Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

Explore the stunning Elaphite Islands of Dubrovnik on this full-day cruise that lasts approximately 8 hours. For $42 per person, you enjoy visits to Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan, along with the option to explore the Blue Cave. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

Travelers are treated to unlimited drinks, including white wine, water, juices, and sodas, while the boat offers two decks with comfortable seating and ample space. The tour also features a delicious onboard lunch with chicken, fish, or vegetarian options, praised for its freshness and hearty portions. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly crew, and relaxed pacing makes this cruise a popular choice, especially for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and lounging.

A notable highlight is the chance to visit the Blue Cave for an extra fee, which many describe as a breathtaking experience. The tour is praised for its professional guides, well-organized itinerary, and comfortable boats, with some reviews emphasizing the small group size and personalized service.

While the tour is accessible only via pickup within 1000 meters of the starting point and not suitable for mobility-impaired and wheelchair users, it remains an excellent option for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and social day on the waters around Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Full-day cruise lasting approximately 8 hours in Dubrovnik’s Elaphite Islands
• Visits to Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan with optional Blue Cave tour
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience
• Unlimited drinks, including white wine, water, and soda, served throughout the trip
• Lunch provided, with options for chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes
• Comfortable boat with two decks, toilets, and plenty of seating
• Tour rated 4.8 out of 5 from 1689 reviews, highlighting friendly crew and beautiful scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, available if you select the appropriate option. The exact pickup location depends on your choice, but the drop-off is in the same area, typically at Lapadska obala 7. The organized transfer ensures a smooth start and end to the day, letting you relax without worrying about logistics.

The boat used for this cruise has two decks, offering both shaded and open-air options, with plenty of space for all passengers. The comfort of the vessel is frequently praised, along with clean toilets onboard. This setup is especially suited for those who want to enjoy the scenery comfortably and without feeling crowded.

Tour Schedule and Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins with a sightseeing cruise lasting about 30 minutes, giving everyone a taste of the Adriatic coastline before reaching the islands. The first stop is Kolocep, where about an hour is spent exploring, taking photos, and swimming in the clear waters.

Next, travelers have another hour at Blue Cave on Kolocep Island, with opportunities for snorkeling and swimming in the fluorescent waters—a highlight for many. The tour continues with a sightseeing cruise lasting about an hour before arriving at Sipan.

At Sipan, there is a 45-minute period for guided tours, photos, and free time to explore or relax. Afterwards, the boat heads to Lopud, with around three hours to enjoy the island. Here, visitors can walk around the traditional red-roofed houses, relax on Sunj Beach, or sample regional food. The lunch onboard is served during this time, with large portions of fresh fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes available.

The trip wraps up with a 50-minute cruise back to Dubrovnik, passing scenic views and taking in the last sights of the day. The final stop is near Lapadska obala, where the drop-off occurs.

Onboard Experience and Food & Drinks

The boat is equipped with two decks, providing plenty of seating for a relaxed cruise. The unlimited drinks selection includes white wine, water, Apple and Orange juice, Coca-Cola, Fanta, and Coca-Cola Zero. Many reviews highlight the generous flow of drinks, with staff continually offering refills, creating a festive atmosphere.

A delicious onboard lunch features regional dishes such as fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. Portions are noted to be generous, and the food quality is widely appreciated, though some reviews suggest that potatoes could be more flavorful.

Visiting the Blue Cave: Optional but Recommended

The Blue Cave is an additional option that costs extra but is highly praised as a breathtaking attraction. Many reviewers describe the fluorescent blue waters inside as astonishing. The speedboat ride to the cave is exciting, and the snorkeling here is particularly memorable. Since the cave’s availability depends on sea conditions, it’s wise to book the upgrade early to ensure the experience.

The Blue Cave visit is especially popular among those looking for a unique photo opportunity and a refreshing swim in vivid waters. The extra cost can be well worth it for the spectacular scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Island Highlights: Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan

Kolocep is the first island visited, known for its quiet, scenic beauty and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for snorkeling and photography with scenic views and walks through its peaceful streets. Many reviews appreciate the timed stops that give just enough time to explore or relax.

Lopud is the second major stop, famous for its red-roofed houses and Sunj Beach. Travelers often take advantage of the 3-hour stay to walk around, swim, or sample local foods. Some mention large portions of fabulous fish dishes during lunch. The scenic drive to and from Lopud adds to the overall visual delight of the trip.

Sipan provides a more cultural experience with guided tours or self-guided walks. The island offers picturesque scenery and a more relaxed atmosphere before heading back to Dubrovnik.

The Blue Cave Experience: What Makes It Special

The Blue Cave is highlighted as a must-visit for those opting for the additional tour. The fluorescent waters inside are spectacular, often described as stunning by visitors. The snorkeling here is often noted as excellent, with warm waters and the chance to see sea urchins and octopuses.

This side trip is considered worth the extra by many, adding a memorable element to the overall day. The excursion to the cave is adventurous and provides the perfect photo opportunity.

Pacing, Group Size, and Overall Comfort

The tour is frequently praised for its well-paced itinerary, giving enough time on each island without feeling rushed. The small group size—capped at 12 people—ensures space to move, personalized service, and less crowding onboard.

The crew is described as friendly, attentive, and professional, with guide Emilie earning particular praise for her warmth and knowledge. The boats are well-maintained and clean, offering toilets and comfortable seating for a relaxed experience.

Accessibility and Considerations

This tour requires travelers to have swimwear and towels for swimming stops. The activity is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to access limitations. The sea conditions can impact the Blue Cave visit, so flexibility is advised.

The timing of the stops and the pacing make this a relaxing trip; however, the longer stay on Lopud might feel too extended for some, especially if beach or relaxation are the main goals.

Final Thoughts on the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise

This 8-hour cruise offers a balanced mix of island exploration, swimming, and relaxation. The inclusion of hotel pickup makes it convenient, and the unlimited drinks plus lunch add great value. The small group size and friendly crew create an intimate atmosphere, praised highly in reviews.

The visits to Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan each provide distinct scenery and experiences. The Blue Cave option stands out as a special highlight for those willing to pay a little extra. The comfort of the boat and the professional guides make this a reliable choice for a memorable day around Dubrovnik.

This tour suits families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic trip with excellent service. Those looking for a fast-paced adventure or full culture might find the focus more on leisure and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch (if selected), unlimited drinks, and the tour on a comfortable boat.

• Is the Blue Cave visit mandatory?
  No, it is an optional side trip available for an additional fee. Whether you visit depends on sea conditions and personal interest.

• How much time do I have on each island?
  Kolocep and Sipan each offer about an hour or 45 minutes for exploration and swimming, while Lopud allows around three hours including lunch.

• Can I buy drinks onboard?
  No, white wine, water, and sodas are unlimited and included throughout the trip.

• Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
  Not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to access limitations.

• What should I bring?
  Swimwear and towels are essential for swimming stops. Bring sun protection and comfortable footwear for walks.

• What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Are there any hidden costs?
  The Blue Cave is extra, and pickup outside 1000 meters from the starting point may incur additional charges.

• How is the overall atmosphere?
  The crew is praised for being friendly, attentive, and professional, creating a relaxed, enjoyable environment.

• Would I recommend this tour?
  Based on high ratings and reviews, this well-organized, scenic cruise offers great value, particularly for those who enjoy unlimited drinks, beautiful islands, and a comfortable boat experience.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
  More Great Tours Nearby