Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, a cruise to the Elaphiti Islands is almost a must. This 8-hour boat trip offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most breathtaking coastlines and islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, countless travelers have praised it for its stunning scenery, friendly crew, and authentic experience.

What we love about this trip is the way it balances scenic beauty with local flavor—think crystal-clear waters, local wines, and homemade olive oil. Plus, it’s designed to be flexible, with options for transfers and plenty of free time on each island. That said, a potential drawback is that the boat can get crowded, especially on the outdoor decks, so if you prefer a quieter, more intimate setting, that’s worth considering.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy beautiful vistas, authentic Mediterranean food, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Croatian culture beyond the city walls or simply want a day to unwind and soak up sunshine on some of the region’s most picturesque islands.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Sail along Dubrovnik’s coastline with spectacular views.
• Authentic local experiences: Taste Croatian wine, olive oil, and local vegetables.
• Flexible itinerary: Free time on each island for exploration, swimming, and relaxing.
• Value for money: A full day with food, drinks, and transport included at around $51.
• Knowledgeable guides: Friendly crew and informative commentary enhance the experience.
• Crowd considerations: The boat can be busy, especially on the upper deck.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Consider This Tour?

The Dubrovnik Elaphite Island Cruise is a well-rounded way to explore beyond the city walls. Whether you’re seeking scenic photo ops, a taste of local cuisine, or just a relaxing day on the water, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s especially appealing for those who want to combine sightseeing with authentic food and drink experiences, all at a reasonable price.

The tour’s reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the crew, the quality of the food and drinks, and the beauty of the islands. Many travelers highlight that the stops are well-paced, giving plenty of time to explore each island, swim in the clear waters, or simply relax on the boat.

Let’s break down what you can expect during this day-long adventure.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Starting Point

Most options include hotel pickup—this is a real plus if you prefer to skip the hassle of organizing your own transport. The boat, named “RITA,” is docked at the pier near Dubrovnik, marked clearly with the “MARINERO” agency name. The group typically gathers here, and the crew welcomes you with a friendly smile.

The Scenic Cruise Along Dubrovnik’s Coast

The first part of the tour is a 30-minute sightseeing cruise along Dubrovnik’s famous coastline. This is the moment to really take in the views of the city walls, the terracotta rooftops, and the sparkling sea. Many reviews mention how spectacular this stretch is—“the crystal-clear sea” and the “breathtaking scenery” truly give you a sense of Croatia’s beauty.

More Great Tours Nearby

First Stop: Lopud Island

Lopud is often called the most charming of the trip’s three islands. It’s car-free, which means walking is quiet and peaceful. You’ll have about three hours here—long enough to explore, relax, or visit the famous sandy beach at unj Bay, which many reviewers describe as idyllic.

If you’re feeling active, hiking along the island’s roads reveals untouched natural beauty and historical sites, including old fortresses and the Saint Mary Franciscan monastery. Some travelers appreciated the freedom to wander at their own pace, with one noting, “We had plenty of time to explore and relax.”

Second Stop: Ipan Island

Next, the boat takes you to Ipan, the largest of the islands. Here, you’ll enjoy walks through scenic vineyards and olive groves—perfect for those who love tasting local produce. The views of lush vineyards and olive trees are often highlighted as a highlight, with many guests appreciating the authentic, “off-the-beaten-path” vibe.

Third Stop: Koloep Island

Koloep is known for its peaceful pine forests and clear waters. This spot is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding on the shore. The reviews emphasize the crystal waters and how well-timed the stops are—giving enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

Return Cruise and Final Leg

After your time on Koloep, the boat heads back to Dubrovnik, with a 20-minute cruise to finish the day. Many travelers comment on how the overall timing felt carefully managed, leaving them satisfied but not exhausted.

Food and Drink: A Taste of the Mediterranean

One of the trip’s biggest selling points is the authentic Mediterranean cuisine served onboard. If you opt for the lunch package, you’ll enjoy a choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, all accompanied by a potato salad. Several reviews mention that the lunch exceeded expectations—“the food was tasty, and the wine was good”—making this a true value-add.

The cruise also includes local Croatian wine, water, and soft drinks throughout the day. Additional drinks are available for purchase, and many guests find the prices reasonable. The tasting includes handmade olive oil made from Dubrovnik’s old olive trees, adding a special local touch to the experience.

Reviews on Food and Drinks

Reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of drinks, noting that they enjoyed the freshly served wine and the homemade olive oil. One guest mentioned that “the drinks were reasonably priced, and the lunch was better than expected.” It’s clear that the meal and beverage offerings are designed to give a real taste of Croatian hospitality.

The Boat and Comfort

The vessel “RITA” is described as a fully equipped boat with an open top for sunshine seekers and an air-conditioned lower salon for those who prefer shade or a cooler environment. The crew of five is often praised for their friendliness and professionalism.

While most reviews are positive, some mention that the outdoor seating can get crowded, especially during peak season, so if you prefer quiet, you might want to arrive early or choose a spot inside.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring Sun Protection: sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and swimwear are essential.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: especially if you plan to hike or walk on the islands.
• Don’t Forget Your Camera: the scenery is spectacular.
• Towels and Snorkeling Equipment: not included, so bring your own if you want to swim or snorkel.
• Book in Advance: this tour is popular, and the reviews suggest it sells out quickly.
• Consider the Crowd: the boat can be busy, especially outside on the decks, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed day of sightseeing with great food and drinks, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to see multiple islands without the hassle of arranging separate transport. The flexible schedule and free time on each island mean you can tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s swimming, hiking, shopping, or just soaking up the sun.

Travelers who value authentic experiences — tasting local wine, olive oil, and fresh vegetables — will find this tour hits the mark. The positive reviews about friendly staff and beautiful scenery show that this trip genuinely delivers a memorable day out.

However, if you prefer a more intimate, quiet experience or dislike crowds, this tour might feel a bit hectic at times. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have special needs, check the itinerary and boat access beforehand.

The Sum Up

This Elaphite Islands cruise from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day for anyone looking to get out on the water and see some of Croatia’s most scenic islands. It provides a good balance of guided sightseeing, free exploration, and authentic local flavor. The value for money is solid, especially considering the food, drinks, and transport included.

The tour is best suited for travelers who want a fun, scenic, and culturally enriching experience without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re keen on stunning views, local wines, and a relaxed pace, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your Dubrovnik stay.

For those seeking a more peaceful or private experience, consider the crowd size and outdoor seating availability. But overall, with rave reviews and a high rating, it’s a highly recommended way to explore Croatia’s coast and islands.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select that option within Dubrovnik.

What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts about 8 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, if you choose the lunch option, you’ll enjoy a full meal. Croatian wine, water, and soft drinks are served throughout the day, with extra drinks available for purchase.

Can I hike or walk on the islands?
Absolutely. On Lopud and Koloep, you can hike or walk, explore ancient sites, or relax on beaches.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest a family-friendly experience, but consider the crowd and boat conditions if traveling with very young children.

What is the boat like?
The boat, “RITA,” has an open top and an air-conditioned lower salon, with enough space for a comfortable outing, though outdoor seating can get busy.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available for lunch.

How crowded is the boat?
It can get busy, especially on the outdoor decks, but plenty of reviewers find the timing and stops well-managed.

Can I buy additional drinks onboard?
Yes, extra drinks are available for purchase at reasonable prices.

This cruise offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm—beautiful islands, authentic flavors, and friendly service. Whether you’re after scenic views, local food, or just a relaxing day on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: