A Review of the 2025 Mljet & North Elaphiti Private Speed Boat Tour on a Quicksilver 675

You know, there are lots of ways to see the Croatian islands near Dubrovnik. So, you can take a big ferry with hundreds of other people, which is sort of fine if you’re just trying to get from one point to another. Or, you could pretty much join a group tour on a larger boat, which tends to be a bit more scenic. But honestly, for a day that feels completely your own, a private speed boat tour is just on another level. We are talking about the 2025 Mljet and North Elaphiti Private Speed Boat Tour, specifically on the Quicksilver 675 model. This is kind of our deep look into what that day feels like, what you actually see, and whether it’s the right fit for your vacation plans. It’s almost a full-day commitment, so you definitely want to know what you’re getting into, right? This review is basically meant to give you that feeling before you even step on the boat.

The whole idea of a private tour is, in a way, about freedom. You get to decide where you linger and which spots you skip, more or less. Frankly, with the Quicksilver 675, you get a boat that is quick enough to cover a lot of sea but also small enough to poke into secret coves that bigger vessels just can’t reach. The trip itself covers two amazing spots: Mljet, the super green island with its famous national park, and the North Elaphiti islands, which are like these little relaxed getaways. This combination is pretty much a classic for a reason. Still, the experience can change a lot depending on the boat, the crew, and the small details. So, as I was saying, let’s break down what this particular 2025 tour package genuinely offers, from the moment you meet your skipper to the final quiet ride back to the mainland as the sun gets low in the sky.

First Impressions: The Quicksilver 675 and Your Skipper

Okay, so your day usually starts at a pre-arranged port, often the one in Dubrovnik or a nearby location. Seeing the Quicksilver 675 for the first time is, frankly, a nice moment. It’s not a massive yacht, so don’t expect that, but it has this very sleek and modern look. The ‘675’ in its name basically refers to its length, about 6.75 meters, which is kind of the perfect size for a couple, a family of four, or a small group of friends. The boat seems really well-maintained, typically sparkling clean with comfy-looking cushions. As a matter of fact, the initial feeling you get is one of quality and personal space, unlike the often-crowded decks of larger tour boats you see nearby. The bimini top, which is just a fancy name for the sunshade, is usually already up, which is a very welcome sight under the Croatian sun. You could explore details about the boat’s design to see why it feels so well-proportioned for this kind of trip. It just feels right for a day of exploring.

Then you meet your skipper, and honestly, this person is arguably the most important element of your entire day. On our trip, the skipper was a local guy who was just incredibly friendly and spoke really good English. You know, a good skipper is more than a driver. This person is your guide, your local expert, and in a way, your host for the day. They should give you a quick but thorough safety briefing, show you where everything is on the boat, and then, right away, start a conversation about what you want from the day. A great skipper will immediately ask, “So, what are you in the mood for today? More swimming? More sightseeing? A long lazy lunch?” This really sets the tone that the day is, pretty much, all about you. At the end of the day, their local knowledge is what turns a good trip into an amazing one; they know the best, most secluded spots to drop anchor, which you can read about in guides covering the importance of experienced skippers. It’s a very different vibe from just being a passenger.

Alright, so once you are settled in and the cooler is checked for cold drinks (usually water, soft drinks, and maybe a local beer or two are included), the real fun begins. The skipper gets clearance, and you slowly motor out of the harbor. This part is actually pretty cool because you get a waterside view of Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls, which is a perspective most people don’t see. Then, once you’re clear of the harbor traffic, the skipper opens up the throttle. The feeling of the Quicksilver 675 picking up speed is so exciting. The bow rises a little, and you are just gliding across the deep blue Adriatic. It’s not a bumpy ride; the boat handles the waves really well. You’re heading out to sea with a whole day of possibilities ahead, and that feeling is, like, absolutely fantastic. Now, the itinerary for the boat trip can be somewhat flexible, which is something your skipper will definitely talk to you about.

Heading to the Green Gem: The Mljet National Park Experience

The boat ride over to Mljet island is, like, a big part of the adventure itself. Depending on the sea conditions, it can take around an hour or maybe a little more from the Dubrovnik area. But seriously, it’s not a boring transit at all. You’re out on the open water, with the salty spray in the air and the Croatian coastline getting smaller behind you. You often pass other islands and sailboats along the way. Your skipper will usually point out interesting landmarks. For instance, they might show you the other Elaphiti islands you’ll visit later from a distance. You can just sit back on the comfy seats, feel the sun and the breeze, and watch the world go by. It is just a very peaceful and at the same time exhilarating part of the day. To be honest, finding this kind of serenity is a major reason why people look into booking their own exclusive sea tour away from the masses.

As you get closer to Mljet, you’ll immediately see why it’s so famous. The island is just incredibly green; it is basically a floating forest. More or less 70% of the island is covered in pine trees and oak. The boat will usually pull into one of the small harbors like Pomena or Polače, which are the main entry points to the Mljet National Park. Right away, you notice how quiet it is. The vibe is so different from the energetic buzz of Dubrovnik. Here, it’s all about nature. The skipper will help you dock and then give you the rundown on what to do. You’ll have to pay an entrance fee to the park, so it’s a good idea to have some cash (Croatian Kuna or Euros) with you, as card machines in smaller places can be a bit unreliable. Your skipper typically gives you a few hours of free time here to explore on your own, which is really great. This freedom to explore at your own pace is a huge plus, something you rarely get on more structured excursions you’ll find when you research things to do on the island.

“Mljet isn’t just an island; it’s a feeling. The silence of the salt lakes, broken only by the chirping of crickets, is something you carry with you. It feels ancient and untouched, even with visitors around.”

So, what do you do with your time in the park? The main attractions are, of course, the two saltwater lakes: Veliko Jezero (Large Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). They are connected to the sea by a tiny channel, but they feel like their own little world. You can actually walk or rent a bicycle to go around the larger lake, which is a beautiful path under the shade of pine trees. The water in the lakes is usually a few degrees warmer than the sea, which makes it perfect for a swim. In the middle of the Large Lake, there’s a tiny island, St. Mary’s Islet. It’s almost like a picture from a storybook. On this islet, there is an old 12th-century Benedictine monastery which is now a restaurant. You can take a small solar-powered boat (the ticket is usually included in your park entrance fee) to get to the islet. It’s definitely worth seeing, both for the history and the incredible views. There are several guides on making the most of your monastery visit, so a quick read beforehand might be helpful.

Frankly, our recommendation for Mljet is to just embrace the slow pace. Don’t try to rush everything. Pick one main activity. If you love swimming, just find a quiet spot along the lake shore and relax. If you’re more active, renting a kayak to explore the lakes is a fantastic option. You get a totally different perspective from the water. Or, you know, just take that lovely walk around the lake. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes, your swimsuit, a towel, and some sunscreen. Your skipper will be waiting for you back at the boat at a pre-agreed time. That feeling of coming back from your little adventure and hopping back onto your own private boat is pretty awesome, to be honest. It is that kind of seamless comfort that really defines the experience when you plan your perfect day in Mljet National Park.

Island Hopping the Northern Elaphitis: Šipan, Koločep, and Lopud

After your peaceful time on Mljet, the next part of the day is often about island hopping through the North Elaphiti archipelago. You know, these islands are much closer to Dubrovnik and each has its own unique character. The great thing about your private tour on the Quicksilver 675 is that you can pretty much choose your own adventure here. As a matter of fact, your skipper will likely give you suggestions based on the time and your interests. You probably won’t have time to fully explore all three of the main inhabited islands—Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—so it’s about picking one or two spots to really enjoy. Do you want to see a famous sandy beach? Or would you prefer to explore a sleepy fishing village? Your call, really. The flexibility is a massive advantage compared to a fixed tour where you’re just herded along; it is what makes this kind of customizable Elaphiti adventure so special.

Let’s talk about Šipan for a moment. It is the largest of the Elaphiti islands and, in some ways, the most grand. It has a very interesting history. Back in the day, it was a favorite summer retreat for the wealthy families of the Dubrovnik Republic. You can still see some of their old, slightly crumbling, but still beautiful summer residences there. The island has two main villages, Šipanska Luka and Suđurađ, both of which are just very charming and quiet. Šipan is covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it has a very authentic, lived-in feel. It’s a great place to stop for a coffee or even lunch at a local “konoba” (a traditional Croatian tavern). It’s not a party island at all; it’s where you go to kind of step back in time. Honestly, if you’re interested in a bit of history and authentic island life, asking your skipper to make a stop at Šipan is a great choice, something many travelers suggest when you read about the best things to see on Šipan.

Next up is Koločep, which the locals often call Kalamota. It’s the island closest to Dubrovnik, and it’s completely car-free, which gives it a very relaxed atmosphere right away. Koločep is known for its pretty coves and a number of sea caves along its coast. The most famous is the Blue Cave. With a small boat like the Quicksilver 675, your skipper can often get you right up to the entrance. You can then swim inside. The way the sunlight filters through the water and reflects off the cave walls, creating this incredible blue light, is just stunning. It’s a really popular spot for a swimming and snorkeling break. Besides the cave, the island itself is lovely to see from the water, with its cliffs and lush pine forests that go right down to the sea. Making a short stop for a swim in the Blue Cave is often a highlight, and you can find lots of great pictures and stories about the Koločep cave experience online.

Finally, we have Lopud. Lopud is arguably the most famous of the three, mainly for one reason: Šunj beach. While most beaches in Croatia are pebbly, Šunj is a beautiful, large crescent of fine sand. The water here is also very shallow for a long way out, making it absolutely perfect for families with kids or for just relaxing and playing in the water. To get to the beach, you usually dock in Lopud’s main harbor and then you can either walk across the island (it’s a nice 20-25 minute walk) or take a small golf cart taxi for a small fee. The village of Lopud itself is also very pretty, with a lovely seafront promenade, some nice cafes, and a Franciscan monastery. Because of Šunj beach, Lopud tends to be the busiest of the three islands, but for many, the sandy beach experience is totally worth it. It’s a nice contrast to the quiet of Mljet or Šipan and makes for a perfect final stop before heading back. People often share tips about visiting Šunj beach for the perfect afternoon.

Onboard Comfort and the Quicksilver 675’s Strengths

You know, you spend a whole day on this boat, so how comfortable it is really, really matters. The Quicksilver 675 Sundeck model, which is often used for these tours, is actually very well designed for a day trip. The front of the boat has a huge cushioned sundeck area. This is basically the prime spot for sunbathing and enjoying the views while you’re cruising. It’s big enough for two or three people to lounge on comfortably. Then, in the back, behind the skipper’s console, there is a shaded seating area with a small table. This is perfect for when you want a break from the sun or when you’re having a snack or a drink. The boat, frankly, has a really smart layout that gives you options, which is so important over a long day. Having both sun and shade available at all times is a small detail that makes a huge difference, a feature highlighted in many reviews on the comfort of the Quicksilver 675.

Let’s talk about the little things, the amenities that make the day so much better. Most of these private tours on the Quicksilver 675 come with a few key features. As I was saying, there’s usually a small refrigerator or a good-sized cooler onboard, stocked with complimentary bottled water and maybe some soft drinks or beer. Having ice-cold drinks readily available all day is just fantastic. They also provide all the snorkeling gear – masks and snorkels. So, every time you stop in a beautiful bay, you can just grab a mask and explore what’s under the water. Another feature that is honestly a game-changer is the freshwater shower. At the back of the boat, there’s a small shower head with fresh water so you can rinse off all the salt after a swim. It feels so good to not have to sit around feeling salty and sticky. These little comforts, like, really add up to create a premium feel. When booking, it’s a good idea to confirm which specific onboard amenities are included in your tour package.

The boat’s performance is also a key part of the experience. The Quicksilver 675 is known for being a very stable and dry boat, which means you don’t get tossed around too much and you don’t get constantly sprayed with water, which can get annoying on some other boats. It is typically powered by a good Mercury outboard engine, often around 150-200 horsepower. This gives it enough power to get up to speed quickly and handle the open sea between Dubrovnik and Mljet with confidence. It’s fast enough that you don’t waste your day just traveling, but it’s not so aggressively fast that the ride is uncomfortable. It just feels very secure and capable, which lets you relax and enjoy the scenery. This balance of speed and stability is one of the reasons it is such a popular choice for day charters and coastal exploration in the region.

Creating Your Perfect Day: Customization and Tips

The single best thing about a private tour like this one is, seriously, the ability to customize it. You are not on a rigid schedule. You’re the boss for the day, more or less. The proposed itinerary of Mljet and the Elaphitis is a classic for a reason, but you can totally tweak it. For example, if you get to Mljet and just fall in love with the quiet lakes, you can ask your skipper to stay there longer. Maybe you just want to spend the entire afternoon swimming and snorkeling. That is perfectly fine. On the other hand, if you’re more into exploring the villages of the Elaphiti Islands, you can choose to shorten your time on Mljet and spend more time island hopping. A good skipper will be completely flexible and will actively help you plan the best day for you. This collaborative approach is what truly sets it apart from group tours, where you just follow the crowd, which is a point many make when discussing the key advantages of personalized travel.

So, what could a perfect day look like? Here’s a sample idea. You could start around 9:00 AM, heading straight for Mljet to arrive before it gets too busy. You could spend about three hours there, maybe renting bikes to cycle around the large lake and taking the boat to St. Mary’s Islet. Around noon or 1:00 PM, you could get back on your boat and head towards the Elaphiti Islands. Now, it is time for a decision about lunch. You can ask your skipper for a recommendation. They know the best seaside restaurants, or ‘konobas’, on islands like Šipan or Lopud. Some of these are hidden gems that are only accessible by boat. Having a fresh, grilled fish lunch with a view of the sea is an incredible experience. This is