Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik? If so, a full-day cruise around the Elaphite Islands offers a fantastic way to enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty, warm weather, and laid-back island lifestyle. This tour, praised by nearly 1,700 travelers, combines scenic sailing, island hopping, refreshing swims, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for those looking to escape the city’s hustle for a day.

Two standout features make this trip particularly appealing: the unlimited drinks from the onboard bar and the visits to three distinct islands in one day. You’ll also appreciate the hotel pickup and drop-off, which cuts out the stress of navigating Dubrovnik’s busy streets. Yet, it’s worth noting that if you’re not keen on a large group or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

This tour suits travelers who want a blend of scenic views, cultural exploration, and leisure. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy fresh seafood, wine, and a bit of adventure—whether that’s swimming in clear waters or snapping photos of picturesque villages. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers with a sense of adventure will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with unlimited drinks, including white wine, water, juice, and soft drinks.
• Visit three islands—Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—in just one day, with options to explore and swim freely.
• Comfortable, well-maintained boat with two decks offering ample seating and excellent views.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience seamless and relaxing.
• Optional Blue Cave visit adds a memorable highlight—float in the glowing blue waters.
• Value for money considering the scenic stops, lunch, drinks, and professional guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Experience

This cruise is designed to maximize your time exploring the Elaphite Islands without the fuss of organizing transport or multiple bookings. The eight-hour journey balances structured stops with plenty of free time, giving you a taste of island life with minimal hassle.

Getting There and Departures

Most options include hotel pickup within Dubrovnik’s city area, which is a major convenience. If you prefer, you can also meet at a designated point in Dubrovnik. For those staying outside the immediate city area, it’s worth checking whether the pickup zone falls within the “free” pickup zone—less than 1000 meters from the starting point.

The Boat and Its Amenities

Operated on a spacious boat with two decks, the vessel comfortably accommodates groups while still feeling intimate. Many reviews mention how well-maintained and clean the boat is, with plenty of seating for everyone. There are two toilets onboard, which is a plus on a day that’s mostly spent outdoors.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off with a sightseeing cruise along the coast, offering views of Dubrovnik’s historic walls and skyline. The first stop is Koločep, known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic vistas. Here, you get about an hour—ideal for a quick walk, some photos, or a swim. Reviewers rave about the crystal-clear waters and the chance to snap photos of traditional stone houses.

Next, there’s an optional Blue Cave visit—if you opt in, you’ll get to experience the glowing waters that have made it famous. Many reviews mention how spectacular and unique this experience is, though some note that the Blue Cave may close if sea conditions aren’t favorable, so timing is key.

The journey then takes you to Sipan, a smaller island with a charming history and a brief guided tour. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to explore or relax.

The highlight for many is the three-hour stop on Lopud, known for its lovely sandy Sunj Beach, traditional architecture, and laid-back vibe. Here, travelers can relax with a regional lunch—options include chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes—and enjoy unlimited white wine and drinks. The reviews highlight how lunch is hearty and flavorful, with some noting the portions are generous, and the drinks flow freely. One reviewer mentioned that “lunch was superb,” emphasizing the quality and the value of the all-inclusive drinks.

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Swimming, Snorkeling, and Exploration

Throughout the tour, there are plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel in the clear waters off each island. Many travelers mention how the crystal waters make for memorable swims, with some even spotting marine life like octopuses or sea urchins, thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

The Return and Drop-off

After exploring the islands and enjoying some downtime, the cruise circles back with scenic views and a relaxed cruise along the coast. The drop-off is at Dubrovnik’s Lapadska obala, making it convenient whether you’re heading back to your hotel or planning other activities.

What Travelers Love

Authentic insights from reviews help paint a true picture. Many comment on how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, adding context and making the experience more engaging. The unlimited drinks are a major perk, with several travelers noting how the flow of wine and beverages was well-managed, making it a fun, carefree day.

The scenery consistently earns praise—beautiful islands, clear waters, and charming villages—with many saying they’d do the trip again just for the views. The Blue Cave, as one reviewer put it, is “astonishing,” and the lunch receives high marks for its freshness and hearty servings.

What Could Be Better

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mention limited time on the islands—particularly at the larger islands like Lopud, where three hours can feel just enough to relax or do a little exploring. A few note that the time at the smaller islands could be a bit longer, but overall, most find the balance works well.

Plus, those with mobility issues or who prefer quieter, less crowded experiences might find the group size or the boat environment less suitable. The tour is not wheelchair accessible**, and some reviews mention the crowd at peak times.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting in Dubrovnik’s harbor, you’ll glide along the coast, passing the city walls and capturing perfect photos of the medieval skyline. The first island, Koločep, is a peaceful retreat—famous for its tranquil beaches and scenic walks. Here, the photo stops are plentiful, and the swimming spots are crystal clear, making it a perfect introduction.

The Blue Cave visit is a real highlight—many reviews describe it as “spectacular” and a must-see. You’ll hop into smaller boats for this side trip, floating in waters that are naturally illuminated with a fluorescent blue glow. It’s a quick visit but well worth the extra cost and time, especially if you love nature’s light shows.

Sipan, the smallest of the stops, offers a brief guided tour or free time to explore. It’s a great chance to see a quieter, less touristy part of the islands.

The three-hour stop on Lopud is the day’s crown jewel. The lunch onboard is a well-organized affair, with regional specialties and free-flowing wine. Many reviewers say the portion sizes are large, and the quality of the food is excellent. During this break, you can stroll through flower-lined streets, relax on the sandy Sunj Beach, or soak up the sun.

On the return cruise, the views of Dubrovnik’s coastline, combined with the fun and relaxation aboard, leave many travelers feeling satisfied and rejuvenated.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $42 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the lunch, drinks, and guided visits included. The hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, saving you from navigating the busy streets or public transport.

Keep in mind, the duration—about 8 hours—means you’ll need to be prepared for a full but enjoyable day. The group size is capped at 12, ensuring space and comfort, but larger groups or families might want to confirm availability.

The sea conditions can impact the Blue Cave visit, so flexibility is key. If the cave is unavailable, the tour still offers a rich experience of the islands and scenery.

Final Thoughts

This cruise is a strong choice for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing day filled with island hopping, swimming, and good food. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew consistently receive praise for making the day enjoyable and engaging. The unlimited drinks and delicious, hearty lunch make it feel like a true Croatian hospitality experience.

While it’s not perfect for those with mobility restrictions or seeking solitude, most find the mixture of spectacular sights and leisurely activities very worthwhile. If you’re after a well-organized, fun, and scenic escape from Dubrovnik’s streets, this tour delivers.

In sum, it’s an excellent way to see Croatia’s coastal gems, enjoy some quality refreshments, and soak up the island atmosphere—all in one memorable day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, if you select the option, you’ll be picked up from your Dubrovnik accommodation. Meeting points are also available if preferred.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including boat rides, island stops, lunch, and free time.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the onboard open bar offers unlimited white wine, water, juices, and soft drinks throughout the day.

What about the Blue Cave visit?
You have the option to visit the Blue Cave, which is highly praised but subject to sea conditions. It’s often a highlight, but if it’s closed, the tour still features beautiful islands.

Is the lunch included?
Lunch is optional and can be added during booking. It features regional dishes like chicken, fish, or vegetarian options, with large portions and regional flavors.

Can I do the tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. The waters are clear, and the beaches are sandy or rocky, so dress accordingly.

The Bottom Line

This full-day cruise offers a wonderful balance of scenery, relaxation, and cultural insight. The friendly guides, delicious food, and spectacular views make it a standout option for experiencing the coast of Croatia without the hassle of organizing multiple activities.

It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy leisurely boat trips, good food, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for a memorable day of island hopping with all the essentials covered, this cruise is a smart choice. It combines value, comfort, and authentic Croatian charm—just what many travelers seek when exploring Dubrovnik’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: