Private Full Day Sailing Tour To Elafiti Islands

Taking a boat trip around Dubrovnik’s archipelago is often cited as a highlight of any trip to Croatia—and for good reason. This Private Full Day Sailing Tour to the Elafiti Islands offers a personalized, relaxed way to explore some of the most scenic spots in the area. With an experienced skipper guiding your small group, you’ll enjoy a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic Croatian island life—all in about eight hours.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances stunning natural beauty with cultural touches, such as visiting a historic castle and enjoying local food. The small-group setting means you won’t be lost in the crowd, and you’ll have the flexibility to tailor the day to your interests. One thing to consider is that the tour price covers just the boat and guide, so you’ll want to budget extra for meals and transportation to the marina. This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate intimate, scenic escapes with a dash of history and local charm.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Ideal duration: About 8 hours, perfect for a relaxed day without feeling rushed.
• Multiple island stops: Includes Koločep, Lopud, and Ipan, each offering unique scenery and attractions.
• Includes snorkeling and swimming: Enjoy crystal-clear waters and accessible beaches.
• Focus on local flavor: Visit vineyards, olive groves, and enjoy a meal at one of the islands’ renowned restaurants.
• Highly recommended: Rated 5/5 by 10 travelers, with glowing reviews praising the guides and scenery.

This tour offers much more than just a boat ride. It’s a curated experience that lets you savor Croatia’s natural beauty with the comfort of privacy and knowledgeable guides. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can ask questions, linger longer at your favorite spots, and enjoy a more intimate connection with the environment and local culture. With an average booking lead time of 85 days, it’s clear that travelers quickly recognize the value of a well-organized, exclusive day out in the islands.

The tour begins at Lapadska obala 21 in Dubrovnik, an easily accessible point by bus or taxi, making logistics straightforward. Starting at 9 am, you’ll get the most out of the daylight hours, with plenty of time to explore each stop. The boat itself is equipped with amenities like an outdoor shower, restroom, and snorkeling gear, ensuring comfort and fun in the water.

A Step-by-Step Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Koločep Island – The Quiet Gem

Your day kicks off with a visit to Koločep, a small island famous for its tranquil bays and charming village atmosphere. The highlight here is the chance to swim, snorkel, or simply sunbathe in peaceful surroundings. One reviewer mentioned their quick hour here was perfect for soaking up the scenery without feeling rushed. The waters around Koločep are crystal clear, and the small beaches perfect for a dip. You might find the calm and less touristy vibe a welcome break from busier destinations.

Stop 2: Lopud and Sunj Beach – The Sandy Paradise

Next, you’ll head over to Lopud, home to the famous Sunj Beach. This sandy stretch is a rare find in the region—soft sand and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and relaxing. Reviewers rave about the quality of swimming from the boat—some even snorkeled right off the vessel. Sunj Beach is also a place to grab refreshments, whether from the boat or by walking onto the shore for a drink or snack. The welcoming beach atmosphere makes this stop a favorite for many.

Stop 3: Ipan Island and Škoibuha Castle – A Touch of History

Your final land stop is Ipan, notable for its Škoibuha Castle and lush surroundings. You can take a walk through the town, explore the ancient ruins, or sit by the water and enjoy the stunning views. A reviewer appreciated the restaurant reservation arranged for them, noting the delicious local cuisine as a highlight. Swimming, exploring, and tasting local wine and olive oils add depth to this visit. The castle, dating back centuries, provides a glimpse into the island’s past.

The Remaining Time: Cruising and Relaxing

The rest of the day is spent sailing along the coastline, soaking in the views of Dubrovnik’s islands and the open sea. This slow-paced cruising time allows for unwinding, taking photos, or simply enjoying the company of your group. Reviewers consistently mentioned how peaceful and picturesque the sailing was, with many noting the knowledgeable captain’s commentary added an informative touch to the experience.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The tour price covers gas, snorkeling equipment, an outdoor shower, and restroom access on board, which is quite a lot for the cost, especially given the personalized service. However, lunch isn’t included, so you should budget around €40 for a meal—either on the boat or at one of the island restaurants. It’s worth noting that transportation to the marina from outside Dubrovnik is also extra, with Uber estimated at around €40.

Alcoholic beverages and sodas are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own drinks aboard. The crew can also make recommendations for local eateries, making it easy to enjoy authentic Croatian cuisine during the trip.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Reviews consistently praise Filip, the skipper, for his friendly, knowledgeable approach. One reviewer mentioned, “Filip made us feel super welcome and knew all the best spots for swimming in crystal-clear water.” Many appreciated the quiet, uncrowded beaches and the chance to escape the crowds of Dubrovnik for a day. The food and wine stops also receive high marks—several travelers noted the restaurant recommendations were spot on, with some even mentioning a reservation Filip made for them.

The smooth sailing aspect is a recurring theme—reviewers describe the boat as comfortable and well-suited for small groups. The calm, slow pace and the ability to tailor the day’s itinerary to your preferences were also noted as major advantages.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book early: The tour is popular, often booked 85 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hat, waterproof camera, and a towel are must-haves.
• Budget extra: Allocate around €40 for lunch and around the same for transportation if not staying close to the marina.
• Arrive on time: The tour starts at 9 am sharp, so plan your arrival to avoid missing out.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but bring your own if you prefer specific equipment.
• Consider your group size: The tour is for up to six people, ideal for families or small groups seeking exclusivity.

This private sailing adventure is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, authentic day exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands without the hassle of large tour groups. It suits travelers who love water activities like swimming and snorkeling, enjoy cultural sights like castles, and want to indulge in local cuisine. The personalized nature makes it especially appealing for families, couples, or small groups wanting an intimate experience.

If you’re seeking a balance of natural beauty, history, and good company—all with the flexibility to customize your day—this tour hits the mark. Its high rating and glowing reviews reflect a consistent level of quality, making it a safe choice for anyone looking to enjoy Dubrovnik’s stunning archipelago.

This Full-Day Private Sailing Tour to the Elafiti Islands offers incredible value for those wanting an authentic, personalized day on the water. It’s more than just a boat trip; it’s a chance to truly experience Croatia’s scenic beauty, enjoy peaceful beaches, explore historic sites, and sample local wines, all with the comfort of a private guide.

The small-group setting, knowledgeable captain, and well-chosen stops make it ideal for travelers who crave relaxed exploration and genuine local flavor. While it costs a bit more than standard tours, the personalized experience, exclusivity, and natural beauty make it well worth the investment.

Ultimately, if your idea of a perfect day includes sailing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and discovering Croatian island life away from the crowds, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s a memorable way to slice through Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline and create beautiful memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each island and enjoy sailing.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have a stop for lunch at one of the islands, and you should budget about €40 for a meal and drinks.

How do I get to the starting point?
The meeting point is at Lapadska obala 21 in Dubrovnik, which is accessible by public transportation or taxi.

What amenities are on the boat?
The boat is equipped with an outdoor shower, restroom, and snorkeling gear, making the day comfortable and fun.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own sodas or alcohol, but alcohol is not included in the tour price.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for your use during the stops.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled less than 24 hours before, a full refund is not available, unless canceled due to weather.

This personalized, well-reviewed sailing tour offers an excellent way to see the highlights of the Elafiti islands while enjoying Croatia’s famed hospitality and scenery. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or indulge in local flavors, it’s a day well spent.