The crystal-clear Adriatic waters around Dubrovnik offer excellent boat tour options, from simple hour-long rides to full-day adventures. The most rewarding experience is the Elaphite Islands cruise, which includes stops at three charming islands, a hearty Croatian lunch, and plenty of swimming time. For those short on time, the glass-bottom boat tours provide fascinating views of marine life while circling the city walls. I especially love the sunset cruises – they’re quieter than daytime tours and offer spectacular photo opportunities of the Old Town’s illuminated walls.
Private speedboat tours give you the freedom to explore hidden coves and less-visited spots, while traditional galleon cruises add old-world charm with their wooden ships and local music. The best cultural experiences combine swimming stops with visits to family-run olive groves and authentic Croatian meals.
Let’s explore the top boat tours that showcase the best of Dubrovnik’s maritime offerings.
Key Points
- Dubrovnik offers a variety of full-day cruises to the Elaphite Islands, with high recommendation rates, lunch, drinks, and personalized experiences for up to 100 travelers.
- Shorter scenic cruises range from 45 minutes to 2 hours, providing panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO World Heritage Site and Old Town landmarks.
- Many cruises offer activities like swimming, snorkeling, and culture experiences, such as olive oil tasting and wine sampling.
- Private and luxury boat tours provide customizable itineraries, small group sizes, and amenities like snorkel equipment, refreshments, and hotel transfers.
- Adventure-focused excursions include speedboat rides to sea caves, biking in Mljet National Park, and fish picnic cruises with local cuisine and drinks.
Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise With Lunch and Drinks
The Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the Elaphite archipelago.
With over 6,600 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this cruise is a highly regarded way to discover the stunning islands of Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a delicious lunch, unlimited onboard drinks, and a knowledgeable local guide. Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing at each island, making the most of the 3-6 hours of free time.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as dietary accommodations, ensure a comfortable experience for all.
While not recommended for those prone to seasickness, this cruise offers an excellent opportunity to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Dubrovnik region.
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Dubrovnik: English Audio Guided 50-Minute Panoramic Cruise
One of the most popular ways to explore the picturesque city of Dubrovnik is the 50-minute English audio-guided panoramic cruise. Priced from $21.12 per person, this small group tour (up to 14 people) offers a glass-bottom boat experience and stunning views of the city walls, Lovrijenac fortress, and Lokrum Island.
The audio guide provides historical context as you snap photos of notable sights like Hotel Belveder and Betina cave. With a convenient reserve-now-pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is a must-do for any visitor to Dubrovnik, offering excellent value and an immersive sightseeing experience.
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Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour From Dubrovnik
Exploring the captivating Blue Cave, nestled along the Croatian coastline, is a must-do experience for visitors to Dubrovnik.
The Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik offers a half-day excursion to this iconic natural wonder. With a maximum of 12 passengers per boat, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the surrounding islands, including Sunj Beach and Kolocep Island. The tour includes alcoholic beverages, snacks, and use of snorkeling equipment.
While swimming skills are required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions. The Blue Cave tour provides a unique and memorable way to discover the natural beauty of Croatia’s Adriatic coast.
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Dubrovnik: 1 Hour Sunset Cruise Around Old City Dubrovnik
A 1-hour sunset cruise around the historic Old City of Dubrovnik offers visitors a unique and breathtaking perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Priced from $26.40 per person, the cruise provides panoramic views of the sunset from the sea, including sights like the ancient City Walls, Lovrijenac fortress, Lokrum Island, and more.
With an English audio guide, guests can learn about the landmarks while snapping photos during the experience. The glass-bottom boat departs and returns to the Old City port, allowing for a complete circle around the historic city.
Rated 4.1/5 based on 16 reviews, this sunset cruise is an excellent way to cap off a day in Dubrovnik.
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Private Boat Tour to Elafiti Islands
Travelers seeking a more personalized experience beyond the Sunset Cruise can embark on a Private Boat Tour to the Elafiti Islands.
This tour offers customizable itineraries with flexible departure times, allowing guests to explore secluded bays, beaches, and caves at their own pace.
With access to unlimited drinks, snorkeling equipment, and an underwater camera, visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel off the Adriatic coast.
The tour also includes visits to landmarks on the Elafiti Islands and personalized service from a private skipper.
At 60 EUR for a half-day or 100 EUR for a full day, this excursion provides excellent value and a truly immersive experience.
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Sightseeing Boat Cruise in Old Town of Dubrovnik
The Sightseeing Boat Cruise in Old Town of Dubrovnik offers a panoramic tour of the city’s iconic landmarks. Lasting 45 minutes and costing $27.45 per person, this cruise provides stunning views of the Old Town city walls, the Lovrijenac fortress (a Game of Thrones filming location), and the picturesque Lokrum island.
Passengers can capture the scenic Adriatic coastline, beaches, and hidden gems along the way. While the guide offers historical and local insights, the booking desk and boat captain communication could use improvement, as highlighted by past customer reviews.
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Full-Day Fun Cruise of Dubrovnik Islands With Lunch
Departing from the Dubrovnik harbor at 10:15 AM, this full-day fun cruise takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Dubrovnik Islands.
With a maximum of 100 travelers, the cruise offers a personalized experience with various amenities, including WiFi, music, towels, and snorkeling equipment.
Lunch options include fish, meat, and vegetarian dishes, complemented by soda and bottled water.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can sit on laps.
Passengers appreciate the friendly staff and the quality of the lunch, though some suggest focusing more on Lopud Island for a better experience.
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Sunset Cruise in Old Town of Dubrovnik
For those seeking a tranquil and picturesque way to cap off their day in Dubrovnik, the Sunset Cruise in Old Town offers an enchanting experience.
This 1-hour cruise departs from the Big pier in Old city port, allowing guests to admire Dubrovnik’s iconic skyline as the sun dips below the horizon. Priced from $40.13 per person, the cruise provides scenic views of Lokrum island and Lovrijenac fortress from the sea, accompanied by a relaxing atmosphere and a local, experienced crew.
Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Based on a 5/5 rating from a single review, this sunset cruise promises a memorable end to any Dubrovnik adventure.
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Elaphite Islands Cruise From Dubrovnik by Karaka
One of the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik is the Elaphite Islands Hopping by Karaka tour.
With a 97% recommendation rate from 795 reviews, this full-day excursion offers a hassle-free way to explore the stunning Elaphite Islands.
Priced from €59.99 per person, the tour includes a licensed guide, transportation, water and a drink, snorkeling gear, and optional activities like hiking, olive oil tasting, and wine sampling.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, comfortable ship, and memorable experiences at each island stop.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this Elaphite Islands cruise is an excellent value for exploring the beautiful Dalmatian coast.
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Dubrovnik: Galleon Cruise With a Live Show & Drink at Sunset
The Dubrovnik: Galleon Cruise With a Live Show & Drink at Sunset offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s stunning coastline in a captivating way.
This 2-hour cruise aboard a traditional galleon ship provides breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the surrounding islands.
Travelers can sip on a complimentary drink while enjoying a live musical performance.
With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 2,186 reviews and a price from $61.24 per person, this cruise is a popular choice for those seeking a scenic and entertaining experience in Dubrovnik.
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Half-Day Private Elafiti Island Boat Tour
Dubrovnik’s Half-Day Private Elafiti Island Boat Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the serene Elafiti archipelago in a personalized fashion.
This highly-rated tour includes snorkeling, swimming in blue caves, and relaxing on secluded beaches, all while being guided by knowledgeable locals.
With a maximum group size of 4, the experience is tailored to guests’ preferences, ensuring an uncrowded and intimate adventure.
The tour provides private transportation, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments, along with an underwater GoPro camera to capture memories.
Reviewers praise the friendly guides, beautiful locations, and overall relaxed atmosphere, making this a standout option for those seeking a private island getaway from Dubrovnik.
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Dubrovnik: a City Tour With a Cruise in Polish
A popular option for exploring Dubrovnik is the Dubrovnik: a City Tour With a Cruise in Polish.
This 4.5-hour tour combines a guided walking tour of the Old Town with a boat cruise around the city’s iconic walls. Visitors can admire Dubrovnik’s picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks, including the Walls of Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island.
The tour is led by a Polish-speaking guide, providing an immersive experience for Polish-speaking travelers. With a 4.7 rating and starting at $47.52, this tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to discover Dubrovnik’s highlights.
Booking through GetYourGuide ensures a seamless experience with over 480 activities available in the area.
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Dubrovnik Sunset Cruise by Traditional Karaka Boat
Sailing aboard a traditional 16th-century replica Karaka ship offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Dubrovnik’s coastline during the golden hour.
This 1.5-hour sunset cruise invites travelers to soak in stunning views of the Old Town walls and Lokrum Island. The experience includes a welcome drink and one additional complimentary beverage, as well as WiFi and an on-board host.
Reviews praise the relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff, though some note occasional issues with commentary clarity.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes those with service animals. Flexibility is offered with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
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Dubrovnik: Full-Day Elaphiti Islands Boat Tour With Snacks
This full-day Elaphiti Islands boat tour from Dubrovnik offers travelers an opportunity to explore the captivating islands that dot the Adriatic Sea. Priced from $59.13 per person, the 8-hour tour has a limited group size of 12 participants and is led by live guides in English, Italian, and Croatian.
Highlights include swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing on the islands of Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud. While lunch isn’t included, the tour provides breakfast snacks and beverages.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 185 reviews, this tour is praised for its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery. However, some initial confusion may arise due to the lack of clear signage at the meeting point.
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Half-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675
For travelers seeking a more personalized and exclusive Elafiti Islands experience, the Half-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675 offers an unmatched opportunity.
With 236 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Guests can customize their adventure, whether it’s sunbathing, snorkeling, or sightseeing, all while enjoying insider knowledge from a personal skipper.
The tour includes snorkel equipment, life jackets, refreshments, and a meal, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. With a 5.0 overall rating, this private speedboat tour promises an unforgettable and hassle-free experience exploring the stunning Elafiti Islands.
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From Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Galleon Cruise With Lunch
Travelers seeking a more traditional Elaphiti Islands experience can embark on the From Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Galleon Cruise With Lunch.
This 8-hour cruise takes guests aboard a majestic galleon to explore the Elaphiti archipelago. Highlights include stops at the charming islands of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, as well as a traditional lunch served on board.
The cruise is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,014 reviewers and is priced from Kč 1,004 per person.
With its historic vessel, scenic routes, and culinary offerings, this cruise provides an enchanting way to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Elaphiti Islands.
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Elaphite Islands Luxury Private Boat Tour With Cap Camarat 7.5
The Elaphite Islands Luxury Private Boat Tour with Cap Camarat 7.5 offers an enchanting way to explore the serene archipelago off the coast of Dubrovnik.
With a 5-star rating and 100% recommendation from travelers, this private tour provides a personalized experience for up to 7 guests.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, towels, fuel, a knowledgeable skipper, and an array of refreshments.
Guests praise the skipper’s ability to customize the itinerary and recommend local restaurants and activities.
The tour is ideal for families, couples, and individuals seeking a comfortable and safe experience, with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring caves.
The recommended duration is 6 to 8 hours for a more comprehensive exploration of the Elaphite Islands.
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Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Boat Cruise With Lunch & Drinks
An affordable and convenient way to explore the beautiful Elaphiti Islands near Dubrovnik is the Elaphiti Islands Boat Cruise. This 8-hour tour, which departs from Dubrovnik, takes visitors to three of the Elaphiti Islands – Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan.
The cruise includes lunch and drinks, allowing travelers to relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery. With a 4.7 rating from over 3,000 reviews and a price starting at €40 per person, this tour offers great value for money.
Highlights include swimming at the Sunj Beach on Lopud Island and exploring the charming towns on each island. The Elaphiti Islands Boat Cruise is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of this picturesque region near Dubrovnik.
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Full-Day Private Boat Tour of Elafiti Island From Dubrovnik
For those seeking a more personalized way to explore the enchanting Elafiti Islands near Dubrovnik, the Full-Day Private Boat Tour offers an exceptional opportunity.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 188 reviews, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Guests can escape the crowds and enjoy a customized itinerary, with the option for underwater photography using a GoPro camera.
The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable skipper, fuel, and complimentary beverages. Travelers can swim, snorkel, or sunbathe at their preferred locations, and explore the islands at their leisure.
The overall 5.0 rating and positive feedback highlight the tour’s flexibility, excellent service, and stunning scenery.
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Dubrovnik Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Departing from Gruž harbour, the Dubrovnik Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a captivating way to experience the city’s coastal beauty.
Priced from €72.00 per person, this 4-hour tour sails past the Dubrovnik Old Town and Lokrum Island, providing stunning sunset views over the Adriatic Sea.
Passengers can relax on board, enjoying an open bar with drinks and snacks, as they watch the ancient stone walls of Dubrovnik illuminate at dusk.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this cruise is a convenient and picturesque way to witness Dubrovnik’s iconic landscapes.
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Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands
Embarking from Dubrovnik, the Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands offers travelers a captivating 10-hour excursion to explore the stunning natural wonders of southern Croatia.
With a maximum of 12 guests, the tour boasts exceptional reviews and a Badge of Excellence. Highlights include swimming in sea caves, biking in Mljet National Park, and snorkeling, complemented by a delicious sandwich lunch.
Led by the knowledgeable and friendly crew of Marko and Suzie, the experience promises breathtaking views, potential dolphin sightings, and personalized attention.
Travelers should come prepared with swimwear, comfortable shoes, and cash for the national park entry fee. This tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.
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Hello Dubrovnik: Cave Boat Tour With Drinks
The Hello Dubrovnik: Cave Boat Tour With Drinks offers a captivating 4-hour excursion from Obala Stjepana Radića, Port Gruž in Dubrovnik.
For $72.86 per person, the tour takes guests on a speedboat ride to the Blue Cave and Green Cave on Kolocep Island, where they can swim, snorkel, and enjoy unlimited drinks.
The tour also includes a visit to Šunj Beach for relaxation and more swimming. With a maximum group size of 6, the tour provides a personalized experience.
Amenities like snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this a convenient and enjoyable option.
However, some reviewers noted the quality of the unlimited drinks could be improved.
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Full-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675
An exclusive private speedboat excursion, the Full-Day Elafiti Islands Tour by Quicksilver 675 offers travelers a personalized and immersive experience exploring the stunning Elafiti archipelago off the coast of Dubrovnik.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides the opportunity to visit the islands of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, where guests can swim, snorkel, and independently explore.
Included amenities such as snorkel gear, an underwater camera, drinks, and a meal enhance the experience.
The tour departs and returns to Dubrovnik, with the fuel cost payable on the day of the tour.
Advance booking is recommended, as this private tour only accommodates up to 6 participants.
Read our full review: Full-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675 Review
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Dubrovnik: Blue Cave Catamaran Tour With Drinks and Snorkel
This 4-hour Dubrovnik Blue Cave Catamaran Tour with Drinks and Snorkel takes travelers on an immersive adventure to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Elaphiti Islands.
For $87.64 per person, the tour includes visiting the Green Cave, Blue Cave, and a hidden gem, where guests can swim and snorkel.
Highlights include navigating the Adriatic with gorgeous views and experiencing the Blue Cave’s natural light show.
The spacious catamaran offers comfortable seating, snorkeling equipment, and complimentary drinks and snacks.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 41 reviews, this tour is a must-do activity for anyone seeking to discover Dubrovnik’s breathtaking coastal gems.
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Fish Picnic: Elafiti Island Hopping Cruise With Home-Made Lunch
A premium three-island cruise from Dubrovnik, the Fish Picnic: Elafiti Island Hopping Cruise With Home-Made Lunch offers travelers an immersive experience exploring the Elaphiti Islands.
Boasting a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this cruise includes a homemade lunch, local wine, and the use of snorkeling equipment.
Travelers can choose from fish, meat, or vegetarian meal options, accompanied by bottled water, soda, and homemade grappa.
The cruise provides ample time to relax and enjoy the island life, away from the crowds of Dubrovnik.
With a maximum of 110 travelers, the experience earns praise for its excellent food, friendly staff, and beautiful island destinations.
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Recap
Dubrovnik offers a variety of boat tours and cruises for visitors to enjoy. From day-long excursions to the Elaphite Islands to sunset cruises around the Old City, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and budget. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day at sea or an adventure to the Blue Cave, Dubrovnik’s boat tour options provide a wonderful way to experience the city’s stunning coastal scenery.