Dubrovnik: Full day group sail boat tour to Elaphiti & Blue cave

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water, away from the crowds and the hustle of city streets, this full-day sailing tour from Dubrovnik is a splendid choice. It’s a well-loved experience that promises a mix of luxury, adventure, and authentic Croatian coastal scenery. While you won’t be cruising in a large tour boat packed with strangers, this intimate sailing trip offers a chance to truly connect with the sea and the islands.

What we love about this tour is its personalized touch—a small group—up to 7 guests, ensures plenty of space to relax, take photos, and ask questions. Plus, the chance to learn sailing basics and enjoy free extras like SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) and diving gear makes it feel more like a mini-escape than a standard boat ride.

A potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included in the price, which means you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to dine on Lopud. Also, weather plays a key role in sailing adventures, so this trip might be canceled if conditions aren’t ideal. But if you’re flexible and eager to discover Dubrovnik’s coast from a different perspective, this tour suits active travelers, photo enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful day on the water.

Key Points

• Small Group Atmosphere: Up to 7 guests for a more personalized experience.
• Authentic Sailing: Powered by wind, offering a quieter, more traditional sailing vibe.
• Multiple Stops: Including Kolocep, Lopud, Sipan, and the Blue Cave—each with unique sights.
• Free Extras: SUP, diving gear, coffee, and water add value and fun.
• Flexible & Adaptable: Tour can be customized based on your wishes and weather conditions.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently praised for scenery, swimming spots, and friendly skipper.

Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out

This Dubrovnik sailing tour isn’t your typical sightseeing cruise that races between spots with a massive crowd. Instead, it emphasizes small-group intimacy, allowing you to truly soak in the natural beauty of the Elaphiti Islands while enjoying the gentle motion of a wind-powered boat. It combines the thrill of sailing with the laid-back pleasure of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

We particularly appreciate that this experience balances comfort and adventure. The boat, ZaraBella, is described as larger and better equipped than many others, with a sunshade for comfort. Plus, the inclusion of free sailing lessons and water toys means you can learn a bit about sailing or spend your time paddling in clear waters — ideal for families or groups eager for a bit of fun.

One thing to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included, so you should plan to bring some snacks or enjoy the seaside restaurant on Lopud. Also, weather can affect the day’s plans, but the friendly skipper makes sure passengers are well taken care of, whether by adjusting the itinerary or offering a cozy spot on board during rain.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value small-group experiences, are curious about sailing, and want an authentic approach to exploring Dubrovnik’s coastline. If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging day on the water with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, this could be your ideal Croatian adventure.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Kolocep Island — A Hidden Gem for Swimming

Sailing begins from Dubrovnik’s Lapadska obala, heading toward Kolocep Island — a tranquil spot with pristine bays and inviting beaches. Here, we loved the way the gentle waves, clear waters, and quiet surroundings create the perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around. The reviews praise the scenic views and amazing beaches, making this a highlight for nature lovers.

Expect about 2 hours at this stop, giving plenty of time to dive into the water and enjoy the peaceful scenery. The absence of admission fees means you just need to bring your own gear or use the provided diving equipment—an added bonus for underwater enthusiasts.

Stop 2: Sunj Beach on Lopud — A Sandy Paradise

The next stop is Sunj Beach, famous for its long stretch of sandy shoreline. It’s a popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers alike. You can snorkel around the rocks, sunbathe, or grab a refreshing drink at the beach club. Many reviews note how much they appreciated this stop, with comments like “you’ll want to stay all day.”

With only an hour here, it’s just enough to stretch your legs, dip your toes, and enjoy the lively beach scene. This stop’s inclusion of free admission makes it accessible for everyone.

Stop 3: Lopud Village — A Taste of Local Life

Lopud is more than just a pretty beach; it’s a charming village with narrow streets and cozy cafes. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours to wander, explore, and soak in the ambiance. Most visitors enjoy the chance to stroll at their own pace, some opting for lunch at a seaside restaurant just meters from the water. The reviews rave about the delicious food and the relaxed atmosphere.

While lunch isn’t included, the convenience of a seaside restaurant on the island ensures you can enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties, making it well worth the extra expense.

Stop 4: Sipan — Optional but Worthwhile

If time permits, the boat stops at Sipan Island. It’s a smaller community where you can walk around, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the boat. It’s optional based on how long you’ve spent on Lopud and the weather. The reviews note how relaxing it is, with some guests saying they appreciated the less crowded, more intimate feel.

Final Stop: Elaphiti Islands for Cruising and Swimming

The last part of the day is dedicated to sailing through the bays of the Elaphiti Islands, with the possibility of spontaneous swimming stops. Many guests mention how rewarding it is to cruise along the coast, enjoying the wind and stunning views, with swimming as a perfect way to cool off before returning.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour packs a lot of value into its price of about $150 per person. You get free sailing lessons, which means even absolute beginners can feel confident on the water. The fuel is included, so no hidden costs there. The SUP, diving equipment, coffee, and rest area are significant perks, especially for those who want to make the most of their time on the boat.

However, lunch isn’t provided, so you should bring snacks or plan to eat on Lopud. This gives flexibility but also requires some pre-planning. Tips are extra, and optional pick-up/drop-off services are available if you want door-to-door convenience.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and professional Captain Dragan is, with one describing him as “very easy-going” and “efficient” — a sign of smooth sailing and good company. Guests praise the scenic views, swimming spots, and the relaxed atmosphere.

One guest even highlights how they had the boat all to themselves thanks to quick booking, noting: “I had the whole boat to myself, which was a great bonus.” Others appreciated the chance to drive the boat or just enjoy excellent conversations with fellow travelers.

Several reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and “great swimming spots,” confirming that the itinerary delivers on its promise of a memorable day. The lunch on Lopud also gets high marks as a highlight — fresh, tasty, and with a lovely view.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The meeting point is at Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik, with a start time of 9:30 am. The tour lasts about 8 hours, providing ample time to explore all the stops comfortably. The small group size means you’ll have plenty of space and freedom to move around, take photos, or just relax.

Booking is flexible — with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance — which is reassuring if weather or plans change. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and the near public transportation accessibility makes it easy to reach.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This sailing trip is an excellent choice for adventurous souls, photographers, and nature lovers craving an authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots. It’s perfect for those who enjoy relaxed pacing, learning some sailing basics, or simply lounging on deck with stunning views. The inclusion of free water toys and snorkeling gear makes it especially appealing for families or groups with kids.

If you’re after beautiful scenery, wonderful swimming spots, and a personal touch to your day on the water, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a bit more independent and intimate than big cruise ships, and that’s what makes it stand out.

Those seeking a more structured or catered experience might prefer other options, but for a genuine, scenic, and fun day on the Croatian coast, this sailing tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
No, the tour starts at Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik. You should arrange your own transportation, but the location is near public transit, making it easy to reach.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring your own snacks or lunch for onshore dining, along with swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and any personal items. You can also bring your own drinks if you prefer.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience suits families with kids interested in swimming and sailing.

What is included in the price?
You get sailing lessons, fuel, SUP, diving equipment, coffee or tea, and access to the rest area and outdoor shower. Lunch is not included.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Dubrovnik sailing adventure offers a splendid way to see the coast, enjoy swimming in crystal waters, and learn a bit about sailing—all within a friendly, small-group setting. It’s a genuine escape that balances activity with relaxation, perfect for travelers eager to experience Croatia’s sea from a different perspective.