Dubrovnik – Full day group yacht tour to Elaphiti&Blue cave

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik and craving a different way to explore its gorgeous surroundings? This full-day group yacht tour promises an experience that’s as relaxing as it is adventurous—powered entirely by the wind, with no noisy engines in sight. From cruising around the scenic Elaphiti Islands to swimming in crystal-clear waters, this journey offers a mix of stunning views, tactile moments, and authentic Croatian charm.

Our favorite part? The intimate group size (up to 8 guests), which ensures you’re treated like a VIP rather than just another seat on a crowded boat. The chance to try sailing yourself, combined with flexible stops for swimming and snorkeling, makes it feel more like a personalized day out rather than a packaged tour. But do keep in mind that this experience depends on weather conditions, especially the wind for sailing, so it might not be as smooth if the skies are grey.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a balance of comfort and adventure, love the idea of sailing rather than motor cruising, and want a more authentic, laid-back day on the water. If you’re after a lively party boat, this might not be your vibe. But if you’re seeking tranquility, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Sailing: Powered solely by wind, offering a peaceful, natural experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring at your pace.
• Intimate Group: Small groups (up to 8 guests) for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Local Cuisine & Culture: Lunch stop at a seaside restaurant on Lopud Island with authentic dishes.
• Hands-On Sailing: Opportunity to steer the yacht, even without prior experience.
• All-Inclusive Extras: Water, tea, coffee, SUP, diving accessories, and shower facilities included.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This full-day yacht tour begins at Sunshine Sailing Dubrovnik, conveniently located near the University and the Dubrovnik City Marina. The boat itself, a Bavaria 40 called ZaraBella, is described as beautiful and well-maintained, offering a perfect vessel for a tranquil sailing day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with a 50-minute sail across the water towards the Elaphiti Islands, a cluster of lush, rocky landmasses that seem to float along the Dalmatian coast. From the reviews, it’s clear that the sailing experience itself is a major highlight—guests love hearing the sounds of waves and wind, which are often drowned out in motorized boats. We’re told that skipper Dragan is both professional and attentive, answering questions and offering free sailing lessons, which adds a fun, educational element.

Next, the group heads to Blue Cave on Kolocep Island, where the tour offers 20 minutes for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers mention the crystal-clear waters and the chance to explore the underwater scene with diving accessories supplied on board. The Blue Cave itself is a popular photo stop, with travelers noting the beautiful contrast of light and water.

Further sailing brings the group back to the islands, with a 45-minute stop at Sunj Beach on Lopud Island. This stop is perfect for taking photos, cooling off in the sea, or simply relaxing on the sandy shore. Guests have described the beach as idyllic, with some noting it as a quieter alternative to the more crowded spots.

Lopud Island then becomes the lunch stop, where guests can enjoy a meal at a seaside restaurant. While lunch isn’t included in the price, reviews highlight the excellent food and ambiance—some guests found it to be a real highlight, describing the seafood as top quality and the setting as simply beautiful. The 2-hour break allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery, wander the island, or relax before heading back to the boat.

Following lunch, the yacht resumes sailing for another 75-minute stretch, revealing more of the rugged coastline and offering space for sunbathing or just enjoying the gentle motion of the boat. The final part of the journey includes a 20-minute swim at Kolocep, giving everyone a chance to cool off before returning.

The tour wraps up with another 50-minute sail back to Dubrovnik, giving guests the chance to unwind and reflect on a day packed with natural beauty and memorable moments.

Highlights and Practical Details

What makes this tour special?
It’s the combination of authentic sailing—powered by wind, not engines—and the personalized approach. The small group size means you’re not just another number. The opportunity to steer the yacht provides a fun, hands-on experience, and the flexible itinerary ensures you can prioritize swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.

Comfort and amenities are also noteworthy. The yacht has a restroom, outdoor shower, shaded areas, and plenty of fresh water—important for those long, sunny days on the water. For those interested in water sports, SUP boards and diving accessories are available free of charge, adding to the adventure.

Pricing and value: At $169 per person, this tour is priced higher than large group excursions, but reviews suggest it offers excellent value. You get a private, intimate experience with a knowledgeable skipper, various stops in prime locations, and a mix of relaxation and activity that larger, crowd-heavy tours can’t match.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Multiple reviews mention Dragan, the skipper, as being very knowledgeable and attentive. One traveler from Austria notes that Dragan “made the whole experience very relaxing,” and others appreciate his flexibility in adjusting the itinerary to suit the group’s wishes. Guests also love the peaceful sailing experience—it’s a stark contrast to fast-paced motor boats.

The quality of food during the lunch stop is frequently praised, with some reviewers mentioning top-notch seafood and lovely settings. The crystal-clear waters at swimming stops are another favorite, with travelers describing the bays as “idyllic” and the snorkeling as “fantastic.”

Practical Considerations

• Duration: 8 hours, starting in the morning, with flexible timing depending on the day.
• Group size: Limited to 8, which keeps the experience intimate.
• Price: $169 per person, includes fuel, sailing lessons, water, tea/coffee, SUP, and diving accessories.
• Extras: Lunch is not included, but there’s a scenic restaurant on Lopud Island.
• Weather dependency: Sailing depends on wind conditions, so if the weather is really bad (heavy rain or no wind), the tour may be rescheduled.
• Physical fitness: Not suitable for those with back problems, and guests should bring sunglasses, towels, sunscreen, and sportswear.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy authentic sailing and want to avoid the crowds typical of larger boat trips. If you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic photo ops, you’ll love the small-group vibe and flexible itinerary. Those who appreciate delicious local food and a chance to try sailing themselves will find this especially rewarding.

It’s perfect for couples, families, or friends seeking a relaxed yet engaging day. However, if you’re after a high-energy party boat or very tight schedules, this might not be your best fit.

FAQs

Is transportation included to the starting point?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are optional but not included. The meeting point is at the Dubrovnik City Marina near the University, which is easy to find.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reservation process is flexible, and you can book now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and sportswear. The boat has water, tea, coffee, and shower facilities, so you don’t need much else.

Is it suitable for children or people with health issues?
It’s not suitable for people with back problems. Kids can enjoy it if they’re comfortable with boat trips, but always check with the operator beforehand.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of heavy rain or no wind, the tour will be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity, ensuring safety and comfort.

Can I steer the yacht?
Yes, free sailing lessons are included, and guests are encouraged to try steering the yacht, making it a fun learning experience.

Are the stops flexible?
Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted to your wishes, especially with regard to swimming, snorkeling, or exploring the islands.

What kind of boat is used?
The tour is organized on a Bavaria 40 yacht, known for its comfort and reliability.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops vary from 20 minutes at Blue Cave and Kolocep Island to 2 hours on Lopud Island for lunch and exploration.

Final Thoughts

This full-day yacht tour from Dubrovnik offers a genuine and relaxing way to see the Elaphiti Islands and Blue Cave, all from the perspective of a traditional sailing vessel. With a focus on personalized service, authentic sailing, and scenic beauty, it’s an experience that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural charm.

Whether you’re a solo traveler wanting a peaceful escape, a couple seeking a romantic day, or a family eager for a fun, interactive outing, this tour adapts beautifully to your wishes. The small group size ensures a more intimate connection to the surroundings and skipper, making it as much a journey of discovery as a boat trip.

If you value quiet, nature, and hands-on sailing, paired with the chance to indulge in local food and swim in pristine waters, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure!

Sources:
GetYourGuide – Dubrovnik Full Day Yacht Tour