Dubrovnik :Full day private tour to Elafity island&Blue cave

Imagine a day spent on the open water, powered solely by the wind, with the sun warming your face and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the hull of a beautifully maintained yacht. That’s exactly what a full-day private tour to the Elafiti Islands and Blue Cave promises. This isn’t your typical boat cruise filled with crowds and loud engines — it’s an intimate, authentic sailing adventure that puts you in touch with the natural beauty and relaxed pace of Dubrovnik’s nearby islands.

What we love about this experience is the chance to enjoy real sailing, feeling the wind in your hair and hearing the waves break beneath you — a rare treat these days. The tour takes you to stunning spots like Kolocep Island, Sunj Beach, and Lopud, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and even get a free sailing lesson. Plus, the food on the islands is notably good, giving you a taste of local flavors in a seaside setting.

One consideration you might want to keep in mind is the price — while the tour offers excellent value for a private experience, it’s not the cheapest option in Dubrovnik. Also, check the weather forecast before booking, as the tour is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are poor.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxing day on the water, especially those who appreciate a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local cuisine. If you prefer group tours with lots of people, or are looking for a quick overview, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone craving an authentic sailing experience with flexible stops and a focus on comfort, this tour shines.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience powered purely by wind, not engines
• Personalized private tour tailored to your wishes
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops with equipment provided
• Delicious local food on Lopud Island
• Flexible itinerary, with no hidden costs and options for sailing lessons
• Incredible photo opportunities of islands, caves, and the Dubrovnik coastline

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Sailing Yacht Tour

This private tour offers a full day of exploring the surrounding Elaphiti Islands from a different perspective — that of a sailor rather than a motorized tourist. The journey begins at the Lapadska obala 4 meeting point, where you’ll board the ZaraBella, a fully equipped Bavaria 40 yacht. The boat’s modern amenities, including a restroom, outdoor shower, and supplied diving accessories, ensure comfort throughout the day.

The Itinerary — A Well-Thought-Out Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

The itinerary is crafted to maximize your time on and around the islands while allowing for spontaneous enjoyment based on your preferences. It starts with a sailing session toward the Elaphiti Islands, giving you a chance to feel the wind and see Dubrovnik from the water — a view many find more captivating than the city itself.

Next, the tour takes you to the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island. Here, you’ll get about 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters that are perfect for exploring underwater life. The Blue Cave itself is a highlight for many, with its enchanting blue glow, though the tour doesn’t specify if you’ll visit it inside or just nearby.

The boat then heads back into the islands, offering another sailing stretch of about 45 minutes. Afterward, it’s time for a break at Sunj Beach, renowned for its long stretch of crystal-clear waters and fine gravel. Here, you’re encouraged to swim, snorkel, and try stand-up paddleboarding, with equipment provided free of charge.

Another sailing leg takes you back toward Lopud Island, where you’ll spend approximately 2.5 hours. This stop is particularly appealing — you can enjoy lunch at a local seaside restaurant, take a leisurely walk around the island, snap photos, or simply relax on the beach. The tour is flexible, so you can choose how long to stay and what activities to pursue.

Finally, the journey concludes with two additional sailing segments back to Dubrovnik, giving you plenty of opportunities to sit back and absorb the beautiful views.

The Experience — What Sets It Apart

The authenticity of sailing is a major selling point. Unlike motorboats, this tour offers the chance to hear the wind and waves, making the whole journey more immersive and memorable. Several travelers have expressed how much they appreciated this, with one reviewer calling their skipper “a very pleasant” guide who added to the relaxed atmosphere.

The tour’s focus on local cuisine and scenic sights is another highlight. The restaurant on Lopud offers delicious food, and the flexibility of the schedule means you can enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Plus, the option to learn sailing for free adds an educational element that many travelers find fun and engaging.

The Value — A Price Well Spent?

While the tour isn’t cheap, it offers good value for a private yacht experience. The fully equipped boat, personalized approach, and inclusion of amenities like paddleboards and snorkeling gear mean you’re not just paying for transport but an all-around memorable day. Plus, the small group size ensures a more intimate experience, avoiding the crowded feel of larger tours.

Reviews highlight the quality of guides and the stunning scenery. One traveler mentioned, “It was perfect. Dragan is a very pleasant skipper,” emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable and friendly guides. The chance to take fantastic photos, enjoy good food, and swim in pristine waters makes this a memorable day out.

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Practical Details — What You Need to Know

The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s a private group experience, with guide languages including English, Macedonian, Serbo-Croatian, and Bulgarian — helpful for many European travelers. The meeting point is at the Dubrovnik City Marina, a convenient location near the University.

What to bring? A towel and beachwear are recommended, and it’s good to keep in mind that the length of stops at each site depends on your group’s wishes. The tour is not suitable for people with back problems, and if the weather turns bad, it can be rescheduled — which demonstrates the tour’s commitment to safety and comfort.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private sailing tour is best suited for travelers who genuinely want to escape the crowds and experience Dubrovnik’s surroundings from the water in an authentic way. It’s perfect for those who enjoy relaxing, scenic days with some light adventure and good food. It’s especially appealing if you value personalized attention and the opportunity to learn sailing.

However, if you prefer structured group tours or have limited mobility, this might not be ideal. The focus on sailing and freedom of choice means it’s best for travelers who are comfortable on the water and ready for a flexible schedule.

Final Thoughts

This full-day private yacht experience around Dubrovnik’s Elafiti Islands offers a rare chance to enjoy the sea in a way that’s both relaxing and engaging. The emphasis on authentic sailing, combined with stunning scenery, delicious local food, and opportunities for swimming and paddleboarding, makes it a standout choice.

You’ll love the personalized service, the chance to take beautiful photos, and the feeling of gliding through the water powered solely by wind. It’s an excellent way to see some of Croatia’s most scenic spots while avoiding the hustle of larger, crowded tours.

For travelers seeking a genuine, scenic, and flexible day on the sea, this tour strikes a wonderful balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. If you’re looking for a memorable journey that combines stunning views, local flavor, and the thrill of sailing, this experience is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults and is not explicitly mentioned as being suitable for children. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable on boats and in the water.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the fully equipped Bavaria 40 sailing yacht, restroom, outdoor shower, free paddleboarding, sailing lessons, bottled water, and diving accessories.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a stop at a restaurant on Lopud Island where you can purchase food. The schedule is flexible, so you can enjoy your meal at your own pace.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some peace of mind if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather is really bad, the tour will be rescheduled for the next available time, ensuring safety and comfort.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Macedonian, Serbo-Croatian, and Bulgarian, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just a towel and beachwear; the tour supplies snorkeling gear and paddleboards. Remember to bring a good mood for an unforgettable day.

This private sailing adventure around Dubrovnik’s islands offers a genuine and memorable way to connect with Croatia’s stunning coast. Perfect for those craving intimacy, authentic experiences, and a taste of real sailing — it’s a day you’re unlikely to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: