Dubrovnik – Private Sailing tour to Elafity island on a yacht

Exploring Dubrovnik’s coastline from the deck of a private yacht might just be one of the most memorable ways to see Croatia’s famed Elafiti Islands. While many travelers opt for crowded boat tours, this private sailing experience offers a sense of exclusivity, tranquility, and authentic sailing that larger group trips simply can’t match. We’ve looked into what makes this trip special—and what you should consider before booking—to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Croatian adventure.

Three things we love about this experience:
First, the flexibility and personalization of a private tour mean your day is tailored to your wishes. You’re not stuck following a rigid schedule—your skipper Dragan and his crew will adapt to your pace and interests. Second, the authentic sailing with wind power offers a peaceful, wave-breaking journey—imagine the gentle sounds of waves and wind rather than a noisy motor. Third, the diverse stops—from pristine beaches to charming villages—give a well-rounded taste of the islands’ natural beauty and local life.

A potential consideration is the price point—at around $391.81 for a group up to seven, this isn’t a budget option but offers excellent value considering exclusivity and all the included amenities. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a more intimate, relaxed experience rather than a quick, rushed tour.

Who will love this?
This experience appeals most to those seeking a personal, leisurely day on the water, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take photos away from crowds. Perfect for couples, families with kids, or small groups of friends who value comfort, flexibility, and a touch of luxury.

Good To Know

• Private, customizable sailing experience tailored to your interests.
• Authentic wind-powered sailing providing a peaceful, eco-friendly journey.
• Multiple island stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local villages.
• All-day tour lasting approximately 8 hours with ample time at each location.
• Includes many amenities like snorkeling equipment, coffee, outdoor shower, and sailing lessons.
• Cost reflects exclusivity and personalized service—a worthwhile splurge for a special day.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Private Sailing Tour

The allure of this trip lies in its blend of comfort, adventure, and genuine sailing. From the moment you arrive at Lapadska obala 4, you’ll meet Dragan, your skipper, and his crew aboard the stunning yacht ZaraBella. The boat itself is described as beautiful and well-equipped, offering a welcoming rest area, outdoor shower, and fully fitted kitchen—features that elevate the experience beyond a typical boat trip.

The Itinerary: A Well-Paced, Varied Day

Stop 1: Kolocep Island
Your first stop is Kolocep, famous for its untouched bays and inviting beaches. Here, you’ll have roughly an hour to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Reviewers like Matej praised the “pristine bays” and “amazing beaches,” noting how easy it is to relax and enjoy the clear waters. The calm, shallow waters of Kolocep make it perfect for families or those new to snorkeling. Plus, with admission included, you can jump straight in without extra fuss.

Stop 2: Sunj Beach on Island Lopud
Next, you’ll visit Sunj Beach, a long sandy stretch that’s become a trademark of Lopud. The reviewers’ comments highlight how tempting it is to stay here all day—whether sunbathing, swimming, snorkelings near the rocks, or grabbing a drink at the beach club. It’s an iconic spot for relaxed leisure, and the included admission makes it easy to enjoy without extra charges.

Stop 3: Lopud Village & Monastery
Lopud offers a charming village atmosphere, with a 14th-century monastery adding a touch of history. You’ll have about two hours to explore, eat at a local restaurant, or take a quick walk through the streets. While not included in the tour, reviewers appreciated the chance to mingle with locals and enjoy good food—perfect for tasting authentic Croatian cuisine.

Stop 4: Sipan Island
The final island stop before sailing back is Sipan, where you might walk around, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind with a cold drink. The reviews mention how the captain caught all the wind, making the sail especially enjoyable, and the quiet island vibe offers a peaceful retreat.

Final Stretch: Elafiti Islands Cruise
The remaining two hours are spent sailing along the Elafiti Islands, soaking in the scenery and enjoying the fresh air. The cruise component feels less hurried, providing ideal conditions for photography or just relaxing on deck.

What’s Included & What’s Not

You’ll find the included amenities make this trip stand out. Free sailing lessons allow even beginners to get a taste of sailing, while snorkelling gear, coffee, and a SUP board are available at no extra cost. The fuel is included, which is a significant advantage—it means you don’t need to worry about extra charges for your fuel consumption, unlike some other tours.

On the other hand, lunch isn’t included, but there’s time to eat at local restaurants or bring your own food. You can also bring your own drinks, and the crew is happy to accommodate your preferences.

Authentic Experiences & Positive Vibes

Based on reviews, this trip is praised for its relaxed, friendly vibe. Dragan, the captain, is described as welcoming, conversational, and skilled—teaching sailing, catching the wind, and making sure guests have a memorable day. Families loved how he tailored the route to make it comfortable for kids, and couples appreciated the leisurely pace and stunning views.

Pricing & Value

While at $391.81 for up to 7 people, this isn’t the cheapest option, it’s important to consider what’s included. The private nature means avoiding crowded boats, and the personalized service enhances the overall experience. For small groups or families, this can be a cost-effective way to enjoy a tailored day on the water, especially when compared to larger, less intimate tours.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re craving a day of authentic sailing with wind-powered movement, stunning island scenery, and personalized attention, this tour hits the mark. The multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local villages mean you’ll get a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed. The crew’s flexibility and the boat’s amenities ensure comfort and convenience throughout.

This experience is particularly suited to travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace, authentic maritime adventures, and picturesque surroundings. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, tailored day away from the crowds.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing tour from Dubrovnik to the Elafiti Islands offers an intimate and immersive way to enjoy Croatia’s maritime beauty. The combination of wind-powered sailing, diverse islands, and personalized service creates a memorable day that balances relaxation with adventure.

While it requires a higher investment than some group excursions, the value lies in the exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility you get. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape with the chance to snorkel, swim, and explore at your own pace, this trip will likely meet and exceed your expectations.

It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a genuine sailing experience and a well-curated itinerary in one of Croatia’s most stunning coastal areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
Included are sailing lessons, fuel, coffee and tea, snorkelling equipment, SUP board, outdoor shower, and a rest area on board.

Are meals provided?
Lunch is not included; you can either dine at one of the island restaurants or bring your own food and drinks.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

What are the stops like?
Each stop offers a mix of swimming, snorkelling, exploring villages or beaches, and relaxing—perfect for a full day of varied activities.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkelling gear is included for guests interested in exploring underwater.

What is the boat like?
ZaraBella is described as a beautiful, fully equipped yacht with a comfortable rest area and outdoor shower, ideal for relaxing between stops.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 34 days ahead, which helps ensure availability for this popular experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

If you’re dreaming of a flexible, authentic sailing adventure with stunning scenery and personalized service, this Dubrovnik private yacht tour to the Elafiti Islands might just be your perfect match.