Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

Imagine gliding across shimmering Adriatic waters, surrounded by the scent of salt and sun, with a cold drink in hand and the wind in your hair. That’s the essence of the Elaphite Islands Cruise operated by Dubrovnik Islands Tours. This full-day excursion promises a taste of Croatia’s stunning coast—visiting three beautiful islands, enjoying a delicious onboard lunch, and having unlimited drinks—all for around $53 per person.

While we haven’t experienced it ourselves (this is a thorough review based on extensive feedback), the glowing reviews and detailed tour descriptions suggest this trip offers a creditable blend of scenery, laid-back fun, and cultural charm. Two things stand out: the knowledgeable guides who make each stop meaningful, and the incredible value for the price, especially considering the all-you-can-drink setup and the convenience of hotel pickup.

A potential consideration? The tour is subject to sea conditions, meaning if the weather isn’t cooperating, some parts might be less enjoyable or be canceled. It’s ideal for travelers who love boats, scenic views, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. If you’re after a lively day with good company and picturesque islands, this cruise will likely hit the spot. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mixture of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural nooks—plus, the optional Blue Cave visit adds an extra splash of adventure.

This experience made our article of Top 12 Cruises And Boat Tours In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a hassle-free experience.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited white wine, water, juices, and soft drinks keep you refreshed all day.
• Diverse Island Stops: Visit Kolocep, Lopud, Ipan, and optionally the Blue Cave for a mix of nature, beaches, and quaint villages.
• Tasty Food: A well-reviewed onboard lunch offers fish, chicken, or vegetarian options, paired with drinks.
• Expert Guides: Reviews praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the experience.
• Great Value: For about $53, you get a full day of sightseeing, drinks, and a hearty lunch, often praised as worth every penny.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Convenient Start and End at Dubrovnik’s Dock

The cruise begins on the dock next to the bus station, with a boat named “Emili” waiting to ferry you away. The ease of hotel pickup and drop-off—if you select that option—means you avoid the hassle of navigating to the port yourself, which is especially helpful after a long day of sightseeing or if you’re staying outside the city center.

A Comfortable, Well-Maintained Boat

The tour operates on a spacious, two-deck vessel with ample seating and excellent views. Reviewers repeatedly mention the boat’s cleanliness and the friendly, attentive crew. The presence of two toilets on board adds a practical touch, especially during a full-day trip.

Scenic Sail to the Islands

As you leave Dubrovnik behind, you’ll enjoy views of the city and coastline, setting the tone for the day ahead. The ride itself is often described as smooth, with many reviewers noting how the wind and waves add to the fun. Expect to be sailing for roughly an hour before reaching the first stop.

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Island 1: Kolocep – Quiet Charm and Nature

The first island, Kolocep, is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. It’s an ideal spot if you want to stretch your legs, explore some nature, or simply enjoy the tranquility. Some reviews mention that the short time allocated here is enough to take a quick walk or dip your toes in the water.

Island 2: Lopud – Beaches and Historic Villas

Next, the boat visits Lopud, home to Sunj Beach, a favorite among visitors for its soft sand and shallow, warm waters — perfect for snorkeling or just lounging. Many reviews highlight the delicious lunch on board, which includes options like grilled fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes. During free time, you can explore the red-roofed, stone houses or relax on the beach, enjoying the laid-back vibe.

Island 3: Ipan – Quaint and Authentic

Ipan offers a more authentic, less touristy feel. It’s a charming place to walk around, take photos of traditional Croatian architecture, and enjoy some local flavor. The limited but well-structured time here allows for a quick exploration or a swim.

Optional Visit: The Blue Cave

For those seeking a splash of adventure, the Blue Cave visit is a popular add-on. It involves a short detour from the main route, with a small additional fee (around $20). Many reviewers found this extra trip worth it, describing the cave’s fluorescent blue waters as mesmerizing. The boat ride to the cave is often praised for its fun and adventurous nature, with some reviewers noting the drive as a highlight.

Lunch and Refreshments: A Highlight

The onboard lunch is widely praised as delicious and plentiful. You have a choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian options, and the meals are described as home-cooked and satisfying. The unlimited drinks—white wine, water, soft drinks—keep everyone well-hydrated and in good spirits. Reviewers note that staff are attentive, constantly offering refills, which contributes to the relaxed atmosphere.

Return and Relaxation

After a full day of island-hopping, swimming, and sightseeing, you’ll head back to Dubrovnik. Many travelers mention how smoothly the return journey goes, with the crew ensuring everyone’s comfortable and happy. The hotel drop-off adds that extra layer of convenience, especially after a day of sun and activity.

The Value: Does It Measure Up?

For $53, this cruise provides an impressive amount of value. You get multiple island visits, a generous onboard meal, and an unlimited drinks package. The reviews repeatedly emphasize that it’s well-organized and greatly enjoyed — many call it a “best experience in Dubrovnik.”

Travelers mention that the time on each island feels well-structured, providing enough to explore without feeling rushed. The guides receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making the stops more meaningful. The scenic sailing and opportunity to swim in clear waters add to the overall appeal.

The optional Blue Cave visit is a smart extra, allowing a few adventurous souls to see something truly unique. While the cave’s overrated label appears occasionally, most found it worth the small extra fee, especially for the spectacular blue waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for laid-back travelers who want a full day of relaxing exploration without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple bookings. It suits those who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and casual sightseeing—particularly if you appreciate good food and drinks in a social setting.

It’s also ideal for families, couples, or groups looking for a fun, all-inclusive day out. However, those with mobility issues or wheelchair users should note the tour isn’t suited for them. The emphasis on short island stops means you’ll want to be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

This Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands cruise offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed indulgence. The combination of stunning islands, friendly guides, hearty lunch, and unlimited drinks makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free taste of Croatia’s coast.

Reviewers consistently mention how well-organized and fun the day is, often highlighting the knowledgeable staff and stunning scenery. The value for money is clear—especially considering the all-day access to drinks, the quality of the lunch, and the gorgeous stops.

While weather conditions can affect certain parts—like the Blue Cave—most find the experience worthwhile. This tour is best for those who want a comfortable, social, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and relax.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Dubrovnik accommodation, making the day more convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel for swimming and sunbathing. Being prepared helps you enjoy the islands fully.

How long is the sailing between stops?
The boat ride from Dubrovnik to the first island takes about an hour, with similar times between other stops, allowing enough time to relax and enjoy the views.

What meals are included?
A lunch featuring chicken, fish, or vegetarian options is included, and it is described as tasty and satisfying.

Can I visit the Blue Cave?
Yes, visiting the Blue Cave is optional and involves an extra fee. Many reviews say it’s a worthwhile, memorable part of the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for children, the trip suits families who enjoy boat rides and beach time. Keep in mind the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues.

In the end, this cruise offers a great way to see some of Croatia’s top coastal sights without the fuss. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, good company, or just a relaxing day on the water, this trip seems to deliver on all fronts—making it a highly recommended addition to any Dubrovnik itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: