When it comes to experiencing the coast of Croatia, few excursions capture the essence of this seaside paradise quite like a boat trip through the Elaphite Islands. This particular tour, offered in multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, and Italian, promises a full day of sunshine, scenic views, and refreshing dips — all with the added bonus of unlimited drinks and a lively onboard atmosphere.
What we love about this experience is its perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. First, the stunning scenery of the islands—think lush greenery, historic ruins, and pristine waters—is genuinely captivating. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable crew makes the journey lively and informative, often sharing stories that bring the islands’ history and natural beauty to life.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is that timing can be tight at some stops. As one review notes, on Sipan Island, there’s only about 45 minutes to explore, which might feel rushed for those wanting a deep dive into local sights. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
This trip suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back day on the water, swimming in crystal-clear seas, and sampling Croatian wines. It’s especially great for those traveling with friends, couples, or families seeking a combination of sightseeing and fun in a natural setting.
Key Points
- Unmatched scenery of the Elaphite Islands, perfect for photography and relaxation.
- All-day drinks included, with wine, water, and soft drinks flowing freely.
- Multiple language hosts ensure clear communication and engaging stories.
- Flexible itinerary with stops at Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep, each with unique charm.
- Good value considering the full day of activities, drinks, and scenic stops.
- Lively atmosphere with music and a friendly crew that keeps the vibe upbeat.
A Close Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dubrovnik.
The Start: Convenient & Flexible Pickup
Many travelers appreciate that the tour begins around 10:00 AM at the Green Market, with hotel pickup available if booked. The boat, named TRITON, docks just across the street from the meeting point, making the start hassle-free. The scheduled departure around 10:15 AM means you’re on your way promptly, minimizing waiting and maximizing your time on the water.
The Cruise: Scenery and Atmosphere
The cruise itself lasts around 45 minutes to get you out of Dubrovnik’s harbor and into the open waters. As you glide through the sparkling sea, you’ll notice how the boat’s three decks provide plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or dance to onboard music. The setup with sunbeds, Wi-Fi, and speakers creates a lively but comfortable environment.
First Stop: Lopud Island
Lopud is the first island, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and aromatic citrus groves. The ancient Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s oldest, is a highlight, along with the calm beaches like unj Beach, which is perfect for a refreshing swim.
Guests often comment on the ample free time—about three hours—to explore, swim, or grab a drink ashore. The last-minute flexibility to opt for lunch onboard or explore independently makes this stop quite appealing. One reviewer loved the delicious, fresh fish served on the boat, calling it “definitely recommended and cheaper than eating out.”
More Great Tours NearbyThe Scenic Cruise Between Islands
Following Lopud, a short cruise of about 20 minutes takes you to Sipan, the largest of the islands. Here, you’ll get a photo stop and a chance to walk around or relax. Sipan’s deep maritime roots and olive groves make it a peaceful spot. The 45-minute stay is enough for a quick exploration, some wine, or a swim, according to the reviews.
Kolocep: The Hidden Gem
Next, the boat heads to Kolocep, smaller but equally scenic. It offers crystal-clear waters, caves, and tranquil bays, ideal for those wanting a serene escape. With about an hour here, you’ll have time for scenic walks, swimming, and taking in the views. Several travelers mention how the crew’s friendly attitude enhances the experience, helping everyone feel comfortable and engaged.
Wrap-up & Return
After Kolocep, there’s another short cruise of about 20 minutes back to Dubrovnik. The tour includes drop-offs at Mlini, Zaton, Obala Stjepana Radia, and Dubrovnik, making it flexible for different plans.
Why This Tour Delivers Great Value
The full-day duration (around 8 hours) ensures you’re not just rushing through sights but truly enjoying each island’s vibe. For the price, you get unlimited drinks, multiple stops, a friendly host, and the chance to swim in pristine waters. Several reviews emphasize how the crew’s hospitality and knowledge make the experience stand out, turning a simple boat trip into a memorable adventure.
Authentic Reviews Highlight
Many travelers praise the crew’s enthusiasm and friendliness. Comments like “Lorenzo and his crew where great! Very entertaining and funny,” reflect the lively atmosphere onboard. Drinks, especially the free wine, are a hit, with one reviewer surprised to see “they don’t charge more” considering the quality and inclusiveness.
Food & Drinks
The lunch options (fish, meat, vegetarian) available as an add-on are generally described as delicious and fresh. For those not opting for onboard food, the included unlimited drinks—wine, water, soft drinks—are a major plus, keeping everyone refreshed throughout the day. As one guest noted, “Drinks were included throughout the day, wine, water, and soft drinks. The bar also did several cocktails,” adding a festive feel to the trip.
Potential Downsides
While many rave about the beautiful islands and good value, some mention that timing can feel rushed, especially if you want to explore the islands more thoroughly. The 45-minute stop on Sipan, for instance, limits the depth of exploration, so those wanting to visit specific sights like the castle might find the time insufficient.
Weather dependency is another factor—if conditions turn poor, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled, as is common with outdoor excursions. It’s worth planning with flexibility in mind.
The Itinerary in Detail
The trip begins at the Green Market, where you’ll meet the crew and board the comfortable boat with three decks, designed for both relaxing and socializing. The first cruise takes you out of Dubrovnik’s harbor, offering stunning views of the coastline as you head toward Lopud.
Lopud is a highlight—sandy beaches and lush gardens—providing a peaceful setting to swim, sunbathe, or explore. The three-hour stop allows plenty of time for photos, relaxing, or a quick walk to local sights.
From there, a short cruise to Sipan offers a different experience—more history and fewer crowds. The 45-minute stop is enough for a quick look around, perhaps a glass of wine, and a swim.
Next, the journey continues to Kolocep, a tranquil island perfect for peaceful walks and snorkeling. The hour-long stop here is ideal for relaxing and taking in the natural scenery. Many guests appreciate the quiet beauty of Kolocep, which feels far from the busy tourist spots.
Finally, the boat returns to Dubrovnik, with the option to be dropped off at various locations. The tour ends with a feeling of having experienced a slice of Croatia’s coastal charm—from vibrant beaches to historic ruins and lush landscapes.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This boat trip is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water combined with scenic island stops. It’s ideal if you enjoy swimming, scenic views, and casual sightseeing rather than intensive cultural touring. The friendly crew and lively atmosphere make it perfect for groups, couples, or families wanting a memorable day with good value.
Those who appreciate authentic landscapes—like citrus groves and olive trees—and want a break from city sightseeing will find this tour a refreshing escape. The all-day drinks service and optional onboard lunch boost the value and comfort, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a fun, laid-back experience in Croatia.
Final Thoughts
This Dubrovnik: 3 Islands Boat Trip offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, swimming, lively ambiance, and cultural insights in one package. The large boat with multiple decks and onboard amenities ensures comfort, while the friendly, multilingual crew guarantees you’ll feel welcomed and informed.
Most travelers find the value for money excellent, especially given the unlimited drinks, scenic stops, and relaxed pace. The positive reviews about the crew’s hospitality and the stunning views confirm this tour’s appeal. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to soak in Croatia’s natural charms without the fuss of complex itineraries or excessive cultural visits.
If you’re after a fun, social day on the water with some of the best scenery Croatia has to offer, this trip will surely satisfy. Just remember, if you’re eager to explore every nook in detail or prefer a quieter, more leisurely pace, you might want to consider how the short stops fit your style.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, this boat trip is family-friendly and suitable for most age groups. The environment is relaxed, and swimming in the sea is a key part of the experience.
What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and beachwear. Towels are not included, so pack accordingly.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is available as an add-on, with options including fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes. Many reviews recommend it; if not booked in advance, you can buy it onboard.
Can I book without paying upfront?
Yes, the tour offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, allowing you to secure your spot and pay closer to the date.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long are the stops at each island?
Lopud: about 3 hours; Sipan: around 45 minutes; Kolocep: approximately 1 hour. These times are enough for swimming, short walks, or photos.
Is there a limit on the number of participants?
While not explicitly stated, the boat’s capacity with 3 decks suggests a sizable group, but generally, tours like this tend to keep a friendly, manageable size to ensure a good experience.
Whether you’re after scenic landscapes, a fun day out, or a taste of Croatia’s maritime charm, this boat trip to the Elaphite Islands delivers a well-balanced, enjoyable experience. It’s perfect for those who want to relax, take in beautiful views, and enjoy genuine hospitality in a stunning setting.
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