Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Sailing Tour with Swim & Lunch

Summary

Full day sailing to Koločep Lopud Šipan with swim stops and island lunch

You’ll sail from Dubrovnik across turquoise waters to three Elafiti Islands—swimming off Koločep, sinking your feet into Lopud’s soft sand, then wandering Šipan’s olive-scented lanes before a relaxed island lunch. Expect laughter with your guide and quiet moments afloat—a day that lingers long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever tasted olive oil straight from the grove?" our skipper asked as we drifted away from Dubrovnik’s old harbor, the city walls shrinking behind us. The boat rocked gently—my friend clutched her hat, laughing at the breeze that kept trying to steal it. I could smell salt and sunscreen, that mix you only get on days like this. We passed Koločep first—just an hour or so in, already swimming in water so clear I could see my toes wiggling. A couple of locals waved from their tiny blue boat, hauling nets. Our guide (I think his name was Marko?) pointed out a stone church tucked behind pines. I tried to pronounce “Koločep” right—failed spectacularly.

Lopud was next, and honestly, Sunj Beach is softer than it looks in photos. The sand got everywhere (I’m still finding it), but floating there felt like time stopped for a bit. Some folks swam to shore for drinks; we just dangled our feet off the side, watching kids chase each other in the shallows. There was this moment—quiet except for cicadas and someone playing guitar on another boat nearby—that stuck with me more than any postcard view.

Šipan surprised me most. It’s bigger but slower somehow—olive groves stretching up the hills, old stone houses with faded shutters. We wandered through narrow streets; Marko showed us Skočibuha Castle (he called it “the pride of Šipan,” which made me smile). Lunch was grilled fish at a family place near the port—simple but perfect after swimming again by the pebbly beach. The wine tasted dusty and bright at once, if that makes sense? By late afternoon, sunburned and happy-tired, we sailed back toward Dubrovnik with salt still on our skin and someone snoring softly below deck.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and explore Elafiti Islands

• Sail from Dubrovnik to Koločep
• Swim, snorkel, and sunbathe at Koločep
• Sail to Lopud island
• Swim and snorkel at Šunj Beach
• Sunbathe or visit Lopud restaurants
• Sail to Šipan island
• Walk through Šipan town
• Visit Skočibuha Castle
• Swim at Šipan beach
• Dine at local Šipan restaurants

Top questions

How long does the Elafiti Islands sailing tour last?

The tour lasts about 8 hours from departure in Dubrovnik until return.

Which islands are visited on this day trip from Dubrovnik?

You’ll visit Koločep, Lopud (including Sunj Beach), and Šipan islands.

Is lunch included during the sailing tour?

Lunch is available at a local restaurant on Šipan island but not pre-included in the price.

Are there swim stops during the tour?

Yes, you’ll have time to swim or snorkel at Koločep and Lopud’s Sunj Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during the tour.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is specified; departure is from Dubrovnik harbor.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board the sailboat.

Can infants join this sailing trip?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes all fuel surcharges, use of snorkeling gear for those crystal-clear swim stops around Koločep and Lopud, access to an outdoor shower and onboard restroom for comfort between swims—and plenty of time to relax or wander each island before heading back toward Dubrovnik as evening settles in.