From Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Galleon Cruise with Lunch

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

Set Sail on a Historic Galleon from Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands

If you’re looking to combine scenic beauty, a taste of Croatian maritime history, and a relaxing escape from the bustling Old Town, the Elaphiti Islands Galleon Cruise with Lunch offers a compelling option. This half-day adventure takes you aboard a beautifully crafted replica of a 16th-century wooden galleon, complete with traditional sails and a nostalgic maritime vibe. You’ll visit the charming islands of Lopud and Sipan, enjoy a delicious meal on deck, and get plenty of free time to explore—or simply bask in the sun with a drink in hand.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances authenticity with relaxation. The ship itself provides a sense of stepping back in time, and the views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town from the water are spectacular. Plus, the included lunch, with its generous servings and a choice of drinks, makes this a fantastic value for a mid-morning to early evening outing. One potential consideration? The weather can influence the cruise’s schedule or route, so you might need some flexibility. This tour suits families, couples, and groups who want a laid-back but memorable way to see some of Croatia’s beautiful islands.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historic vessel: Sail on an exact replica of a 16th-century galleon, adding a sense of adventure and authenticity.
• Island visits: Free time at Lopud and Sipan allows for personal exploration, relaxing, or swimming.
• Scenic views: Expect stunning water views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the archipelago.
• Gourmet lunch: Enjoy a traditional Croatian meal with drinks, served with sea views onboard.
• Flexible schedule: Return times vary seasonally, offering sunset views during the warmer months.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with easy access onboard toilets and Wi-Fi.

An Authentic Maritime Experience in Croatia

This cruise offers a chance to see Dubrovnik from a different perspective—on the water, aboard a ship that looks and feels like it belonged to the 16th century. The Galleon Tirena is a faithful replica, and the experience of sailing on her, feeling the sea breeze and hearing the creak of the wooden planks, adds a layer of charm that modern boats often lack. It’s a journey that’s as much about the ambiance as the islands themselves.

The ship departs from the Old Town port, a convenient starting point that’s easy to find—look for the grand galleon docked at the large pier on the left as you face the water. The tour begins around 9:30 AM, and with the return scheduled for sunset times depending on the season, you get a relaxed, half-day escape that doesn’t cut into your afternoon plans.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Once on board, you’ll be greeted with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for the day. The vessel features Wi-Fi and toilets—important comforts for a cruise that lasts several hours. As you set sail, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Dubrovnik’s terraced rooftops and ancient city walls, creating a memorable backdrop for photos and just soaking in the scenery.

The cruise takes you first to Lopud Island, known for its lush gardens and charming old village. While reviews note that there isn’t a lot to see on the first island, you’ll find plenty of time for sunbathing, swimming, or wandering at your own pace. The second stop is Sipan, considered one of the most picturesque islands with its pretty seashore, lemon and orange groves, and seafront villages filled with summer villas and old seaman’s houses. Travelers report ample free time to explore, relax, or enjoy a leisurely lunch on the beach.

The Lunch Experience

A key highlight of this tour is the onboard traditional Croatian lunch. Served against the backdrop of ocean vistas, the meal is hearty and well-received. Many reviews mention the fish as a standout, with generous portions and tasty flavors. The meal includes wine, water, and the option to purchase additional drinks. It’s an excellent way to indulge in local flavors without leaving the comfort of the ship. The meal and drinks are included in the price, offering good value, especially when paired with the scenery and the overall experience.

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The Islands of Lopud and Sipan

Lopud is famous for its peaceful walkable streets, secluded beaches, and historic sites. It’s a place where you can easily spend a few hours exploring on your own. The reviews highlight that while the first island may not have many sights, the time given is sufficient to relax—whether that means swimming in the clear waters, sunbathing, or grabbing a coffee in a seaside café.

Sipan tends to be the more lively of the two, with charming villages, old churches, and beautiful seashore views. It’s regarded as the more picturesque of the stops, with reviews praising the lush gardens and the friendly vibe. The free time here is valued highly, with many travelers commenting on how they appreciated the flexibility to tailor their visit.

The Entire Experience in Perspective

At $76 per person, this cruise represents very good value. You’re paying primarily for the experience of being on a historic ship, the scenic island visits, and a quality meal—all in a half-day timeframe. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, friendly crew, and the overall relaxed atmosphere. Many mention how the trip feels like a special treat rather than a rushed tour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part of the day.

One reviewer notes that “the crew on board could not have been friendlier,” which really captures the spirit of the experience. Others appreciated the “delicious” lunch and the “very relaxing and fun day.” The fact that Wi-Fi is available onboard also helps keep everyone connected, and the toilets add a practical touch that’s often overlooked on smaller boats.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want an engaging, scenic, and authentic experience without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who enjoy maritime history, good food, and flexible sightseeing time. Since the tour is suitable for all ages, it’s an excellent choice for a family day out or a romantic escape.

If you’re seeking a highly curated, fast-paced activity, this might not be your best fit. But if you value unstructured exploration, authentic atmosphere, and stunning scenery, this cruise hits the mark.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and swimwear if you plan to swim. The ship’s open deck provides plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun or take photos. A towel and beachwear will come in handy if you want to make the most of the island stops.

Check the seasonal schedule, as the return times vary from late afternoon to early evening, based on sunset hours. If the weather turns rough or the minimum number of passengers isn’t met, your trip may be rescheduled or canceled—so it’s wise to have flexible plans.

Final Thoughts

The Elaphiti Islands Galleon Cruise with Lunch offers a wonderful mix of history, scenery, and good food in a relaxed setting. It captures the essence of Dubrovnik’s maritime heritage while providing enough free time to explore the islands at your own pace. The ship itself is a highlight, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time, and the included lunch makes this experience both enjoyable and affordable.

This tour is best suited for those who want a memorable day with scenic views, a touch of history, and a delicious meal without feeling rushed. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, you’ll likely come away with plenty of photos, stories, and a new appreciation for Croatia’s beautiful coastal islands.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
The cruise departs at 09:30 AM from the Old Town port, so aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early to find the ship and settle onboard comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, making it a great family outing.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and beachwear. It’s also good to have a jacket for the evening if you stay out late.

Can I buy additional drinks onboard?
Yes, there is an onboard bar where you can purchase extra drinks beyond those served with lunch.

What is included in the price?
The cruise, guide, traditional lunch, drinks (wine and water during lunch), Wi-Fi, and toilets are included.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather conditions are unsafe or the minimum number of passengers isn’t met, the tour will be rescheduled or canceled, with a full refund available.

How much free time do we get on the islands?
You’ll have ample free time on each island to explore, relax, or swim, with reviews indicating plenty of opportunity for sunbathing and sightseeing.

Are there any options for vegetarian or special diets?
The reviews mention good food, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed; it’s best to inquire when booking if needed.

How long is the cruise in total?
The tour runs approximately half a day, ending around sunset, with exact return times varying seasonally.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available onboard, so you can stay connected or share your photos in real time.

To sum it up, this Dubrovnik galleon cruise offers a delightful blend of history, scenery, and local cuisine. It’s a relaxing way to explore the islands without the hassle of navigating yourself and provides a memorable maritime experience that’s hard to beat for value. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic adventure that encapsulates the charm of Croatia’s coast, this is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: