Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch

Thinking about a day on the water, exploring islands that dot the Dalmatian coast? The Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch offers just that—an opportunity to see three inhabited islands, enjoy swimming in the Adriatic, and savor a meal aboard a boat. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, quiet beaches, or a taste of local island life, this trip has a lot to offer.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to visit Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud — each with its own character. Plus, the inclusion of a lunch on the boat and the ability to swim in crystal-clear waters are definite highlights. A potential drawback? Some reviews suggest you might spend more time on certain islands than others, and not everyone is happy with the prices or the crowds. Still, if you’re seeking a relaxed day amid beautiful islands with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be a great fit.

It’s best suited for travelers who want an easy, all-in-one day trip with a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager to experience Dalmatia’s offshore beauty without the hassle of organizing transport will find this appealing.

Key Points

Well-rounded experience with visits to three inhabited islands near Dubrovnik
Includes a tasty onboard lunch and swimming opportunities in the Adriatic
Informed guides help enhance the island visits with insights into local history and nature
Flexible booking with the option to reserve and pay later, plus a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance
Potential for uneven time distribution among islands, so plan accordingly
Cost-effectiveness at $76 per person, considering boat, lunch, and guided experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

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Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins early in the morning, with meeting at 08:45 at a bus stop opposite the University building in Dubrovnik. Look for a big blue boat named Emili. It’s a straightforward start, and the group size tends to be manageable, giving you a good chance to chat with the guides and fellow travelers.

Visiting Kolocep Island: Nature and Tranquility

The first stop is Kolocep, known for its lush greenery and peaceful bays. It’s a small, scenic island perfect for a gentle walk, bike ride, or simply relaxing with views of the sea. The island’s unspoiled nature makes it a great spot for photos and quiet contemplation. One reviewer appreciated the time spent here but wished for a bit more than the suggested hour, especially to explore its bays.

Sipan Island: The Aristocratic Heritage

Next up is Sipan, the largest of the Elaphiti Islands and famous as the “island of olive trees”. Historically, Sipan was a refuge for aristocratic families who built mansions here. Today, it offers a quiet atmosphere with some restaurants and a few points of interest. Critics note that there isn’t much on Sipan beyond a couple of eateries, so if you’re expecting a vibrant tourist scene, you might find it underwhelming. Still, the olive groves and historical villas add a layer of charm.

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Lopud and the Sunj Beach: A Sandy Retreat

The third stop is Lopud, known as the “hidden gem” of the islands. It’s notably car-free, so the air is clearer, and the streets are peaceful. The highlight here is Sunj, a beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming or lounging. Many travelers find Sunj’s long stretch of sand and shallow, warm waters ideal for a relaxing break. One reviewer mentioned that more time on Kolocep and Lopud would have been preferable, especially to enjoy their scenic bays away from the mass tourism.

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Lunch and Swim Time on the Boat

What ties the day together is the lunch served aboard the boat. The menu isn’t specified in detail, but the reviews suggest it’s delicious and satisfying. The opportunity to swim in the Adriatic adds an active element to the trip, and the guided commentary enhances the experience, providing context about each island’s history and natural features.

The Experience: What to Expect

The boat itself is comfortable, with restroom facilities onboard, making the journey more pleasant. The group size tends to be reasonable, enhancing the chance to interact with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.

The timing is designed for a full day, but as some reviews point out, the distribution of time may feel uneven—more time on Lopud and Sipan, less on Kolocep. That may matter if you’re eager to explore each island more thoroughly.

The price of $76 per person is competitive, especially considering the inclusions: boat transport, lunch, and guided commentary. However, some reviewers have voiced concerns about the cost of extras like food and drinks on the islands, which can be pricey compared to Dubrovnik’s town prices.

Value for Money

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see multiple islands and enjoy swimming in clear waters, this tour offers good value. The lunch adds to the experience, and the scenic boat ride itself is a highlight. That said, if you’re after more time on each island or looking for a less commercialized experience, you might find it rushed or too touristic.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What sets this tour apart are the authentic glimpses of island life—escaping the crowds on Lopud, wandering through olive groves on Sipan, or relaxing on Sunj Beach. The guides are generally praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge, which elevates the experience.

To make the most of your day, arrive early and be prepared for a full schedule. Bring snorkeling gear if you like to swim, sun protection, and a little cash for snacks or drinks off the boat. The return is seamless, with the tour ending back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your Dubrovnik stay afterward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day away from the city’s hustle. If you’re comfortable with shorter island visits and enjoy swimming and light walking, you’ll find it rewarding. It’s also suitable for families or couples wanting a shared adventure with organized transport and meals.

However, if you’re craving a deeper exploration of each island’s history or a less crowded atmosphere, you might prefer longer or private options. The reviews highlight that some travelers found the time distribution uneven and the cost of extras high, so keep that in mind.

The Sum Up

The Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch offers a well-rounded, scenic escape from the old town’s walls, blending beautiful island scenery, swimming, and good food into one manageable day. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace of boat travel, making it a practical choice for many travelers.

While it’s not perfect—some may wish for more time on each island or better value for some extras—it remains a solid, enjoyable way to see a slice of Dalmatia’s island life. Whether you’re after gentle walks, sandy beaches, or simply soaking up views from the water, this tour will likely leave you with lasting memories of Croatia’s stunning coast.

For travelers who prioritize scenic beauty, comfort, and a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, this trip hits the mark. Just remember to set your expectations about the time spent on each island and the potential costs on-site.

FAQs

What is included in the tour? The tour includes boat transportation, lunch on the boat, and restroom facilities onboard.
Where do I meet the tour? The meeting point is at 8:45 am across from the University building, where you’ll look for the boat named Emili.
How long is the trip? It’s a full-day experience, typically lasting from morning to late afternoon, with stops on three islands.
Can I swim during the trip? Yes, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic is a core part of the experience.
Is there free time on each island? Yes, but some reviews note the time on Kolocep and Sipan can feel limited, especially compared to Lopud.
What is the price? The tour costs around $76 per person, which covers boat, lunch, and guided commentary.
How is the food? The onboard lunch is generally enjoyed as tasty and satisfying, though detailed menus aren’t specified.
Is the tour suitable for children? Likely yes, especially for families comfortable with boat trips and short island visits.
What should I bring? Sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and possibly cash for extra treats or drinks on the islands.
How do I cancel or reschedule? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

This trip offers a fine way to experience some of Croatia’s most beloved islands with ease and comfort—perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Dalmatian island life without the fuss.