a taste of island life without leaving the boat day, this is your stop.

Two “wealthy family” anchors are also mentioned. There’s the castle of the Stjepović-Skočibuha family, dating to the 16th century, and next to it a defensive tower built against pirates. If your group likes history, this is where you’ll feel it most without needing a full walking tour.

Koločep (Kolocep): caves, clear water, and snorkeling time

Koločep is the stop for swimming and exploring rocky edges. It’s known for clear sea and for being a great place to spot fish and seashells. If you pack yourself for a water-focused day, this is where the time should go.

You’ll likely get the most movement here: the island offers small coves, high cliffs, and hidden caves. The tour description also notes an opportunity to explore underwater—so treat Koločep as your main snorkeling-and-swim block.

There’s also time for a short beach break, which is good because even the best swim spots can start to feel repetitive if you don’t take breaks. The tour description even points to a small walking angle: you can walk through Gornje and Donje Celo, which are typical Mediterranean settings in south Dalmatia.

A fun planning detail: Koločep is described as having about 250 sunny days per year. That doesn’t guarantee perfect weather on your date, but it helps explain why the island feels so “made for summer” when conditions are good.

If you’re bringing goggles or fins, you don’t need to worry too much—snorkeling equipment is included. Still, the caves and rocky entries can require care. If someone in your group is nervous about water entry, it’s smart to decide as a group how aggressive you want to be with cave swims versus calmer coves.

What’s actually included on board (and how to use it well)

This tour is set up to make your sea time comfortable and easy. Included basics:

• Sunshade and a sundeck
• A fridge (so drinks stay cold)
• Bottled water plus soda/pop
• Wine and beer
• Snorkeling equipment

That combo matters more than it sounds. On a speed boat day, you’re exposed—wind, sun, salt. The shade and cold drinks help you keep energy so you don’t feel fried halfway through the day, especially if you choose longer stops.

The drinks being included also changes the tone. This isn’t a strict, “line up and move” excursion. It’s more like a guided island day where the captain keeps things safe and timed, while you focus on swimming, spotting coves, and taking in views.

One practical detail: swimsuite is not included, so you’ll want to bring it (or plan to buy one locally before you go). Also, consider water shoes if you’re the type who hates slippery stone edges—no shoe gear is listed as included, so bring what you need for comfort.

Price and value: $720+ for up to 6 people

The price is listed as $720.84 per group, up to 6 people. On paper, that can look high if you compare it to a bus ticket. But you’re not paying for a seat—you’re paying for a private boat and a day that includes transport, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

Here’s the value math you can do fast: if you fill the group (6 people), the cost per person drops a lot. If you only have 2, the per-person number jumps, so it’s better suited to friends, families, or small groups where everyone chips in.

Think of it this way:

• If you’d otherwise pay separately for a boat, snacks/drinks, and equipment, this starts to look more reasonable.
• If your group wants a calmer experience than crowded public boats, private can be worth it even before you factor in comfort.

The biggest “hidden value” is control. Because you can choose time at stops, you’re paying for a schedule that fits your group instead of forcing everyone into the same pace.

Timing, waves, and why the ride matters

The tour duration is listed as 4 to 8 hours, and stop time depends on which option you pick. The key thing for planning is that you can spend longer at Lopud (or other stops) if you prefer a slower island rhythm.

From the experience notes, the speed boat is fun but can be bumpy. That’s not surprising on an open-water route around islands. If you get motion sick easily, this is your main “consideration” for deciding whether a speed boat is your style.

Also, entrances to certain cave or swim spots may not be wide or easy. One review specifically points out that the entrance isn’t big, so I’d treat cave swims as a “go at your comfort level” activity. If you’re confident in the water, you’ll likely enjoy it more. If not, you can still get plenty of swim time elsewhere on the route.

Guides: the difference between a good trip and a great one

One of the strongest themes from the experience is how much the captain/guide shapes the day. Names that came up include Eric, Rocco, Roko, Tito, Mark, Ivan, and Luca. The standout pattern is clear: guides who chat, share tips, and pay attention to comfort make the whole trip feel more personal.

For example, one captain was praised for English skills and for anticipating comfort—instantly handing over a windbreaker when someone got cold. That kind of attention sounds small, but it changes how relaxed you feel.

If you’re booking and you have a preference, this is the one “ask” worth making: ask for Eric if that option is available through the operator. The praise for his friendly, knowledgeable approach is strong, and that can help you get more out of cave swims and island viewpoints.

Who should book this speed-boat Elaphiti day?

This tour fits best if you want an island day that feels like you’re doing something, not just watching. It’s ideal for:

• couples and friends who want swimming + scenery
• small groups who can fill a private booking up to 6
• people who care about comfort (shade, fridge, and drinks are included)

It may be less ideal if:

• you struggle with motion or rougher boat rides
• your group expects an easy, fully accessible beach-only itinerary (some spots involve rocky approaches)
• you want long, structured walking tours on land (this is more about water time and island stops than deep museum circuits)

Should you book? My call

If your dream Dubrovnik day includes speed-boat freedom, cave and cove swims, and a route that mixes sand, old stone islands, and viewpoints, I think this is a great choice. The included drinks, shade, snorkeling gear, and the private up-to-6 size all push the experience into the “worth it” category—especially if you can fill the group.

Just be honest with yourself about two things: motion comfort and water confidence at cave entries. If you’re good on both, you’ll likely love how quickly the Elaphiti Islands start feeling like your own.

FAQ

How many people are in a private booking?

This is a private tour/activity, and the maximum group size is 6 people per booking.

How long is the speed-boat tour?

The duration is listed as 4 to 8 hours (approx.), depending on the option you choose.

Can I choose how long to stay at each island stop?

Yes. At least at Lopud, the stoppage time depends on whether you booked a shorter or longer tour, and passengers can choose how long they want to stay at that stop. The same idea of choosing time for the stops is described for the islands as well.

Which islands are included?

The route includes Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep.

Where do we meet in Dubrovnik?

The start is at Yacht Club Orsan, Ul. Ivana pl. Zajca 4, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is pickup included?

Pickup is offered. It’s included for locations further than 1 km from the starting point, and the operator says they can pick you up if you’re staying in the City of Dubrovnik area.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are pickup/drop-off, taxes and fees, a sunshade, fridge, sundeck, alcoholic beverages (wine, beer), bottled water, soda/pop, and use of snorkeling equipment.

Do I need to bring a swimsuit?

Yes. A swimsuite is not included, so you’ll want to bring your own.

What if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

If you want, tell me your travel month and whether your group includes kids or anyone who gets motion sick, and I’ll suggest which duration (4 vs 8 hours) fits best.

You Might Also Enjoy

2H Private Cruise on a beautiful wooden speedboat on Lake ComoRovinj: Lim Fjord & Rovinj islands Speedboat TourSplit: Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Speedboat Tour – Small groupHalf Day Speedboat Tour to Three Islands from Trogir