Photo: Juraj Kopač, HTZ

Between ACI Slano and ACI Dubrovnik, there are the enchanting Elaphiti Islands. Sail with us around the magic archipelago, discover the hidden gems of the Adriatic Sea and let yourself be captivated by their untouched beauty and authentic Mediterranean charm

Sailing from ACI Marina Dubrovnik to ACI Marina Slano is one of the most beautiful experiences in the Adriatic. Cruising around the Elaphites is a real feast for all the senses, filled with a delightful combination of beautiful scenery, rich history and charming little islands.

We have chosen ACI Dubrovnik as the starting point of our tour of the Elaphiti Islands and will finish it at ACI Slano. 

Situated at the far end of the impressive deep inlet of Rijeka Dubrovačka, ACI Marina Dubrovnik is the southernmost marina in ACI’s chain. One of the biggest advantages of the marina is its vicinity to the historical centre of Dubrovnik, where boaters can explore the city’s rich history, culture and local attractions, including the City Walls, Stradun, the cathedral, churches and museums. The combination of a great location, first-class service and beautiful surroundings is the reason why ACI Marina Dubrovnik attracts many boaters from around the world, who see it as the ideal starting point for exploring the beauties of the Southern Adriatic, especially the Elaphiti Islands.

The beautiful archipelago not far from Dubrovnik is a favourite spot with boaters seeking peace and quiet. The archipelago consists of 13 islands and islets, best-known of which are Koločep, Lopud and Šipan; however, there are also some smaller, less populated, islands such as Jakljan, Olipa and Tajan. 

Sailing out of ACI Marina Dubrovnik, you will get to Koločep after only a few miles. The island is one of the few in the Adriatic with two names. Kalamota, as it is called by the locals, is a real oasis of peace and greenery with a thick pine wood and the indented coastline full of bays and coves. 

There are two villages on the island, Donje Čelo and Gornje Čelo, with enchanting traditional stone houses and narrow streets. The villages are connected via a lovely footpath, several kilometres long. The island has a rich cultural heritage, represented by small churches, chapels and fortifications. Towering above the Donje Čelo harbour, the Kaštio Castle testifies to times gone by when it served as a refuge from pirate attacks. The largest church on the island, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, was built in the 12th or 13th century, and among other valuable heritage sites are the chapels of St Anthony the Abbot, St Trinity, St Nicholas and St Anthony of Padua. From the boating perspective, Koločep is a heaven on earth. There are beautiful beaches in the bays of Gornje Čelo and Donje Čelo, and we would also recommend a visit to the Blue Cave in the south-west of the island. 

When you step onto the coast of the island of Lopud, you will feel peace and quiet wash over you. With its mild Mediterranean climate, this island invites you to relax and enjoy the warmth of the sun. Lopud is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, and the best-known among them is definitely Šunj, which is one of the most popular beaches in the Dubrovnik area. However, Lopud offers much more than just beaches. The island has many footpaths meandering through lush Mediterranean vegetation. Walking along these footpaths will give you an opportunity to explore secluded bays, admire a breathtaking view of the sea and feel the scent of the pine forest mixing with the sea breeze. Lopud’s cultural heritage is exceptionally rich, which is testified to by the abundance of historic sites on the island. A Franciscan monastery dating from the 16th century dominates the place, and there are as many as 24 churches and chapels on the island. In addition, Lopud was once an important trade centre, indicated by its magical stone palaces and elegant villas, which can be seen while strolling around the old town. Be sure to visit the former Spanish fortress called Sutvrač on the highest hill of the island, where you can enjoy a spectacular view…