Cruising the Elafiti Islands is the easy way to escape Dubrovnik’s crowds. This private day delivers crystal-clear swim time and a calm pace on a small group yacht, plus the kind of local stop planning a big tour bus can’t do. One thing to plan for: on low-wind days you may motor more than sail.

I like how the day is built around water first—swim and snorkel stops off Koločep and Lopud (Šunj)—not just scenic sightseeing. I also like the flexibility built into the day: you get real time on Šipan to stroll, visit Škocibuha Castle, and choose a meal on your schedule. If you’re hoping for lots of classic sail-only cruising, understand that wind can be shy in the afternoons.

Key highlights that make this sail feel worth it

• Private group up to 6: your day stays controlled and relaxed, not like a “queue and shuffle” cruise.
• Snorkeling gear included: you’re set for the boat-based swim stops without dragging equipment through town.
• Koločep + Lopud + Šipan in one loop: a mix of sandy beach time and small-town wandering.
• Škocibuha Castle on Šipan: a strong cultural add-on between swims.
• Hours of cruising time: a big chunk of the day is spent on the water, not in traffic.
• Skipper Filip’s communication: clear, proactive contact before the trip helps the day start smoothly.

A private sail is really about control—over pace and people

If you’ve done Dubrovnik excursions before, you know the pattern: go fast, see a lot, spend half the time waiting. This tour flips that. It’s private (up to 6 people), so you get a slower rhythm with room to just be on the water.

That matters in the Elafiti Islands. The best moments aren’t the photo moments—they’re the quiet moments when you’re swimming and the boat pulls away just far enough that you can hear the sea. A small yacht also makes it easier to linger at the right places without trying to “hold your spot” in a crowd.

Price and what you actually get for it

The price is listed at $692.36 per group (up to 6), lasting about 8 hours. On paper, that’s not cheap. In practice, it can be good value because several costs are wrapped into the trip: fuel surcharge, snorkeling equipment, and basics on board like a restroom and an outdoor shower.

Here’s the cost reality to keep in mind:

• Lunch is not included (you’ll likely stop on an island, but you’ll pay for your meal).
• Soda/pop and alcohol are not included.
• If you’re staying outside Dubrovnik, you may need private transport to the marina area. The estimate given is about 40€ for an Uber to the marina.

For me, the value check comes down to this: if your group wants a private boat day with swim stops and you’re okay paying for food and drinks, the per-group pricing often feels reasonable compared with stacking multiple tours or doing a crowded cruise.

The morning run: meeting at Lapadska obala and getting to the marina

You start at Lapadska obala 21 in Dubrovnik. The tour begins at 9:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point—so you don’t have to solve a complicated end-of-day transit puzzle.

One practical detail: the marina access can be straightforward with public transportation (a bus connection is mentioned as working well). Still, if you’re not already near the meeting area, give yourself extra time to get there on foot or by short local rides.

What I’d do: pack your swim basics the night before. This is a full-day boat plan, and once you’re in motion, you don’t want to be thinking about towels or water.

Stop 1, Koločep: swim, snorkel, and hang in the bays

Your first island stop is Koločep (Koločep Island). The day starts with about one hour to enjoy “pristine bays and amazing beaches,” with time to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.

What makes this stop work is the timing. Getting in early means the sea time happens before everyone else’s energy spikes. You also get the benefit of snorkeling gear being provided, so you can focus on swimming rather than gear logistics.

How to make the most of Koločep:

• Plan to use that hour for actual water time, not just a quick dip.
• Bring or use your own towels if you like (it makes the transition easier once you’re back on board).
• Have a simple sunscreen routine ready—boat days can catch up with you fast.

Stop 2, Šunj Beach on Lopud: the sandy shoreline break

Next up is Šunj Beach on Lopud. This is a sandy stop—one that’s described as a trademark of Lopud. You get about one hour here.

Unlike some beach stops, this one works both ways:

• You can swim and snorkel from the boat.
• Then you can sunbathe and even swim toward the shore to pick up a drink at restaurants.

This is also where you can slow down mentally. If Koločep feels like “water workout + exploring,” Šunj feels like “settle in.” Sandy time is rare on many boat itineraries around Dubrovnik, so it’s a real relief for beach lovers.

Stop 3, Šipan and Škocibuha Castle: small-town strolling with a real payoff

Your third major stop is Šipan, with about two hours on the island. Here, you’re not just swimming—you’re getting the land portion that makes the day feel fuller.

What you can do during that time:

• Take a walk through the town
• Visit Škocibuha Castle
• Have another beach swim
• Grab something to eat in local restaurants

This stop is a good “switch.” After two water-focused areas, Šipan gives you a chance to stretch your legs and get a sense of island life away from the busiest shoreline views.

Practical note: if you want a specific restaurant meal, don’t assume it’s effortless. In one example, skipper Filip handled a reservation for a seafood meal on Šipan when the restaurant was fully booked. So if you have a target place in mind, ask early.

The big cruising chunk around the Elafiti Islands

After Šipan, the schedule turns into the long part: hours of sailing/cruising around the Elafiti Islands. The day is designed so a lot of your time stays on the water, which is the whole point of booking a boat day in the first place.

Here’s the honest weather/wind consideration. One review highlights that there wasn’t much wind, so the yacht went by motor for most of the day, with enough wind later for some sailing. That’s normal in coastal cruising. You still get the time on the sea, just with a different engine-to-sail ratio.

If your priority is classic sail feel, you can’t control wind. But you can control your mindset: aim to enjoy the water itself—sunlight, clean swims, and the way the islands look from offshore.

On-board comfort: shower, restroom, and snorkeling support

For long days, the “small stuff” becomes big stuff. This boat includes:

• Restroom on board
• Outdoor shower
• Use of snorkeling equipment (included)
• Fuel surcharge included in the price

That shower detail is underrated. After a swim and sunscreen reapplication, rinsing off before you sit back down is a comfort upgrade you’ll appreciate later.

Also, snorkeling gear inclusion is a big deal on a private day. You’re not trying to rent equipment last-minute, and you’re not stuck deciding whether your group wants to snorkel based on gear availability.

What to bring (and what to pay for)

Based on how these trips actually play out, I’d pack like this:

• Swimwear and a dry change of clothes for after
• Sunscreen and basic sun protection
• Water and small snacks if you like (some people plan their own)
• Towel(s) if you prefer your own
• A simple plan for lunch budget, since lunch isn’t included

What you should budget for:

• Lunch on the islands (not included)
• Soda/pop and alcohol (not included)
• Transport to the marina if you’re outside Dubrovnik (estimate given: about 40€ for Uber)

If your group includes kids, you’ll want to think about comfort in and around the water. One family described the captain providing buoyancy vests for their children. You might still want to ask what sizes are available for your crew.

Why the skipper’s style changes the whole day

This is a private tour, and that means the skipper isn’t just driving. The skipper sets the pace and the tone—where you stop, how long you stay, and how smoothly you connect the day’s pieces.

Skipper Filip is specifically noted for being easy to reach ahead of time (WhatsApp is mentioned) and for proactive communication and friendly help during the trip. That kind of contact matters on a full-day sail because it removes uncertainty—what time to be ready, what to bring, and how the day will flow.

It also helps with the “human logistics,” like getting lunch or dinner plans arranged on Šipan when places are busy.

Who should book this Elafiti sailing day

I think this tour fits best if you want:

• A private boat day (not a crowded cruise)
• Multiple swimming stops and time to snorkel
• A mix of water time and a real island walk on Šipan
• A calmer pace with a skipper who plans and communicates

It’s also a strong option for couples or small families who’d rather spend their Dubrovnik day on the water than in a packed day itinerary.

If you’re the type who needs nonstop movement and constant new stops, this might feel too “slow and swimmy.” But if you’re booking for the sea day itself, that’s the sweet spot.

Should you book the Private Full Day Sailing Tour to the Elafiti Islands?

Yes, if you want an honest, swim-focused day on a small yacht with structured stops to Koločep, Šunj, and Šipan—and then a big block of cruising time. The included snorkeling gear, restroom, and outdoor shower make it feel set up for real time in the water, not just a scenic ride.

I’d think twice if your top priority is sail-only sailing in strong wind. You can still have a fantastic day, but wind can affect how much you sail versus motor.

For most people traveling from Dubrovnik, I’d say the decision comes down to one thing: if you want to spend your hours with your feet off the pavement and your time measured in swim breaks, this private Elafiti day is a very solid way to do it.

FAQ

How long is the Private Full Day Sailing Tour to the Elafiti Islands?

The tour lasts about 8 hours.

Is this tour private, and how many people can go?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity for your group only, with up to 6 people.

What’s included on the boat?

The included items are an outdoor shower, a restroom on board, use of snorkeling equipment, and a fuel surcharge.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included in the price, though there is a lunch stop on one of the islands.

What are the main stops during the day?

You’ll visit Koločep Island, Šunj Beach (Lopud), Šipan (including time for walking and Škocibuha Castle), and then you’ll spend the remaining time sailing/cruising around the Elafiti Islands.

Where do we meet, and what time does the tour start?

You meet at Lapadska obala 21, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia. The start time is 9:00 am, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Do I need transportation to the marina?

All transportation fees to and from the marina are not included. If you’re outside of Dubrovnik, an estimated cost of about 40€ for an Uber to the marina is mentioned.

What happens if weather is poor, or I need to cancel?

The tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.