Along the Dubrovnik coast with house music, clear Adriatic waters, a route shaped around us and time on Lopud Island.
During our June 2026 trip to Dubrovnik, my partner and I booked a private boat outing with Dubrovnik Boat and our skipper, Ivan. We wanted clear water for swimming, coastal scenery and stops with fewer boats. Ivan planned the route around those preferences, with time ashore on Lopud.
Choosing the Route
The flexibility was the main reason we chose a private boat. Before departure, Ivan asked what we wanted to see and how we preferred to spend the day. We were more interested in quieter swimming locations than in visiting every well-known cave or beach.
He took the number of other boats into account when choosing stops. We could stay longer somewhere we enjoyed or move on when an area felt busy. That freedom was more valuable to us than a fixed list of attractions.
On Board
We played our own house-music playlist as we travelled along the coast. Wine, beer and water were available, and the boat also carried life jackets and masks for looking beneath the water.
The water at our swimming stops was exceptionally clear. Between stops, we could enjoy the views and a drink while Ivan handled the route and timing. The afternoon felt relaxed, with none of the pressure of keeping up with a larger group.
Time on Lopud
On Lopud, we had time to walk along the waterfront and explore some of the stone streets. Going ashore gave the outing a useful change of pace after swimming and travelling by boat.
I bought a Croatia cap as a souvenir and wore it during the rest of the trip. It remains a small reminder of that afternoon.
Travelling with Ivan
Ivan was friendly, attentive and professional. He listened to what we wanted, used his knowledge of the coast to choose suitable stops and gave us space to enjoy the boat. We felt well looked after without the day becoming formal or over-organised.
I would book with Dubrovnik Boat again. The combination of a flexible route and an attentive skipper made this one of the highlights of our stay.
Before You Book
Explain whether you prefer quieter swimming spots, famous caves or more time on the islands. Agree on departure and return times, and confirm which drinks and equipment are included. Ask how weather and sea conditions may affect the route.
I would bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and a waterproof phone case. Comfortable footwear is useful for Lopud, and a light cover-up helps with sun and wind while travelling.
For meals after the trip, see my Dubrovnik dining guide. The Dubrovnik city guide covers the rest of our stay.
Plan Your Trip
Private boat tours and personalised experiences from Dubrovnik
Elaphiti Islands, Mljet, Korčula, sunset cruises and custom routes
Instagram: @dubrovnik.boat
Email: info@dubrovnikboat.com
Telephone: +385 99 3510 459
When enquiring, explain what you would most like to experience, whether that means well-known caves and beaches, time on the islands, swimming locations or a completely personalised route.
Official Website · Instagram · Email Dubrovnik Boat
For the rest of the trip, see my Dubrovnik city guide, including places to stay, eat and swim.
