Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Island Luxury Pirate Ship Cruise

Thinking about taking a day out on the water from Dubrovnik? This Elaphiti Islands cruise promises a fun blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a dash of pirate flair. It’s designed for those who want to escape the busy old town, explore multiple islands, and enjoy some authentic local flavors — all aboard a beautifully crafted, pirate-style ship. We’ve sifted through reviews and tour details to give you an honest, thorough look at what this experience offers—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What makes this trip particularly appealing are the knowledgeable guides who bring the islands’ stories alive, and the stunning views of this rugged coastline. Plus, the chance to sample regional wines and local foods at a fair price adds a delicious touch. However, keep in mind that the trip’s success depends heavily on good weather, as it’s an outdoor adventure with some optional activities that might be weather dependent or require extra planning.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, exploration, and cultural tidbits. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Croatia’s hidden island gems from a unique vessel will find plenty of value here. If you’re seeking a laid-back, informative day on the water—this cruise ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a vintage pirate-style ship that adds fun and flavor to your day.
• Well-Designed Itinerary: Visits to Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud with plenty of free time at each stop.
• Expert Guides & Stories: Knowledgeable guides share insights into the islands’ history and culture.
• Variety of Activities: Options include hiking, wine tasting, farm visits, and snorkeling.
• Good Value for Money: For around $60, travelers get a full-day cruise with food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and guide service.
• Highly Praised Crew: Consistently friendly, helpful staff make the day smooth and enjoyable.

Imagine setting sail on a beautifully crafted ship that looks like something straight out of a pirate film. The ship’s vintage design, combined with its modern comforts like air-conditioned salons, Wi-Fi, and clean toilets, creates a relaxing but adventurous vibes from the start. Boarding begins early, with a start time typically around 8:45 or 9:00 AM, depending on the season, so arriving on time is key.

The cruise begins with a 45-minute scenic sail along Dubrovnik’s coast, giving you a first glimpse of the rugged shorelines and the shimmering sea. The boat’s spacious, well-maintained design means you won’t feel cramped, and you can choose to relax upstairs on the deck or inside in the cool air-conditioning.

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First Stop: Kolocep Island

Our first island is Kolocep, just a short cruise away. Here, travelers get around an hour of free time to explore. Some reviews mention the short walk up to the Chapel of Saint Anthony – a peaceful spot with great views—plus, the opportunity for snorkeling if you want to dip into the water. Many travelers appreciate the option to join a guided hike or visit a family farm for local tastings at just €5 per person. This is a lovely chance to dive into local life, sample regional products, and learn about how Croatians have cultivated their land through the years.

One guest raves about the local snacks and regional dishes served here, noting that the tasting tour was “one of a kind.” The pace is relaxed, allowing you to absorb the natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: Sipan Island and Village

Next, the boat heads to Sipan, a charming island with a small village. You’ll spend about 75 minutes exploring, with options to join a wine tasting tour for an extra €10 or just wander and soak in the tranquility. Many reviews emphasize how friendly and informative the guides are, sharing stories that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Some travelers mention the wine tasting as a highlight, with “great local wines and interesting stories about production,” adding to the authenticity of the visit. The peaceful village setting makes it an ideal place to relax, snap photos, or chat with locals.

The Final Major Stop: Lopud Island

Lopud is the star of the afternoon, offering around three hours of free time. This is plenty of time for a variety of activities. Visitors can hike to Fort Sutvra, which takes about 20 minutes each way, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Or, simply walk along the Riviera promenade, enjoy the crystal-clear waters, or relax at a woodland beachside restaurant.

Many guests rave about Unj Beach, with its soft sands and shallow waters, ideal for families or anyone wanting a swim. The option to take a golf cart ride to the beach adds a fun, easy way to explore. For lunch, you can choose between dining at Restaurant Glavovi or Rajski Kutak Bindo at Unj Beach, both offering special-priced meals that include meat, fish, and vegetarian options—giving good value considering the quality and quantity.

Optional Add-Ons & Activities

Throughout the day, optional activities enhance the experience—hiking, wine tastings, and farm visits seem to be the most popular. A reviewer notes that the tasting of local honey, olive oil, and sweets provides a delightful taste of local craftsmanship. Snorkeling is also available, allowing you to explore beneath the surface of these calm waters.

Many reviews mention how helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable the guides and crew are. One guest says, “Indira and the crew did a splendid job,” emphasizing the personal touch that elevates this trip from just a boat ride to a memorable outing.

The lunch options are a notable part of the tour’s value. For around €20-25, you get a generous meal at one of the island’s restaurants, with choices spanning meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes. Several reviews praise the fresh, tasty food, and the fact that lunch is served while cruising between islands helps maximize your exploration time.

Onboard, bottled water and one additional drink are included, with extra drinks available for purchase. Many reviewers highlight the helpfulness of staff in serving and explaining the food and drinks. The Wi-Fi feature is a bonus, so you can share photos or check in with loved ones during the journey.

Repeatedly, travelers commend the friendly, attentive crew and knowledgeable guides. Descriptions of the guides as “warm,” “helpful,” and “well-informed” appear throughout reviews. Guests note that the guides often share fascinating stories and historical insights, which make the stops more meaningful.

For example, one reviewer says, “Indira was an amazing guide—she made everyone feel welcome and shared stories that brought the islands’ history to life.” This personable approach helps travelers connect more deeply with the experience.

The ship itself is described as “impressive,” “authentic,” and “beautifully maintained.” Its pirate/merchant ship replica design lends a playful, adventurous atmosphere, especially for families or those young at heart. Many reviews mention that the ship looks striking and adds a sense of fun to the day, making it more than just a typical boat tour.

The vessel’s sturdiness means you can comfortably enjoy the ride even if the sea gets a little choppy, and the comfortable spaces make it easy to relax when not exploring on land.

At about $60 per person, the tour offers a full-day experience packed with island adventures, cultural insights, food, and drinks. Given the quality of the vessel, the inclusions (Wi-Fi, lunch, drinks), and the guided experiences, many reviewers feel it’s a good value.

Additional charges—like wine tasting (€10) or farm visits (€5)—are optional but affordable extras if you want to deepen your experience. Some guests, however, note that the ship’s “galleon” style is a bit more expensive than other boat options, but many agree the unique charm and the personalized service justify the price.

This Elaphiti Islands cruise shines for those looking for a relaxed, well-organized, and informative day outside Dubrovnik’s busy streets. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic stories, scenic beauty, and good value. The pirate ship theme adds a whimsical touch that kids and adults alike might enjoy.

If you’re looking for a flexible schedule with plenty of free time on each island, this tour delivers. The friendly guides and beautiful boat ensure you’ll feel well looked after, and the optional activities let you tailor the day to your interests. Just remember to bring sun protection, a towel, and some cash for extras.

This cruise really captures the spirit of Dalmatia, blending natural beauty, local culture, and a bit of adventure. If you’re after a memorable, reasonably priced, full-day escape on the water, it’s well worth considering.

• What is the duration of the tour?

It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting early in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon.

• Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is optional. If selected, pickups are arranged from nearby locations; otherwise, you meet at the designated Dubrovnik point.

• Can I join the tour without the transfer?

Yes, but parking at the meeting point can be difficult, so public transit or Uber is recommended.

• What’s the best time of year to take this tour?

The tour departs seasonally with varying start times. It requires good weather, so check the forecast. From June to September, the weather is typically best.

• Are meals included?

Lunch is optional and paid separately (€20-25). Drinks onboard are included, with additional options available for purchase.

• What activities are available on the islands?

You can hike, snorkel, visit farms, or relax on beaches. Optional wine tasting and farm visits are available.

• Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is available, but a damage deposit (€20) applies.

• How much free time do I get on each island?

Kolocep and Sipan get about an hour each, while Lopud offers around three hours for exploring, relaxing, or dining.

• Is the boat suitable for children?

Yes, the ship’s spacious design and fun pirate theme make it family-friendly, especially for kids who enjoy water and adventure.

• What should I bring?

Towels, beachwear, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for extras are advisable.

This Elaphiti Islands cruise from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, learning, and relaxation. The vintage pirate ship adds a special touch of fun, and the guides’ insights bring the islands’ stories to life. With opportunities for hiking, wine tasting, and swimming, it’s a great way to see some of Croatia’s lesser-known gems.

The value for money is solid, especially when you consider the inclusions and the quality of the experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and leisure, and who don’t mind a weather-dependent outdoor adventure. Whether you’re after a family outing, romantic escape, or solo exploration, this tour offers an authentic, enjoyable taste of Dalmatian island life.

You can check availability for your dates here: