Koločep water looks unreal. A private sailing day around the Elafiti Islands feels like the opposite of big-tour Dubrovnik, with time to swim, snorkel, and cruise at a human pace. I especially like how the plan mixes scenic stops with real water time, not just photo stops.

My favorite part is the rhythm: you get dedicated swim and snorkeling time at multiple islands, plus a long stretch sailing and cruising when you just settle in. The boat includes practical basics too, like a restroom on board and an outdoor shower for rinse-off.

One thing to think about is wind. On some days you may sail less than planned and run by motor for stretches, even though you can still get enough sailing later in the trip.

Key highlights worth planning for

• Private group of up to 6 means you control the pace and avoid the herd
• Multiple swim stops including snorkeling time from the boat and shore swims
• Šipan time plus Skocibuha castle gives you a land break between beach moments
• On-board comfort includes a restroom and an outdoor shower
• Captain communication is a strong point, with proactive WhatsApp contact reported by past guests

Private Elafiti sailing: why this day feels different

Dubrovnik is famous for walls and crowds, but the Elafiti Islands are where the water does the talking. This is a private full-day format, so you are not working around strangers, loud group calls, or fixed schedules that ignore your energy level.

What you’re really paying for is time on the sea with breathing room. Instead of rushing between ports, you get a flow: swim, relax, explore a small town, then spend hours cruising. Reviews consistently describe calm pacing, which matters a lot if you are traveling with kids or you simply want fewer decisions.

This tour also fits people who like to move through places gently. You get swimming access, but you also get a proper stop on Šipan for a walk and a clear change of scenery.

Getting to the marina from Dubrovnik, and what to budget

The meeting point is Lapadska obala 21, 20000 Dubrovnik, and the start time is 9:00 am. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, so you are not hunting for transportation at the end of your sea day.

One practical detail: the trip notes that transport to and from the marina is not included in the price. If you are outside Dubrovnik, the estimate given is about 40€ for an Uber to the marina. If you are already based in the city center, you still might need a short transfer depending on how the captain positions the boat.

There’s also a helpful real-world note from past guests: the marina was described as accessible by bus 6, which can save you time if you want to keep costs down. If you do not already know the route, ask ahead.

The 8-hour itinerary flow, from Koločep to cruising time

Think of the day in blocks. You’ll spend roughly one hour on Koločep, one hour at Šunj Beach, about two hours on Šipan, then the rest of the day on the water.

Stop 1: Koločep Island for swims and snorkel time (about 1 hour)

Koločep is the first big water stop. You’ll get time to enjoy the island’s bays and beaches, with a chance to swim and snorkel and then just sunbathe.

This is usually the kind of stop that sets the tone. If you want that first moment where the sea feels cool and clean and you can get into vacation mode fast, this is it. One consideration: because this is a swim-focused island stop, plan your basics. Bring sun protection, and consider water shoes if you expect rocky edges or uneven entry points.

Stop 2: Šunj Beach for sandy beach time on Lopud (about 1 hour)

Šunj Beach is described as a sandy shoreline and a trademark beach for Lopud. From the boat, you’ll have time to swim and snorkel, and then you can head toward the shore to grab a drink at a nearby restaurant.

This stop is a nice contrast to the more “jump in and go” feeling of boat swim time. If you like having a sandy place to relax, this fits. If you prefer snorkeling only, you can keep it simple and spend most of your hour in the water.

The practical takeaway is to manage snacks and hydration. You will likely want easy access to drinks once you are ashore, especially on a hot, bright day.

Stop 3: Šipan for town strolling and Skocibuha castle (about 2 hours)

Šipan is your land-and-water mix. You can take a walk through the town, visit Skocibuha castle, and then choose between beach time and grabbing something to eat at local restaurants.

The castle visit is the main “culture” ingredient in the day, but the whole stop works even if you keep it light. You can see a bit, then come back to the sea vibe with a swim or a slow meal.

One useful tip from the experience reports: the captain, Filip, has helped make dinner or lunch reservations when needed. That matters on islands where restaurant space can fill up during peak times. If you care about a specific restaurant, message early and ask what is realistic.

Remaining time: cruising and sailing around the Elafiti Islands (about 4 hours)

After the island stops, the rest of your time is sailing and cruising. This is where the day shifts from activities to just being out on the water for hours.

There’s a real consideration here: wind. One booking described the day as mostly motor travel due to lack of wind, with enough wind later to sail for a while. The good news is that the sea time still delivers, especially if you brought the right mindset. You are still getting the views and the slow pace, even if the boat is not sailing nonstop.

On-board comfort and what’s included for a smooth sea day

The included on-board items are designed for the practical parts of a swim day. You get an outdoor shower, a restroom on board, and snorkeling equipment. Fuel surcharge is included too.

That combination is more important than it sounds. The outdoor shower helps you rinse off saltwater, which makes it much more pleasant after swimming and before changing clothes. And having a restroom on board beats the “hold it and hope” approach that ruins a good day.

What I think you should bring (based on how the day actually feels)

The trip details do not list towels, so assume you will want your own. Past guests also mentioned bringing water and snacks, which is a smart move since lunch is not included.

If you have kids, one family-focused review highlighted that the captain provided buoyancy vests for children. Even if your child usually swims confidently, a vest adds comfort for everyone. If this matters for your group, ask the captain what will be available for your specific situation.

Snorkeling gear is provided, but that does not stop you from bringing your own if you prefer your own fit. If your group includes non-swimmers, the snorkeling gear is still useful as a comfort item for people who want to try, then back out when they want.

Lunch and drinks: how to plan meals without losing your day

Lunch is not included. The tour notes that there will be a lunch stop on one of the islands, but you’ll pay for your meal on site. Soda and alcohol are also not included.

This setup can be a good thing. It lets you choose what you actually want to eat, rather than being stuck with a fixed menu. The tradeoff is that you should plan cash or card access and decide early whether you want a sit-down meal or something quick.

Also think about timing. If you want to eat in peace, factor that you may be rotating between swim time and shore time. If you are traveling with a group and someone is prone to getting hungry quickly, snacks you carry from the start can keep things smooth.

Price and value: what $692.36 gets you per private group

The price is $692.36 per group, up to 6 people, for an approximate 8-hour day.

That math matters. At full capacity, the effective cost is about $115 per person. If you have a smaller group, the per-person cost goes up, but you still keep the benefits of a private schedule, swim control, and a calmer boat experience.

What you are getting for the price is not just “a boat.” It includes snorkeling equipment, a boat with restroom and outdoor shower, and fuel surcharge. You’re also paying for local hosting and route decisions that can make or break a sea day, especially around weather and wind.

The main extras to budget are:

• Lunch (not included)
• Soda and alcohol (not included)
• Possible marina transfer cost if you are outside Dubrovnik, estimated around 40€ for Uber
• Anything you choose to purchase during restaurant stops

Is it a bargain compared to a public catamaran? It depends on who you are traveling with. But for couples, families, or a small group who wants calmer water time and more control, this pricing often feels fair.

Who this tour suits best, and when to rethink it

This is a good fit if you want:

• Small-group privacy and a slower pace
• Swim and snorkel time without squeezing into crowded schedules
• A mix of sea time and at least one proper land visit (Šipan and Skocibuha castle)

It’s also well matched for families, based on the comfort setup described in reports, including buoyancy support for children. If your kids handle water well, this can be a memorable day.

The main reason to rethink

If you are expecting constant sailing under sail the entire time, check your expectations. One report described limited wind and more motor time, with sailing picking up later. If your ideal day is hands-on sailing action every hour, you might want to ask the captain how wind typically shapes the route that day.

Tips for booking smart and getting the day you want

Because this is private, your questions matter more than with big group tours. Here are practical things to message ahead of time:

• Confirm what the plan is if wind is light, since you are still out there enjoying water time either way
• Ask about the best option for lunch timing on Šipan, especially if you have a restaurant preference
• If you are traveling with children, ask about buoyancy vest availability
• Tell the captain what you care about most: more swimming time, more strolling, or extra quiet cruising

Also, do not assume you will pass through Dubrovnik exactly at 9:00 am on the water. You meet at Lapadska obala 21 at 9:00 am, but there may be a transfer to the marina depending on where you are staying and how the boat is positioned.

Finally, pack for a sun-heavy day even if the forecast looks mild. You are outside for hours, and reflected light off the water can be intense.

Should you book this private full day sailing to the Elafiti Islands?

If your idea of a perfect Dubrovnik day is water, not crowds, I’d book it. The combination of private pacing, multiple swim and snorkeling stops, and a real island visit on Šipan makes it feel worth the cost, especially for groups up to six.

You should also book if you want an easy day with real conveniences on board, including a restroom and an outdoor shower. Those details are the difference between a fun swim and a slightly annoying one.

I would only hesitate if you are chasing nonstop sailing under wind power. Light-wind days happen, and the tour may switch more to motor travel while still delivering long cruising time and great swimming opportunities. If that sounds fine to you, this is a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the private sailing tour to the Elafiti Islands?

The duration is about 8 hours.

What time does the tour start, and where do we meet?

The start time is 9:00 am, and the meeting point is Lapadska obala 21, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia.

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

Yes, it is private. The group size is up to 6 people.

What islands are included in the itinerary?

You will stop at Kolocep Island, Šunj Beach, Šipan, and spend remaining time sailing or cruising around the Elafiti Islands.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included. There is a lunch stop on one of the islands, but you pay for it.

Are drinks included?

Soda and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Is the marina transfer included in the price?

Not necessarily. Transport to and from the marina is not included. The estimate provided for an Uber to the marina, if you are outside Dubrovnik, is about 40€.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or receive a full refund.