Dubrovnik-Private full day boat tour to Elaphiti &Blue cave

Exploring Dubrovnik from the Water: A Deep Dive into the Private Full-Day Boat Tour to Elaphiti and Blue Cave

If you’re searching for a way to escape the crowds and see Dubrovnik from a fresh perspective, this private full-day boat tour might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard ZaraBella, the rave reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this experience offers more than just a boat ride — it’s a carefully curated day of relaxation, discovery, and authentic seaside fun.

What we love about this tour? First, it’s powered by the wind, giving you the chance to truly feel the sailing experience, away from noisy engines. Second, the flexible itinerary, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and even free sailing lessons, ensures you can tailor your day. Third, the stories from past guests highlight how attentive and knowledgeable the guides are, making the adventure both informative and comfortable. The only real consideration is weather — since sailing depends on wind conditions, some parts might vary slightly.

This experience works best for those who appreciate personalized excursions, enjoy being on the water, and want a mix of adventure and leisure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling as a family, or just want to indulge in a unique maritime experience, this tour caters to a broad range of travelers.

Good To Know

• Private and customizable: Designed for up to 8 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Authentic sailing: Powered by wind, not engines, for a truly peaceful ride.
• Multiple swimming spots: Including Sunj Beach and the Blue Cave, perfect for cooling off.
• Local cuisine and scenic stops: Lunch on Lopud Island and picturesque villages.
• All-included perks: Free WiFi, snorkeling and diving accessories, paddleboarding, and sailing lessons.
• Flexible scheduling: Fully private, with options to adapt the day to your wishes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour promises an 8-hour adventure, beginning at the Dubrovnik City Marina, where the ZaraBella yacht awaits. The boat itself is a Bavaria 40, known for its comfort and ample deck space, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. You’ll notice that the trip is fully private, making it ideal for families, friends, or small groups wanting exclusivity and tailored experiences.

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Day on the Water

The day is designed to hit several highlights around the Elaphiti Islands, with the pace flexible depending on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

Sailing to the Elaphiti Islands (50 mins)
The journey begins with a peaceful sail across the bay, giving you the chance to settle into the rhythm of the wind and waves. Past guests mention how much they appreciated the opportunity for free sailing lessons, which can be both educational and amusing, especially for those new to the helm.

Blue Cave and Kolocep Island (20 mins)
Next, you’ll stop at the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island. This spot is famed for its shimmering blue waters, and you’ll have time to snorkel and swim. Reviewers highlight how calm and attentive the crew is, making the brief stop comfortable for all, even those less confident swimmers.

Sailing to Sunj Beach (45 mins)
The highlight for many is Sunj Beach, considered one of the most beautiful on the islands. This stretch offers plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and even stand-up paddleboarding, with gear provided free of charge. One guest noted, “The water was crystal clear, and the snorkeling accessories made it easy to explore the underwater world,” emphasizing how seamless the experience was.

Lopud Island for Lunch and Exploration (2 hours)
Lopud Island offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and authentic Croatian charm. A local restaurant near the coast provides a delicious opportunity to sample regional dishes. Guests mention the food as a highlight of the day, with some noting that the tour’s flexible timing allowed enough time for a leisurely lunch and a walk through the village.

Additional Sails and Stops
The afternoon includes more sailing, with stops at Kolocep once more and further swimming spots. These short, refreshing breaks make the long day feel less hectic, letting you savor the water activities and scenery at your own pace.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Sailing Experience: Unlike motorized day trips, ZaraBella operates under wind power, which not only reduces noise but also provides a genuine sailing feeling that many guests appreciate. Reviewers have expressed how the sound of waves and wind added to the magic, giving the trip a tranquil, almost meditative quality.

Personalized Attention: The guides, including Captain Dragan, are praised for their attentiveness and flexibility. One review mentions how the skipper was very accommodating, giving options on timings and itinerary, making guests feel truly cared for.

Food and Local Culture: While lunch isn’t included in the price, the chance to dine at a seaside restaurant on Lopud is a treat. Guests loved sampling Croatian specialties, and the relaxed setting provided a genuine taste of local life.

Value for Money: At $738 for a group of up to 8, the cost reflects a premium experience, but considering the private setting, personalized service, and all the included gear, many find it worthwhile. The fact that there are no hidden costs and that amenities like WiFi, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards are free makes it feel like a comprehensive package.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience: Multiple guests describe the captain as “a very pleasant skipper” and “calm and attentive,” contributing significantly to the relaxed, enjoyable environment. Many mention this being “the highlight of their holiday,” especially noting the peaceful sailing and stunning scenery.

Practicalities and Tips

• Starting Point: The tour departs from Lapadska obala 4, near the University, a straightforward location to find with clear signage.
• Duration & Timing: An 8-hour window allows for a full day of activities, with flexibility based on weather and guest wishes.
• What to Bring: Pack a towel and beachwear, and consider bringing a waterproof camera for capturing stunning water shots.
• Weather Cancellations: In case of bad weather, the tour will be rescheduled, ensuring safety and comfort.
• Extra Costs: Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly. The skipper’s lunch is covered by the company, adding to the hassle-free feel.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Why This Tour Appeals to Different Travelers

Families and Couples: The private setup means you can set your own pace, making it ideal for those traveling with kids or partners who prefer a more intimate, relaxed environment.

Adventure Seekers: The chance for free sailing lessons and paddleboarding offers a fun, active element to the day. Plus, snorkeling at the Blue Cave is a must-do for underwater fans.

Food and Culture Enthusiasts: Sampling local cuisine on Lopud, combined with scenic village walks, provides a taste of authentic Croatian life beyond the beaches.

Photographers: The combination of pristine waters, scenic islands, and iconic caves offers countless photo opportunities, especially for those keen on capturing maritime beauty.

The Bottom Line

This private boat tour hits a sweet spot between adventure, relaxation, and culture. The experience’s emphasis on sailing powered by wind, combined with personal attention and customizable stops, makes it stand out among many day tours in Dubrovnik.

The value lies not just in the stunning locations but in the quiet joy of sailing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying genuine local flavors in a peaceful setting. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a flexible, authentic experience away from large crowds, with the luxury of privacy and personalized service.

While weather can influence some parts of the day, the overall package offers enough flexibility and highlights to make it a memorable adventure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a peaceful day at sea, this tour delivers on making beautiful moments happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is flexible enough to accommodate families, especially since the boat is private, and gear like paddleboards and snorkeling accessories are provided. However, children should be comfortable around water and be supervised during swimming activities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a fully equipped Bavaria 40 sailing yacht, WiFi, restroom, outdoor shower, free paddleboarding, snorkeling accessories, and sailing lessons. Lunch is not included, but a stop at a local restaurant on Lopud is part of the itinerary.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, and the crew is willing to adapt stops and timing based on your preferences, ensuring a personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of very bad weather, such as strong rain, the tour will be rescheduled to the first available date, prioritizing guest safety and comfort.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour price is all-inclusive except for meals, which you can choose to purchase during the stop at Lopud.

How long are the swimming stops?
Swimming and snorkeling are usually around 20-45 minutes per stop, with additional time for relaxing and paddling.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Guests meet at the operational pontoon at Dubrovnik City Marina, near the university, about 100 meters before the entrance of Marina Frapa.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the skipper, Captain Dragan, and his team speak English, Macedonian, Serbo-Croatian, and Bulgarian, providing informative commentary and assistance throughout.

Can I pay later or cancel easily?
Absolutely. You can reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning.

This Dubrovnik private yacht tour offers an immersive, relaxing way to experience the Elaphiti Islands. With its focus on authentic sailing, personalized stops, and expert guidance, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers craving a special day on Croatia’s stunning coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: