Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Tour by Regina Maris

Thinking about a day trip from Dubrovnik that combines scenic views, charming villages, and some well-earned relaxation? The Elaphiti Islands Tour by Regina Maris offers just that. This full-day cruise packs in three unique islands—Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud—each with its own character and appeal. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to escape the city buzz and experience Croatia’s coast in style.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its comfortable, stylish boat and the authentic local flavor you get at each stop. The Regina Maris is praised for its spaciousness and cleanliness, making the journey enjoyable even for those prone to seasickness. The islands themselves are stunning—crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and small villages full of history. But a potential snag: the day can feel a bit rushed, especially on Lopud, where you get around three hours to explore. If you love laid-back island hopping with good amenities, this trip suits most travelers, especially couples, families, and solo adventurers looking for a scenic, well-organized day out.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat experience with spacious seating and luxury amenities
• Charming island stops with opportunities for swimming, exploration, and relaxation
• Authentic Dalmatian-style lunch with local wine, soft drinks, and rakija included (if you choose lunch option)
• Knowledgeable and friendly crew that enhances the overall experience
• Flexible options, including hotel transfers and optional add-ons like buggy rides
• Well-paced itinerary, though some may find the time on Lopud slightly limited

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Ultimate Guide to the Elaphiti Islands Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

Our adventure begins at Gruz Port, where the Regina Maris is docked. From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this isn’t just any boat. With its sleek appearance and modern facilities, the vessel exudes comfort. You’ll find restrooms for both men and women, spacious seating, and WiFi onboard, making the 8-hour cruise feel more like a mini-luxury retreat than a typical tour.

The crew greets guests with warmth and professionalism, setting a friendly tone for the day. As you set sail, the breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s coastline unfold, giving you a taste of what’s to come. Many reviews mention how the crew’s helpful attitude contributes to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

The Journey to Kolocep Island

The first island stop is Kolocep, a peaceful fishing village surrounded by clear, inviting waters. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, sunbathe, or wander along the scenic coastline. The waters are famously transparent, making it ideal for a quick dip or just relaxing on the sandy beaches. Several travelers note the tranquility of Kolocep as a perfect introduction, especially if you’re eager for a breather from busy Dubrovnik.

One reviewer raved, “Lovely staff, land destination. Thank you for a wonderful day,” highlighting how the staff’s friendliness enhances the peaceful vibe. The small size of Kolocep means you won’t find big crowds, which is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape.

The Culinary Delight: Dalmatian-Style Lunch

After enjoying Kolocep, most guests opt for the included lunch (if you select the “lunch option” at booking). The meal is served on board, featuring freshly prepared Dalmatian cuisine—your choice of grilled fish, chicken, or a vegetarian plate. The quality of the food is often praised, with many reviews mentioning how tasty and satisfying it is.

Lunch isn’t just about the food; it’s about the experience. The white wine served with the meal, alongside unlimited soft drinks and rakija, adds a touch of local flavor. Several travelers appreciated this extra touch, noting how it made the meal feel more like a celebration than just a quick bite.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Suura on Ipan Island

Next, you visit Sura, a village on Ipan Island. Here, you’ll have around 50 minutes to stroll through the quiet harbor and absorb the serenity of island life. The village’s authentic stone architecture and the 16th-century castle offer glimpses into its past. Many reviews mention how this stop provides a peaceful break and authentic local charm.

While there isn’t an official sightseeing tour here, you can wander along the harbor or explore the nearby surroundings. It’s a quick but sweet visit, especially appreciated by those who enjoy wandering without a strict schedule.

The Main Event: Lopud Island

The highlight for many is Lopud, where you’ll spend roughly three hours. This island boasts sandy beaches, ecological spots, and historical sites like the Franciscan Monastery. The most coveted destination is Sunj Beach, about a 15-minute walk from the port, famed for its soft sand and gentle surf.

Many reviews emphasize how much time they had on Lopud to relax and explore. Visitors often mention how the seaside promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk or grabbing a coffee. For the more adventurous, there are options to visit Unj Beach via buggy ride (additional cost). One reviewer said, “The beach at Lopud is well worth the walk,” highlighting how the natural beauty makes the time on this island worthwhile.

Returning and Practical Details

The boat departs from Lopud around 3 PM and heads back to Dubrovnik, arriving around 6 PM. The timing means you get a full day’s worth of island exploration without feeling rushed. The return times can vary slightly depending on the season, but most travelers find it well-paced.

Optional hotel transfers are available, making the start and end points even more convenient. Note that weather conditions can affect the schedule, which is common for any outdoor activity in Croatia.

The Experience on Regina Maris

The boat itself deserves mention. Many reviews describe Regina Maris as a beautifully maintained vessel—clean, spacious, and equipped with lazy bags for lounging in the sun. The restroom facilities are noted as a significant plus, especially on a full-day trip.

The crew is highlighted repeatedly for their friendliness and helpfulness. One reviewer said, “Elisa, our guide, was beautiful inside and out and very helpful,” showing how the staff often go above and beyond to enhance your experience. The onboard amenities like WiFi and refreshing drinks keep comfort high, even during a busy day of sightseeing.

Value for Money

While the cost might seem significant, many travelers feel it offers excellent value for the price. The included lunch, drinks, and comfortable transportation mean no hidden surprises. The reviews constantly praise the friendliness of the team and the quality of food and scenery, making this a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and good food. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy being on the water and exploring small, authentic villages. The comfortable boat and well-organized itinerary make it approachable even for first-time visitors to Croatia.

Final Thoughts

The Elaphiti Islands Tour by Regina Maris is much more than a boat ride. It’s a chance to see Croatia from a different perspective—crystal waters, inviting beaches, and charming villages, all seasoned with friendly service and tasty local food. While some may find the trip’s pace a little full, most agree the experience is a worthwhile highlight of any Dubrovnik itinerary.

Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for an easy, well-organized day on the water with plenty of comfort. It’s especially good for those who value authentic small villages, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine. If you want to combine sightseeing with some relaxing downtime, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also a great choice for travelers who appreciate friendly, attentive staff and clean, modern facilities onboard. If you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or family, this tour offers a friendly, inclusive atmosphere that makes everyone feel part of the adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option when booking. The driver will meet you at your hotel or a designated city bus stop.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning around 6 PM, with the exact times depending on availability and season.

What is included in the lunch?
A Dalmatian-style lunch with options of grilled fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes is included only if you select the lunch option. It is served on board, with white wine and unlimited soft drinks.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, swimming is a key part of the experience. The waters around Kolocep and Lopud are perfect for a dip, and you’ll have free time for swimming and relaxing on beaches.

What amenities does the boat have?
The Regina Maris features spacious seating, restrooms for both men and women, WiFi, and lazy bags for lounging. It’s designed for comfort on a full-day cruise.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, extra drinks like beer and coffee are available for purchase onboard. For a small fee, you can also take a buggy ride to Unj Beach on Lopud.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While the tour runs daily, the best weather is usually during the warmer months—late spring to early fall—when swimming conditions are ideal.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour might be canceled or rescheduled due to bad weather, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast and confirm with the provider closer to your trip.

Who should avoid this tour?
If you prefer a very relaxed pace with more time on one island or dislike boat rides, this might not be your best choice. Also, if mobility is an issue, check if the island sites are accessible.

In the end, the Elaphiti Islands Tour by Regina Maris offers a joyful, well-rounded way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal spots. With good value, friendly service, and scenic stops, it’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to experience Croatia’s island life without the hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: