Dubrovnik: Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour

Exploring Dubrovnik from the water offers a fresh perspective on this historic city. This private sailing tour takes you around the Elaphiti Islands, providing opportunities to swim, snorkel, and even learn how to steer a sailboat. With a comfortable boat, friendly guides, and stunning scenery, it’s a fantastic way to see the Dalmatian coast.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels—there’s the chance to choose your route, get involved in sailing, and take your time relaxing at secluded beaches. However, the tour depends on good weather—bad weather can lead to rescheduling or refunds, which is worth keeping in mind.

If you enjoy being on the water, discovering hidden spots, and having a guide who really caters to your interests, this tour will suit you well. Families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a memorable day on the sea will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Options for full or half-day trips, with the ability to choose your itinerary.
• Unique Highlights: Swimming at remote beaches, snorkeling, and visiting the Blue Cave.
• Hands-On Sailing: A chance to learn sailing skills with guidance from knowledgeable skippers.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children aged six and above, with opportunities for kids to learn basic sailing.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views of Dubrovnik’s city walls and the sapphire waters of the Blue Cave.
• Value for Money: For $353 (up to 8 people), you get a full day of adventure, personalized guidance, and all equipment included.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik: Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

This tour starts near the Bay of Lapad, where you’ll hop into a dinghy to reach your sailboat, setting the tone for a relaxed day at sea. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy cool soft drinks as you cruise past Dubrovnik’s impressive city walls and fortifications. Seeing Dubrovnik from this vantage point offers a different perspective—less crowded, more intimate, and full of photo opportunities.

As you leave the city behind, the boat will cruise towards the Elaphiti Islands, a small archipelago known for their lush landscapes and secluded beaches. The journey itself is part of the fun—being on a sailboat, feeling the breeze, and watching the coastline drift by.

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the visit to the Blue Cave, where the water reflects an incredible, surreal blue. This stop isn’t just a photo op; it’s a chance to go for a swim in waters that many describe as ‘ethereal.’ Reviewers have loved swimming here and exploring the vibrant marine life with snorkel gear.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

• Secluded Beaches and Coveted Coves: The Elaphiti Islands are known for their untouched beaches. Travelers have enjoyed spending time at quiet spots away from the crowds, perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking a dip after sightseeing. Some reviews highlight stops for swimming and snorkeling at beautiful locations, like a small cave or lagoon.
• Snorkeling and Marine Life: Snorkel gear is provided, and the water’s clarity makes for an enjoyable experience. Reviewers mention searching for colorful fish and marveling at underwater beauty.
• Blue Cave: The highlight for many, this stunning spot provides the chance to witness a mesmerizing light show. The calm waters and reflective walls make it a surreal experience that’s often a highlight in reviews.
• Sailing Lessons: For those curious about sailing, guides like Mirko and Desmond are praised for their patience and enthusiasm. You might even get to try steering the boat yourself, adding a fun, hands-on element. One reviewer noted that they learned basic sailing skills, making the experience feel more engaging.
• Relaxation and Sunbathing: The deck is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the breeze, with soft drinks available to keep you refreshed.

The Guides and Their Role

Guides like Mirko, Desmond, Andy, and Dragan are frequently praised in reviews for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility. They’re happy to suggest routes based on your interests, whether you want more time at the islands, swimming, or sailing. Several reviewers mention how guides enable a more personalized experience—whether helping children learn basic sailing skills or accommodating special requests.

The Value of This Tour

At $353 for a group of up to 8, this experience offers excellent value considering what’s included: a private boat, snorkeling gear, sailing lessons, and soft drinks. The small group size means you’ll enjoy a more intimate, flexible day, rather than feeling like just another passenger on a crowded tour.

Reviewers often point out how much they appreciated the expertise of guides like Dragán, who made the sailing feel accessible and fun. Several rave about how this was a highlight of their trip, with many highlighting the combination of adventure, relaxation, and discovery as key benefits.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point varies depending on your chosen option but typically begins near Dubrovnik’s coast, with transportation by dinghy to the sailboat.
• Duration can be a full or half day, offering flexibility depending on your schedule and energy levels.
• What to bring: Swimwear, towel, sun protection, and possibly a light snack if you want more than soft drinks.
• Weather considerations: Tours are weather-dependent; bad weather can result in rescheduling or refunds, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• Group size: Up to 8 people, making it a cozy and personalized experience.
• Languages: Guides speak English and Croatian, ensuring clear communication.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Travelers

• One family loved that their children could learn basic sailing skills, making it memorable for the whole family.
• A couple appreciated the flexibility to choose stops like the Green Grotto and swim, rather than a fixed itinerary.
• Several reviews celebrate the professionalism and friendliness of guides, particularly praising their patience and knowledge.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private sailing tour is perfect for those who want more than just a standard boat trip. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a flexible, personalized experience that combines adventure with relaxation. If you’re eager to learn some sailing, enjoy snorkeling in scenic spots, and wish to avoid the crowds, this tour hits the right notes.

While it’s best suited for those comfortable on the water and prepared for a day under the sun, it doesn’t require prior sailing experience—guides are happy to teach and assist. Just remember, weather plays a role, so a clear forecast is a good idea before booking.

For travelers craving a memorable day exploring Dubrovnik’s coast from a different angle—without the hustle of large tours, but with plenty of stunning views and authentic experiences—this private Elaphiti Islands sailing adventure delivers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for children aged six and above. Kids can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and even learning basic sailing skills with guidance.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes the boat, a skipper guide, snorkeling equipment, sailing lessons, and soft drinks. Food is not included but can be optional depending on your trip.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a light snack if desired. All safety gear like snorkeling equipment is provided.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather is unfavorable, the tour will be rescheduled or refunded, so it’s wise to check the forecast beforehand.

Can I choose my route or stops?
Yes, guides are flexible and can suggest routes based on your interests, whether visiting the Blue Cave, swimming at secluded beaches, or sailing around the old town.

How long is the tour?
You can opt for a half-day or full-day experience, depending on your schedule and energy levels.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but it generally begins near Dubrovnik, with transport by dinghy to the sailboat.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, up to 8 people, ensuring a private and intimate experience.

Is this experience available in other languages?
Guides speak both English and Croatian, making communication straightforward for most travelers.

This sailing adventure around Dubrovnik’s coast offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, hands-on fun, and personalized service. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from the water, explore hidden spots, and create lasting memories with friends or family.