Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional Lunch

Embarking on the Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise offers a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. Priced at $53 per person, this full-day tour provides a scenic boat ride along Dubrovnik’s coastline, visits to three distinct islands, and opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and sampling local cuisine. The cruise departs from Lapadska Obala in Dubrovnik, with a convenient hotel pickup option, making the journey hassle-free. It is especially suited for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day on the water, with plenty of free time on each island to soak up the sunshine or explore at your own pace. With over 4,100 reviews and a rating of 4.7/5, this experience balances great value with memorable moments, though it’s worth noting that snorkeling gear and towels are not included.

This tour shines with its well-organized itinerary, friendly crew, and the chance to enjoy Croatian wine, homemade olive oil, and fresh vegetables. The lunch option—with choices including fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes—receives high praise for its quality. While the duration on each island varies, the ample time for swimming and strolling helps avoid the feeling of rushing, as confirmed by many satisfied reviews.

Key Points

• Price: Only $53 per person for a full-day experience
• Includes: Drinks, lunch (if selected), hotel pickup (in Dubrovnik), and a luxury boat with open top and air-conditioned salon
• Visits: Lopud, Sipan, and Koloep islands, with free time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing
• Highlights: Crystalline waters, scenic vineyards, historical sites, and sandy beaches
• Reviews: Consistently high ratings, especially praising the friendly crew, good value, and beautiful scenery
• Considerations: Bring towels, snorkeling gear, and sun protection; the timing on islands is flexible but may be limited in some cases

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Comfortable Departure from Dubrovnik’s Lapadska Obala

The tour starts at Lapadska Obala, near the Dubrovnik Faculty of Economics. The meeting point is straightforward to find, with the “MARINERO excursions” crew and the boat “RITA” docked on the pier. The option for hotel pickup in Dubrovnik makes for stress-free transportation, delivering guests directly to the harbor in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Once aboard the fully equipped boat, with air conditioning, open-top deck, and lower air-conditioned salon, travelers settle into a comfortable environment for the day. The boat also features two spotless toilets and a friendly crew of five, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride throughout.

The cruise offers stunning views of Dubrovnik’s coastline as the boat glides toward the islands, setting a relaxing tone for the day ahead. Many reviews highlight the helpfulness and friendliness of the crew, making guests feel welcomed from the start.

Exploring Lopud: Beaches, Fortresses, and Hiking

Lopud is the first stop on this island-hopping journey, and it offers a variety of activities. Guests have around three hours to explore, with options to relax on the sandy Sunj Beach or hike along car-free roads to discover the island’s natural beauty and historical fortresses.

Many visitors enjoy basking on the beaches or visiting the Saint Mary Franciscan monastery, adding a touch of cultural interest to the day. The unspoiled natural environment and quiet coves make Lopud a highlight, with reviews praising the ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

For those seeking adventure, the hiking opportunities and beach visits are easily accessible, and the friendly guides provide helpful tips. The lunch options are served on the boat, with fish, chicken, or vegetarian choices, all highly appreciated for their quality.

Sipping Local Wines and Touring Vineyards on Sipan

Next, the largest island, Sipan, is known for its scenic vineyards and olive groves. Though the time here is more limited—about an hour—many visitors appreciate the chance to sample local Croatian wines and walk through the lush scenery.

The brief stop allows for a stroll along the waterfront or a quick visit to a local bar for a refreshment. Although the time is short, reviews note the beauty of the landscape and the tastings as a highlight. For those interested in wine tasting or photography, Sipan offers a peaceful environment to unwind.

Koloep: Quiet Beaches and Pine Forests

The final island, Koloep, provides a relaxing conclusion to the tour. With about an hour to enjoy the surroundings, visitors often swim in the clear waters or take a leisurely walk through pine forests.

The beaches here are ideal for cooling off, and the scenery offers great photo opportunities. Many reviews mention enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and the chance to unwind before heading back to Dubrovnik.

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Lunch and Drinks: Mediterranean Flavors on Board

If the lunch option is selected, guests indulge in a delicious meal featuring fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, complemented by potato salad. The quality of the food often earns praise, with many noting the generous portions and fresh ingredients.

Throughout the cruise, Croatian wine, soft drinks, and water are offered freely, with additional drinks available for purchase. Many guests appreciate the high standard of the refreshments, which add to the overall enjoyment.

Daily Schedule and Pacing

The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with free time for swimming and exploring. Many reviews highlight the well-paced nature of the trip, ensuring guests have enough time at each island.

Despite some suggestions for extending time on the smaller islands, the overall timing is praised for its fairness and flexibility. The cruise’s duration of roughly 8 hours provides a full day of relaxation and discovery without feeling overwhelmed.

The Crew and Guides: Friendly and Knowledgeable

Multiple reviews commend the crew’s friendliness, with many mentioning attentiveness and helpfulness. Guides provide informative commentary about each island’s sights and history, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. The cheerful staff, including guides and crew members, contribute significantly to the tour’s positive atmosphere.

The boat’s interior, especially the air-conditioned salon, ensures comfort during the hot hours, while the upper deck allows guests to enjoy sunbathing and panoramic views.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Travelers are advised to bring towels, snorkeling equipment, sunscreen, and sun protection gear such as hats and sunglasses. The walks on the islands are generally easy, but comfortable shoes are recommended for hiking or strolling.

Since snorkeling gear is not included, bringing your own can enhance the experience, especially around the beaches. The tour accommodates all ages, though those with mobility issues should consider the walking distances on the islands.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Elaphiti Islands cruise suits families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed day filled with scenic views, swimming, and local flavors. The value and well-organized schedule make it particularly appealing for those wanting an affordable yet comprehensive experience. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and the chance to sample Croatian wines and cuisine stand out as major benefits.

Some reviews suggest extending time on specific islands or adding more detailed maps to maximize exploration, but overall, the timing works well for most guests.

Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise with Drinks & Optional Lunch — Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and culinary delights. The $53 price point, including drinks, lunch (if chosen), and hotel pickup, provides excellent value for a full day on the water. The scenic boat ride and the variety of islands ensure a diverse experience—from sandy beaches to vineyards and historic sites.

The friendly crew and well-organized schedule make it easy to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. While the limited time on the smaller islands might be a consideration for some, the overall quality of the experience and the positive feedback from thousands of travelers indicate this tour remains a top choice for exploring the Elaphiti Islands from Dubrovnik.

This cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxed day filled with beautiful scenery, delicious food and drinks, and memorable moments on Croatia’s stunning coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, making the start of the day convenient.

What is included in the price?
The $53 fee covers drinks, lunch (if selected), boat transportation, and access to three islands with free time to explore and swim.

Are snorkeling and towels provided?
No, snorkeling equipment and towels are not included. It’s recommended to bring your own.

How long do we stay on each island?
The schedule generally provides about 1 hour on Sipan and Koloep, and around 3 hours on Lopud, giving enough time for swimming and walking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace, friendly crew, and safe environment make it appropriate for families, though mobility should be considered for walking activities.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, many reviews suggest enjoying the beaches and sampling local foods at your own pace during the free time.

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