Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch

Exploring the Elaphiti Islands on a day trip from Dubrovnik offers a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastal scenery and charming islands. Priced at $76 per person, this tour provides visits to Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud, with opportunities for swimming, walking, and relaxing amid lush greenery and beautiful beaches. The trip includes a lunch served onboard and access to restroom facilities, making it a comfortable and enjoyable full-day adventure.

While the experience is generally praised for its beautiful scenery and friendly guides, some reviews highlight timing issues, especially on the last island, and cost considerations for on-island purchases. This tour suits those who want an easy, scenic boat trip with a mix of nature, swimming, and cultural sights—perfect for visitors eager to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s historic walls.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $76 per person and typically lasts a full day, with multiple island visits.
• Visit Three Islands: You explore Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud, each offering unique scenery and attractions.
• Includes Lunch and Facilities: A lunch is served on the boat, and restroom access is provided during the trip.
• Start and End: The tour begins at 08:45 from a meeting point across the University building, with the guide leading guests to the boat named Emili.
• Language: The tour operates in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Booking Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Elaphiti Islands Group: An Overview

The Elaphiti Islands form a cluster of islands near Dubrovnik, with only three inhabited: Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud. Each offers a different flavor of island life, from green natural landscapes to developed beaches and historic mansions.

The tour’s focus on visiting inhabited islands allows travelers to enjoy a mix of nature, relaxation, and some local culture, all accessible within a single day. The islands are known for their green vegetation, which covers most of their terrains, making them ideal for walking, biking, and relaxing.

Discovering Kolocep Island: Nature and Breathtaking Bays

Kolocep stands out as a picturesque island covered in diverse vegetation. Its lush greens and scenic bays make it a great stop for walking or relaxing. The island is less developed than Lopud, providing a quieter environment for those interested in nature and peaceful scenery.

The tour briefly visits Kolocep, giving enough time to explore the bays or simply enjoy the fresh air and views. Despite the limited time—about an hour—the island’s natural beauty makes a lasting impression. However, the short visit can feel rushed for travelers eager to dive deeper into its landscapes.

Sipan Island: The Olive Trees and Historic Mansions

Sipan is the largest of the Elaphiti Islands and is known as the “island of olive trees”. Historically, this island served as a peaceful retreat for aristocratic families, who built mansions that still stand today.

On this tour, Sipan is mainly a photo stop and a quick look at its mansion-lined streets. The island offers a calm atmosphere with fewer travelers, but some visitors find there’s not much to do beyond the scenic views and a few local restaurants.

This stop provides a glimpse of local history and cultural charm, though the limited time means there’s little opportunity for in-depth exploration.

Lopud Island and Sunj Beach: The Most Developed and Beach Paradise

Lopud is described as the most developed of the islands, featuring green areas, a buzzing local scene, and no cars—ensuring a peaceful environment.

The highlight on Lopud is Sunj Beach, known for its wide sandy shoreline and inviting crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the scenic views. The beach area is where most of the tour’s time is spent, making it a favorite feature despite some criticism about spending too long there.

Travelers appreciate the relaxing atmosphere, but some note the limited time on the beach and not enough opportunity to explore other parts of Lopud.

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Lunch and Facilities on the Boat

A key part of this full-day tour is the lunch served onboard. The meals are included in the price, offering a convenient way to enjoy Croatian cuisine without leaving the boat. The menu is generally considered adequate, but some reviews mention that adding a salad or dessert would enhance the experience.

Restroom facilities are available onboard, adding comfort during the several hours of cruising and stops. The lunch service and amenities make this tour suitable for those who prefer a relaxed, all-in-one experience.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at 08:45, with guests meeting at a bus stop across from the University building. Look for the big blue boat named Emili. The guide leads the group onto the boat, which departs shortly after the meeting time.

The return is to the same meeting point, making logistical planning straightforward. The timing allows for a full day of exploring, but some guests have expressed that the schedule’s pacing—especially on the last island—can feel somewhat rushed.

The Experience on Board: Guides and Atmosphere

The crew and guides are often described as friendly and helpful, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere aboard the boat. The host’s care and explanations help enhance the overall experience, especially when learning about island history or spotting local wildlife.

The unlimited drinks and smooth service during the trip add to the overall relaxing vibe. However, some reviews mention costly on-island purchases, especially on Lopud, where prices tend to be higher than in Dubrovnik.

Value and Potential Drawbacks

At $76, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore multiple islands with transport, lunch, and facilities included. The scenic boat ride and varied stops provide a well-rounded experience.

Nevertheless, some limitations include short visit durations—especially on Kolocep and Lopud—and timing issues, notably spending more time on Lopud. The cost of additional purchases, such as food or ice cream, can add up if not prepared.

Travelers who value scenic views and relaxing beaches will likely enjoy this trip, but those seeking more in-depth exploration or culture may find it less satisfying.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This Elaphiti Islands day trip is ideal for visitors who want a leisurely, scenic cruise with minimal planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy nature, swimming, and casual sightseeing.

Travelers on a budget will find the included lunch and facilities appealing, but should be prepared for a quick visit to each island. The tour is less suitable for those seeking extensive exploration or detailed cultural insights.

Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Full-Day Tour with Honest Expectations

This full-day trip from Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands offers an accessible and scenic escape from the city bustle. The three islands—Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud—each bring different charms, from nature and history to beaches.

The lunch onboard and friendly guides are appreciated features, making this a comfortable way to enjoy the coast. However, the short visits and timing concerns mean that travelers should plan for a relaxed pace and understand that more time on the islands might not be available.

In terms of value, this tour balances cost, scenery, and convenience, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those short on time. If you prefer more flexibility or more time on each stop, consider the other similar experiences linked in the provided options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour is a full day, starting at 08:45, with visits to three islands and returning to the meeting point in Dubrovnik later in the day.

What is included in the price?
The price includes lunch onboard, restroom facilities, and the boat ride. Additional costs on the islands, like food or souvenirs, are not included.

What are the main stops during the trip?
You visit Kolocep for its natural scenery, Sipan for its olive trees and historic mansions, and Lopud, especially Sunj Beach for swimming and relaxing.

Is there enough time at each island?
The stops are relatively short, with about an hour at Kolocep, a quick visit to Sipan, and longer on Lopud for beach time. Some reviews mention this feels rushed.

How is the guide’s service?
The guides are described as friendly and helpful, contributing positively to the experience.

Can I cancel or change my reservation?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

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