Dubrovnik: Best of the Elaphites by Catamaran

Imagine sailing the sparkling waters of the Adriatic, discovering islands with no cars and lush green landscapes, all while enjoying good food, drinks, and relaxing swims. That’s what the Dubrovnik: Best of the Elaphites by Catamaran promises — a full-day adventure designed to combine comfort, scenery, and a taste of island life. Offered by Gulliver Travel, this trip is about experiencing Croatia’s famed archipelago from a cozy, stable vessel, not just ticking off sights.

What we love about this cruise is how it balances relaxation with exploration. You get to lounge comfortably on a distinctive catamaran, enjoy free time for swimming in crystal-clear waters, and wander around two very different islands. The inclusion of all-you-can-drink soft drinks, wine, and beer alongside snacks makes the day feel like a true escape for travelers who appreciate good value. The one thing to keep in mind? It’s a mass tour — so if you’re after a more intimate or exclusive experience, it might not be ideal. But if you’re happy to share the boat with around 65 others and soak in the lively, scenic atmosphere, this trip can deliver quite a good bang for your buck.

This experience is best suited for those who want a comfortable, guided day on the water, love swimming in beautiful surroundings, and enjoy sampling drinks and snacks while soaking up the sun. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule, as the itinerary is packed but flexible enough to let you explore at your own pace on each island.

Key Points

• Shared full-day cruise perfect for seeing the Elaphite Islands from Dubrovnik.
• Includes transfers, making logistics hassle-free.
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks enhance the relaxing vibe.
• Two islands: Ipan for sightseeing and Lopud for beach lounging.
• Flexible exploration time allows personal discovery on each island.
• Note on crowd size: about 65 passengers, which might feel busy for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

We’re diving into what this tour offers—what works well, and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it matches your travel style. It’s a full-day affair, with a schedule designed to maximize island time without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups around 8:00 to 9:30 a.m., a welcome convenience that takes away the stress of finding your way to Gruz port. Departure is at 9:30 a.m., giving you a good few hours on the water — an ideal way to get a fresh perspective on Dubrovnik’s surroundings. The cruise is aboard a distinctive catamaran, which is generally appreciated for its stability and spaciousness compared to traditional boats.

The first stop is Ipan Island, arriving around 10:45 a.m. Here, the emphasis is on sightseeing at your own pace. You can explore the old churches and noble villas dotted across this car-free island, making it a peaceful retreat from busy tourist spots. The group’s free time means you can linger or stroll leisurely, but beware — it’s a popular spot, and some reviews suggest it can feel a little crowded or unkempt, especially if many tour boats arrive simultaneously.

At approximately 1:00 p.m., the boat heads to Lopud, renowned for its sandy beaches and lush scenery. You’ll have until around 5:00 p.m. to explore or just unwind at the beach, which many consider the highlight. For those who enjoy swimming, this is a great opportunity, as the water is usually clear and inviting. The tour provides free time to explore Lopud’s beaches and surroundings, but some reviews, like one from a traveler who called Lopud “overcrowded and unkempt,” suggest that the experience might feel a bit commercialized or hectic during peak times.

What We Loved

The all-inclusive drinks and snacks are a real bonus, especially on a full-day excursion. You can sip wine, enjoy soft drinks, or refresh with water without worrying about additional costs. The guide’s presence is also a plus, offering insights and helping navigate the day. Plus, the Wi-Fi onboard means you can share your experience or check in on other travel plans if needed.

Potential Drawbacks

The main concern, echoed by some travelers, is the crowd size — with approximately 65 people aboard, it’s a lively, social environment but less intimate. The overcrowding on Lopud and the seeming lack of maintenance on some parts of the island might not appeal to those seeking serenity. Also, as the itinerary is weather-dependent, changes in plans are possible if sea conditions aren’t ideal for swimming or if weather isn’t cooperative.

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Value for Money

At around $96 per person, this tour offers a decent value, especially considering transfers, guide, drinks, and snacks are included. Compared to more exclusive or private trips, it’s a budget-friendly way to hit two islands and enjoy a day on the water. However, some reviews hint at feeling that “you can get more for this price,” especially if you’re after a more secluded or boutique experience.

The Stops: Ipan and Lopud—What to Expect

Ipan Island: The Quiet Charm

Ipan is often seen as the more quaint, historical stop. Its old churches and villas evoke a sense of bygone aristocratic days, and strolling around gives a taste of authentic Croatian island life. Since it’s car-free, you won’t find the noise or fumes of motor vehicles — just the quiet sounds of nature and occasional church bells. It’s a good place to wander and take photos, but some travelers mention that there’s not much else to do if you’re not into sightseeing.

Lopud: Beaches and Relaxation

Lopud is the star for many, thanks to its golden sandy beaches and lush surroundings. It’s a place to swim, sunbathe, or grab a quick bite at local cafes. However, some reviews mention that Lopud can feel very crowded — a massive tourist magnet, especially during peak season. One traveler described it as “overcrowded and unkempt,” which might be a turn-off for those seeking tranquility.

Pro tip: Bring your own snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater, and don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen to protect this fragile environment.

Practical Details

The Boat and Comfort

The vessel is a catamaran, appreciated for its stability and roominess. Wi-Fi onboard is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share your photos in real-time or stay connected. The group size can be up to 65 guests, so it’s lively but might feel crowded if you’re used to more private tours.

Timing & Duration

From pickup to drop-off, expect a full day, roughly starting at 8:00 a.m. and returning around 5:00 p.m. The schedule is tight but gives plenty of time on each island. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer crowds, this might feel a bit rushed.

What to Bring

Make sure to pack a sun hat, swimsuit, sandals, and biodegradable sunscreen — essentials for comfort and safety. Remember, large bags aren’t allowed onboard, so travel light.

Accessibility

This tour isn’t recommended for people with limited mobility, as getting on and off the boat or exploring the islands might be challenging.

Cancellation & Flexibility

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One traveler described the experience as “a good value for money,” appreciating the delicious snacks and good drinks. Conversely, a reviewer called it a “tourist trap,” criticizing the overcrowding and lack of charm on Lopud. These mixed reviews highlight that while many enjoy the day’s scenic aspects and the convenience, some feel the crowds and commercial vibe detract from the authentic island experience.

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a comfortable, scenic way to explore two of Dubrovnik’s nearby islands. The inclusion of transfers, drinks, snacks, and a professional guide makes it straightforward for travelers who want a hassle-free day on the water.

If you’re seeking a social, lively atmosphere with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, this trip could be just right. The price point makes it an attractive option, especially considering the convenience. But keep in mind that if you’re after serene, untouched beaches or a quieter pace, this may not meet those expectations.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for first-timers who want a guided, well-organized day on the Elaphite Islands without a hefty price tag. For those who prioritize authenticity and tranquility, it might be worth considering alternatives or booking a private experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Travelers looking for value, comfort, and a social atmosphere will find this cruise appealing. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy swimming, sampling drinks, and sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transportation. If you’re okay with large groups and don’t mind some touristy crowds, this tour offers a fun, scenic day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, transfers with pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included, making it easy to connect with the tour.

How long is the cruise? The entire day runs approximately from 8:00-9:30 a.m. with return around 5:00 p.m., including travel, exploration, and free time.

Are drinks included? Yes, all-inclusive drinks such as beer, wine, soft drinks, and water are part of the package.

Can I swim during the tour? Absolutely. Swimming in the clear waters is a highlight, but be sure to bring your own swim gear and biodegradable sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility? It’s not recommended for people with limited mobility, and children are only advisable if they’re comfortable with group excursions and swimming.

What happens in bad weather? The itinerary may change if weather conditions aren’t suitable for swimming or sailing, but the tour provider will inform you in advance.

How do I cancel or reschedule? You can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, providing some flexibility for changing plans.

This well-rounded, practical review aims to help you decide if the Dubrovnik: Best of the Elaphites by Catamaran matches your travel needs. Whether you’re after a lively day on the water or a taste of island life, it’s a tour that offers a lot for the price — just be prepared for some crowds and a busy schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: