Thinking about a day out on Croatia’s stunning coastline? The private sailing trip offered by The Luna Sailing is one of those experiences that promise a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural flavor. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the details suggest it’s a solid choice if you’re craving some time on the water away from the crowded spots.
What we really like about this tour is the flexibility and intimacy it offers. With a private boat for up to 7 people, it feels like a day spent with friends rather than a big group. Plus, the chance to enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters is always a highlight. The onboard traditional Dalmatian lunch, cooked by your skipper, adds a local touch that many travelers appreciate.
One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is best suited for those who enjoy being on the water and aren’t prone to seasickness. It’s not ideal for non-swimmers or anyone looking for a more land-based sightseeing day. Also, because the price is for a group up to 7, if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it’s a bit of a premium for just the two of you, but the private aspect can make it worth it.
This tour has a friendly, personalized vibe that makes it appealing for couples, small groups, or families who want a relaxed yet active day at sea. Now, let’s dive into more details about what makes this trip special—and what to consider before booking.
Key Points
- Private, intimate experience: Ideal for small groups seeking personalized service and flexibility.
- Activities galore: Swimming, snorkeling, paddling, and relaxing in a hammock offer plenty of ways to enjoy the water.
- Local culinary flavor: A traditional Dalmatian lunch cooked onboard or at a local restaurant adds cultural value.
- Scenic views: Expect plenty of stunning coastlines, panoramic fortresses, and peaceful coves.
- Weather flexibility: Rescheduling or refund is guaranteed if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
- Limited suitability: Not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness.
What to Expect from the Day
This private sailing tour kicks off from either Sibenik or Bilice Stubalj, making it easy to meet up depending on where you’re staying. Once aboard your boat, you’ll cruise through St. Anthonys Channel, a scenic waterway offering fantastic views of historic fortresses perched on cliffs. This initial stretch sets a dramatic tone for the day, with plenty of photo opportunities and a feeling of freedom as you glide through the open sea.
From there, the skipper (and local guide) will take you to explore nearby islands and hidden bays. These spots are perfect for swimming in crystal-clear waters that feel refreshingly pure, especially after a few hours of sunbathing or paddling. If snorkeling is your thing, the peaceful coves are ideal for spotting marine life, while paddleboards allow you to explore further away from the boat.
A big highlight for many travelers is the onboard Dalmatian lunch, which your skipper cooks right there. Think fresh seafood, local ingredients, and simple yet satisfying dishes that showcase regional flavors. Alternatively, you can visit a local island restaurant—Octopus Peka is often recommended—if you prefer to eat ashore.
As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a sunset sail back toward Ibenik, with the boat’s Bluetooth speaker adding some tunes to the peaceful journey. The day wraps up with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of new memories.
The Activities and Their Value
The activities included in this tour are what truly set it apart. Swimming in clear waters is always a highlight, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the marine scenery. Snorkeling coves tend to be peaceful and relatively untouched, offering a chance to see what’s beneath the surface without crowds.
Paddleboarding adds a fun, active element—something we love because it lets you explore at your own pace and get a little workout in. If you’re into relaxing, you might find the hammock onboard a real treat, perfect for soaking up the sun and unwinding after a swim.
The optional oyster tasting and island stops are nice touches if you want to add a culinary or cultural layer to your day. These aren’t guaranteed but can be requested, giving you some control over your experience. The onboard Bluetooth speaker, USB, and WiFi ensure you can keep your favorite tunes and photos flowing—all while surrounded by breathtaking views.
The Value of the Experience
At $810 for a group of up to 7, this tour sits at a premium price point, but it’s important to see what that includes. You get an entire private boat, a skipper who is also a guide and cook, fuel, drinks like water and coffee, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a hammock. The fact that it’s private means fewer crowds and a flexible schedule, which is priceless for many travelers.
The onboard meal or the option to dine ashore enhances the experience by giving it a local, authentic feel. It’s not just about the water adventures but also the chance to indulge in regional cuisine in a relaxed setting. For those who value personalized service, this setup offers a lot of bang for your buck.
While it doesn’t include lunch or wine, those can be arranged separately, and the tour’s flexibility allows you to customize your day to some extent. Keep in mind that tips for your skipper aren’t included—which is typical for private tours—and should be considered based on your experience.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This sailing trip is a good fit if you’re looking for a personalized, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in Croatia’s beautiful coast. It’s perfect for small groups or couples wanting a private experience without the crowds.
Travelers who appreciate local flavors and cultural touches will enjoy the onboard Dalmatian lunch or dining at a local island restaurant. It’s also suited for those who like a flexible schedule—rescheduling or canceling in bad weather is straightforward.
However, it’s not the best choice if you’re not comfortable on boats or prone to seasickness. Non-swimmers might find some activities challenging, so keep that in mind. Also, if you’re traveling solo and don’t mind sharing the boat, it could be a bit costly compared to other options, but the privacy might justify the price for some.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts
All in all, this private sailing tour offers a memorable way to experience Croatia’s coast away from the crowds. The combination of water activities, scenic views, and a local culinary experience makes it appealing for those who want to blend adventure with relaxation.
The fact that it’s private means your day can be tailored a bit—whether you want to spend more time swimming, exploring a specific island, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand. The skilled skipper and local guide, Matea, ensures you’re in good hands, blending safety, local knowledge, and a friendly attitude.
While the price might be on the higher side, the personal touch and the opportunity to create a custom day at sea make it worth considering if you’re after a special Croatia experience.
ibenik: Private Day Sailing with optional lunch
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Not really. Since swimming and snorkeling are key parts of the experience, non-swimmers might find it difficult to fully participate in those activities. You might still enjoy relaxing on the boat or in a hammock.
Can I choose where to eat lunch?
Yes, in addition to onboard cooking, you can opt to visit a local island restaurant, such as one serving Octopus Peka, if you prefer to dine ashore.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers a private boat, skipper/guide/cook, fuel, water and coffee, paddleboard, snorkeling gear, hammock, Bluetooth speaker, USB/WiFi, and safety gear.
Is there a way to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is also possible, offering flexible planning in case of bad weather.
How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 7 people, making it ideal for small groups or couples wanting privacy.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, camera, snacks, and sunscreen. Optional items include beach towels (around 8€ per person). Large luggage or non-folding strollers aren’t allowed onboard.
If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty, water fun, and local flavor in Croatia, this private sailing trip might just be your perfect escape. It’s a chance to enjoy the coast at your own pace, supported by a friendly crew who will make sure you have a memorable day.
You can check availability for your dates here:
