This private sailing trip turns Dubrovnik into a low-stress day on the water. You’ll spend the morning hopping between Elafiti Islands, then settle into an easy rhythm of swimming, snorkeling, and sailing/cruising time that feels a lot calmer than the big-group boat shuffle.

I really like two things about this experience. First, you get snorkeling equipment included, plus the chance to swim from the boat and from shore. Second, the day stays private for up to 6 people, so your pace and priorities matter.

One thing to consider: wind isn’t guaranteed. In a couple of days, you may cruise by motor more often, then catch some sail time later when conditions allow.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Private full-day sail for up to 6 people, with a skipper who sets the rhythm
• Snorkeling gear included for swims around Kolocep and Lopud
• Multiple swim stops, including a sandy shore moment at Šunj
• Šipan time to walk a small town and visit Škocibuha castle
• Onboard basics included: restroom and an outdoor shower
• Fuel surcharge covered, while lunch and drinks are on you

Why this Dubrovnik-to-Elafiti sail feels different

Dubrovnik is gorgeous, but it can also feel like you’re always moving with the crowd. This is the opposite. You start on land in the morning, then most of your day is out on open water—quiet stretches, crystal-clean swim moments, and time to actually look around instead of checking a schedule every 20 minutes.

What makes it especially appealing is the mix of easy exploration and water time. You’re not trying to cram in ten islands; you’re getting a few meaningful stops and letting the sea do the work. And since it’s a private group, you’re not stuck following someone else’s agenda.

The other big win is that it’s practical, not just scenic. Restroom on board and an outdoor shower mean you’re not stuck going back into town salty and sandy. Add in snorkeling equipment and the day naturally supports both swimmers and casual explorers.

Price, group size, and where the value is hiding

The price is $692.36 per group for up to 6 people, for about 8 hours on the water. That sounds steep if you’re thinking solo. But if you’re splitting the group cost with friends or family, it starts to look a lot more reasonable fast. Even at the full group size, the math is roughly $115 per person before any extras like lunch or drinks.

Here’s how the value is built into the experience:

• Private boat time for your group (not a seat on a shared tour)
• Snorkeling gear provided
• Fuel surcharge included
• Onboard conveniences included (restroom, outdoor shower)

What’s not included matters for planning. Lunch is not included, and neither are soda/pop or alcoholic drinks. Also, getting to the marina may involve extra transport if you’re outside Dubrovnik (the estimate given is €40 for a ride like Uber to the marina). So budget for food and a bit of logistics, then the rest of the day is covered.

Getting going: the 9:00 start and your “where do we meet?” answer

The tour starts at 9:00 am at Lapadska obala 21, 20000 Dubrovnik. It ends back at the same meeting point. That matters because you don’t have to guess about a complicated return plan later in the day.

The experience uses a mobile ticket, and it’s offered in English. The meeting area is described as near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re not driving.

One practical note: the day depends on conditions. The experience requires good weather. If it’s not suitable, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Stop 1: Koločep Island for a swim hour that starts the day right

Koločep is where you get your first real taste of what makes the Elafiti Islands special: beaches and small bays that feel worlds away from the Dubrovnik streets.

You’ll have about 1 hour here, which is perfect for:

• Swimming and relaxing in a calmer setting
• Snorkeling with the included gear
• Sunbathing without feeling rushed

The best part about a first swim stop is timing. Early in the day, water access is often easier, and you haven’t spent hours in transit yet. You’ll want to arrive mentally ready to move quickly from boat to water to boat again—boat time is part of the experience here.

If you’re traveling with kids or someone who doesn’t want a long swim, this hour can still work. The schedule is short enough to keep everyone comfortable, and the boat-to-water setup makes it less intimidating than a beach walk.

Stop 2: Šunj Beach on Lopud—sand meets swim-from-the-boat time

Next is Šunj Beach (on Lopud). Unlike the “all-water, no-shore” vibe some boat trips offer, this one includes a sandy shore window.

You get about 1 hour, and you can mix it your way:

• Swim or snorkel from the boat
• Head to shore for a swim
• Grab a drink at a restaurant nearby

This is the stop I’d point to if you want a classic beach moment without giving up the boat experience. You’re not forced into only snorkeling or only wandering. You can do both—swim from the yacht, then land and stretch out.

One small planning tip: bring your own towel if you can. On a day like this, it saves time and hassle, especially if you want to hop straight into relaxation mode after getting out of the water.

Stop 3: Šipan—town walk, Škocibuha Castle, and a real meal break

Then the focus shifts to land for a while. On Šipan, you’ll have about 2 hours to do a short town walk, plus time to visit Škocibuha castle.

This stop is a nice change of pace because it adds texture to the day. You’re not just collecting swim photos—you’re getting a sense of how island life looks away from the waterline.

During this time, you can also:

• Swim on the beach
• Eat at local restaurants (lunch isn’t included, so this is where you budget)

A practical advantage here: the skipper can help with lunch planning. In at least one case, a reservation was made for a fish restaurant in Šipan, and that kind of small assistance can save you from the “good luck finding a table” problem on a busy day. If a top restaurant matters to you, it’s worth asking ahead of time so you’re not hunting while hungry.

The Elafiti cruising block: 4 hours of sailing time (and why wind matters)

After Šipan, you’ll have 4 hours spent sailing/cruising around the Elafiti Islands. This is the slow, scenic part of the day—the stretch where the boat becomes the place you’re enjoying, not just the transport between stops.

About the wind: one clear takeaway from real trips is that conditions can vary. If there’s not much wind, you may travel by motor more often. If the wind returns later, you might get some actual sailing time.

Either way, the goal is the same: time on open water. You’ll still get the views, the gentle rocking, and the chance to relax in a way that’s hard to match with a land-based tour.

So if you’re booking with the expectation of constant sailing, keep your expectations flexible. If you’re booking for swim stops plus a calm day at sea, this cruising block is exactly what you came for.

Onboard comfort: restroom, outdoor shower, and snorkeling support

This trip includes practical onboard items that make a big difference once you’ve been in the water:

• Restroom on board
• Outdoor shower
• Snorkeling equipment included

Saltwater gets everywhere. The outdoor shower is a lifesaver if you want to rinse off before you sit back down and relax. The restroom means you’re not planning your life around bathroom breaks either.

On the snorkeling side, the equipment is included, but it’s smart to think like a swimmer: bring your own water bottle, and if you like, snacks. On a recent family-style day, the skipper also provided buoyancy vests for children, which is a reassuring detail if you’re traveling with kids and want them to feel secure.

And yes—snorkeling is part of the day, but it’s not a “hardcore underwater sport” setup. It’s about easy swims, breathing room, and seeing enough underwater life to make the water feel even more inviting.

Your skipper experience: communication and real local help

One of the biggest strengths here is the skipper relationship. The operator’s captain, Filip, comes through as friendly and proactive, especially in the lead-up to the trip.

In multiple experiences, communication was smooth—easy contact on WhatsApp, clear updates, and a warm approach on the day itself. That matters because the Elafiti Islands are beautiful, but the day still relies on weather, sea conditions, and timing. A skipper who communicates early helps you feel confident, not stressed.

Filip also shows local knowledge and helps with practical stuff like lunch choices. If you want a day that feels tailored—more “we’re being taken care of” and less “you’re on your own with a timetable”—this is the style that tends to land well.

What to pack for a smooth, no-stress sea day

You’ll be happier if you plan for sun, water, and “moving between boat and shore.” Here’s what I’d bring based on the style of day you’re getting:

• Swimwear (and at least one dry set)
• Towel (even though you can rinse, you still need to dry off)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Water bottle and a few snacks (especially if lunch timing is later)
• Any personal snorkel items you prefer, even if the basics are provided

You’ll also want to consider comfort gear. Even though it’s a private boat, you’ll still spend hours exposed to sea breeze, sun, and occasional spray. A light cover-up or something you can throw on helps.

If you’re sensitive to sun, plan for it like you would a beach day in summer: the sea reflects light, and you’ll feel it after your first swim.

Who should book this Elafiti Islands sailing day

This tour fits best if you want a mix of:

• Swimming and snorkeling as a core activity
• A private pace (no crowds, no herd behavior)
• Island time with at least one land stop (Šipan and Škocibuha Castle)

It’s especially good for families who want calm time on the boat and safety support. It also works well for couples who want something more special than a standard day trip, and for groups of friends who can split the group cost and make the private aspect feel worth it.

You might want a different option if:

• You need guaranteed all-sailing, no-motor cruising (wind can change)
• You want a lunch included in the price with zero planning

Should you book this private Elafiti full-day sail?

I think this is a strong choice if you’re chasing a real water day without the chaos. The snorkeling + multiple swim stops are the headline, but the value comes from the private format, the onboard comfort, and having time to actually enjoy each place instead of rushing through them.

Book it if you:

• Want a calm, uncrowded day from Dubrovnik
• Like the idea of Koločep and Lopud water time, plus Šipan on land
• Are willing to pay extra only for lunch and drinks

Skip it (or plan differently) if you’re the type who needs constant wind-driven sailing. But if you’re flexible about motor cruising and you care more about the swimming and the experience, you’re in the right place.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the private full day sailing tour?

It’s listed as about 8 hours.

How many people can be on the tour?

It’s a private tour/activity with up to 6 people per group.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Lapadska obala 21, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What islands and stops are included?

You’ll stop at Koločep Island, Šunj Beach, and Šipan, with additional sailing/cruising time around the Elaphiti Islands.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included, and you’ll have time on one of the islands to get food.

Are snorkeling items provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is transportation to the marina included?

Private transport to the marina is not included. An estimate of about €40 (for an Uber-like ride) is mentioned if you’re outside Dubrovnik.

What onboard amenities are included?

There’s a restroom on board and an outdoor shower.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.