Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and drinks

A Complete Look at the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Imagine spending a day sailing along the shimmering Croatian coast, visiting three picturesque islands, and enjoying a generous supply of food and drinks—all without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. That’s exactly what the Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise offers. With a stellar 5.0 rating from over 8,500 reviews, this tour is hailed as an excellent way to experience Croatia’s beautiful islands comfortably and effortlessly.

What we love most about this experience is its perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and culinary treats. The chance to hop between Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep gives you a well-rounded taste of island life, from sandy beaches to ancient olive groves. Plus, the all-inclusive lunch and unlimited onboard drinks make it a truly hassle-free day that’s priced competitively at just under $80 per person.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t designed for those prone to seasickness or travelers with specific dietary restrictions. And as with any boat trip, weather conditions can impact the experience. Still, for most visitors looking to combine sightseeing with indulgence, this cruise hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers eager for a laid-back yet scenic adventure in Croatia.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Lunch, drinks, and guided island visits included, making it easy to relax.
• Authentic Island Experience: Explore local villages, beaches, and landmarks at each stop.
• Exceptional Crew: Friendly, knowledgeable guides and staff ensure a smooth day.
• Multiple Islands, One Day: Visit three distinct islands, each with its own charm and highlights.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy panoramic sea vistas from the boat and on shore.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for seasick-sensitive individuals.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise

The Day Begins: Picking Up and Setting Sail

The tour starts at the central meeting point, Lapadska obala 7, in Dubrovnik, around 9:00 am. Many reviews mention the convenience of hotel pickup if the option is selected, which takes away any stress about transportation. The group size is capped at 110 travelers, maintaining a lively but intimate atmosphere.

Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the friendly crew—many reviewers highlight guides like Natasha and Emily for their helpfulness and engaging personalities. The boat itself is comfortable, with ample deck space to sit back, soak up the sun, and enjoy the incredible coastal scenery as you glide away from Dubrovnik.

First Stop: Lopud Island

Lopud is the first port of call, and it’s a true highlight. With about 3 hours allocated, you’ll have plenty of time to explore. Reviewers love the Djordjic Mayneri Botanical Gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat among lush plants and scenic views. The island also features a sandy beach named Sunj, perfect for a quick swim or lounging in the sun.

Many guests appreciate the historical touches here, including churches and heritage sites, which add a layer of authenticity. As one reviewer notes, “Each island was beautiful and quaint, with ample opportunities to cool off in the water.” The relaxed pace means you can wander freely, whether you want to relax on the beach or take a walk along the footpaths.

The Middle Stop: Sipan Island

Next, the boat heads to Sipan, known as the “island with the most olive trees,” according to the Guinness Book of Records. This small island boasts a fishermen’s port that feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse of traditional Mediterranean life.

Visitors love the castle built in the 15th century as a defense against pirates—though the reviews don’t specify if it’s accessible for wandering, its presence lends charm to the harbor. With just about an hour here, most people take a quick stroll, enjoy the scenery, or indulge in some photo moments.

The Final Stop: Kolocep Island

The last island stop is Kolocep, famous for its caves and cliffs. Here, you’ll have around an hour to swim, snorkel, and relax on sandy beaches. The clear waters and impressive cliffs make for great photo opportunities, and reviewers highlight how enjoyable it is to jump into the water straight from the boat.

Lunch and Refreshments

After the morning’s explorations, everyone gathers back on the boat for a delicious onboard lunch. The menu offers three choices: meat (grilled chicken with vegetables), fish (grilled hake), and vegetarian (seasonable Mediterranean vegetables). Multiple reviewers praise the size and quality of the meals, often mentioning how satisfying they are.

Throughout the day, the unlimited drinks flow freely—white wine, brandy, soft drinks, water, and Fanta—making it easy to toast or stay hydrated while taking in the views. The crew, often singled out for their friendliness, keeps glasses topped up and ensures everyone feels well looked after.

What the Reviews Say

According to hundreds of reviews, this tour exceeds expectations. Many mention the professional and helpful guides who offer a quick history overview before docking, which enriches the experience. For example, one reviewer gushes, “The staff was so professional and kept our glasses full,” emphasizing the attentive service.

Another highlights the great value for money, noting that the food was delicious and plentiful, and the drinks kept flowing all day. The speedboat transfer to the Blue Cave—which some tours don’t include—is praised as a highlight, with one reviewer calling it “stunning” and “well worth the extra effort.”

Of course, some travelers mention minor downsides, like the first island being “dirty and overflowing with garbage,” or the occasional language barrier with guides—though these are rare and don’t seem to detract significantly from the overall experience.

Practical Details and What You’re Getting for Your Money

The tour is priced at approximately $77.93 per person, which covers hotel pickup (if selected), all island visits, lunch, unlimited drinks, and guided commentary. This all-inclusive approach offers exceptional value considering the combined elements of scenic cruising, island exploration, and meals.

The day lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point. The group size of up to 110 travelers keeps it lively but manageable, and most reviews mention a well-organized schedule with timely departures and arrivals.

While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, there are some considerations. Seasickness is a concern—reviewers advise that it’s not recommended if you’re sensitive to motion sickness. Also, the minimum drinking age is 18—so families with younger children need to plan accordingly.

The pickup outside Dubrovnik city area isn’t available unless you book the transfer option, so central location is best for most. Also, travelers are asked to specify their lunch preference—meat, fish, or vegetarian—when booking, to ensure dietary needs are met.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a relaxed day of island hopping, scenic views, and good food. It appeals especially to travelers who appreciate well-organized experiences with friendly guides and want to avoid the hassle of planning transportation, meals, and activities themselves.

Families, couples, and solo adventurers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure will find this tour ticks all the boxes. The all-you-can-drink bar and delicious lunch turn a simple boat trip into a celebration. If you’re eager to sample Croatia’s island charm without spending your day navigating schedules or making multiple bookings, this tour offers excellent value.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more active or independent exploration style, you might find the tour’s relaxed pace a bit limiting. Still, most reviewers agree that the stunning scenery, friendly staff, and tasty food make this a memorable experience worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you select that option, the tour offers hotel or accommodation pickup from the Dubrovnik area, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

What food options are available?
You can choose from three lunch options: meat (grilled chicken with vegetables), fish (grilled hake), or vegetarian (seasonable Mediterranean vegetables). Be sure to specify your choice when booking.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Dubrovnik, with stops on three islands and plenty of time to explore each.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited onboard drinks include water, soft drinks like Fanta and Coca-Cola, white wine, and brandy. Additional alcoholic beverages like beer are not included unless specified.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18. The tour generally appeals to families, but seasickness could be a concern for younger or sensitive travelers.

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

Can I visit the Blue Cave?
Some reviews mention a speedboat transfer to the Blue Cave, which is an optional addition to the tour, and many find it a stunning highlight.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands cruise offers a fine blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and culinary indulgence. The well-organized schedule, combined with friendly guides and a comprehensive all-inclusive setup, makes it a standout choice for travelers wanting to experience Croatia’s islands without the fuss.

The diversity of stops—from sandy beaches to olive groves—ensures there’s something for all. The delicious lunch and unlimited drinks elevate what could be a simple boat trip into a full-day celebration of Croatian island life. The consistent praise from reviewers highlights how much value and enjoyment most guests get from the experience.

In essence, this tour is perfect for those who want to relax, explore, and indulge—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. If you’re after a well-rounded, enjoyable, and scenic day out from Dubrovnik, it’s hard to find a better way to see the Elaphite Islands.

Happy sailing, and enjoy your Croatian island adventure!