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

Dubrovnik: Full Day Group Sail Boat Tour to Elaphiti & Blue Cave

When it comes to exploring Croatia’s stunning coastlines, a sailing tour like this offers something truly special. This full-day adventure aboard the yacht ZaraBella takes you on a relaxed yet immersive journey through the Elaphiti Islands, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and even a taste of local cuisine. With a group of up to 7 guests, it promises an intimate experience that balances comfort, adventure, and genuine charm.

What really sets this tour apart is the opportunity to sail powered by wind, a refreshing change from noisy motor boats packed with strangers. Plus, the chance to capture breathtaking photos and enjoy quiet moments in pristine bays makes it ideal for travelers craving authentic, scenic escapades.

One thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included on the boat, so you’ll want to plan for a meal on Lopud or bring snacks. Perfect for those who like a personalized approach and appreciate the freedom to customize their day, this tour suits travelers who love a mix of relaxation, exploration, and small-group intimacy.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience: Powered by wind, not engines, offering peace and a true sailing feeling.
• Small group size: Up to 7 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops include Kolocep, Lopud, Sipan, and cruising around the islands, with optional activities like swimming and snorkeling.
• High value for the price: Includes free sailing lessons, SUP, diving equipment, coffee, and fuel.
• Beautiful scenery with fewer crowds: Less busy than larger boats, with spectacular views and peaceful bays.
• Customizable day: The guide adapts the tour to your wishes, making it a truly memorable experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Boat: ZaraBella and what it offers

The vessel itself is described as better and larger than many similar tours, with a sunshade for comfort—a thoughtful touch, especially in the Croatian sun. From the reviews, it’s clear Captain Dragan runs a professional and friendly operation, managing the boat efficiently while making guests feel at ease. The boat’s rest area, outdoor shower, and diving gear elevate the experience, giving you options to relax and stay active.

The Itinerary: Diving into each stop

Kolocep Island kicks things off with sailing through pristine bays, swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Reviewers highlight the peaceful bays and amazing beaches, which are perfect for taking a break from the boat’s shade to float in clear waters or explore marine life. One traveler noted that this stop offered scenic views and great swimming, making it a favorite for nature lovers.

Next, the boat heads to Sunj Beach on Lopud Island, famed for its soft sandy shores—a rare find in the Croatian islands. The feedback here is that people wanted to stay all day, thanks to the inviting waters and the beach club where you can grab a drink after some sunbathing or swimming near the rocks. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing and snapping those postcard-worthy photos.

The afternoon includes a visit to Lopud Village for a genuine taste of local life. The lunch at a seaside restaurant—just 20 meters from the beach—is a highlight for many, with reviewers describing it as an excellent meal with crystal-clear waters nearby. However, lunch isn’t included in the tour price, so planning ahead for that is wise.

The optional visit to Sipan offers a gentle wind-down, with options to walk through the small village, swim, or just soak in the peaceful ambiance. If the schedule allows, the remaining sailing time provides beautiful cruising past bays, perfect for taking photos or just relaxing on deck.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour packs quite a punch in terms of value. It includes free sailing lessons, SUP, coffee or tea, fuel, and diving equipment. The small group size ensures you’re not just a number—you’re a part of a friendly, laid-back crew.

However, lunch isn’t included, which makes sense given the flexible stops; you might find it easiest to enjoy a meal on Lopud, where many restaurants cater to visitors. Also, optional pick-up and drop-off are available but not included in the base price, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside central Dubrovnik.

The Experience: What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and professional attitude of Captain Dragan, who is described as easy going and efficient. Many mention the personalized experience—with some guests having the boat to themselves—and the peaceful sailing, which is a real perk compared to crowded motor boats.

Swimming and snorkeling are frequent highlights, with one guest noting they saw lots of fish while snorkeling. The scenic stops at beaches and villages make the day feel like a genuine escape, and the luxury touches—like free coffee, SUP, and diving gear—are appreciated for adding comfort without extra cost.

The weather can influence the experience, as noted by a guest who faced rain but appreciated that the captain let them stay on board and made coffee while waiting out bad weather. It’s a reminder that sailing is weather-dependent, but flexibility is built into the concept.

Practical Considerations

The duration of around 8 hours is perfect for a full day without feeling rushed. Starting at 9:30 am, the tour leaves early enough to maximize daylight, especially during summer months. The small group size (up to 7) ensures intimacy and ample space for everyone to enjoy the journey, whether you’re looking to relax or be active.

The price of $149.87 per person might seem steep compared to larger tours, but the inclusion of free lessons, gear, and fuel creates a strong value proposition. The experience is designed for those who enjoy a blend of relaxation, adventure, and small-group intimacy, rather than a large, commercialized cruise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a more personal, quiet experience. It’s perfect if you’re seeking authentic sailing, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, with the flexibility to customize your day.

Travelers who appreciate a touch of luxury with genuine, unhurried moments will find this tour rewarding. But keep in mind, if you’re primarily looking for a lively party atmosphere or a large group experience, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This Dubrovnik sailing tour offers a unique way to experience the Elaphiti Islands. Its strength lies in the small-group size, personalized touches, and authentic sailing experience, all wrapped in a day of swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the Croatian coast.

You’ll love the peaceful bays, beautiful beaches, and the chance to sail wind-powered, giving you a rare sense of calm and connection to the sea. The lunch on Lopud is a real highlight, giving you a taste of local flavors with a view, though it’s not included in the price.

Overall, if you’re after a luxurious, intimate, and scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxing, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, authentic experience rather than a crowded boat ride.

For anyone who loves sailing, stunning vistas, and small-group adventures, this tour hits the mark perfectly. Just pack your camera, bring some snacks if desired, and prepare for a day you’ll fondly remember for years to come.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Since the experience is designed for small groups and includes swimming and sailing, it’s likely suitable for children, provided they’re comfortable with water activities and adult supervision.

What should I bring?
It’s a good idea to bring some snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and a towel. You’re allowed to bring your own drinks and snacks, although water, coffee, and tea are provided on board.

Are the stops flexible?
The itinerary is generally fixed but can be adapted to your wishes. The guide will do their best to make your day memorable and enjoyable.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are restaurants on Lopud where you can enjoy a meal.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 7 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs—fuel, sailing lessons, SUP, and diving gear are included. Tips are optional.

What’s the weather policy?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to sail?
Absolutely. Free sailing lessons are included, making this a great chance for beginners to try sailing in a relaxed environment.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
Transportation is not included but can be arranged as an optional service. The meeting point is at Lapadska obala 4, Dubrovnik.

This sailing tour offers a fantastic combination of authentic Croatian coastal scenery, small-group intimacy, and flexible, personalized adventure. Whether you want to relax on the deck, snorkel in clear waters, or enjoy a delicious meal on Lopud, it’s an experience designed for genuine travelers seeking more than just a boat ride.