Dubrovnik: Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Sea and Islands: A Detailed Look at the Private Elaphiti Islands Sailing Tour

If you’re considering a sailing adventure during your visit to Dubrovnik, this private Elaphiti Islands tour has been catching a lot of attention. While we haven’t personally been on this specific trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that combines scenic beauty, relaxed fun, and a touch of learning on the water. It’s designed for travelers who want a more intimate, flexible way to see Dubrovnik’s coastline and islands, rather than the usual crowded boat trips.

What we particularly like about this tour are two key features: first, the opportunity to sail around Dubrovnik in a comfortable boat with knowledgeable guides who genuinely make the experience enjoyable. Second, the chance to swim in secluded beaches and explore caves that are difficult to access otherwise. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that tours are weather-dependent — if it’s stormy or too windy, you might need to reschedule or get a refund. This makes it a bit of a gamble if your plans are tight, but it’s worth it for the serenity and authentic sailing experience.

This tour seems best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, like being on the water, and want to see Dubrovnik from a different angle. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or a small family, it offers a personalized touch that larger group excursions might lack. Keep in mind, it’s not recommended for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, but if you’re comfortable on a boat, you’re likely to find it rewarding.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (up to 8 people) means a more tailored experience.
• Variety of Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sailing lessons, and exploring caves provide a good mix of relaxation and activity.
• Beautiful Scenery: From Dubrovnik’s city walls to the Blue Cave and pristine beaches, visuals are unforgettable.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides make the journey smoother and more engaging.
• Good Value: For $353 per group, you get a full day of sailing, swimming, and learning—great value for a private tour.
• Weather Contingent: The tour relies on good weather; rescheduling or refunds are available if conditions turn bad.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting Off from Dubrovnik’s Coast

The adventure begins at the Bay of Lapad, where you’ll hop into a dinghy to reach your sailing boat. The boat itself looks well-equipped, and with soft drinks included, the start feels relaxed. As you set sail, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Dubrovnik’s impressive city walls, which you can admire from the water — a perspective that photos and stories often miss.

Cruising along the coast, you’ll experience a sense of romance and freedom that only sailing can provide. The guides are universally praised for their friendliness and expertise, making everyone feel comfortable regardless of sailing experience. Some reviews highlight guides like Mirko, who are knowledgeable and suggest great stops along the way, adding a personal touch to each trip.

Visiting the Elaphiti Islands

The main highlight here is reaching the Elaphiti archipelago, a string of islands known for their untouched beauty. These islands are less crowded than Dubrovnik itself, and visiting offers a chance to relax on secluded beaches and explore quiet coves. Many travelers mention their awe at the pristine waters, perfect for swimming or just floating around.

The Blue Cave is another highlight — the water’s reflection on the cave walls creates a magical, almost otherworldly glow that photos often capture beautifully. You’re encouraged to snorkel using provided gear, which offers a glimpse into the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. The ability to combine swimming and snorkeling with the scenic boat ride makes this tour feel like a well-rounded day in the sun.

Sailing Lessons and Personal Touches

What sets this tour apart is the sailing lesson. Guides invite you to try steering the boat, giving you a taste of what it’s like to handle a vessel yourself. Several reviews mention how much fun this was, with one traveler noting their partner got to learn basic sailing skills, which added to the memorable experience.

This personal interaction is what makes the trip stand out. Guides seem committed to making sure everyone gets their turn in the captain’s seat, which keeps the trip lively and engaging. Plus, the freedom to choose the route — whether you want more beach time, island visits, or a swim at a lagoon — adds to the sense of personalized adventure.

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What We Think About the Price

At $353 for a group of up to 8, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re paying for a private experience, which means fewer crowds and more flexibility. The inclusion of snorkel gear, sailing lessons, and soft drinks makes it feel like a well-rounded package.

Compared to larger, more generic boat trips, this experience feels more intimate and tailored. If you’re into sailing or simply want to enjoy a relaxed day on the water with knowledgeable guides, this price tag seems fair, especially considering the exclusivity and personalized attention.

Potential Downsides

No trip is perfect, and this one has a few considerations. The main one is weather dependency. If storms or high winds roll in, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, which could disrupt your plans. Also, since the tour involves being on a boat, it might not be suitable for those who struggle with motion sickness or have mobility issues.

Another aspect to consider is that food isn’t included. If you want a full meal or lunch, you’ll need to arrange that separately, which adds to the overall cost. Still, the focus on swimming, snorkeling, and sailing lessons balances out that omission.

The Real Traveler Experience

Looking at the reviews, it’s clear that most guests walk away feeling they’ve had a special, memorable day. For example, one reviewer called it “the highlight of their time in the Balkans,” emphasizing the hospitality of guides like Dragan. Others appreciated the flexibility, with guides happy to suggest routes or stop at places like the Green Grotto or islands for swimming and snorkeling.

Many reviews mention the friendly guides who are eager to share their sailing knowledge and make sure everyone has fun. The small group size seems to foster a relaxed atmosphere — perfect for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

Families have also enjoyed this trip, with one reviewer noting how their kids learned basic sailing skills and loved swimming in the caves. So if you’re traveling with a family or just looking for a more engaging, hands-on experience, this tour could fit well.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Meeting Point: The tour starts at a varying location depending on your booking, so check your confirmation carefully.
• Duration: Full- or half-day options are available, allowing you to choose how much time you want on the water.
• Group Size: Up to 8 people, which keeps the trip intimate but enough for lively company.
• Inclusions: Boat, skipper, snorkeling gear, sailing lessons, and soft drinks are included.
• Not Included: Food and transport to the meeting point; plan accordingly.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent, with refunds or rescheduling offered if conditions are unsuitable.
• Booking Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private sailing adventure suits travelers who want a more exclusive, engaging experience on the water. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning new skills, relaxing in secluded spots, and seeing Dubrovnik from a fresh perspective.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a mix of activity and relaxation, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes. Families with older children might enjoy it too, especially since many reviews highlight how kids loved the swimming and sailing parts. However, those with mobility issues or a strict schedule might want to consider the weather dependence and the need to meet at a specific location.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically targeted as a family tour, several reviews mention kids enjoying swimming and learning basic sailing skills. It’s best suited for children who are comfortable on boats and can handle some physical activity.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel so you’re ready for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also wise to have sunscreen and a hat, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time on deck.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, guides are flexible and happy to suggest stops based on your preferences, whether you want more island visits, swimming spots, or just relaxing on the boat.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour will be rescheduled or refunded if the weather conditions make sailing unsafe. It’s a good idea to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Is transportation included?
No, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point yourself. Check your booking details for the exact location.

How long does the tour last?
Options are available for full or half-day trips, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule and interests.

In essence, this private Elaphiti Islands sailing tour offers a fantastic way to see Dubrovnik’s coast in a relaxed, personalized setting. The combination of scenic views, swimming, snorkeling, and sailing lessons makes it particularly appealing for those looking to combine activity with leisure. The highly praised guides and intimate group size ensure a memorable experience, especially if you’re comfortable on the water and eager to learn or just unwind under the sun.

Whether you’re craving a romantic day, a fun family outing, or a peaceful escape from the crowds, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Croatia. Just keep an eye on the weather, plan for some extra snacks or lunch, and prepare for a day of sailing, swimming, and stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: