Elaphiti Islands by Catamaran with snacks and unlimited drinks from Dubrovnik

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Dubrovnik, the Elaphiti Islands tour offers an enticing blend of scenic sailing, charming villages, and a relaxed atmosphere. While it’s not a perfect experience for everyone, it promises a fun, sun-soaked day that captures the essence of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. This tour is especially appealing if you appreciate beautiful vistas, informative guides, and value for money.

We like that this trip includes free Wi-Fi onboard, snacks and unlimited drinks, and hassle-free hotel transfers, making it a convenient way to explore without the stress of logistics. On the downside, some reviews mention crowded boats and longer-than-necessary stops at some islands, which might not suit travelers seeking more active or less crowded experiences. This trip suits those wanting a casual, scenic cruise with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing in good company.

Key Points

• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off
• All-inclusive experience with snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi onboard
• Multiple island stops providing a taste of Dubrovnik’s nearby islands
• Crowded boat conditions can limit comfort and space
• Variable tour quality noted by some travelers regarding timing and commentary
• Ideal for visitors who want a relaxed, scenic cruise with easy access to swimming and island exploration

An Ideal Overview of Dubrovnik’s Elaphite Islands Tour

This 7-hour full-day trip promises a broad view of the coast’s stunning islands, perfect for first-timers or visitors short on time. Starting early, the journey begins with a hotel pickup, which is a significant plus for those staying around Dubrovnik’s city center or near the port. The transfer is quite straightforward, giving you a smooth start to your day on the water.

Once at Gruz port, you’ll board a spacious catamaran—one that can hold up to 75 travelers. The boat’s design emphasizes comfort and socializing, with Wi-Fi onboard so you can share your adventure instantly. The cruise begins by sailing towards the first stop, Sipan Island, where you’ll have some free time to explore. This island offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, though some reviews suggest there isn’t much to do once you’ve seen the main sights.

Next, the boat heads to Lopud Island, which many consider the highlight of the trip. The island’s sandy beaches and quaint village provide an excellent setting for a few hours of wandering, swimming, or relaxing under the Croatian sun. Travelers report that the free time here is sufficient to soak in the scenery, grab a drink, or enjoy a leisurely lunch, which is included in the price.

The final leg of the journey takes you around the Elaphiti Islands, offering more picturesque views and a chance to unwind before returning to Dubrovnik. The return trip is about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to reflect on a day well spent.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Gruz Port: Your adventure begins here with a designated pickup from your hotel, making it easy to get to the boat without fuss. From there, it’s about 90 minutes of sailing before reaching Sipan. You’ll see Dubrovnik fading into the distance, and the vessel’s wide deck is perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the sun.

Sipan Island: This stop is mainly for sightseeing and enjoying the peaceful island atmosphere. The reviews mention it’s a good place for a quick walk, but not much more—so don’t expect a shopping spree or extensive activities.

Lopud Island: The real star of the tour, with its sandy beaches and charming village. Expect to have around two hours to explore, swim, or grab a snack. The island’s relaxed vibe appeals to those wanting a break from city life, and the included snacks and drinks help keep everyone fueled.

The Elaphiti Islands: The cruise around the islands offers beautiful views, and some travelers appreciated the good selection of drinks and friendly crew. As one review notes, the trip is largely a scenic crossing, with an occasional stop for swimming or photos.

The Realities of the Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a picture of mixed experiences—some raving about the stunning scenery and friendly staff, others pointing out crowding issues and long waits at some islands. For example, one traveler felt there was “not enough to do” at the second island and found it “very crowded,” which could detract from a relaxing vibe. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the good value for what you pay.

A few reviewers mentioned unexpected issues: some thought they’d be sailing on a traditional sailing boat, only to find it was a motorized catamaran. Also, some felt long stops at certain islands could be shortened or better managed, especially if the crowds are large.

Despite these criticisms, many enjoyed the unlimited drinks and snacks, noting that the wine was not very good, but the variety of drinks kept the mood lively. The inclusion of Wi-Fi onboard was a pleasant surprise, allowing travelers to share their experience or check messages without losing connectivity.

The Value for Money

At a price of about $97.86 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the hotel transfers, snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi. For a full day on the water, with multiple island stops and the comfort of a modern catamaran, it’s a competitive option. That said, the experience does hinge on weather and boat crowding—better for those who prioritize a scenic, social day rather than a quiet, exclusive escape.

If you’re looking for an authentic local experience with friendly guides, you might find this trip hits the right balance of comfort and adventure. But if you prefer less crowded conditions or more active participation, you might want to consider alternative options.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a convenient, scenic day on the water, especially if they value included amenities like snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi. It’s suitable for families, couples, or groups who don’t mind crowds and are okay with relatively relaxed stops.

If you’re a first-time visitor wanting to see more of Dubrovnik’s coast, this trip is a good way to cover a lot in one day without much hassle. However, if you’re seeking a more intimate or active experience, or if you prefer fewer crowds and longer explorations, you might want to look elsewhere.

Practical Tips

• Book early: The tour is popular and tends to be booked about 38 days in advance.
• Bring swim gear: Free swimming is included, so pack your goggles, towel, and sunscreen.
• Arrive prepared for crowds: Some reviews mention feeling cramped, so arrive with patience.
• Check the weather: The itinerary is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.
• Consider your pace: The longer stops might feel a bit lengthy for some—plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Dubrovnik, making it a hassle-free start.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, including transfers, sailing, and free time on the islands.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks and unlimited drinks are provided onboard, including a variety of beverages. Be aware that some reviews suggest the wine isn’t top-shelf.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour includes free time for swimming, so bring your gear.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a camera. The boat’s Wi-Fi is handy for sharing photos and staying connected.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 75 travelers, so expect some crowds, especially during peak season.

In summary, the Elaphiti Islands catamaran tour from Dubrovnik offers a convenient, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing. While it’s not without its crowds and some long stops, its value—including transfers, snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi—makes it a good choice for travelers seeking a laid-back, enjoyable experience. Perfect for those eager to see the coast without fuss, and who don’t mind sharing the boat with others.