If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and looking for a way to escape the bustling old town for a relaxed day out, the 3 Islands Boat Tour might just be the ticket. This well-rated experience promises a mix of scenic island hopping, delicious food, lively onboard atmosphere, and a dash of local charm—all within a manageable 9.5-hour window.
What we love about this tour is how it combines beautiful natural scenery with a social, fun vibe on the boat, making for an experience that’s both relaxing and entertaining. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds value, especially considering the price point of around $70 per person, which is quite reasonable for a day full of activities and sightseeing.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour can be quite lively, with music and a dance floor onboard, which might not suit travelers seeking complete peace and quiet. If you’re after a tranquil cruise, this might feel a bit too energetic. It’s best for those who enjoy a social atmosphere, good food, and stunning views.
This tour is perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers who want to experience Dubrovnik’s island scenery without the hassle of organizing transportation and meals themselves. Now, let’s take a deep dive into what makes this trip worthwhile—and what you might want to consider before booking.
Key Points
- Scenic Island Hopping: Visit three different islands with unique charms, all included in one smooth itinerary.
- All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy a tasty lunch with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian diets, plus unlimited soft drinks and bottled water.
- Lively Atmosphere: Music, a dance floor, and karaoke make it more than just a sightseeing cruise—it’s a social experience.
- Good Value: For around $70, you get a full day of entertainment, scenery, and food, often praised by reviewers as excellent value.
- Comfort and Convenience: Pickup service, WiFi onboard, and a well-organized schedule make for a hassle-free day.
- Authentic Local Experience: The stops include some of the most picturesque islands in the Elaphite group, each with its own character.
An Inside Look at the Itinerary
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Departure & Panorama Cruise
The experience kicks off with a 10:15 am pickup at the Dubrovnik meeting point, Obala Stjepana Radica. From there, the boat sets out on a roughly 9.5-hour adventure, with the journey itself being a highlight. We loved the way the boat stays close to the shoreline during the ride, providing plenty of chances to admire Dubrovnik’s scenic coast, rocky outcrops, and the lush surroundings. Notably, the route takes you past the Trsteno Arboretum, adding a touch of botanical beauty to the experience.
Stop 1: Lopud Island
The first stop, Lopud Island, is the second-largest in the group and offers a blend of natural beauty and history. With over 30 tiny churches and a small museum called the ‘Temple of Sun’, it’s a place where you can easily spend a few hours wandering along shaded paths or relaxing by the beach. Reviewers mention the delicious lunch and the friendly crew as standouts, with one saying, “The food was delicious; I tried both tarator and grilled fish.” This stop typically lasts around 3 hours, giving ample time for a swim, stroll, or a quick exploration.
Stop 2: Sipan Island
Next, the boat heads to Sipan Island, known for its olive groves and historical significance. It holds the Guinness World Record for the most olive trees on a single island. Visitors often find Sipán a peaceful spot to admire the views of Dubrovnik from afar. Several reviews highlight the free admission and the opportunity to simply soak in the scenery, with one reviewer noting “It’s the largest island and offers great photo opportunities.” The stop lasts about 45 minutes, making it a quick but memorable break.
Stop 3: Koločep Island
The last stop is Koločep, a smaller, less inhabited island where natural beauty reigns supreme. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just relaxing on the quiet beaches. Reviewers frequently mention the breath-taking scenery and appreciate how this stop offers a chance to dive into the clear waters or wander along unspoiled paths. The visit lasts about an hour, ideal for a refreshing dip before heading back.
While in Dubrovnik, here are other experiences we've covered
- Dubrovnik: 6 hours Blue cave & Elaphiti with optional lunch
- Dubrovnik: Old Town Cruise with Lunch
- Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
- Dubrovnik Scenic Tour & Lunch/Dinner at Country Estate
- Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
- Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional Lunch
Onboard Experience: Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere
The lunch buffet is a highlight according to most reviews. Options are available for fish, meat, and vegetarians, with the quality of food often praised as “delicious” and “plenty of it.” Soft drinks and bottled water are included, allowing you to stay hydrated while enjoying the lively onboard environment.
Music is a constant companion—sometimes soft background tunes, other times lively enough to encourage dancing or karaoke. Several travelers mention the friendly and engaging crew, with one review stating, “The captain made the whole boat laugh,” which suggests a crew that knows how to keep the mood upbeat.
You’ll also find amenities like WiFi onboard, which is helpful if you want to share your photos or check in with friends. However, it’s worth noting that towels and snorkeling equipment are not included, so pack your own if you plan to swim or snorkel.
The Experience in Practice: What Travelers Say
The reviews show a broad range of experiences—some glowing, others less so. The most lauded aspects include the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, delicious food, and the fun, social environment on board.
One reviewer, Ana, said, “The entire staff was professional, friendly, and welcoming. Lorenzo stood out with his charming personality and impressive language skills.” This points to a team that takes pride in making guests comfortable and engaged.
On the other hand, a few critics mention overcrowding and noise levels that could disturb those seeking tranquility. “The boat was overcrowded and extremely noisy,” one reviewer noted. It’s worth considering whether you prefer a lively, party atmosphere or a calmer cruise.
Some reviews also highlight value for money—many feel that the experience is worth the $70 ticket price because of the scenery, food, and onboard entertainment. Others appreciate the well-organized schedule and the convenience of the pickup service.
Practical Details and Tips
Transport & Meeting Point: The tour begins at Obala Stjepana Radica in Dubrovnik at 10:15 am. The pickup service makes it straightforward to join, especially if you’re staying nearby.
Duration & Group Size: Lasting approximately 9.5 hours, the tour keeps all group sizes within a maximum of 144 travelers, which balances social energy with comfort.
Price & Value: At roughly $70 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck—especially considering the inclusion of lunch, drinks, WiFi, and entertainment. Many reviews mention that the food and staff exceed expectations, making the price feel justified.
What to Bring: Remember to pack swimming towels and snorkeling gear if you want to take full advantage of the swim stops. Also, consider bringing sunscreen and a hat, as parts of the tour are exposed to the sun.
Weather & Cancellation Policy: The tour is weather-dependent—if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with social fun, especially if you enjoy good food and lively atmospheres. It suits those looking for a full day of island scenery without the hassle of planning. It’s also a great choice for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to meet like-minded people.
However, if your idea of a perfect day is serene solitude and quiet, the lively music and party vibe might be too much. Similarly, if you’re seeking a private, peaceful cruise, you might prefer alternative options.
The Sum Up
For those seeking a well-rounded, value-packed day out in Dubrovnik, this 3 Islands Boat Tour ticks a lot of boxes. It combines stunning island vistas, engaging onboard entertainment, and delicious meals, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a memorable experience. The friendly crew, inclusive atmosphere, and convenient logistics make it accessible and enjoyable for most travelers.
While it’s lively and sometimes crowded, many reviewers find that the positive energy, beautiful scenery, and tasty food more than compensate. It’s especially good for social travelers or families who want to have fun and see a few of the region’s prettiest islands in one go.
If you’re after a bright, cheerful, and well-organized day trip that offers a taste of Dubrovnik’s island beauty with plenty of entertainment, this tour could be just the right fit.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour offers pickup from Dubrovnik, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.
What is included in the price? The price covers a lively boat ride, lunch with multiple options, soda and bottled water, WiFi onboard, and music. Towel and snorkeling gear are not included.
How long are the stops at each island? You’ll have about 3 hours on Lopud, 45 minutes on Sipan, and 1 hour on Koločep. This gives enough time for sightseeing, swimming, or relaxing.
Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians? Yes, the meal options include vegetarian dishes alongside fish and meat options, catering to different dietary preferences.
Can I swim or snorkel? Yes, the stops at Sipan and Koločep are ideal for swimming and diving, though you’ll need to bring your own snorkeling equipment if you want to use it.
What is the typical group size? The tour accommodates up to 144 travelers, balancing social energy with comfort.
What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This full-day cruise offers an entertaining, scenic, and flavorful way to experience Dubrovnik’s surrounding islands. Whether you’re in the mood for lively onboard fun or simply want to enjoy beautiful waters and pretty islets, this tour is worth considering—especially if you appreciate good value and friendly service.
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