Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Island Luxury Pirate Ship Cruise

Embarking on a day trip around Dubrovnik’s Elaphiti Islands offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and leisurely island exploration — all aboard a stunning, pirate-themed replica ship. While not the cheapest option, the $60 per person fee is packed with value, especially considering the included guided tours, free time, and optional tastings. This cruise balances adventure with relaxation, making it ideal for those who love a bit of history, authentic local flavors, and a splash of adventure on the high seas.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the unique ship—a beautifully maintained, pirate-style vessel that adds a fun, immersive touch. Second, the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating details about each island’s past and present. Third, the flexibility and variety of activities, from hiking and wine tasting to swimming and just soaking up the sun. The main drawback? Be prepared for a full day and some busy spots, especially on the last island. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers craving authentic island charm, scenic views, and a bit of maritime fun.

Who will love this tour?

If you’re keen on exploring Dubrovnik’s nearby islands with guided insights, enjoy local food and wine tastings, or want a fun, scenic day on the water, you’ll find this cruise hits the spot. It’s also a good pick for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a well-organized, engaging experience that balances guided tours with free time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic ship experience: A vintage-style pirate/merchant ship offers a fun, memorable vibe.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides provide rich stories and historical context.
• Flexible activities: Hiking, wine tasting, farm visits, and snorkeling options enrich the day.
• Generous free time: Ample hours on each island allow for personalized exploration.
• Value for money: $60 covers a full day, guided tours, Wi-Fi, and transport if booked with pickup.
• Potential crowds: Last stop on Lopud can get busy; plan your activities accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Boat — A Voyage in Style

This cruise’s standout feature is definitely the ship itself. It’s a carefully maintained replica that looks straight out of a pirate movie, which appeals to both kids and adults. The reviews highlight how well-kept and spacious it is, with on-board Wi-Fi and toilets ensuring comfort during the 8-hour trip. The crew’s professionalism and warm attitude shine through, making everyone feel welcomed from boarding to disembarkation. Many travelers mention how the boat’s sturdy design and smooth sailing contribute to a relaxing experience, even in choppy waters.

The Itinerary — Well-Organized and Rich in Variety

The day kicks off early with hotel pickup (if you select that option) or meeting at a designated Dubrovnik point. Boarding is strictly timed, so arriving promptly is wise — reviews note that boarding closes at 8:55 AM, and missing the window means missing the trip.

The cruise begins with a 45-minute sightseeing sail, offering impressive views of the coast and islands. Then, it’s time to visit Kolocep, the first island — renowned for its natural beauty and traditional charm. With an hour of free time, you can stroll, relax, or join optional activities like hiking or visiting a family farm to taste local products at a small fee. Reviewers like Taniya praise the “arrangements and generosity of the crew” and the chance to “relish all the views,” making the most of this short stop.

Next, the boat heads to Sipan, where you get about 75 minutes of free time for exploration or a wine tasting tour for a small extra charge (10 euros). Many visitors love the optional wine tour at Sipan, describing the experience as “informative” and a “must-do” to learn about local flavors and traditions.

The last stop is Lopud, where you’ll have around three hours of free time. This is the longest stretch, offering ample opportunity to hike to Fort Sutvra, stroll the Riviera, or lounge on the popular sandy Unj Beach. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the flexibility of this stop — whether paddling in clear waters, sampling woodland-restaurant fare, or taking a golf cart ride to the beach.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Food and Drink — Simple, Local, and Optional

Lunch options are available at a special price (around 20-25 euros), with choices including meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes. Many reviews commend the delicious, fresh food served onboard or at local restaurants, noting the convenience of having lunch on the last island, especially after a busy morning.

Throughout the day, bottled water and an additional drink of your choice are included. Onboard, you’ll find the option to purchase extra drinks or snacks, which guests say are reasonably priced. Some reviewers highlight how the quality of the food and friendly service made the experience even more enjoyable.

Activities & Optional Tours

Aside from the guided island tours, many guests take advantage of optional activities including hiking tours, snorkeling, and local tasting experiences like honey and olive oil. The wine tasting at Sipan receives high praise, with reviews describing it as “informative” and “a great way to learn about local traditions.” The family farm visits also get positive mentions for providing authentic local tastes.

The Atmosphere & Crew

The overall vibe on this cruise is warm, relaxed, and engaging. Multiple reviews highlight how friendly, knowledgeable guides like Indira have a genuine passion for sharing the area’s stories and making sure everyone feels comfortable. The crew’s effort to create a memorable experience is evident, from the spotless ship to helpful local tips.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early for boarding, especially in peak season.
• Pack essentials like a towel, swimsuit, hat, sunglasses, and camera.
• Consider bringing cash for optional tastings or extra onboard purchases.
• If you’re not booking hotel pickup, plan your transportation to the meeting point (note that parking can be tricky).
• The tour departs at different times depending on the season, so check the schedule for your travel dates.

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a well-rounded, engaging way to see the Elaphiti Islands without feeling rushed. The authentic ship, combined with knowledgeable guides and ample free time, makes it a favorite among travelers seeking both scenic beauty and cultural flavor. The optional tastings and activities add depth, giving you a taste of local life along the way.

While it does involve busy spots — especially on Lopud — the flexibility and relaxed pace help you enjoy each island at your own speed. The value for money is clear, considering the full day of sightseeing, guided insight, and onboard comforts. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a mix of adventure, education, and leisure in one seamless trip.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys exploring at a relaxed pace, appreciates authentic local experiences, and is up for a touch of maritime fun, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s a memorable way to see Dubrovnik’s nearby islands and learn about their stories on a beautifully crafted vessel.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
You can choose an option that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day more seamless. If you opt out, plan to meet at a designated Dubrovnik point and be aware that parking might be limited.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, including sightseeing, island stops, and free time for exploring and relaxing.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available for purchase at a special price (20-25 euros) at local restaurants. The onboard meal service is optional, and you can also bring snacks or buy drinks onboard.

Can I do activities like hiking or wine tasting?
Yes, optional activities such as hiking tours, farm tastings, and wine tours are available at extra charges, and many guests find them to be highlights of their day.

What should I bring?
Pack a towel, beachwear, sunglasses, a hat, camera, and cash for optional extras. The tour provides bottled water and an additional drink of your choice.

Is snorkeling possible?
Yes, snorkeling is offered as an optional activity on Kolocep and Sipan, with some reviews mentioning how enjoyable it was.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour runs from April to October, with varying departure times. Spring and fall generally offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather, while summer months provide the best beach and swimming conditions.

This Elaphiti Islands cruise from Dubrovnik truly balances scenic beauty with cultural exploration, all from a charming, historically inspired vessel. It’s a day that promises stories, sunsets, and a genuine taste of Croatian island life—an experience worth considering for your Croatian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: