Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Elaphiti Islands by Boat: A Practical and Enjoyable Day Out

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik and want to escape the bustling city for a day, a cruise through the Elaphiti Islands offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, authentic island charm, and relaxing fun. This tour, rated at an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from over 1,300 reviews, promises a full-day adventure with stops on three of the most picturesque islands in the area—Koloep, Lopud, and Sipan. It’s a popular choice for travelers who love being on the water, savoring regional food, and enjoying a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the well-organized itinerary and the friendly, knowledgeable crew—many reviews praise their attentiveness and local insights. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and a delicious onboard lunch makes it good value, especially for those who want to relax without constantly worrying about extra costs. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s timing depends heavily on sea conditions, and the itinerary may feel a bit rushed if you’re hoping for a more leisurely exploration of each island.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate convenience, scenic vistas, and authentic island vibes. Whether you’re a family, a couple seeking a romantic day, or a group of friends, this trip offers a straightforward way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of independent travel. Just keep in mind that if you or someone in your group has mobility issues or uses a wheelchair, this tour might not be suitable.

Key Points

• All-in-One Island Experience: Visit three islands in a single day, saving you time and effort.
• Full-Day, Relaxed Pace: Adequate time on each island for swimming, walking, and exploring.
• Inclusive Drinks & Lunch: Enjoy unlimited drinks, including wine and brandy, with a tasty regional lunch.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this tour hassle-free.
• Highly Rated Guides: Knowledgeable guides who keep the trip lively and informative.
• Authentic Island Charm: See traditional red-roofed houses and enjoy scenic coastal views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The tour begins with a pickup from your Dubrovnik accommodation, a bonus for those tired of hauling luggage or navigating public transport. You’ll be transferred to a spacious boat named “Emili,” where you’ll settle in for what promises to be a memorable day on the water. The first part of the journey offers a 30-minute sightseeing cruise with sweeping views of Dubrovnik’s coastline, setting the tone for the day.

Koloep Island: The Quiet Gem

Your first stop is Koloep, a tiny island renowned for its tranquility. Here, you’ll get about an hour of free time, perfect for snapping photos, taking a quick walk, or jumping into the crystal-clear waters for a swim or snorkel. Reviewers express that Koloep is especially peaceful, making it a favorite for those seeking a quieter, more scenic spot. One guest even called it the most beautiful and peaceful of the stops, which is high praise considering the other islands.

Sipan Island: The Cultural Heart

Next, you’ll cruise for about 45 minutes to Sipan, a small island with a bit more activity. You’ll have time for a guided tour or self-exploration, with some reviews noting that Sipan isn’t as picturesque as Koloep but offers interesting sights and a chance to see local life. The relatively short stop allows for a quick walk and photo opportunities without feeling rushed.

Lopud Island: The Beach Paradise

The longest stop—around three hours—is on Lopud, famous for Sunj Beach. This is where you’ll find white sand beaches and shallow waters, ideal for swimming or just relaxing with a drink in hand. Tour participants rave about the quality of the beach, the charming town with its red-roofed houses, and the opportunity for food tasting or a leisurely walk. One review highlights that the beach at Lopud is perfect for snorkeling, with plenty of fish visible just beneath the surface.

During this time, you can choose to dine on a delicious regional lunch featuring chicken, fish, or vegetarian options, paired with drinks from the open bar. Many reviewers mention that the unlimited drinks flow smoothly, with staff often topping up glasses before you even realize they’re empty. The included wine and brandy are a bonus, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

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Final Cruise & Return

After the long beach stop, you’ll cruise for about 50 minutes back toward Dubrovnik, with stunning views along the coast and chances to spot dolphins—some guests have been lucky enough to see them on the way back! The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the designated meeting point, making it a seamless end to your day.

The Benefits of the Tour

Value for Money is often highlighted in reviews. The price includes hotel pickup, boat transfers, a sizable lunch, and unlimited drinks—costing less than organizing these components separately. Many guests note that the trip offers great value for money, especially with the quality of food and drinks provided.

Guides play a vital role in making this experience enjoyable. Guests frequently praise the crew for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep everyone entertained and informed throughout the day. A standout is the guide Emily, who many reviewers say made a real difference with her friendly service and useful tips.

Scenic beauty is another highlight, with travelers appreciating the chance to see Dubrovnik from a different perspective and to enjoy the stunning coastline, charming islands, and the traditional red-roofed houses. Many reviews mention how relaxing and picturesque the trip feels, especially with good weather.

Flexibility and comfort are also key. The tour’s full-day structure allows for plenty of free time on each island, and the hotel pickup simplifies logistics. If you’re worried about sea sickness or boat comfort, note that the boat is described as spacious, and the cruise is generally smooth, although sea conditions can vary.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is widely loved, some reviews hint at minor limitations. The timing can be tight, especially during busy seasons or if sea conditions cause delays. The longer stops on the bigger islands are appreciated, but some travelers might wish for more time on the smaller islands or the beaches.

Accessibility is limited; the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments. Participants should also prepare for outdoor conditions—bring swimwear and a towel, as well as sun protection.

Lastly, sea conditions influence the experience. If the weather turns unfavorable, the cruise might be less enjoyable, or some stops could be shortened or canceled.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who want a convenient, all-in-one day exploring the Elaphiti Islands without the hassle of planning individual transport or activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and a relaxed pace. Families, couples, and groups of friends all find value here, especially given the unlimited drinks and flavorful lunch.

If you appreciate friendly guides with local insights and a chance to see traditional villages and sandy beaches, this trip will likely delight you. However, if you’re seeking a more adventure-focused or leisurely experience with longer exploration time on each island, you might find the schedule a bit packed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Dubrovnik’s city area. If your accommodation is less than 1,000 meters from the starting point, pickup may not be available.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection to enjoy swimming and lounging comfortably. The tour is subject to sea conditions, so good weather makes for a better day.

Can I purchase additional food or drinks?
Yes, extra lunches can be bought onboard for about 20 euros per person. Other drinks might also be available at reasonable prices beyond the included open bar.

How long is each island stop?
Koloep and Sipan stops are about 30 to 45 minutes each, while Lopud has the longest stop of around 3 hours, allowing for swimming, walking, and eating.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility impairments due to the outdoor nature of the tour and walking involved.

What happens if sea conditions are bad?
The tour is subject to sea conditions; if the weather is adverse, the itinerary may be adjusted or canceled. Refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

The Dubrovnik Elaphiti Islands cruise delivers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed leisure. With knowledgeable guides, a tasty onboard lunch, and unlimited drinks, it offers excellent value—especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s a fantastic way to experience some of Croatia’s most beloved islands without the stress of independent planning.

Those who enjoy seeing natural landscapes, beaches, and traditional villages will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a comfortably paced day with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and soak in the scenery.

If you’re looking for a memorable, fun-filled day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this cruise deserves serious consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here: