A Balanced Look at the Elaphiti Islands Full-Day Tour with Lunch
Taking a boat trip around Croatia’s Elaphiti Islands is a popular way to see some of the country’s most beautiful coastlines and islands in one go. We’ve reviewed this full-day experience, which promises visits to three islands—Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud—plus swimming, exploring, and a tasty onboard meal.
What we love about this tour are the scenic boat ride, the variety of islands, and the good quality of food included. It’s a chance to relax and see the Dalmatian archipelago without the hassle of planning your own trip.
A potential consideration is the timing and pacing—it’s a long day that involves a lot of moving parts, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more leisurely pace on land, it’s worth considering.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures, enjoy island scenery, and want to experience Croatia’s island life without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for those who appreciate good value and want a well-organized, scenic escape from the city bustle.
Key Points
- Three islands in one day: You visit Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud, experiencing different atmospheres and sights.
- Authentic island experience: No cars on Koločep, quaint hamlets, and lush Mediterranean flora.
- Scenic views and swimming: Expect clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Delicious onboard lunch: Options include meat, fish, or vegetarian, with plenty of time to relax.
- Knowledgeable crew: Guides and skippers are praised for their friendliness and professionalism.
- Good value for money: Many reviews highlight the tour’s reasonable pricing for what’s included.
The Experience in Detail
Looking for more options in Elaphiti Islands? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The day kicks off at the Regina Maris meeting point, where staff wait ready with the boat, a sleek vessel that looks both comfortable and modern. After a quick safety briefing, you set sail across the shimmering Adriatic, with an estimated 30-minute ferry ride that begins your island adventure. This initial stretch already hints at the relaxing pace and scenic views to come.
Koločep is your first stop. Known for its untouched charm, this island is perfect for wandering without the noise of cars or busy streets. You’ll have about 75 minutes to explore. Our sources mention strolling through pine, carob, and citrus trees, with many guests noting the peaceful walkways and the scattered ancient buildings hinting at the island’s history. A reviewer, Greg, mentioned the “peaceful” atmosphere and appreciated the lack of cars, which truly lets you experience local Dalmatian life.
Next, you cruise over to Šipan, the largest of the islands. Here, you get about an hour of free time, giving you a chance to explore the stone villas and historic churches. Since Šipan has been inhabited since Roman times, many visitors enjoy soaking in its historic charm and natural beauty, with reviewers noting the presence of olives, figs, and citrus fruits.
The highlight is Lopud, where you’ll spend roughly two hours. Known as the most beautiful of the islands, Lopud boasts wide, sandy beaches and a relaxed vibe perfect for unwinding after the busy morning. Many guests rave about the opportunity to swim, with some even braving the early-season waters as Safak noted, “even though it’s not summer, the sea is so clear and refreshing.” You can also stroll the seaside promenade, explore local cafes, or simply lounge on the sands.
The Food and Refreshments
A key part of this tour is the onboard lunch, which lasts around 45 minutes. The menu options are flexible—meat, fish, or vegetarian—catering to a variety of tastes. Reviewers like John and Lindsay commend the quality of the meal, describing it as “exceptional” and “delicious,” often emphasizing the generous portions and friendly service.
The food’s value is apparent, especially considering it’s included in the package, relieving you from the usual hassle of finding a nice spot for lunch during a busy sightseeing day. Plus, many mention how the relaxed pacing allows ample time to enjoy the meal without rushing.
The Return Journey
After your leisurely time on Lopud, you’ll cruise back to Dubrovnik, with a 45-minute ferry ride to wind down. Reviewers have noted that the boat is well-maintained and comfortable, making the return trip just as pleasant as the outward journey. Some guests mention the crew’s professionalism and helpfulness, making the experience feel smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Knowledgeable Crew and Guides: While the tour doesn’t include a dedicated guide, reviews praise the skipper and staff for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guests often mention the crew’s attentiveness, ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable.
Scenic and Authentic: The islands’ natural beauty, particularly the sandy beaches of Lopud and the car-free streets of Koločep, provide an authentic Dalmatian island experience. It’s a great chance to see traditional architecture, Mediterranean flora, and local life.
Good Value for Money: Several reviews highlight the inclusiveness of the tour—boat cruise, lunch, and transport—making it a compelling option for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience without extra costs.
Flexibility and Comfort: The tour offers plenty of free time on each island, meaning you can choose to relax on the beaches, explore scenic spots, or stroll through villages at your own pace.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Timing and Pace: The full-day itinerary is about 8 hours, so it suits those comfortable with long days of activity and travel. If you’re prone to motion sickness, the boat rides might be a concern, but many find the seas calm.
- What to Bring: Essentials include comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A hat and a towel could also come in handy, especially if you plan to swim or lounge.
- Clothing: Dress in layers, as mornings and evenings can be cooler, but expect warm midday sun.
- Food Preferences: Remember to specify your lunch choice when booking—meat, fish, or vegetarian—to ensure a meal suited to your taste.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is best suited for couples, families, or groups of friends who want to see multiple islands in a single day without the stress of planning logistics themselves. It’s a good fit for those seeking scenic beauty, authentic island atmospheres, and a relaxed pace, especially if they enjoy swimming and exploring small towns.
It’s also ideal for travelers on a budget who want a comprehensive, well-organized trip that combines sightseeing, lounging, and a delicious meal, all included.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including boat rides, island visits, and lunch.
What islands will I visit?
You’ll visit three islands: Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud.
Is there enough time on each island?
Yes, you get about 75 minutes on Koločep, an hour on Šipan, and around two hours on Lopud, enough to explore or relax.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a camera. Swimsuits are optional but recommended if you want to swim.
Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian is included, and many guests find it to be a good quality meal.
Is the boat comfortable?
Guests often comment that the boat is pristine and well maintained, providing a comfortable ride.
Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Many guests swim in the clear waters around Lopud and other islands, especially if the weather is warm.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable on boat rides, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it family-friendly.
Final Thoughts
The Elaphiti Islands full-day tour offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxation, all packed into a manageable day. The inclusion of a delicious lunch, the peaceful car-free islands, and the professional crew make it a solid choice for those visiting Dubrovnik and wanting to see a different side of Croatia.
It’s especially appealing for outdoor lovers, history buffs, or anyone craving a break from city life with plenty of opportunities to swim, stroll, and soak up the sun. Given the many positive reviews and the value-packed itinerary, it’s a tour worth considering for your Croatian adventure.
In summary, this tour is perfect if you want a well-organized day on the water, with diverse island scenery, good food, and a relaxed pace. It works best for those who want to balance sightseeing with leisure, and who appreciate authentic, car-free island environments.
You can check availability for your dates here: