Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Pickup

Imagine sailing through crystal-clear waters, with the gentle breeze softly ruffling your hair and sun shining down on picturesque islands. That’s the promise of the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch, Drinks, and Pickup — a popular daytrip that’s been booked over ten times just last week. While I haven’t personally sailed these waters, I’ve researched it thoroughly, and what I’ve found is a well-rounded experience perfect for travelers craving a relaxed, scenic escape from the historic streets of Dubrovnik.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the balanced itinerary offers visits to three charming islands, each with its own personality. Second, the inclusion of lunch and unlimited beverages on board provides a hassle-free way to enjoy your day without constantly reaching for your wallet or stressing over where to eat. That said, a key consideration is the timing of island stops, which some reviews suggest could be adjusted for longer stays at certain islands. This experience appears ideal for those wanting a leisurely, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing under the sun.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking to get a taste of Croatia’s coastline or a seasoned traveler eager to enjoy some leisurely island time, this cruise offers a good mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a laid-back vibe, good food and drink, and the convenience of hotel pickup. Now, let’s explore what you can expect during this full-day adventure.

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

Key Points

Stunning coastal scenery and visits to three unique islands make this trip a visual treat.
All-inclusive lunch and drinks mean no fuss or extra costs on the day.
Comfortable round-trip hotel pickup simplifies planning and saves time.
Flexible activities — swimming, sightseeing, relaxing — cater to all types of travelers.
Moderate price point offers good value considering the length and inclusions.
Reviewers praise the friendly crew, well-organized schedule, and delicious food.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise

Setting Off: The Start of a Relaxing Day

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your Dubrovnik hotel (within a specified area), saving you from the hassle of navigating to the port. Meeting at Lapadska obala 5 at 9:00am, you’ll board the boat — either the Bobara or Mara, both family-run vessels that keep the atmosphere friendly and informal. The 8-hour cruise isn’t rushed; it’s designed as a relaxing way to soak in the views, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Koločep Island
As the first stop, Koločep offers a peaceful start. The island’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a swim, which many travelers love — judging by reviews, the water here is warm and inviting, ideal for a quick dip. You’ll have enough time to relax on the beaches or take a brief walk along the coastline. One reviewer mentions, “We had a lovely time. The islands are beautiful, and the beaches are quite peaceful,” emphasizing how this spot is perfect for unwinding.

Second Stop: Lopud Island
Known for its sandy beaches and lush scenery, Lopud is a favorite among visitors. The cruise includes a visit to Sunj Beach, one of the most popular spots, where you can lounge, swim, or stroll along the waterfront. The time allocated feels just right for a relaxed experience, but some reviews suggest that longer stays here might improve the overall experience. “Enjoyable boat tour to Lopud. The beach was fabulous,” noted a traveler, highlighting its appeal.

Third Stop: Ipan Island
This smaller island offers a quieter, more authentic experience. The highlight is the chance to explore its charming waterfronts and enjoy the natural surroundings. The tour also includes a visit to the traditional village of Sobra, giving you a taste of local life. While the review mentions the overall positive experience, some travelers wish they had more time here for sightseeing or exploring.

Food and Drinks Aboard

One of the tour’s highlights is the included lunch — a simple yet tasty meal served on the boat. Choices range from fish, meat, to vegetarian options, accommodating various dietary preferences (be sure to specify your choice at booking). The unlimited drinks— including water, soft drinks, wine, and even grappa — make for a relaxed, social atmosphere. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food and the generous drinks service; “Lunch was delicious, and the drinks kept flowing,” one comments, praising the value and effort put into catering.

Swimming, Sightseeing, and Leisure

The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose how to spend your time. Many travelers take advantage of the warm waters to swim in the sea, with some even mentioning that the water is beautiful and perfect for a quick cool-down. The leisurely pace, combined with free time on each island, makes this ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a gentle day out.

The Crew and Organization

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, attentive crew and the smooth organization. Even when weather unexpectedly turned stormy for some, the crew was praised for their responsiveness and making safe adjustments to maximize the time in the sun. “The crew could not have been better,” one review notes, emphasizing the professionalism and warmth of the staff.

Duration and Value

Priced at around $77.93 per person, this cruise offers solid value, especially considering the inclusions of lunch, drinks, hotel pickup, and multiple island stops. Reviewers agree that it’s a good deal, with many saying it exceeded expectations. The length—about eight hours—ensures a full, satisfying day without feeling rushed.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mention that the timing of stops could be adjusted — for example, they wished for longer on the first island or more free time on Lopud. Also, the walk back to the hotel can be a little inconvenient if you’re not within the pickup zone, as one review notes about walking in heat afterward. For those with mobility issues or tight schedules, this is worth considering.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic experience without the fuss of planning multiple separate trips. It’s especially suitable if you value good food, unlimited drinks, and comfortable transportation. Families, couples, and solo travelers all seem to find it appealing, provided they’re looking for a peaceful day on the water rather than a full-on adventure.

If you’re after a quick, visually stunning escape with relaxing stops, this cruise hits the right notes. However, if you crave more time on each island or specific activities like snorkeling or hiking, you might find this experience a bit limited.

Final Thoughts

The Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise offers a pleasant blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and good value. The inclusion of a simple but tasty lunch and unlimited drinks means you can relax and enjoy the day without constantly reaching for your wallet. The friendly crew and well-organized schedule help make it a smooth experience, even when weather isn’t ideal.

This trip shines brightest for those seeking a leisurely day of island hopping, swimming, and enjoying Croatian coastal vistas. It’s a straightforward, honest offering that delivers on its promise of scenic splendor and relaxation, making it a solid choice for most travelers in Dubrovnik.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour starts at 9:00am, with pickup arranged from your Dubrovnik hotel within a certain area (confirm with the operator).

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, island visits, and onboard meals.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you are within the designated area. Verify your location with the operator.

What food options are available?
A simple lunch is provided on board, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian meals. Special dietary requirements can be communicated at booking.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there are unlimited drinks, including water, soft drinks, wine, and grappa, served throughout the cruise.

Can I swim at the islands?
Absolutely. Many travelers enjoy swimming in the clear waters, especially on Koločep and Lopud.

Are entrance fees to the islands included?
No, entrance fees to historical monuments or attractions are not included. You’re responsible for any optional admissions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this cruise provides a comfortable, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Croatia’s Elafiti Islands. Perfect for travelers craving a relaxing day with stunning views, good food, and friendly service — it’s a trip many will remember fondly.