Dubrovnik :Full day private tour to Elafity island&Blue cave

Exploring Dubrovnik via the Blue Waters and Wind

This full-day private sailing tour offers a refreshing escape from the city’s historic walls—if you love the idea of gliding across the sea powered solely by wind, this is a fantastic choice. The experience promises a blend of comfortable luxury and authentic sailing, taking you to some of the most beautiful spots around the Elafiti Islands, including the famous Blue Cave and Sunj Beach.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances relaxation with adventure. The fully equipped Bavaria 40 yacht offers comfort, and the chance to learn sailing lessons makes it engaging even if you’re new to boats. Plus, the emphasis on no hidden costs—from bottled water to paddleboarding accessories—is a refreshing change in a tour landscape often riddled with extra charges.

The only consideration? Because this is a private experience, it tends to be priced higher than group tours. If your budget is tight, it’s worth weighing whether the personalized service and unique sailing aspect justify the extra expense. Still, many reviewers, including those praising the “pleasant skipper” Dragan, agree the value for the memorable moments is worth it.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic wind-powered sailing: Feel the breeze and hear the waves—this isn’t a noisy motorboat but a true sailing adventure.
• Customizable itinerary: The tour adapts to your wishes, including time at each stop, especially in the restaurant on Lopud.
• Excellent guides: Guests have highlighted the pleasantity of skippers like Dragan, making the day both smooth and engaging.
• Rich experience of nature and culture: From swimming in Sunj Beach to exploring the Blue Cave, you’ll see the natural beauty from a unique vantage point.
• All-inclusive feel: No hidden costs—free paddling, water, snorkeling gear, and even lessons.
• Ideal for a special day: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, relaxing, and scenic experience rather than a crowded tour.

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins conveniently at Lapadska obala 4, just a short walk from the Dubrovnik City Marina. You’ll recognize your vessel, ZaraBella, by its elegant presence and the crew in white shirts with the company logo. This location is straightforward to reach, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.

If you’re staying in Dubrovnik, the option for hotel pick-up and drop-off is available, but it’s not included in the base price. That makes it flexible for those who prefer to organize their own transport or are staying within walking distance.

The Itinerary: A Day of Exploration and Relaxation

Elafiti Islands and Blue Cave

The journey kicks off with a 45-minute sail through the calm waters, offering a chance to settle into the relaxing rhythm of sailing and enjoy the views. The Blue Cave at Kolocep Island is a highlight—guests have praised swimming and snorkeling here, with some describing it as “beautiful” and “perfect.” You’re encouraged to explore underwater with provided snorkeling gear, and the silence of the cave adds a mystical touch.

Kolocep Island’s Charm

Kolocep offers a peaceful escape with its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal swimming spot. The review mentions how the sound of breaking waves and the authentic sailing make this experience stand out. You’ll get around 30 minutes here, enough to take photos and dip into the cool waters.

Sunj Beach and Lopud Island

The stop at Sunj Beach is a prime chance for a full hour of swimming, paddleboarding (SUP), and relaxing on one of Croatia’s most admired beaches. Many travelers find this a true highlight—”enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and lunch,” as one review states. The water here is calm and inviting, perfect for families or those wanting a lazy beach break.

On Lopud Island, a lunch break at a seaside restaurant allows you to taste local cuisine, adding an authentic flavor to the day. The tour is flexible—guests can decide how long to stay, and the guide’s local knowledge helps recommend the best spots.

More Sailing and Island Exploration

Returning to the yacht, you’ll enjoy additional sailings—sailing around the islands offers constantly changing views and photo opportunities. The total sailing time over the day sums up to around 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Final Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up after roughly 8 hours back at the starting point. Guests often leave with stunning photographs, new sailing skills, and a sense of having truly experienced Dubrovnik from a different angle—a postcard-worthy perspective on the coastline and islands.

The Yacht and Amenities: Comfort and Practicality

The ZaraBella yacht is described as fully equipped, with amenities like a restroom, outdoor shower, and bottled water. The free paddleboarding and snorkeling gear are perfect for active types who want to make the most of the clear waters. The yacht’s size and private nature mean you won’t feel crowded, and the sailing lessons add a fun, interactive element that many reviews cherish.

Guides and Personal Touches

Guests consistently praise the skipper, Dragan, for his pleasant demeanor and professionalism. His knowledge and friendly approach make all the difference—this isn’t just a boat ride; it’s an engaging experience. The tour’s flexibility means guides are attentive to your wishes, whether that’s more swimming, photos, or just relaxing on deck.

Price and What You’re Getting

While private tours like this tend to be pricier, the inclusion of all gear, bottled water, and lessons offers good value for those seeking a personalized experience. Lunch is not included, but the guide’s local insights can help you find a great spot. The 8-hour duration ensures you cover multiple spots comfortably, making it worth the investment for a special day.

Suitability and Best For

This tour suits couples, families, or groups looking for a relaxed, private day out. It’s ideal for those who appreciate sailing, beautiful scenery, and authentic local cuisine. The experience isn’t suited for travelers with back problems or those seeking a high-energy activity—this is about enjoying the sea and scenery at your pace.

Weather and Flexibility

Because sailing depends on wind, the tour is rescheduled in case of bad weather, ensuring safety and comfort. This flexibility is reassuring, and many guests appreciate the professionalism of the operator.

To sum it up, this Dubrovnik private sailing tour delivers a blend of comfort, authenticity, and adventure. You’ll explore scenic islands, dive into crystal waters, and learn sailing skills—all with a dedicated crew focused on your experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a personalized, memorable day on the water, away from crowded boats and noisy engines.

If you love the idea of gliding across the sea powered by the wind, savoring stunning views, and enjoying local flavors, this tour offers good value for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a relaxing day in stunning surroundings, this private sailing trip makes for a memorable Dubrovnik chapter.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included in the base price, but it is available as an option. The tour starts at the Dubrovnik City Marina, which is easy to access.

How long is the actual sailing?
You’ll spend around 4 hours sailing across the islands, with multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.

Can I learn how to sail?
Yes, free sailing lessons are included, and they are suitable for beginners. It’s a fun way to get hands-on experience with sailing.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear. The crew recommends packing light, including your camera or phone for photos.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and not included. You’ll have time to enjoy local food at a seaside restaurant on Lopud Island, with the guide happy to suggest options.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather, the tour will be rescheduled at the first available time. The operator prioritizes safety and comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s suitable for most, but those with back problems should consider the boat’s movement and the physical nature of swimming and activities involved.

For travelers seeking a personalized, scenic, and authentic sailing adventure around Dubrovnik, this tour offers a wonderful way to see the coast from a different perspective. With friendly guides, excellent amenities, and a focus on genuine sailing, you’re in for a day full of memorable moments.