Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re looking to escape the bustling streets of Dubrovnik and experience some of Croatia’s most picturesque islands, the Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch offers a wonderful way to do just that. This tour, offered by Dubrovnik Local Guide, combines scenic boat rides, island hopping, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and a delicious meal on board—all for a reasonable price of around $76 per person.

What caught our eye about this trip is the promise of visiting three inhabited islands—Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud—each offering unique charms and landscapes. Plus, the chance to swim in the Adriatic Sea and relax on sun-drenched beaches is a big plus. However, one of the main considerations is that some travelers felt they spent too much time on certain islands and not enough on others, so pacing might be uneven.

This tour is perfectly suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and a taste of local Croatian island life without the hassle of organizing transport themselves. If you’re after a balanced day out that combines nature, culture, and good food, this trip could fit the bill.

Key Points

• Comprehensive island visits: Three inhabited islands—Kolocep, Sipan, and Lopud—each with distinct features.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect lush greenery, scenic bays, and iconic beaches like Sunj.
• Onboard lunch included: Enjoy a meal served directly on the boat, plus the convenience of onboard restrooms.
• Swim in the Adriatic: Plenty of opportunities to cool off in the clear waters.
• Informed guides: Travelers praise the knowledge and friendliness of the crew.
• Paced for variety: Some reviews mention uneven time distribution, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The tour begins early morning, with a meeting point at 08:45 across from the university building in Dubrovnik, where you’ll spot the big blue boat named Emili. From there, it’s a roughly 15-minute boat ride to the first stop: Kolocep Island.

Kolocep is a lush, green paradise with dense vegetation and scenic walking paths. We loved the way the guide described it as perfect for relaxing, walking, or biking—ideal if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature. This island isn’t just pretty; it’s a spot for peace, with some reviewers noting it as a highlight for its tranquility and scenic bays, though one wished for more time to explore some of the hidden bays farther from the port.

Next up is Sipan, the largest of the Elaphiti Islands and known as the “island of olive trees.” Historically, Sipan was an aristocratic enclave, dotted with stately mansions and offering a more ‘authentic’ feel compared to the more touristy spots. However, some travelers felt Sipan was underwhelming, with only a few restaurants and little else to explore beyond the scenic views. The main appeal here is laid-back island life and the chance to see the island’s olive groves.

The third stop is Lopud, often called the “hidden gem” of the group. It’s the island where you’ll find Sunj beach, famed for its soft sand and crystal waters. According to reviews, Lopud is the most developed island, but it’s car-free—ideal for wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere. Many visitors mention the sunbathing and swimming here as the best part of the trip, though some felt they didn’t get enough time on Lopud to truly enjoy the beach and explore beyond the main area.

The tour wraps up back at the starting point in Dubrovnik, usually around late afternoon, leaving plenty of time to explore more of Dubrovnik’s old town or relax after the day on the water.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The boat ride itself is a major highlight. The vessel, Emili, is comfortable with onboard restrooms and space to relax as you glide between islands. The crew has been praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a personal touch that makes the experience more memorable.

The scenery is genuinely stunning. Expect lush islands, secluded bays, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Several reviews mention the beauty of the landscapes, making it a favorite for those who love nature photography or simply want to unwind in scenic surroundings.

The onboard lunch is a convenient perk. While some reviewers appreciated the quality and variety of food (with unlimited drinks), others felt the menu could be more balanced with salads or desserts. Still, having a filling meal without leaving the boat is a big plus, especially on a full day out.

However, timing can be a bit uneven. Florence noted, “we spent too long on the last island and not enough on the others,” which is an important consideration if you want a more balanced experience. Some felt the time on Lopud was too short to truly enjoy Sunj beach or explore the island beyond the main area.

Pricing-wise, at roughly $76, this tour offers good value considering the included transport, guided commentary, lunch, and multiple island visits. It’s a practical choice for travelers who prefer a hassle-free, organized day out rather than arranging their own boat trips or transport.

Considerations and Tips for Future Travelers

• Pacing: If you’re someone who likes to spend ample time exploring each stop, be aware that some reviews mention limited time, especially on Kolocep and Lopud.
• Beach time: Bring your swimwear and towel, as Sunj beach on Lopud is often highlighted as a must-see for sunbathing and swimming.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, water, and a hat are essentials—you’re in the sun most of the day.
• Language: The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international travelers.
• Flexibility: You can book this tour with the option to reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.
• Cancellation: Full refunds are available with a 24-hour notice, adding peace of mind in case plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about experiencing a slice of Croatian island life. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing stories about each island’s history and natural features. If you’re lucky, you might get insights into how aristocratic families once used Sipan as a peaceful retreat or hear about the flora and fauna on Kolocep.

The beaches, particularly Sunj, are a highlight for many, offering soft sands and calm waters that are perfect for relaxing or swimming. Several reviewers appreciate the chance to enjoy the scenery without the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik’s crowded streets.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour is a solid option for those seeking a full day of natural beauty, swimming, and island hopping without the stress of organizing transportation or activities independently. The value for money is good, especially with the included lunch and guide service.

If you’re after a relaxed day in scenic surroundings, with opportunities to swim, walk, and soak up some sun, this trip hits the right notes. Keep in mind that pacing might be uneven—if you prefer longer stays on each stop or a more in-depth exploration, you might want to consider how this fits into your travel style.

For families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Croatia’s islands, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. The friendly crew, stunning vistas, and included meal make it a no-fuss way to enjoy the Croatian coast.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour typically runs from morning until late afternoon, including boat rides, island stops, swimming, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers boat transportation, a guided commentary, lunch served on board, and onboard restrooms.

Are there opportunities to swim?
Yes, the waters around Lopud and Sunj beach are ideal for swimming and relaxing in the water.

How much time do we spend on each island?
Time varies, but reviews suggest that stops on Kolocep and Lopud may be shorter than some travelers would prefer, with some feeling they had too little time on the beaches.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, children comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities would likely enjoy the trip, especially the beach time.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, swimming gear, and perhaps a camera for the stunning scenery.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation to and from Dubrovnik covered?
The tour starts and ends at a designated meeting point, so transportation to Dubrovnik is up to you.

Who is this tour ideal for?
It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day out with plenty of swimming and light exploration, especially if you prefer guided experiences over self-organized trips.

To sum it up, the Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch offers a well-rounded, scenic escape that highlights Croatia’s natural beauty and island charm. While pacing might be an issue for some, the combination of stunning landscapes, friendly guides, and delicious food makes this a worthwhile addition to your Dubrovnik itinerary, particularly if you value ease and comfort during your day on the water.