From Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Day Trip with Lunch

This experience made our article of 12 Must-Try Lunch Experiences In Dubrovnik.

Exploring the Elaphite Islands from Dubrovnik: A Practical Review

If you’re venturing to Croatia and looking to enjoy some sea, sun, and charming islands, a day trip to the Elaphite Islands often tops the list. This tour, offered by Super Tours Travel Agency, promises a balanced mix of relaxing boat rides, scenic stops, and a hearty onboard lunch. While it’s not designed to be an exhaustive historical tour, it’s perfect for folks wanting a taste of island life without breaking the bank.

What makes this trip stand out are two key features: the quality of the boat ride, which offers stunning views of the Dalmatian coast, and the friendly, attentive crew that keeps the atmosphere lively and comfortable. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and a choice of three hearty meal options adds a lot of value, especially for travelers wanting a casual, fun day on the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary and timing can vary slightly, and some travelers might find the free time on each island a bit uneven—more time on Lopud and less on the others. If your goal is to explore in depth or spend hours on each island, this tour might feel a little rushed.

This tour suits those who love a relaxed, social vibe with plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy beautiful scenery. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the area without needing to plan multiple logistics themselves.

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Key Points

Stunning boat ride with panoramic views of the Dalmatian coast.
Flexible and friendly crew that creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Lunch onboard with a choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes.
Ample free time on Lopud for swimming and relaxing.
Knowledgeable guides who provide helpful insights about the islands.
Good value for money, combining transportation, food, drinks, and sightseeing.

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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Departure and Early Morning Transfer

The trip begins early from Dubrovnik, with hotel pickup and drop-off if you select the option. For those opting for the walk-in, you’ll meet at a designated marina location—about 100 meters east of the Marina Frapa, at the ship IVANA. Arriving on time is key because the tour departs promptly at 8:30 am.

The boat ride to the islands takes around an hour, providing a prime opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Croatian coastline. The boat, which is not overcrowded, offers WIFI onboard and plenty of space to relax or chat with fellow travelers.

First Stop: Kolocep Island

Our journey’s first destination is Kolocep, the smallest of the three main islands, but rich in charm. The stop here usually lasts around 45 minutes, giving plenty of time for a quick stroll or a photo session. Several reviews mention that the guides are helpful and provide insightful commentary about the island’s history and sights, which adds a meaningful layer to what could otherwise be a quick visit.

Authentic detail: One traveler noted, “The trip was amazing. The crew was always helpful and tried their best to answer all questions,” which speaks to the crew’s genuine desire to make your experience more engaging.

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Second Stop: Sipan Island

Next, the boat heads to Sipan, the largest of the three islands, known for its peaceful atmosphere. Here, you have around 45 minutes for a gentle walk or a quick exploration of the small villages. Reviewers mention enjoying the friendly suggestions from guides about what to see or where to eat.

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Lunch on Board: A Highlight

After Sipán, the boat sails towards Lopud, and this is when the lunch service begins. The crew serves a delicious meal—you can choose from fish, meat, or vegetarian options—and all drinks are unlimited, including wine, juice, and water. Several reviewers rave about the quality of the food and the attentive service, with one stating, “The food and wine were delicious,” and another citing the fish lunch as a highlight.

Last Stop: Lopud Island

Lopud is often the star of this trip—famous for its sandy beach, which is a rare find in Croatia’s rocky landscape. You’ll spend about three hours here, which many reviewers agree is enough time to swim, sunbathe, or stroll through the village. The secluded Sunj Beach is a favorite spot, especially if you want to relax away from crowds.

A note from reviews: “The sandy beach was a nice contrast to the pebbles on the mainland,” and “Sea was clear and warm,” making Lopud a perfect place to unwind. Some travelers suggest taking a golf cart (extra cost) to reach the beach if the walk uphill seems steep, which is a helpful tip for those with mobility concerns.

From Scenic Views to Authentic Experiences

What we loved most about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with authentic local flavor. The boat itself is comfortable, and the crew’s friendliness makes it feel more like a day spent with friends rather than a commercial activity. The unlimited drinks and lunch options are especially appreciated, adding a relaxed, convivial atmosphere to the trip.

Many reviews mention how helpful and attentive the crew is, often going out of their way to answer questions or suggest the best spots on each island. One traveler said, “The crew was very friendly, we had unlimited drinks, and really good suggestions on the islands,” which underscores how this trip offers both guided insights and free exploration.

The Value for Money

At $59 per person, this tour provides an affordable way to see several islands in one day, with transportation, meals, drinks, and guided insights included. Considering the cost of separate boat rentals, meals, and transportation, it’s a solid deal for travelers wanting a well-organized, all-in-one experience.

Things to Consider

The timing and itinerary can feel a bit flexible—some travelers note that the order of island visits might differ, and the time spent on each can be a little uneven. For instance, the extended time on Lopud is great if you want to swim or relax, but the shorter stops on Kolocep and Sipan might leave those islands feeling a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen on exploring in depth.

Another point is that the lunch menu received mixed feedback—while many loved the fish and meat options, some found the vegetarian choice a bit plain. Still, the quality and freshness of the meals generally shine through.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, scenic overview of the Elaphite Islands without the hassle of planning. It’s also perfect for families and groups looking for a relaxed day filled with beautiful views, swimming, and good food.

Those who value friendly guides, unlimited drinks, and a bit of local charm will find this experience rewarding. If you’re someone who enjoys meeting fellow travelers, the casual social vibe on the boat makes for a memorable day. However, if you’re seeking deep historical immersion or extensive island exploration, you might find the schedule too tight.

The Sum Up

This From Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Day Trip with Lunch offers a delightful balance of relaxation, scenery, and authentic experiences. For a reasonable price, you get a comfortable boat ride, guided insights, ample swimming opportunities, and a good-quality meal onboard. The friendly crew and flexible schedule make it a stress-free way to enjoy some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a fun, social day on the water rather than a detailed historical tour. If your goal is to soak up the sun, enjoy beautiful beaches, and have a taste of island life in Croatia, this trip will likely leave you with wonderful memories—and plenty of photos.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), a guided boat ride, lunch with a choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian, unlimited drinks (wine, juice, water), and WiFi onboard.

Is there free time on each island?
Yes, you’ll get about 45 minutes on Kolocep, another 45 minutes on Sipan, and around 3 hours on Lopud. This allows for sightseeing, swimming, or just relaxing.

Can I choose my meal?
Yes, you can select from fish, meat, or vegetarian options when booking. The reviews generally praise the quality of the food, especially the fish.

How long does the entire trip last?
The trip departs at 8:30 am and returns to the starting point in Dubrovnik, typically in the early to mid-afternoon, making it a full but manageable day.

Is it suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews highlight that this trip is family-friendly. The relaxed pace and scenic stops are enjoyable for all ages, especially if kids love beaches and boats.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sun protection, and comfortable footwear for walking around the islands. The sandy beach on Lopud is a highlight, so don’t forget your swim gear!