Dubrovnik – Full day Small group tour to Elafity & Blue cave

If you’re looking for a way to see Dubrovnik’s coast that’s more authentic and personal than a big cruise, this full-day sailing trip might just be your best bet. Designed for small groups (up to 8 guests), it offers a leisurely, wind-powered voyage around the stunning Elaphiti Islands, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local cuisine. The experience is all about relaxed exploration and genuine connection to the sea — and it comes highly recommended by travelers who value authentic, intimate adventures.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its focus on sailing powered by wind (not engines), which means the sounds of breaking waves and wind fill the air, creating a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. Plus, the chance to customize your itinerary — deciding when to swim, snorkel, or just relax — adds a personal touch that large boat tours simply can’t match. One potential consideration is that the tour involves being on a boat for a full day, so travelers prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should prepare accordingly.

This experience appeals most to those who cherish a more intimate, laid-back day on the water, especially travelers eager to escape the crowds and see the coast from a different perspective. It’s perfect for couples, families, or friends who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, with a dash of local flavor.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Wind-powered sailing provides a peaceful, authentic sailing experience without noisy motors.
• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing at your own pace.
• Includes local food stop on Lopud Island for a taste of Dalmatian cuisine with a stunning seaside view.
• Hands-on sailing experience suitable for all, no prior skills necessary.
• Beautiful scenery of Kolocep Island, Sunj Beach, and the Blue Cave, with plenty of photo opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Sunshine Sailing Dubrovnik pontoon, conveniently located near the city marina, just 100 meters before Marina Frapa’s entrance. The meeting point is straightforward to find — look for the yacht ZaraBella, recognizable by its white sails and friendly crew. The group is limited to 8 participants, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and allows for flexible planning during the day.

You’ll want to arrive prepared with sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and some sportswear. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with multiple stops, so packing light but practical makes the day more enjoyable. You can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, and the option to reserve now and pay later offers flexibility if your plans are still solidifying.

The Itinerary — What You’ll Experience

The day unfolds with a very scenic sail along the Croatian coast. The first leg involves about one hour of sailing to reach the Elaphite Islands, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the gentle motion of the boat. As the yacht glides smoothly through the waves, you’ll hear only the wind and the water — a rare treat in today’s motorized world.

The first major stop is the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island, where you’ll spend around 30 minutes swimming and snorkeling. The reviews highlight that this is a highlight — travelers love the chance to dive with goggles and snorkel gear provided and enjoy the clear waters. The Blue Cave’s shimmering light, visible even in a quick swim, offers a magical experience.

Next, the boat sets sail again for about an hour of leisurely cruising, giving you spectacular views of the islets and coastline, perfect for photos. The next stop is Sunj Beach on Lopud Island, where you’ll have about an hour to relax, swim, or explore. Many travelers quote the restaurant nearby as a memorable part of the day, offering local Dalmatian dishes in a gorgeous seaside setting. While lunch is not included, the restaurant’s reputation for tasty food makes it worthwhile.

The itinerary then features additional sailing sections — about three more periods of 75-minute sailing, giving plenty of time to enjoy the gentle breeze, spot dolphins, or just soak in the scenery. The focus on sailing rather than motoring means you’ll experience the sea as sailors did for centuries, hearing only the wind in the sails.

Onboard Comfort and Activities

The yacht itself is described as beautiful and well-equipped — a Bavaria 40 — with restrooms, outdoor shower, and plenty of shaded areas. Free bottled water, tea, and even SUP boards and diving accessories are included, adding to the value. For those wanting to get hands-on, the crew encourages guests to try steering the yacht, which most reviews find surprisingly fun and accessible.

The experience is very group-friendly, with guides speaking several languages including English, Russian, Croatian, and others, making it accessible for international travelers. The crew’s flexibility and friendliness shine through, with many reviews praising their attentiveness and willingness to adapt to guest wishes.

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The Value of a Smaller Group

While larger tours can feel impersonal, this small group setup makes the experience more relaxed and customizable. You’ll be able to chat with the crew, ask questions, and really enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or crowded. The reviews confirm this, with travelers describing the guides as friendly, reliable, and knowledgeable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic sailing, loves swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, or simply wants to enjoy stunning landscapes from the water, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a personalized experience over a large cruise experience. Families with children, couples celebrating something special, or friends looking for a memorable day on the sea will find this trip a delightful choice.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros

• The wind-powered sailing creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere.
• The small group size allows for personalized touches and flexibility.
• The scenic stops at Blue Cave, Sunj Beach, and Kolocep Island are genuinely stunning and well-curated.
• The hands-on sailing experience offers both fun and a sense of accomplishment.
• The local cuisine stop provides a taste of Dalmatian flavors in a beautiful setting.
• Inclusion of paddleboards and snorkeling gear adds extra fun and exploration options.

Cons

• The tour involves a full day at sea, which might be tiring for some.
• If the weather turns bad, the tour will be rescheduled, so travelers should be prepared for potential changes.
• Lunch is not included, so budget accordingly if you want a meal on Lopud Island.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This sailing trip is perfect for travelers seeking more than just a typical boat cruise. It’s ideal for those who want a more authentic, intimate experience, combining sailing with local culture and beautiful scenery. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or friends who enjoy being active and want to learn a little about sailing without prior experience. Those with a love for nature, good food, and peaceful environments will find this tour a highlight of their Dubrovnik stay.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and personalized day on the water that offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, photos, and local flavors, this tour hits the mark. It’s a genuine way to experience the Dalmatian coast that’s both fun and meaningful.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is friendly for families and children, especially those who enjoy swimming and being on the water. Just keep in mind that it’s a full-day adventure on a boat, so younger children should be comfortable in that setting.

Do I need sailing experience? Not at all. The crew offers free sailing lessons and encourages guests to try steering the yacht, making it accessible regardless of your prior skills.

What should I bring? Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and comfortable sportswear. A hat and water shoes might also come in handy.

What if the weather is bad? If the weather turns against sailing, the tour can be rescheduled for the next available time. The crew prioritizes guest safety and comfort.

Are meals included? No, but there is a restaurant stop on Lopud Island where you can purchase local dishes, which many guests recommend.

How long is the sailing? The yacht spends most of the day sailing between stops, with about four sailing periods totaling roughly 4 hours, depending on the day’s conditions and itinerary adjustments.

Can I book this tour last-minute? Availability depends on the date, but you can typically reserve in advance. The option to reserve now and pay later offers flexibility for last-minute plans.

To sum it up, this Dubrovnik sailing tour offers a rare chance to experience the coast from a true sailor’s perspective — wind, waves, and all. With a small, friendly crew and a customized itinerary, it promises genuine moments of relaxation, adventure, and discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just curious to try sailing for the first time, this trip is a worthwhile investment in memories that will last long after you leave the Croatian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: