Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Island Luxury Pirate Ship Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian coast, the Elaphiti Islands cruise from Dubrovnik might just be your perfect escape. While we haven’t personally boarded this ship, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, fun-filled day that combines scenic beauty with cultural insight.

What really appeals to us is the authentic pirate-style ship, the chance to learn about the islands from a knowledgeable guide, and the variety of optional activities—from wine tastings to hikes—that make this experience flexible and interactive. The value-for-money aspect also stands out, with a full-day adventure for just $59 per person.

One thing to consider is that the tour hinges on weather conditions—bad weather might lead to cancellations or schedule changes. But if you’re looking for a relaxed yet immersive day trip that balances sightseeing, activities, and some local flavor, this cruise seems tailor-made for travelers who enjoy variety and authentic experiences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits those wanting a mix of scenic sailing, historical storytelling, and island exploration without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for travelers who value a good guide, enjoy optional activities, and want plenty of free time on each island to soak in the atmosphere. Families, solo travelers, and couples alike will find something to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Pirate Ship Experience: The replica vessel adds a fun, atmospheric touch that enhances the adventure.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Visits to three different islands with ample free time and optional activities.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The guides, especially those praised like Indira, bring history and local stories to life.
• Authentic & Local Tastes: Opportunities to sample local products like honey, olive oil, and wine.
• Flexible & Customizable: Options for hikes, farm visits, wine tastings, and optional lunch choices.
• Great Value for Money: Full-day experience at $59, including transport, Wi-Fi, and on-board amenities.

The Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

The Journey Begins: Boarding and Setting Sail

The adventure kicks off early, with boarding starting at 8:45 AM at the Dubrovnik dock in front of Obala Stjepana Radia 16, near the restaurant Glorijet. Several reviews highlight how smoothly the process is, with some mentioning the helpfulness of staff in arranging transfers if needed. Remember, crew members take around 10 minutes to prepare the ship, so arriving on time is wise—crew are strict about the 8:55 AM cut-off.

The vessel itself feels more like a pirate galleon than a typical boat, with a design that transports you straight into a storybook adventure. It’s spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with modern amenities like air-conditioned salons, Wi-Fi, and clean toilets—meaning comfort isn’t sacrificed for fun.

First Stop: Kolocep Island

Kolocep is your first taste of island life, with about an hour of free time. Many reviews mention enjoying the natural beauty here, with some guides offering optional hiking tours—a 20-minute walk to a chapel or along scenic paths. Others head straight to the waterfront to relax or take photos.

One reviewer, Taniya, praised the guide Indira and the crew for their “splendid job,” noting how they created a memorable experience through generous hospitality. Another guest loved the opportunity to explore a family-owned farm, sampling local honey, olive oil, and sweets for just €5 per person—a chance to indulge in authentic tastes and see local craftsmanship.

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Second Stop: Ipan Island’s Suura Village

Next, the boat heads to Ipan, where the highlight is visiting the charming Suura village. Here, travelers get about an hour and 15 minutes to explore, relax, or join a wine tasting tour for €10 per person. Multiple reviews emphasize how informative and friendly guides made these tastings special, with stories behind local wines and enough time to sip and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

Some guests took the opportunity to stroll along the waterfront or peek into local shops, appreciating the relaxed pace and scenic views. The opportunity for a wine tour is considered a highlight, adding a layer of cultural richness to the day.

Final Stop: Lopud Island

This is the longest stop, with around three hours of free time. The island’s laid-back vibe makes it a favorite, with options to hike up to the Sutvra Fortress (a 20-minute walk) for panoramic views or simply lounge on the sandy Unj Beach, which many reviewers describe as perfect for cooling off in crystal-clear waters.

Guests also often rent a golf cart to visit the woodland restaurants or walk along the Riviera, soaking in the local charm. For lunch, you can choose between two restaurants—Restaurant Glavovi or Rajski Kutak Bindo—both offering special-priced meals covering fish, meat, and vegetarian options, with some reviewers noting the quality and generous portions.

Optional Activities & Tasting Experiences

The tour offers several add-ons worth considering:

• Hiking tours (complimentary or paid)
• Farm tastings (local honey, olive oil, sweets)
• Wine tasting on Ipan, adding a delightful local touch

Guests who splurged on these reviews praise how they add memorable flavor to the day. As Laura mentioned, “The wine and cheese tasting was great,” and many enjoyed sitting on terraces with homemade wine in Sipan, as shared by Tracey.

Return Voyage & Final Reflections

As the day winds down, the cruise heads back to Dubrovnik, with the sea breeze and the chance to share photos via free onboard Wi-Fi. The entire trip lasts approximately 8-9 hours, depending on the season and weather conditions, with departure times shifting slightly from June to October.

Reviewers consistently mention how smooth and enjoyable the sail back is, with some noting the “authentic” feel of the boat and crew assistance. The boat’s cleanliness and friendly staff are often praised, as is the helpful guide who shared stories and local insights, making the trip both fun and educational.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The Unique Pirate Ship Design

The vessel’s appearance—resembling a classic merchant or pirate ship—adds a layer of fun, especially for families or those who like a little adventure vibe. Many reviews mention how impressed guests were with the ship’s style and condition, which elevates the experience beyond a standard boat tour.

The Balance of Guided and Free Time

The tour strikes a good balance, with enough guided commentary to learn about the islands’ history and culture, complemented by plenty of free exploration. This mix allows travelers to relax, take photos, or dive into optional activities at their own pace.

Excellent Guide & Crew

Many reviews specifically mention guides like Indira, praising her knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling. The crew’s helpfulness, from boarding to returning, makes the entire experience stress-free and enjoyable.

Authentic Tasting Experiences

Adding local tastings—olive oil, honey, wine—gives a taste of Croatia’s culinary traditions. Reviewers like Alexcia and Theresa emphasize how these add-ons are well worth the small extra cost.

Great Value for Money

At $59, this full-day experience includes transport, Wi-Fi, guided tours, and access to beautiful islands. Comparing it to other similar experiences, the reviews indicate it offers excellent bang for your buck—especially with the flexibility to choose optional activities.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early to boarding at 8:45 AM; late arrivals won’t be allowed onboard.
• Bring beachwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a hat for comfort during swimming and exploring.
• If you skip the included transport, consider public transit or Uber—parking is limited.
• The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather could lead to cancellations or schedule changes, so check the forecast.
• The departure time shifts seasonally, so confirm the schedule before booking.
• Bring some cash for optional tastings and purchases, as not all activities are included in the base price.
• The ship is spacious but note that some reviews mention hearing the guide better from the middle or back—front seats near the bow might be noisy.

The Bottom Line

This Dubrovnik Elaphiti Islands cruise offers a fantastic blend of scenic sailing, cultural insight, and island exploration. The authentic ship design and knowledgeable guides make it stand out, while the flexible itinerary ensures travelers can tailor the experience to their interests.

For those who love a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor—all at a reasonable price—this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the islands with a good company and a splash of history.

If you’re after a fun, authentic, and well-organized day out in Croatia, this cruise delivers plenty of memorable moments—just keep an eye on the weather and arrive prepared.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with children enjoying the trip. The ship is spacious, and there’s a relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for kids who enjoy water and exploration.

How long is the entire tour?
The full day lasts approximately 8-9 hours, depending on the season and weather conditions, with scheduled departure times from late morning to early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The base price of $59 covers the cruise itself, guide, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and onboard toilets. Optional activities like tastings, hikes, or lunch are extra.

Can I upgrade or add activities?
Yes, options include wine tasting, farm visits, olive oil and honey tastings, and optional hiking—adding a personalized touch to your day.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. Cash is handy for optional tastings and purchases onboard.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour requires good weather and a minimum number of participants, with cancellations possible in poor conditions.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking can be challenging; public transportation or ride-sharing is recommended if you’re not opting for hotel pickup.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the weather prevents the trip.

This cruise offers a charming, authentic way to explore the Elaphiti Islands, blending history, scenery, and local flavors in a memorable day out. With friendly guides, stunning views, and good value, it’s a recommended experience for anyone visiting Dubrovnik eager to see more of Croatia’s coastal gems.

You can check availability for your dates here: