Dubrovnik: Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour

So, you’re considering a boat trip from Dubrovnik that offers more than just pretty views? This Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour promises a blend of scenic beauty, relaxing beach time, and a touch of sailing adventure. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, it packs in enough highlights to satisfy those craving an authentic maritime experience—especially if you love the idea of being on the water instead of just looking at it from land.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized attention from the friendly skippers and guides, making sure your journey feels tailored to your interests. Second, the chance to swim and snorkel in some stunning spots, including the famous Blue Cave, which is often praised for its mesmerizing waters. But keep in mind, if you’re not comfortable on boats or with water, this might not be your perfect fit. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore Dubrovnik’s coast with a relaxed, intimate vibe—perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a taste of sailing without the crowds.

This experience made our article of 12 Best Sailing Experiences In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary allows for swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration
• Skilled guides make the trip more engaging and educational
• Comfortable boat with plenty of space and amenities
• Includes sailing lessons for those interested in learning the ropes
• Great value for a private experience with personalized stops
• Weather-dependent — your trip could be rescheduled or refunded in bad weather

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Way to See Dubrovnik’s Coastline

After reading about this tour, the first thing that strikes us is how it offers a different perspective of Dubrovnik. Instead of just walking along the ramparts or cruising past on a ferry, you get to be on the water, feeling the breeze and seeing the city from a fresh angle. You’ll cruise past the impressive city walls, which once defended Dubrovnik from invaders—today, they’re a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s just as stunning from the sea as they are on land.

This tour starts from the Bay of Lapad, where you’ll hop into a dingy and then onto a comfortable sailboat that can fit up to eight people. The small group size isn’t just a logistical detail; it’s what makes the experience feel personal and relaxed, allowing your guides to tailor the stops to your preferences.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Cruising the Dubrovnik coastline is the first highlight. As your boat glides past the city walls, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Old Town, the fortresses, and the shimmering waters—an ideal photo opportunity. Many reviews mention how special it is to see Dubrovnik from this vantage point, especially for those who have only explored the city on foot.

Next, your journey takes you to the Elaphiti Islands, a small archipelago known for their untouched beaches and lush landscapes. Expect to stop at remote beaches and secluded coves, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. The water’s clarity and the tranquility of these beaches often receive praise, with travelers noting how peaceful and beautiful the spots are.

One of the tour’s stand-out features is the Blue Cave. Here, you’ll marvel at the water’s vibrant, almost electric blue hue—an ethereal effect caused by sunlight reflecting off the cave walls. Several reviews highlight how breathtaking this sight is, with some travelers mentioning the opportunity to snorkel and explore marine life in the clear waters surrounding the cave.

Swimming and snorkeling gear are included, making it easy to cool off, explore underwater life, and enjoy the vibrant marine environment. The reviews consistently mention how refreshing and enjoyable these stops are. The water is often described as invigorating, but always worth it for the chance to see colorful fish and underwater scenery.

For those interested in sailing, a sailing lesson is part of the experience. The guides encourage participation, and some reviews talk about how fun it was to “try steering the ship” or learn some basic sailing skills. It’s a chance to connect with the sea in an interactive way, especially for first-timers or those curious about sailing.

Soft drinks and a relaxed deck atmosphere are included, allowing you to lounge on deck and soak up the sun, with some travelers mentioning how perfect the weather was during their trip.

The Guides and the Personal Touch

A common theme from reviews is the quality of the guides. They’re described as friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, often tailoring the route based on the group’s interests. One reviewer mentions how their guide, Mirko, “suggested very good stops” and made the day memorable. Another notes how the skipper was “super friendly” and helped their family learn basic sailing skills, which added a fun educational element to the trip.

This personalized approach seems to be what makes the tour special. Whether it’s choosing a spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing, the guides are eager to make sure everyone has a good time.

Value for Money

At $353 for a group of up to 8, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a private day on the water. The price includes the boat, skipper, sailing lessons, snorkeling equipment, and soft drinks. Considering the small group size and personalized experience, this works out well for travelers who want quality over quantity.

While food isn’t included, the tour’s focus is on the sailing, swimming, and scenic stops. Many travelers bring their own snacks or plan to eat onshore later—something to keep in mind if hunger strikes during the day.

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Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Bring swimwear and a towel, as you’ll likely want to jump into the water.
• The tour’s meeting point varies depending on your booking, so confirm the location in advance.
• It’s weather-dependent; if bad weather hits, your trip may be rescheduled or refunded.
• The tour doesn’t cater to mobility-impaired or wheelchair users, so consider this if applicable.
• You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options—just book and pay later if needed.
• Since it’s a shorter trip—either half or full day—you might want to combine it with other activities in Dubrovnik.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights from Travelers

Reviewers often mention how this tour became a favorite part of their Dubrovnik trip. One noted, “This sailing is the highlight of my time in the Balkans,” emphasizing how memorable it was to sail along the coast, swim in beautiful spots, and learn about sailing from a friendly guide.

Another shared how their kids loved it, especially learning basic sailing skills and swimming to a small cave. The small group size and flexible stops receive high praise, with one traveler saying the skipper “allowed us to choose our own itinerary.” It’s clear that this tour offers a mix of relaxation and active participation, suited to those who enjoy being hands-on or just soaking in the scenery.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Dubrovnik Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour stands out as a well-balanced experience blending scenic beauty, personalized service, and fun water activities. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for an authentic, intimate way to see Dubrovnik’s coastline and islands without the crowds. The friendly guides, flexible stops, and inclusion of sailing lessons make it especially appealing for families, couples, or small groups eager to enjoy the sea in a relaxed setting.

While it’s weather-dependent and doesn’t include lunch, the value for a private, customized adventure makes it worthwhile. If you’re after a memorable day filled with swimming, sailing, and spectacular views—this tour ticks all those boxes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers wanting a small-group, personalized experience
• Those interested in learning basic sailing skills
• Families or couples seeking a relaxing day on the water
• Visitors looking for a scenic, less crowded alternative to land-based sightseeing
• Anyone eager to explore the Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave with minimal hassle

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat ride with a skipper, sailing lessons, snorkeling equipment, and soft drinks. Food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat later.

How many people can join the tour?
Up to 8 people per group, ensuring a private and intimate experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but it begins at a designated point in Dubrovnik and ends back there.

What should I bring?
Swimwear and a towel are recommended since you’ll be swimming and snorkeling. Sunscreen is also advised.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families have enjoyed it, especially since kids can learn sailing basics and swim in safe, calm waters.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour will be rescheduled or refunded if weather conditions are unsafe for sailing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, guides are flexible and willing to accommodate your preferences, such as choosing specific stops or activities.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, food is not included, but you can bring your own or plan to eat onshore afterward.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, reservation options allow you to keep your plans flexible and pay later.

This sailing adventure offers a lovely slice of Croatian coastal life—relaxing, scenic, and interactive. Perfect for anyone wanting to see Dubrovnik from a different angle and create lasting memories on the waves.

You can check availability for your dates here: