Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise in the Elaphites with Lunch

Discover the Elaphite Islands: A Full-Day Dubrovnik Cruise Experience

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and craving a taste of the spectacular Dalmatian coast, the Island-Hopping Cruise in the Elaphites offers a relaxed way to explore some of Croatia’s most charming islands. This tour combines scenic boat rides, cultural sights, beachside relaxation, and a hearty local lunch—all wrapped into a convenient 8-hour package.

One of the standout features we love is how this trip balances sightseeing with downtime. The stops at Koloep, Ipan, and Lopud give you a genuine feel for island life, from citrus groves to medieval ruins and pristine beaches. And the unlimited drinks onboard—wine, juices, and water—keep you refreshed as you soak up the sunshine.

A potential consideration is that the itinerary may not exactly match the advertised order, which might affect your plans if specific stops are your priority. Also, with a maximum group of 100 travelers, it’s a lively but manageable experience suitable for most.

This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and culturally rich day out without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. It’s especially well-suited for travelers eager to enjoy the Croatian coastline, indulge in good food and drink, and explore multiple islands in one day.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride: Enjoy approximately 8 hours of cruising around the Elaphite Islands, with plenty of time to explore.
• Authentic island visits: Walk through 600-year-old ruins, citrus groves, and lush pine forests.
• Beachside relaxation: Spend substantial time on Lopud’s Unj Beach, soaking up the sun or swimming in the clear waters.
• Delicious onboard lunch: Choose from meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes made with local ingredients, complemented by unlimited drinks.
• Expert crew: Friendly guides and crew members enhance the experience, providing insights and attentive service.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup and WiFi onboard help make the day smooth and enjoyable.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure from Dubrovnik

The day begins with hotel pickup (if you opt for this), making your start hassle-free. The shuttle takes you to the port at Gru—an area known for its pleasant surroundings and the departure point for many island excursions. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable before boarding the boat, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

First Stop: Koloep Island

Your voyage starts with a visit to Koloep Island, renowned for its smelling lemon and orange gardens and expansive pine and carob forests. Reviewers mention the “sheer cliffs” that dramatically rise from the sea, creating incredible photo ops.

The island’s medieval churches and manor houses date back 600 years, offering a glimpse into its historical significance. Several guests appreciated having free time to wander and explore independently—some even took a quick walk through the lush greenery or snapped photos of the rugged coastline.

A reviewer remarked, “The first two stops were fantastic, and the crew was lovely and accommodating, always providing iced tea and water on a hot day.” This highlights how attentive the crew is, which adds to the overall comfort.

Second Stop: Ipan Island

Next, the boat sails towards Ipan, the largest of the islands, where greenery meets history. It’s an ideal spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The ruins of 15th-century manor houses and medieval churches await discovery, giving a tangible sense of the island’s past.

Guests often spend about an hour here, wandering at their own pace. One reviewer shared that “the walk around the verdant island was the biggest in the archipelago,” and many appreciated the opportunity to stretch their legs after the boat ride.

The reviews also suggest that some travelers might find the island more suited to walking or exploring ruins than lounging on beaches, so packing comfortable shoes is recommended.

Third Stop: Lopud and Unj Beach

The highlight for many is the time spent at Lopud’s Unj Beach, one of the most famous beaches in southern Dalmatia. The shallow, clear waters and white sands draw travelers for swimming and sunbathing. Several reviews praised the relaxed atmosphere and “gorgeous water,” with some noting they opted to just lounge and soak in the sun.

After a leisurely lunch onboard, the boat arrives in Lopud, where you have about three hours to relax. You can walk around Lopud Town, admire its medieval architecture, or simply sit at a beachside café with a drink in hand. Many guests appreciated the flexibility, with some noting the opportunity to explore or relax as they preferred.

Lunch and Refreshments

Lunch is traditionally Mediterranean, with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes made from local ingredients. Reviewers have described the food as “surprisingly excellent,” often better than expected for a boat meal. The unlimited soft drinks and wine are a plus, especially on a hot day, making it easy to stay refreshed without worrying about extra costs.

Guests consistently mention the crew’s attentiveness—offering drinks frequently and ensuring everyone is comfortable. One reviewer said, “The boat was big enough for everyone to sit comfortably, and the food was good quality,” reinforcing that value for money.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

The day wraps up with the boat cruising back to Dubrovnik, where most travelers are dropped off at their hotels. The peaceful, scenic return trip allows for reflection on a day well spent exploring Croatia’s spectacular islands.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Island Experiences

Unlike some tours that rush through attractions, this cruise offers genuine time to unwind and explore each stop. Guests get a sense of island life, from ancient ruins and citrus gardens to sandy beaches. Multiple reviews highlight how the pace was well-balanced, with enough time to relax and explore without feeling hurried.

Knowledgeable, Friendly Guides

While the tour is primarily boat-based, the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness shine through. Reviewers describe the crew as “incredibly friendly,” “helpful,” and “knowledgeable,” which adds a layer of comfort and insight throughout the day.

Delicious, Local Food

The onboard lunch consistently earns praise. With options catering to different dietary preferences, the quality of the meal, combined with unlimited drinks, offers excellent value. Several travelers mention how much they enjoyed the meal, considering it better than expected for a tour at this price point.

Stunning Scenery and Beaches

The scenic views, especially at Unj Beach, are frequently mentioned as the main highlight. The combination of crystal-clear waters, white sands, and lush surroundings creates picture-perfect moments that will likely be remembered long after the trip.

Good Value for Money

At around $54 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience—cruise, island visits, lunch, drinks, and transport. The reviews support that this is an excellent deal for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the number of stops and the quality of the service.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Book early—the tour is popular, especially in peak season, with recent bookings over five times just last week.
• Bring swim shoes if you plan to swim at Unj Beach, as reviewers mention sea urchins and rocky areas.
• Prepare for the heat—hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water are advisable, despite the onboard drinks.
• Check the itinerary ahead of time—some travelers found the actual order of island stops differed from the advertised schedule.
• Opt for hotel pickup if available, to streamline your day, but note that the meeting point is Lapadska obala at 9:00 am.
• Dietary preferences should be specified when booking, especially if you prefer vegetarian or special meal options.
• Consider the group size—with up to 100 travelers, it’s lively but still manageable, and most guests find it comfortable.
• Weather-dependent—the tour is canceled only in poor weather, with options for a different date or a full refund.

The Sum Up

This Dubrovnik island-hopping cruise offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural interest, and relaxation. It’s a fantastic way to see multiple islands in a single day without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals — all while enjoying local flavors and stunning views.

The combination of knowledgeable crew, delicious food, and beautiful natural scenery makes it a top pick for travelers wanting a taste of Dalmatian coastal life. Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or simply looking to unwind on the water, this tour delivers on many fronts.

People who appreciate authentic island visits, want good value, and enjoy social, lively atmospheres will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who want a full, relaxed day with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and soaking in Croatia’s stunning coastline.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select that option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 9:00 am from Lapadska obala, Dubrovnik.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including cruising, island stops, and lunch.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?
Yes, you can specify your preferred meal type (meat, fish, or vegetarian) when booking.

What drinks are included onboard?
Unlimited soft drinks, water, and local wine are available throughout the cruise.

Can I swim at the beaches?
Yes, particularly at Unj Beach, but bring appropriate footwear if you plan to swim, as some reviews mention rocky areas and sea urchins.

Is the itinerary fixed?
The order of stops may vary, with some guests noting the actual sequence differed from the advertised schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers find it suitable, but note that swimming may require caution, especially with rocky shores and sea creatures.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, and possibly a snorkel or swim shoes if swimming is planned.

This cruise offers a wonderful blend of scenic sailing, cultural exploration, and beach relaxation, making it a memorable part of any Croatian holiday.