Private Full Day Sailing Tour To Elafiti Islands

A full-day private sailing tour from Dubrovnik to the Elafiti Islands offers an ideal escape into Croatia’s beautiful coast. Priced at $689.39 per group (up to six people), this 8-hour adventure is perfect for those seeking tranquility, stunning beaches, and a touch of local charm. The tour is led by experienced guides from Smooth Sailing, known for their personalized service and deep knowledge of the area. The private nature of this experience ensures an intimate journey tailored to your group, making it especially suitable for families, friends, or couples looking for a customized day on the water.

A key feature of this tour is its flexible itinerary, with stops at Koloep, Sunj Beach on Lopud, and Ipan. Travelers appreciate how the guides explain local sights and hidden spots, and the crystal-clear waters make swimming and snorkeling particularly rewarding. The tour starts at Lapadska obala 21 in the morning and includes a lunch stop on one of the islands—though lunch is not included in the price. While the tour offers an all-day sailing experience, it’s important to note that transportation to the marina is not included, with an estimated Uber cost of around $40 outside of Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Private sailing experience for up to six people, ensuring a personalized trip.
• 8-hour tour covering Koloep, Lopud, and Ipan, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.
• Cost of $689.39 includes gas, snorkeling equipment, restroom, and outdoor shower.
• Not included: lunch, drinks, and transportation to the marina, which costs approximately $40 outside Dubrovnik.
• Expert guides who are known for their friendly communication and local knowledge.
• Flexible itinerary designed for a relaxed pace, with time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying local cuisine.

Koloep Island: Pristine Bays and Relaxing Beaches

The tour begins at Koloep, where pristine bays and beautiful beaches await. This island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and the charming village that offers a peaceful atmosphere. The one-hour stop allows time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing on the sand. Since no entrance fees are required at this stop, the focus remains on enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of one of the most scenic spots in the archipelago.

In this part of the trip, the guides highlight the island’s calm waters perfect for a gentle swim and point out notable features of the landscape. The freedom to snorkel with the provided equipment makes this an excellent choice for water lovers. Given the short duration, it’s ideal for guests who want a quick but memorable introduction to the area’s coastal serenity.

Sunj Beach on Lopud: A Sandy Paradise for Sunbathers and Swimmers

Next, the Sunj Beach on Lopud Island becomes the highlight. Known for its long, sandy shoreline, Sunj Beach is a must-visit spot during the tour. Travelers can swim from the boat or walk ashore to enjoy the soft sands and calm waters. The hour-long stop provides enough time for a refreshing swim and a beverage from one of the nearby bars or cafes.

The beach’s reputation as a signature feature of Lopud makes it a favorite among visitors. The guided commentary points out the beach’s unique qualities and local features, adding context to the stunning scenery. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it suitable for all ages, making this part of the tour appealing for families or those simply wanting to lounge in the sun.

Ipan: Exploring the Town, Castle, and Local Flavors

The last island stop is Ipan, where guests can wander through the town, visit the Skoibuha Castle, and explore the local restaurants. The walk through Ipan offers a mix of history and culture, with castle ruins providing a glimpse into the area’s past.

Guests have the option to swim on the beach or sample local dishes at one of the island’s restaurants, known for their fresh seafood and Croatian wines. The guides assist in making recommendations, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The time spent here is flexible, allowing for a relaxed exploration of the island’s small streets and scenic views.

Sailing and Cruising: The Heart of the Experience

The majority of the 8-hour tour is dedicated to sailing and cruising around the Dubrovnik archipelago. After the stops, the boat continues to cruise, offering spectacular views of the coastline, hidden coves, and lush islands. The two hours of cruising provide a restful way to enjoy the sea breeze, scenic panoramas, and informative commentary from the guides.

Throughout the day, the vessel is equipped with snorkeling gear, an outdoor shower, and restroom facilities—all designed to enhance comfort during the trip. The relaxed pace ensures travelers don’t feel rushed, making this a perfect way to unwind while taking in the natural beauty.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Logistics

The starting point for this tour is Lapadska obala 21 in Dubrovnik, accessible by public transportation such as bus 6. The tour begins sharply at 9:00 am, and the end point is the same as the starting location.

Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a customized experience. The cost of transportation to the marina is not included, with an estimated Uber fare of about $40 outside Dubrovnik. All transportation fees to and from the marina are the responsibility of travelers and should be planned accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers gas, snorkeling equipment, restroom facilities, and an outdoor shower. These amenities contribute to a comfortable and convenient day at sea. However, lunch is not included, and travelers should plan to bring their own or purchase food at the island stops.

Plus, alcoholic beverages and sodas are not included, so guests might want to bring their own drinks or buy from cafés on the islands. The tour does not include private transport, but the guides can offer tips on how to reach the marina.

Skipper Filip: Friendly Expertise on the Water

The skipper, Filip, is renowned for his friendly and knowledgeable approach. According to positive reviews, Filip knows the area well and shares interesting stories about the islands and coastline. Guests appreciate his ease of communication and willingness to support special requests, including reservations at local restaurants.

Filip’s professionalism and familiarity with the area help make the experience smooth and enjoyable. His attention to safety and comfort ensures that even guests with limited boating experience feel at ease throughout the day.

Customer Satisfaction and Overall Experience

This tour has earned a perfect rating of 5.0 from 10 reviews, with repeat praise for the guides’ friendliness, beautiful scenery, and crystal-clear water. Many mention how Filip’s local knowledge and personalized service enhance the trip.

Guests consistently highlight the well-organized itinerary, the peaceful pace, and the opportunity to swim in pristine waters as some of the trip’s greatest strengths. The flexibility of the schedule allows for relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal choice for a laid-back day on the coast.

Final Thoughts on the Private Sailing Tour to the Elafiti Islands

This private full-day sailing adventure offers an excellent value for those seeking an exclusive and relaxed experience in Dubrovnik’s surrounding islands. The 8-hour itinerary balances scenic cruising, beach time, and cultural exploration, all facilitated by a friendly and knowledgeable skipper.

While lunch and transportation costs are not included, the overall personalized service and stunning scenery make this tour stand out. It’s especially suitable for small groups looking for a customized, tranquil day at sea with plenty of opportunities to swim, enjoy local flavors, and take in the natural beauty of Croatia’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the slow pace and shallow waters at stops like Lopud’s Sunj Beach make it suitable for families with children.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and possibly snacks or drinks, as these are not included. Transportation to the marina is also not covered, so plan accordingly.

Can I get on the boat if I don’t know how to swim?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, but swimming in open water always involves some risk. The guides are attentive to safety and can advise on comfortable participation.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are local restaurants on the islands where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

How do I get to the starting point?
The tour begins at Lapadska obala 21 and is accessible by public transportation, such as bus 6. Transportation costs from outside Dubrovnik are approximately $40 via Uber.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.