Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and drinks

Discover the Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

The Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise offers a seamless way to explore three stunning islands—Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep—in one day. Priced at just $77.93 per person, this tour delivers approximately eight hours of sailing, sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying local flavors. Highly rated with a 5.0/5 from over 8,500 reviews, and 98% recommend it, this cruise is a favorite for those seeking a relaxing, all-in-one day trip from Dubrovnik.

The tour is especially appealing because it combines beautiful coastal scenery, three island stops, and a delicious included lunch, all with unlimited onboard drinks. It features hotel pickup if you select that option, making logistics easy. However, it’s worth noting that seasickness may affect some guests, and the experience is best suited for those comfortable on the water.

Key Points

• Duration and Price: About 8 hours for $77.93, making it budget-friendly for a full-day adventure.
• Island Highlights: Visit Lopud for beaches and botanical gardens, Sipan for its olive trees and historic castle, and Kolocep for caves and snorkeling.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Lunch options include meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes, with unlimited drinks, including wine, brandy, soft drinks, and water.
• Expert Guides and Service: Knowledgeable local guides and staff keep the experience smooth and enjoyable, with friendly service praised in reviews.
• Convenient Pickup: Pickup from Dubrovnik hotels is available with the right booking option, simplifying transportation.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive island experience without rushing, but not recommended for seasick individuals.

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The cruise departs from Lapadska obala 7 in Dubrovnik at 9:00 am. The day lasts around eight hours, including time on each island, sailing, lunch, and swimming. The group size is capped at 110 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Exploring Lopud Island: Beaches, Gardens, and Heritage

Lopud is the first stop on this cruise, offering about three hours of free time. Visitors can stroll through Djordjic Mayneri Park, home to botanical gardens, or relax on Sandy beach unj—a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. The island also features charming churches and heritage sites, perfect for those interested in local history and culture.

The nature and warm sea around Lopud make it an ideal place to unwind, whether by dipping into the water or exploring the stone villages. The admission to gardens and beaches is free, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the island at your own pace.

Sipan Island: The Mediterranean’s Olive Tree Capital

Next, the cruise visits Sipan, a place famous for its olive trees—enough to be listed in the Guinness Book of Records. The island’s old fisherman’s port offers a glimpse of traditional Mediterranean life, with a history of pirate defenses from the 15th century evident in its castle.

Travelers typically spend around one hour exploring Sipan, taking in its historic sights and authentic atmosphere. This stop provides a taste of local culture and a chance to enjoy the scenic harbor, all without an admission fee.

Kolocep Island: Caves, Cliffs, and Underwater Adventures

The final stop, Kolocep, is renowned for its caves and cliffs, making it a top choice for snorkeling and swimming. With about one hour ashore, visitors can relax on sandy beaches or explore underwater caves. The island offers beautiful scenery and a calm environment perfect for water activities.

Guests often enjoy swimming and snorkeling, taking advantage of the clear waters. No entrance fees apply here, and the gentle pace allows for a relaxed finish to the day.

Lunch and Drinks: A Hassle-Free Meal on Board

A highlight of this tour is the included lunch, served onboard. The menu offers meat (grilled chicken with vegetables), fish (grilled hake with vegetables), and vegetarian options featuring seasonal Mediterranean vegetables. Guests appreciate the delicious, plentiful food, which is complemented by an open bar with white wine, brandy, soft drinks, and water.

The friendly crew ensures that drinks are refilled constantly, and the lunch is served in a relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy the day without worrying about meals or beverages.

Onboard Experience and Crew Service

The crew of this cruise gets frequent praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and helpfulness. They provide briefings before each island visit, offering history and tips to help guests make the most of their free time. Staff like Emily and Natasha are noted for their warm attitude and attentiveness.

The speedboat transfer to the Blue Cave is an optional addition, considered a stunning highlight by many, with some reviews mentioning it as a special moment.

Logistics and Accessibility

The meeting point is at Lapadska obala 7 in Dubrovnik, with the tour starting promptly at 9:00 am. Hotel pickup is available if this option is selected during booking, easing the transfer process. The tour can accommodate most travelers, but it is not recommended for those with seasickness due to the boat ride.

Guests should arrive prepared with swimsuits and any personal items needed for beach and water activities. While most travelers can participate, the tour’s pace and activity level are suited for those comfortable on the water.

The Blue Cave and Optional Add-Ons

One of the tour’s most celebrated features is the speedboat transfer to the Blue Cave, which is considered a must-do part of the experience. This addition is available for those who want to see spectacular underwater formations and unique lighting effects inside the cave.

Summary of the Tour’s Strengths and Potential Drawbacks

This full-day cruise from Dubrovnik offers exceptional value with delicious food, unlimited drinks, and visits to three diverse islands. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew contribute to a smooth, enjoyable experience, praised repeatedly in reviews.

However, guests should manage expectations regarding island activities, as some may find the stops less activity-rich, especially if they seek extensive sightseeing. Also, seasickness could be an issue for sensitive travelers, and weather conditions can affect the schedule or availability of the Blue Cave transfer.

Final Thoughts on the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise

For those seeking a relaxed, comprehensive day trip from Dubrovnik that combines sailing, beach time, and local cuisine, this cruise ticks many boxes. Its affordable price, excellent reviews, and caring staff make it a reliable choice for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy the Croatian coast.

While it’s not designed for intense exploration or travelers with seasickness, the beautiful scenery, delicious lunch, and friendly atmosphere create a memorable outing that captures the essence of the Elaphite Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes lunch, unlimited drinks (water, soft drinks, wine, brandy), bottled water, a driver/guide, local guide, and all activities. Pickup from Dubrovnik hotels is available if selected.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately eight hours, including time spent on each island, sailing, and meals.

Which islands are visited during the tour?
The cruise visits Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep.

Is there an option to see the Blue Cave?
Yes, an optional speedboat transfer to the Blue Cave is available, considered a highlight by many guests.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian lunch options featuring seasonal Mediterranean vegetables are available, and guests should specify their meal preference when booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing full refunds if canceled in time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for most ages, except those seasick.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring swimsuits, sunscreen, towels, and any personal items for water activities. Cameras are also recommended for capturing the scenery.

How accessible is the tour?
Most travelers can participate, but those with seasickness or mobility issues should consider the boat ride’s nature.

What are the main highlights of this cruise?
Guests rave about the friendly crew, delicious onboard lunch, beautiful island stops, and the Blue Cave option.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This cruise suits relaxed explorers eager to see multiple islands without heavy physical activity, and those who enjoy food, drinks, and scenic sailing.