Elaphite Islands Cruise and Blue Cave Snorkeling Boat Tour from Dubrovnik

Exploring Croatia’s Elaphite Islands: A Detailed Review of the Dubrovnik Boat Tour

If you’re headed to Dubrovnik and craving a taste of Croatia’s stunning islands, the Elaphite Islands Cruise with Blue Cave snorkeling offers a solid day out—covering all the must-see highlights in one go. With a mix of scenic views, island hopping, a bit of swimming, and a tasty included lunch, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s city walls.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it packs so much into a single day—visiting Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep islands, with the added thrill of snorkeling in the Blue Cave. Plus, the fact that drinks, lunch, and equipment are all included makes it easier on your budget and your planning. But, like any group tour, there are some considerations—mainly the potential for crowded caves or boats, especially during peak season.

This tour tends to suit those who want an authentic, fun-filled day on the water without the hassle of organizing transport or activities independently. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone looking to get a quick but comprehensive taste of the Elaphiti archipelago. Just keep in mind that some reviews mention the boat capacity can be tight or the Blue Cave somewhat crowded, so if you’re after a more intimate experience, early bookings or smaller groups might be worth considering.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Visit three islands, snorkel in the Blue Cave, and enjoy a traditional Croatian lunch.
• Value for Money: Included drinks, lunch, and snorkeling gear make this a budget-friendly full-day tour.
• Scenic & Cultural Highlights: Gorgeous island landscapes, local villages, and opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
• Group Size & Comfort: Usually smaller boats with about 15-20 people, making for a more personal experience.
• Potential Crowds: The Blue Cave can be busy, especially in peak season, and some reviews mention crowd congestion.
• Flexibility & Weather: Route and snorkeling spots depend on weather conditions; the captain reserves the right to change plans.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point & Duration

The tour kicks off from Dubrovnik’s Lapadska obala around 8:30-9:00 AM, with a pickup service that makes the start smooth. Expect to be on the water for about 8 to 9 hours, covering quite a lot in one day—so pack sunscreen, your camera, and a sense of adventure.

Blue Cave Dubrovnik

Your first stop is the Blue Cave—a highlight for many. The boat anchors, and you’ll have about 30 minutes to admire the glowing blue waters through the cave’s natural opening. Most reviewers praise the cave for its stunning color, but some mention that the entrance can get crowded, making it tough to swim in or get clear photos. On good weather days, snorkeling here can be quite magical, with clear, cool water perfect for a quick dip.

Lopud Island

Next, the boat moves to Lopud, a tiny island with a charming harbor and a peaceful vibe. You’ll have roughly three hours here, which is enough time to explore the village, walk along the coast, or head to the famous Bay of Sunj with its long sandy beach. Reviewers mention that the Sunj beach is especially beautiful—shallow, warm, and ideal for relaxing or taking a paddle in the calm sea.

Sipan Island & Lunch

Sipan is the next stop, where a hearty, local-style lunch awaits. The menu generally includes grilled fish or chicken, seasoned potatoes, bread, and a simple salad. Many travelers remark on the quality of the homemade meal, often prepared by the captain’s family, making it a more authentic experience. Wine, soft drinks, and water are all included, though some mention the wine might not be to everyone’s taste—more rustic than refined.

Post-lunch, there’s free time to stroll through the village of Sura, check out local shops, or simply soak in the island atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace here, though some wished for a bit more time.

Kolocep Island

The last island stop is Kolocep, known as the sunniest of the group with over 250 days of sunshine annually. Tourists often use this hour for sunbathing, swimming, or just catching up on rest. The island’s beaches are shallow and inviting, perfect for a quick dip before heading back.

Return & Snorkeling in the Blue Cave (Final Stop)

On the journey back, the captain may surprise everyone with a second stop at the Blue Cave—this time, typically with warmer, more suitable conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Multiple reviews praise this as a highlight, with some mentioning that the second visit was calmer and less crowded.

What We Love & What to Consider

The positives of this tour are clear: the included lunch, unlimited drinks, and the chance to visit three different islands in a day. The smaller boat size, with around 15-20 guests, means you’re less squeezed than on larger vessels, and the crew’s friendly attitude often receives praise. Several reviewers mention the delicious, homemade lunch and the great selection of drinks, which keeps everyone refreshed and happy during the day.

However, crowding remains an issue, especially in the Blue Cave. Several guests have noted that the cave entrance can be busy, making it tricky to fully enjoy the experience or get good photos. The Blue Cave’s popularity means it can be congested, and some have felt that the snorkeling here is less memorable due to the number of boats and swimmers.

Another point to consider is the boat condition. Some reviews recount being moved to a smaller, less equipped vessel without much notice, which affected comfort levels. If you’re particular about boat size or amenities, it might be worth confirming your boat details beforehand.

Timing is also key. The itinerary is well-structured but depends heavily on weather conditions—poor weather can lead to route changes or canceled stops. The captain reserves the right to alter plans, which can be disappointing if specific sites are missed or cut short.

The Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Flavored with Local Charm

What makes this tour stand out is its authentic feel—locals running the show, homemade food, and the chance to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Several reviews mention how welcoming and friendly the crew is, with Boris and Thomas repeatedly praised for their helpfulness and good humor.

It’s notable that many visitors felt this tour offered good value for money. For around $70 per person, including lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and island stops, you’re getting a comprehensive day out that covers the essentials without extra cost surprises.

Some guests specifically loved the relaxed pace, giving plenty of time to explore each island and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters a cozy, personal atmosphere—ideal for families or couples looking for a more intimate experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early to secure your spot, especially in peak season, as last-minute bookings can be limited.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses; the Croatian sun can be fierce, especially when you’re out on the water all day.
• Pack a towel and some cash—although many stops provide opportunities to swim, you might want to rent sunbeds or buy souvenirs.
• Consider your comfort level: if you’re wary of crowded caves or boats, inquire about smaller vessels or less popular departure times.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid logistics stress.
• Be prepared for weather-dependent changes; the captain may modify the route or snorkeling spots if conditions aren’t suitable.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Elaphite Islands cruise is best suited for travelers who want an all-inclusive, fun-packed day exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands without the hassle of organizing everything themselves. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic local food, friendly crew, and beautiful scenery, all wrapped into a manageable day trip.

If you’re after stunning views, refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, and the chance to sample home-cooked Croatian cuisine, this tour will deliver. Keep in mind, though, that it’s quite popular, and some sites can feel crowded during peak months, so if a quiet, exclusive experience is your priority, you might prefer smaller, private options.

Overall, it offers excellent value for money, a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere—perfect for making memories on your Croatian holiday.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a traditional Croatian lunch is included. You can choose between fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. The meal is freshly prepared, and many reviews mention how delicious and hearty it is.

Are drinks included during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour features unlimited drinks, including beer, wine, soft drinks, and bottled water, making it easy to stay refreshed throughout the day.

What are the island stops like?
You’ll visit Lopud for about three hours, which offers beaches and a charming village. Sipan gets about an hour for a leisurely lunch and some sightseeing, while Kolocep provides time for sunbathing or swimming before heading back.

Can I snorkel in the Blue Cave?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and several reviews highlight the Blue Cave as a favorite spot for swimming. However, the experience can be crowded, especially in peak season.

What is the group size?
Typically, the boat accommodates around 15-20 people, fostering a more intimate experience. Some reviews mention that larger boats and crowds can sometimes detract from the comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, a towel, and perhaps some cash for souvenirs or optional extras. A camera is a must, as the scenery and caves are photo-worthy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age is 18, and the tour is generally suitable for most ages who enjoy boat trips and swimming.

Embark on this Croatian adventure and get ready for a day filled with stunning views, charming islands, and delicious local flavors. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Lopud’s sands or exploring the Blue Cave’s shimmering waters, this tour offers a lively slice of Croatia’s coastal magic.