Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

Exploring the Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise – An Authentic Day on the Water

Taking a cruise around Dubrovnik’s Elaphite Islands is a story many travelers tell with enthusiasm, and from the glowing reviews, it’s clear why. While we haven’t personally hopped onboard, the detailed accounts paint a picture of a well-organized, fun-filled adventure full of scenic beauty, delicious food, and lively camaraderie.

What we love about this tour? First, the seamless hotel pick-up and drop-off makes the day hassle-free. Second, the unlimited drinks and delicious lunch truly add value, turning the experience into both a feast and a fun social occasion. Lastly, the chance to visit multiple islands in one day allows for a rich variety of landscapes, beaches, and photo opportunities.

One possible consideration is the sea conditions; as with any boat trip, weather can affect the experience. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy being on the water and want an easy, all-in-one adventure without worrying about logistics. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, social, and scenic day across Croatia’s stunning archipelago.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know:

• All-inclusive comfort with hotel transfers, unlimited drinks, and a delicious lunch
• Multiple island stops offer diverse scenery and activities like swimming and walking
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting insights and personalized attention
• Flexible options for the Blue Cave visit provide a special highlight
• Great value considering the duration, included amenities, and stunning locations
• Family-friendly environment with positive reviews across all age groups

Why This Tour Stands Out

This cruise is designed for travelers who want to enjoy Croatia’s famous Elaphite Islands without the hassle of planning individual transport or research. It’s a full-day experience that balances guided sightseeing with free time at each location. The boat’s spacious, two-deck design offers plenty of room and excellent views, and the onboard amenities—especially the open bar—keep spirits high throughout the day.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of comfort and authenticity. The reviews emphasize how well-run the operation is, with many noting the attentive crew, especially guides like Natasha and Emilie, who make sure everyone is well looked after and informed. Plus, the small group size caps at just 12 people, helping maintain a cozy, relaxed atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure

From the start, the tour offers the convenience of hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, which is a significant time-saver and adds to the relaxed vibe. If your accommodation is within 1000 meters of the starting point, you might need to meet at a designated spot instead.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cruising to Kolocep

The journey begins with a 30-minute sightseeing cruise that offers sweeping views of Dubrovnik’s city walls and the shimmering Adriatic. The first stop is Kolocep, known for its peaceful beaches and traditional stone houses. Here, travelers get about an hour to explore, take photos, or go for a swim. Reviewers like Maura appreciated the early visit to the Blue Cave on Kolocep, noting it was a priority due to potential weather-related closures.

Blue Cave Adventure

The optional Blue Cave visit is a real highlight, with many describing it as “astonishing” and “beautiful.” This swim and snorkel stop in the cave’s glowing blue waters offers a unique, photo-worthy moment. Several reviews mention how the cave’s vibrant colors are unforgettable, and boat drivers like Marco and Dino make the trip exciting and fun.

Sipan Island

Next, the cruise heads to Sipan, where you’ll have around 45 minutes for a guided or self-guided tour. Visitors find Sipan charming, with some reviews noting it’s a great spot for photos and a quick look at local life. It’s a quieter stop, perfect for those who enjoy authentic, less touristy moments.

Larger Stop at Lopud

The most extended stop is Lopud, where you’ll spend about three hours. This is the perfect chance to relax on Sunj Beach, enjoy regional food, or take a walk through the red-roofed villages. Many reviewers like Fiona and Peter found Lopud to be a “beautiful, peaceful” place with plenty of good photo opportunities. The lunch here is a highlight, with options including fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, and plenty of regional flavor.

Return Cruise and Final Stops

After lunch, the cruise continues with a 50-minute scenic sail back to Dubrovnik. The views along the way are consistently praised, with some mentioning dolphin sightings, which add an extra element of magic.

Drop-Off

The day concludes with a drop-off at Lapadska obala 7 in Dubrovnik, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your hotel.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot of value. The hotel pickup and drop-off eliminate transportation stress, and the lunch with regional dishes is both fresh and generous. The unlimited drinks—including white wine, water, juices, and sodas—are a hit, especially with reviews emphasizing how the crew consistently kept glasses topped up. The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and spacious, with two decks providing excellent views and enough space to move.

Not included are pickups less than 1000 meters from the starting point, which is a small caveat for those staying very close to the dock. Also, alcohol other than white wine incurs a small charge, but many reviewers found the drinks plentiful enough for a lively atmosphere.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

From Maura’s account, the trip was “not crowded at all,” with a group size capped at 12, allowing room to breathe and move freely. Natasha’s guidance was highlighted, with guests appreciating her attentiveness and personal touches, like pointing out sea creatures or handling snorkeling equipment.

Alina’s note about the lunch experience is insightful, mentioning that while the food was generally good, some found certain dishes less tasty—highlighting that meal quality can vary slightly.

The Blue Cave, as many describe, is truly awe-inspiring, and the boat ride there is often mentioned as one of the trip’s best moments. Reviewers like Linda and Steven noted how the staff’s friendliness and professionalism made a big difference, transforming a simple boat ride into a memorable experience.

Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, authentic island visits, and socializing over drinks and good food. It’s ideal for those who want a day of relaxation without the hassle of logistics or extensive planning. The tour’s focus on small groups and attentive guides makes it a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a friendly atmosphere.

If you’re after a laid-back, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photo stops, and trying regional dishes, this cruise hits the mark. However, if you prefer more time on land or extensive cultural tours, you might find the stops somewhat brief.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik are included if you select that option, making the trip completely hassle-free.

How long is the trip? The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, giving ample time for island exploring, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.

Can I visit the Blue Cave? Yes, there’s an option to visit the Blue Cave. Many reviews emphasize how special this experience is, though it’s weather-dependent.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour often includes swim stops, so being prepared is wise.

Are drinks really unlimited? Yes, you can enjoy unlimited white wine, water, juices, and sodas throughout the cruise.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly? While generally family-friendly, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the experience involves boat transfers and walking on islands.

How many people are on the boat? The group size is capped at 12, which helps keep the experience intimate and comfortable.

Final Thoughts

The Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise with drinks and optional lunch offers a fantastic way to see Croatia’s beautiful islands without any fuss. From the well-maintained boat and friendly crew to the breathtaking views and delicious regional dishes, every element is designed to give you a memorable day. The small group size, attentive guides, and flexible options ensure you feel cared for, making it ideal for travelers craving a laid-back yet immersive adventure.

If you love scenic boat trips, sampling local flavors, and swimming in clear waters, this tour will likely surpass your expectations. It strikes a great balance between convenience, comfort, and authentic coastal charm—an experience worth considering for your Dubrovnik itinerary.

Note: The experience is weather-dependent, especially for Blue Cave visits and swimming stops, so it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

You can check if your dates are available here: