Dubrovnik Islands Boat Tour with Lunch and Unlimited Drinks

Imagine cruising through sparkling waters, surrounded by lush islands and ancient stone villages, while enjoying generous amounts of wine, soft drinks, and a hearty meal—all in the comfort of a well-appointed boat. This 8-hour Dubrovnik Islands boat tour promises a laid-back day filled with scenic vistas, island hopping, and authentic Croatian charm. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or group, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural sightseeing.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it combines comfort and exploration. The boat is equipped with everything you need for a relaxing day—tables, sun shade, and a clean toilet—plus the added bonus of unlimited drinks (including wine and soft drinks) and a freshly prepared lunch. One notable highlight, as many reviewers mention, is the friendly crew and knowledgeable guides, making the day feel personal and engaging.

A potential consideration? The islands themselves are primarily beaches and gardens with some historical sites—if you’re expecting extensive monument visits, this might not be the tour for you. Instead, it’s ideal for those wanting to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty at a gentle pace. This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize scenic relaxation over extensive sightseeing, and who appreciate good food and drink in a casual setting.

Key Points

• Relaxed pace and comfort with a well-equipped boat
• All-inclusive drinks and freshly-made lunch options
• Three island stops for swimming, exploring, or relaxing
• Knowledgeable and friendly crew enhances the experience
• Great value for money considering the length and inclusions
• Suitable for those seeking a laid-back day with scenic beauty and good company

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Islands Boat Tour

The appeal of this tour lies in its straightforward approach: a full day of gentle cruising around the Elafiti Islands with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and enjoying local flavors. It’s not a high-intensity sightseeing trip but rather a chance to unwind while appreciating Croatia’s natural allure.

The Meeting and Departure

The journey begins early at Lapadska obala 5, Dubrovnik’s vibrant harbor area. Departing at 9:00 am, the group typically includes a maximum of 60 travelers, which maintains a friendly, intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded. The transfer to Gru Harbor is seamless, with most reviews noting the ease of the pickup process.

The Boat Itself

The vessel is described as well-maintained, with tables and benches arranged for comfort, a sunshade to beat the midday sun, and amenities like a toilet and a sound system for music. The crew seems to be well-trained and attentive, ensuring everyone feels taken care of. This setup makes it easy to relax, socialize, or simply enjoy the view without worrying about comfort or logistics.

Food and Drinks

One of the biggest draws here is the all-you-can-drink offering of unlimited soft drinks, water, wine, and grappa. The inclusion of alcohol is especially appreciated in reviews, with many travelers praising the quality of the wine selection. The freshly made lunch, which is customizable based on your dietary preferences, adds significant value. Options include a fish dish (grilled hake with salads), a meat option (grilled chicken breasts), or a vegetarian choice (grilled vegetables), all served on board.

The Island Stops

The tour visits Koločep, Lopud, and Ipan—each with its own unique charm. Reviewers mention the scenic landscapes, with pine and carob trees lining the islands, gardens, ancient churches, and quaint stone structures. The islands are dotted with pebble beaches ideal for swimming and snorkeling (although you’ll need to bring your own gear).

• Koločep offers a more peaceful, less developed environment with lush greenery and relaxed vibes.
• Lopud features a charming town and some historical sites, along with beach spots perfect for a quick dip.
• Ipan is known for its natural beauty and less commercialized feel, making it ideal for a leisurely walk or simply soaking up the scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and crew, with some mentioning staff like Natasha who go above and beyond to make the day special. The crew’s friendliness contributes significantly to the relaxed atmosphere, ensuring guests feel comfortable and engaged.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Free Time

While swimming and snorkeling are popular, reviewers advise bringing your own equipment. The islands boast crystal-clear waters and rocky beaches, perfect for a dip after a hearty lunch or during free time. The balance of structured stops and free exploration means you can tailor your experience—whether you want to relax on the boat or explore the islands.

Value for Money

At around $77.93 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the length, inclusions, and overall experience. The all-you-can-drink policy, combined with a freshly prepared, customizable meal, makes it a budget-friendly option for a full day of enjoyment. Many travelers on reviews have expressed satisfaction with the price-to-value ratio, especially given the friendly service and the scenic stops.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, it might be canceled, with the promise of a full refund or rescheduling. Reviewers have appreciated the clear communication from Dubrovnik Boat Tours regarding cancellations, though one noted a slight delay in getting notified about weather-related changes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day in Dubrovnik with minimal hassle. It’s ideal if you enjoy good food and drinks, want to visit a few picturesque islands, and prefer a laid-back atmosphere over intense sightseeing. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate comfortable travel and authentic island vibes will find much to love.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am
• Meeting Point: Lapadska obala 5, Dubrovnik
• Includes: Lunch (with options), unlimited drinks, taxes, and local fees
• Not Included: Entrance fees to monuments, if applicable
• Group size: Up to 60 travelers
• Booking: Confirm dietary requirements in advance, including vegetarian options
• What to Bring: Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, snorkeling gear (if desired), and a hat for sun protection

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik Islands boat tour hits the sweet spot for travelers craving a deliberately slow-paced, scenic day with plenty of comfort and good company. The friendly crew, excellent value, and the chance to unwind on beautiful islands make it a popular choice—evidenced by consistent high ratings and positive reviews.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, low-pressure experiences with a focus on natural beauty, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, this tour could be just what you need for your Dubrovnik trip.

However, if your idea of a perfect day involves visiting numerous historic sites or engaging in active sightseeing, you might find this tour somewhat too relaxed. It’s best suited for those wanting a gentle, scenic escape, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up Croatia’s stunning coastline.

In the end, it’s a genuinely good value option that promises a memorable, laid-back day on the water, and one that many travelers leave praising for its friendly staff, quality food, and scenic stops.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for families. Just remember to bring swim gear and consider your children’s comfort with boat rides.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, beverages (including unlimited soft drinks and wine), and a freshly made lunch with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking. It’s best to specify any allergies or dietary needs in advance.

How long are the island stops?
While exact stop durations aren’t specified, the itinerary suggests enough time for exploration, swimming, or relaxing on each island—usually enough for a quick walk or dip.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, camera, snorkeling equipment if you like, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Communication about cancellations seems clear, though some reviews mention a slight delay in notification.

This comprehensive look at the Dubrovnik Islands boat tour shows it’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic, and delicious day exploring the Croatian coast. With friendly staff, comfortable amenities, and a focus on enjoyment, it’s a memorable way to experience the beauty of the Elafiti Islands without the stress of a packed schedule.