From Dubrovnik: Boat Tour to Kolocep, Lopud, & Sipan Islands

Getting a taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast doesn’t get much better than a full-day boat trip around the Elaphiti Islands. This tour, offered by Dubrovnik Local Guide, takes you on a leisurely cruise to three inhabited islands—Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan—with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and soak up the scenery. With excellent reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5 from over 347 guests, it’s clear this experience hits the sweet spot for most travelers.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it balances laid-back island exploration with the comfort of a well-organized boat cruise. The included lunch, drinks, and knowledgeable guides are big pluses, making it a great value for a day out on the water. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the timing at each stop can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore every corner of each island. This tour suits those who want a taste of the Dalmatian coast without dedicating multiple days, ideal for travelers looking to combine sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in one smooth package.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with stops on three distinct, inhabited islands
• All-inclusive options: lunch, drinks, and optional blue cave speedboat add-on
• Flexible timing at each stop, with the longest on Lopud (3 hours)
• Informative guides like Natasha and Mikayla make the experience more engaging
• Excellent value considering the boat, lunch, drinks, and sightseeing included
• Perfect for those seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of scenic and cultural highlights

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This full-day boat adventure kicks off with a meet-up at 8:45 am at a designated bus stop across from the University building in Dubrovnik. From there, you’ll hop aboard the boat, affectionately named “Emili,” and set out across the shimmering waters of the Adriatic. The boat is modern, well-maintained, and spacious enough for large groups, with plenty of shaded and open-air seating for different preferences.

Visiting the Elaphiti Islands – What Makes Them Special?

These islands, known collectively as the Elaphiti, are about 20-30 minutes from Dubrovnik. They are famous for their lush greenery, peaceful atmosphere, and historical mansions—especially on Sipan, which was once a retreat for aristocratic families. The scenery alone is enough to charm you, with crystal-clear waters and green landscapes that seem almost untouched.

Kolocep: A Quiet, Picturesque Escape

The first stop is Kolocep, the smallest of the three, with a reputation for natural beauty and peaceful vibes. Reviews highlight that this island is perfect for walking, relaxing, or biking. We love the fact that the guides give a little background here, helping you appreciate the island’s serene environment. You’ll get around an hour to wander, sit by the peaceful sea, or take some photos. Many reviews mention the quality of the guides—Natasha, in particular, is praised for her knowledge and warmth, making the experience feel personal.

Lopud: The Hidden Gem

Lopud is the most developed of the three, but it remains car-free, which keeps it quiet and charming. The famous Sunj Beach is the main attraction, and you’ll spend about 3 hours here—more than enough to swim, sunbathe, or grab a refreshing ice cream. Reviewers love the snorkeling options beneath the monastery and the chance to walk around the lush park. Some guests mention that waves can be a bit strong for snorkeling, so if you’re cautious, goggles are recommended. The atmosphere is laid-back, and many mention how peaceful it feels to sit on the front of the boat, soaking in the views with less crowd.

Sipan: The Aristocratic Retreat

The largest of the islands, Sipan, is known for its large villas and historic significance. It’s called the “island of olive trees,” and many guests enjoy a swim here, with some noting the warmth and clarity of the water. The one-hour stop can seem brief, but reviews confirm that the crew tries to make the most of the time, providing insights about the island’s history and recommending the best spots to relax. The lunch here is served right on the boat, with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, all of which guests say are tasty and hearty.

The Experience on Board

The boat crew receives high praise for their attentiveness and friendliness. Many reviewers, including Danielle, mention how the crew, especially Natasha and Emily, went above and beyond to keep everyone comfortable, topped up with drinks, and informed about each island. The open bar is a highlight—water, soft drinks, white wine, and surprise drinks are available throughout the day, keeping everyone refreshed.

Lunch is served buffet-style, with quality ingredients and generous portions. The menu options include fish, chicken, and vegetarian choices, allowing for dietary preferences. Guests often mention the deliciousness of the food, which is impressive for a boat-based meal, and the unlimited wine adds a celebratory touch.

Extra Options and Flexibility

For those wanting a bit more adventure, there’s an optional add-on to visit the blue cave via speedboat—something guests rave about as well worth the extra €20. The tour also offers the convenience of reserving now and paying later, plus flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which makes planning easier.

The Pacing and Duration

Most guests agree the timing is well-structured, with about an hour at Kolocep, an hour at Sipan, and three hours on Lopud. Reviewers mention that the timing at the first two islands can feel a little rushed if you want to explore more extensively, but overall, the balance feels right for a day trip. The three-hour stretch on Lopud is generally enough for swimming, walking, and relaxing, and some guests appreciate the freedom to choose their own pace.

However, a few reviews note that the first two islands feel a bit hurried, so if you’re keen on exploring every nook, you might find the schedule tight. Still, most guests feel it offers a good snapshot of each place without feeling rushed.

Practical Details

This tour costs about $76 per person, which many reviewers see as excellent value given the boat, lunch, drinks, and multiple island stops included. The meeting point is straightforward—across from the University building—and the boat, “Emili,” is easy to spot.

The tour runs in English, and the crew is praised for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. Guests recommend booking in advance because the trip tends to fill up, especially in peak season.

This boat trip offers an honest and enjoyable way to see Dubrovnik’s nearby islands without the hassle of arranging multiple transfers or staying overnight. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day filled with swimming, light exploration, and good food. The knowledgeable guides, especially Natasha and Mikayla, make the experience more engaging, and the all-inclusive drinks and hearty lunch add to the value.

While it’s not a deep dive into each island’s history or culture—expect more of a sightseeing and relaxation experience—it’s an excellent way to get a broad sense of the lush Dalmatian coast. For families, groups, or couples who enjoy being on the water and want a hassle-free day, this tour ticks all the boxes.

If you’re after a well-organized, friendly, and scenic day with opportunities for swimming and island hopping, this trip from Dubrovnik should be at the top of your list. Just be prepared for the timing at each stop—if you love to explore every inch, you might want to plan for some extra time on your own after the tour.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes boat transportation, lunch (with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian), and drinks (water, soft drinks, wine, and surprise drinks). Optional extra to visit the blue cave by speedboat is available for €20.

What’s the meeting point and time?
Meet at 8:45 am across from the University building in Dubrovnik. The boat is called “Emili” and won’t arrive before that time.

How long do we stay on each island?
You’ll spend about an hour on Kolocep, an hour on Sipan, and three hours on Lopud. The longest stop is on Lopud, giving you plenty of time to swim, walk, or relax.

Is the lunch provided good?
Yes, guests praise the delicious, hearty meal with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian. Portions are generous, and the drinks keep flowing throughout.

Can I buy additional excursions?
Yes, for €20 extra, you can take a speedboat to swim in the blue cave, which many reviews say is well worth the small extra cost.

Is it suitable for families or children?
Most reviews mention the crew being attentive and friendly, making it manageable for families. The calm waters and relaxed pace are ideal for kids, but check with the tour provider about age restrictions.

How is the crew?
Guests consistently mention the crew’s friendliness, attentiveness, and knowledge. Natasha and Emily are especially praised as warm, caring hosts.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine, but check the weather forecast beforehand. In case of severe weather, cancellations are possible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and goggles if you want to snorkel. A hat and water are also recommended for comfort.

How is the overall value?
Given the boat ride, lunch, drinks, and island stops, most guests find this tour excellent value for money, especially with the knowledgeable guides and flexible options.

This boat trip to the Elaphiti Islands combines scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxing waterside fun, making it a memorable part of your Dalmatian adventure. Whether you’re after a peaceful day on the water or some light exploration with plenty of swimming, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.