A day on the water changes Dubrovnik. This full-day group sail tour takes you to the Elaphiti islands for nonstop sea time, plus optional Blue Cave. I like that it’s run small, capped at 8 travelers, with Captain Dragan handling the day smoothly.

Two big reasons I’d pick this: lots of planned swimming breaks (with gear ready) and a real rhythm of islands—Koločep for turquoise coves, Lopud for that sandy Sunj Beach, then sailing time to keep the day from feeling rushed. One thing to consider: you should expect basic drinks on board, while lunch happens on Lopud (and anything extra is on you, since there’s no full on-board meal setup).

Key points worth knowing before you sail

• Small group (max 8): more space to move and easier conversation.
• Swim-first itinerary: Koločep, Sunj Beach, and additional bay stops are built around water time.
• Blue Cave is optional: you can do it if conditions and timing allow, depending on your wishes.
• Free extras for the water: SUP, sailing lessons, underwater gear, coffee or tea, and a welcome drink.
• Lopud lunch by the sea: the midday break is anchored on the island, not on a roadside stop.

Setting sail from Lapad in the morning

The day starts at Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik, with a 9:30 am departure and about 8 hours total on the water. If you’re staying around the Lapad area, it’s a straightforward start, and it’s listed as near public transportation.

This tour is offered in English, and you’ll have a mobile ticket, so you’re not stuck with paper plans. There’s also an optional pick-up/drop-off, but you’ll still want to plan to make it to the starting point unless you’ve confirmed you’ll be picked up.

What I like about this format is that it feels like a real sea day, not a “get on, get off” bus tour with islands stapled to it. You’re leaving early enough to get meaningful water time, but not so early that the entire morning is chaos.

Koločep Island: your first swim break and the bird-cliff feel

The itinerary’s first stop is Koločep Island (often written as Koločep/Kolocep). You’ll head there after sailing from Dubrovnik, with time for swimming, snorkelling, and diving-style underwater time—the tour includes underwater gear so you’re not scrambling to rent equipment.

The schedule gives you about 2 hours here. That’s enough time to do the classic “one swim, then another” loop—especially because you’re not just sitting on one beach. The description is all about pristine bays and impressive beaches, and the pace is friendly: you swim, snorkel, sunbathe, then reset and go again.

A small but real detail: Koločep is described as a place where you hear birds around the cliffs. That matters because it makes the stop feel less like a crowded beach break and more like a floating pause.

Blue Cave option (how to think about it)

There’s an optional Blue Cave visit that can happen depending on the group’s wishes. The info says the admission ticket is free. The practical takeaway? If you really care about seeing the cave, ask early about timing and conditions—because this is not a guaranteed “everybody goes, no matter what” promise in the information you’re given.

If you’d rather focus on swimming and relaxing, you can simply keep the day beachy and skip it.

Sunj Beach on Lopud: sand time plus easy water access

Next up is Sunj Beach, on the island of Lopud. This is your sandy anchor stop, and it’s framed as “a beach where you’ll want to stay all day”—but the scheduled time is about 1 hour.

In that hour you can swim, snorkel near the rocks, sunbathe, or even do the short hop to the shore area to grab a drink at the beach club. The admission is listed as included, so you’re not paying an extra entry fee just to be on the sand.

What I like here: Sunj is a change of pace. Koločep can feel more about coves and swim-and-go spots, while Sunj is about putting your towel down and letting your body slow a little. If you’re the type who hates rushing, keep one swim near the beginning and then commit to relaxing after.

Lopud island time: village walk, monastery option, and a sea-side lunch

After Sunj, you get about 2 hours on Lopud Island itself. This is where the tour stops being only about water and becomes more like an island day.

You’ll have time to take a walk through the village, and lunch is planned at a restaurant by the sea, described as being only about 20 meters from the beach. That’s a nice setup: you’re eating close to where you’ll want to cool off afterward.

The information also mentions a possible monastery visit from the 14th century. The admission for Lopud is listed as not included, so if you want to go inside, plan for that extra cost.

A practical lunch expectation

You shouldn’t expect a big on-board food service. The tour notes that food isn’t available onboard, while lunch is planned on Lopud. The “win” is that you get a proper island break rather than a snack that disappears the minute you hop back on the boat.

One thing I’d do: if you have dietary preferences or want a specific drink, plan ahead. Basic coffee and tea are included, and the boat is set up for comfort, but a full menu isn’t part of the tour promise.

Šipan (optional): a quieter island add-on if timing allows

The final island stop is Šipan, but it’s optional and depends on time. If you’ve already eaten lunch on Lopud, you might use the Šipan window for a walk around the smaller village, more swimming in clear water, and time to enjoy nature with a cold drink from one of the restaurants.

The schedule gives about 1 hour, and the admission for this stop is listed as included. If you love water time, this can be a great “bonus” segment. If you’re already done with swimming, it’s still a chance to stretch your legs and see a less frantic island vibe.

Remaining time on the Elaphiti islands: cruising between swim bays

After the island stops, the tour includes time for sailing/cruising on the Elaphiti islands. You’ll also have time for passing bays where you can swim. The schedule calls this portion about 2 hours, which helps the day feel complete rather than chopped into separate mini-trips.

This “cruising + optional swim” approach is the kind of flexibility you want on a sea day. You’re not stuck with one strict beach slot. If conditions are calmer, you tend to get more meaningful water moments; if not, the captain can shift the rhythm.

How the boat day feels: small group, captain-led efficiency, and steering time

This tour caps at 8 travelers, and that small size shows in how the day runs. There’s no need to fight for space, and conversations actually happen. A few reviews mention that Captain Dragan is easygoing and very efficient running the boat on his own. That matters because when you’re on a sail trip, the operator’s calm pace is the difference between stressed and relaxed.

The tour also includes free sailing lessons, plus there’s an option in the experience to steer the boat (in at least some departures). Even if you’re not an experienced sailor, getting hands on the controls makes the day feel less like you’re watching and more like you’re participating.

Comfort on board: shade and showers

A sailing day in summer sun is not the time to underestimate shade. One review highlights that the boat has a sunshade, which can make a real difference during longer cruising stretches.

You’ll also have an outdoor shower, which is exactly what you want after swimming and snorkelling—especially if you’re planning to go back into town afterward.

What’s included (and what you’ll likely pay for)

Here’s the practical side of the inclusions:

Included in the tour:

• Free sailing lessons
• Free welcome drink
• Free SUP (stand up paddle)
• Free coffee or tea
• Free underwater gear
• Outdoor shower

Not included:

• Gratuities/tips
• Food onboard (lunch is planned on Lopud)

From your side, you should be ready to cover lunch on Lopud and any drinks you want beyond the basic coffee/tea and welcome drink. If you want something specific, the most useful move is to bring it along, since the tour doesn’t frame itself as an all-inclusive food day.

Also: admission can be mixed depending on the stop. The information lists:

• Blue Cave: admission ticket free (optional)
• Sunj Beach: admission included
• Lopud island (stop 3): admission not included
• Šipan: admission included

So if you’re planning to pay entry fees for anything inside, keep a little budget aside for Lopud.

Price and value: is $170.43 worth it?

At $170.43 per person, this is not a “cheap swim” tour. But you’re not paying for a basic boat ride either.

You’re getting:

• multiple island stops across the Elaphiti chain (not just one beach)
• a swim-focused schedule with several separate water breaks
• free water add-ons (SUP + included water gear)
• coffee/tea and a welcome drink
• a small-group setup (max 8) that feels personal

If you’re comparing to larger-group party boats, the math often works in favor of small-group sailing because you actually spend time in the best spots rather than lined up waiting your turn. And the captain-led format—efficient operation, friendly guidance, and time to steer—adds real value beyond scenery.

Who should book this tour (and who might not love it)

I’d steer you toward this sailing day if you:

• want lots of swim and snorkel time without planning rentals
• like the idea of a small group and a captain who talks through the day
• want island variety: Koločep + Lopud (Sunj + village) + optional Šipan
• care more about sea time and views than a packed museum checklist

You might not love it as much if you:

• only want a relaxed beach lounge with zero movement (the day is active)
• expect an all-inclusive food party onboard (food isn’t available onboard beyond basic drinks)

A simple checklist to make the day easier

To keep the day smooth, think in swim-day mode:

• Bring a swim-ready outfit and towel plan (you’ll swim more than once)
• Sunscreen and a hat are a must for sun hours
• If you love snorkeling, bring whatever comfort items you normally use (fit matters)
• Pack your own snacks and extras if you know you’ll want them, since the tour doesn’t promise onboard food

And if you’re hoping for Blue Cave: ask about what you should do if conditions don’t allow it. That’s the smart way to avoid disappointment.

Should you book the Dubrovnik Elaphiti full-day sail?

If your ideal day is turquoise water, swimming breaks, a small group, and island variety without the hassle of arranging everything yourself, I think this is an easy yes.

Book it if you want sea time first, and you’re happy with lunch planned on Lopud (with onboard drinks kept basic). Don’t book it if you want a full meal service onboard or you need a tightly scripted “only one stop, no options” experience.

If you’re on the fence, do this one quick self-check: Do you want to spend your Dubrovnik time out on the water? If the answer is yes, this route across Koločep, Lopud, and the Elaphiti islands is exactly the kind of day that makes the city feel like more than a wall and a view.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the Dubrovnik sail tour?

The meeting point is Lapadska obala 4, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia.

What time does the tour start, and how long is it?

The tour starts at 9:30 am and runs for about 8 hours.

How many people are on the boat, and is the tour in English?

The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers, and it is offered in English.

Which islands and stops are included in the day?

You’ll visit Koločep Island, Sunj Beach (Lopud), Lopud Island, and Šipan is optional. The rest of the time is spent sailing/cruising around the Elaphiti islands.

Is the Blue Cave visit included?

The Blue Cave visit is possible depending on guest wishes. The admission ticket is listed as free.

What water activities and gear are included?

The tour includes free sailing lessons, a free welcome drink, free SUP, free coffee or tea, free underwater gear, and an outdoor shower.

Is lunch included, and where do you eat?

Lunch is planned on the island of Lopud at a restaurant by the sea. Food is noted as not available onboard.

Is there shade or a way to wash off after swimming?

Yes. The boat includes a sunshade (in the information from the experience feedback), and there is an outdoor shower included.

Can I steer the boat or try sailing?

The experience includes free sailing lessons, and there is mention of getting the chance to steer the boat depending on how the captain runs the day.

What happens if weather is bad or I need to cancel?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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