Private Full Day Sailing Tour To Elafiti Islands

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing through crystal-clear waters, visiting charming villages, and soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, then this private full-day sailing tour to the Elafiti Islands might just be the perfect escape. Designed for groups up to six, it promises an intimate experience away from crowds, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you through some of Croatia’s most picturesque spots.

What we love about this tour is how it combines relaxation with discovery. The chance to swim in pristine bays and snorkel in quiet coves is a major highlight. Plus, the inclusion of stops at quaint villages with local restaurants adds a taste of authentic Croatian life. On the downside, it does not include lunch, so booking ahead or planning for a meal is recommended if you want to avoid last-minute scrambling.

This tour caters best to those who appreciate a personalized, flexible day on the water, with a balance of swimming, walking, and enjoying scenic views. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic adventure with a touch of local flavor, this could be an ideal choice.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group on board, ensuring personalized attention.
• Stunning stops: Includes visits to Kolocep, Lopud, and Ipan, each offering unique scenery and activities.
• Flexible itinerary: Mix of swimming, exploring villages, and sailing.
• Excellent guides: Recognized for knowledgeable and hospitable skippers.
• Value for price: Considered a worthwhile investment for a full day on the water.
• Great reviews: Consistently rated 5/5 with happy travelers.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Lapadska obala 21 in Dubrovnik at 9:00 am, a location that’s easily accessible by bus (public transportation options make reaching the marina straightforward). The trip lasts roughly 8 hours, with about 4 hours dedicated to sailing and cruising, and the rest split among stops. The price is $689.39 per group (up to six people), which might seem steep but for a private, all-inclusive day on a well-equipped boat, many find it very reasonable—especially considering the personalized nature of the experience.

Stop 1: Kolocep Island

The first stop is Kolocep, often praised for its pristine beaches and clear bays. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe. The reviews emphasize how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, with one traveler calling it “the beauties of the island.” It’s a perfect way to start the day, warming up in calm waters before heading further afield.

Stop 2: Sunj Beach on Lopud

Next, you’ll anchor off Sunj Beach on Lopud, renowned for its soft, sandy shoreline—a rarity in the Adriatic. You can swim from the boat, walk ashore for a drink, or lounge in the sun. The reviews highlight how this beach is “something you wouldn’t want to miss,” offering a classic Croatian beach experience away from busy tourist spots. The shallow, clear waters make it ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Stop 3: Ipan and Škoibuha Castle

Your journey continues to Ipan, a small island featuring a historic castle and a charming village. Visitors are encouraged to explore, visit Škoibuha Castle, and enjoy the local vibe. There’s also time for a swim on the island’s beaches, and many reviews note how the knowledgeable skipper, Filip, made excellent restaurant reservations, enhancing the experience.

Final Stop: The Elafiti Archipelago

The remaining hours are spent sailing around the Elafiti Islands, famous for their peaceful beauty and lush vegetation. This cruising time is highly valued by travelers, with many praising the “crystal-clear water” and scenic vistas. The boat’s outdoor shower, restroom, and snorkeling gear add comfort and fun to the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized Service and Knowledgeable Skipper

Most reviews emphasize how Filip makes the experience memorable. From the start, he’s attentive, communicative, and well-informed, sharing local insights and ensuring safety, especially with children on board. One reviewer noted how Filip “knows a lot about the places we visited,” which adds depth to the trip.

Authentic and Relaxing Experience

Unlike crowded group tours, this private charter allows for a more relaxed pace and flexibility. You can choose to swim, explore villages, or simply enjoy the views. The boat’s amenities—such as the outdoor shower and restroom—make the day comfortable.

Stunning Views and Clear Waters

Travelers consistently praise the crystal water and natural beauty of the islands. Swimming and snorkeling in these calm, transparent waters is one of the tour’s biggest selling points, with many reviewers mentioning how pristine and peaceful the swimming spots are.

Culinary and Local Flavor

While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s guide often helps secure reservations at local restaurants, adding a taste of authentic Croatian cuisine. The combination of scenic beaches and delicious seafood creates a well-rounded day.

Value and Booking

Given the private nature and expert guiding, the price reflects good value for travelers seeking an exclusive, tailored experience. Booking well in advance—about 85 days—is recommended, indicating its popularity. The flexibility to cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours before adds peace of mind.

Practicalities and Tips for Travelers

Timing and Transportation

The tour starts at 9:00 am at a central Dubrovnik location, easily reachable by bus or Uber. Keep in mind that transportation fees to the marina aren’t included in the price; an Uber might cost around $40, so plan accordingly.

What to Bring

Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and perhaps a light snack or drink for the boat. Since snorkeling gear is provided, you can focus on enjoying the water.

Food and Drinks

Lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to dine at a restaurant on Ipan or Lopud. The tour provides drinks, but alcoholic beverages are extra, so if you want wine or spirits, bring your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a private, relaxed day on the water. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy swimming, scenic views, and local culture, and who prefer avoiding crowded tour buses or group excursions.

The Sum Up

This private sailing tour to the Elafiti Islands offers a well-balanced day of peaceful cruising, beautiful scenery, and authentic local flavor. With a knowledgeable skipper, flexible itinerary, and stunning locations, it provides a fantastic way to experience Dubrovnik’s nearby islands without the hassle of crowds or rigid schedules.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a family adventure, or simply craving a peaceful retreat on the water, this tour delivers value and authentic charm. The highly positive reviews reflect how much travelers appreciate the personal touch and natural beauty—making it a memorable highlight of any Dubrovnik trip.

For those who want a more intimate, scenic, and genuinely relaxing day on the Croatian coast, this sailing adventure is hard to beat. Just remember to book early, bring your swim gear, and prepare for a day of authentic island magic.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, fuel, snorkeling equipment, outdoor shower, and restroom facilities on board.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be a stop on one of the islands where you can eat at a local restaurant or bring your own snacks.

How long is the sailing portion?
Most of the day, about 4 hours, is spent cruising or sailing between islands and scenic spots.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, hats, and perhaps a camera. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at Lapadska obala 21 in Dubrovnik, accessible by bus or Uber. Transportation costs are not included.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can enjoy the trip, especially with safety measures in place.

What about cancellation?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. The trip is weather-dependent, with options to reschedule or refund in case of poor weather.

This private sailing tour to the Elafiti Islands offers a rich blend of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor—perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet memorable Croatian coast experience.