Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent island-hopping around Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian coast, the Elaphite Islands Cruise promises a blend of scenic views, cultural charm, and relaxing beach time. Based on countless reviews, this tour consistently earns a high rating of 4.8/5, thanks to its friendly crew, stunning island stops, and generous drinks service.

What we love about this cruise? It’s the ease of logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off, the variety of islands to explore, and the delicious regional lunch paired with unlimited drinks. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is quite packed — if you’re craving a slow, leisurely day, this might feel a bit fast-paced. But overall, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable taste of Dubrovnik’s surrounding islands.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and culture without the hassle of organizing multiple transport links. It’s especially suitable for first-timers in Dubrovnik, groups looking for a social vibe, or anyone eager to indulge in a relaxed, all-in-one day on the water.

Contents show

Key Points

Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a stress-free experience.
Stunning Islands: Visit Koloep, Lopud, and Sipan, each with unique charm and scenic spots.
All-You-Can-Drink: Unlimited drinks including alcohol, soft drinks, and water keep you refreshed.
Regional Food: Enjoy a tasty, freshly prepared lunch with your choice of chicken, fish, or vegetarian options.
Flexible Free Time: Plenty of time on each island to swim, explore, or relax at your own pace.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights and answer questions to enrich your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Elaphiti Islands Cruise

Imagine setting sail on a spacious boat named “Emili,” with the wind in your hair and a drink in hand, heading out from Dubrovnik’s lively port. This tour typically lasts around 8 hours, with different starting times depending on your booking, and is designed to maximize your island experience without feeling rushed.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubrovnik

Transportation & Logistics

From the start, the convenience of hotel pickup in Dubrovnik is a highlight. If your accommodation is within 1000 meters of the dock, this service might not be available, so double-check your location when booking. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, spacious boat that’s well-maintained with plenty of outdoor and shaded seating options. The crew is praised for their friendly, attentive service, often topping up drinks without you needing to ask — a detail that earns many glowing reviews.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off early with your pickup, followed by a brief cruise showcasing beautiful views of Dubrovnik’s city walls. After about 30 minutes of sailing, your first stop is Koloep Island. This tiny gem is perfect for snapping photos, walking along quiet paths, or taking a quick swim in the clear water. Reviewers love how peaceful and picturesque Koloep feels — often described as “the most beautiful and peaceful” of the islands.

Next, another 45-minute cruise takes you to Sipan Island, which boasts a charming village and some history. You’ll have about 45 minutes here for a quick guided tour or independent exploration. The reviews highlight Sipan’s authentic Croatian vibe, with traditional stone houses and local shops. Many visitors appreciate that this stop isn’t overly commercialized, allowing for genuine culture.

The third island, Lopud, gets a longer stretch of approximately three hours. This larger island offers a variety of activities—swimming at Sunj Beach (noted for its white sand and shallow waters), exploring the quaint town with red-roofed houses, or sampling regional foods and wines. Reviewers especially enjoy the opportunity to relax, walk along the promenade, or snorkel amid abundant fish. The lunch served on board is often praised for its quality — with options like fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, all freshly cooked, paired with regional wines and drinks.

The Experience on the Water

Throughout the day, the unlimited drinks service stands out as a real plus. Expect well-timed refreshment offers, often with staff proactively checking if you want another round. Reviews mention that even on busy days, the bar flow is smooth, and there’s no need to fight for your favorite beverage.

The boat’s crew also provides useful commentary about the islands’ history and culture, with guides like Emily and Natasha frequently singled out for their friendliness and knowledge. Many comments highlight the crew’s professionalism—handling questions, calming noisy groups, and making everyone feel at home.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

Bring swimwear and a towel, as swimming is a popular activity on all islands.
Consider bringing snacks or additional drinks if you prefer specific beverages — although the onboard bar offers a good selection.
Wear sunscreen and a hat, especially during the longer stops at Lopud.
If you’re interested in exploring independently, take note that some islands have small food markets or shops.
Be prepared for a busy schedule; the stops are timed, but with free time for exploring or relaxing.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Dubrovnik

Authentic Experiences & Highlights

What makes this tour stand out are the authentic island visits and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Emily, who go above and beyond by sharing tips about the best viewpoints and local eateries.

The scenic views on the cruise itself are a highlight — from the city walls of Dubrovnik to the open sea, and the lush greenery and red rooftops of the islands. Many guests love the chance to snap photos of the picturesque villages, the crystal-clear waters, and the scenic coastline.

Snorkeling at Sunj Beach on Lopud receives lots of praise, with guests noting the abundant fish and warm shallow waters. The optional guided tour on Sipan is a good way to learn about local life, adding a layer of cultural depth to the trip.

The Food & Drink

The included lunch is a real treat, especially considering the value. Many reviews compliment the freshly prepared regional dishes and generous wine pours. The fact that drinks are unlimited means you can enjoy a glass of wine or brandy while soaking in the views without extra cost.

Some reviewers mention that there are additional options for lunch if desired, at around 20 euros, and that the food quality exceeds expectations for a daytime boat tour.

The Overall Value

With a ticket price that includes hotel transfer, a substantial lunch, unlimited drinks, and multiple island stops, many find this experience to be excellent value. It’s a great way to see several islands in one day without the hassle of boat rentals or complex planning.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise suits those wanting a full-day, hassle-free adventure with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate good value, friendly guides, and scenic landscapes.

It’s especially perfect if you’re visiting Dubrovnik for a limited time and want to maximize your island experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, this tour offers a relaxed, social atmosphere with opportunities for shared experiences.

However, if you prefer a slow, unstructured day or have mobility concerns, this busy itinerary might feel a bit rushed.

FAQ About the Elaphite Islands Cruise

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within Dubrovnik’s city area. Check your location, as pickup isn’t available less than 1000 meters from the start point.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat — especially for the longer stops for sun protection.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the tour features an open bar with water, soft drinks, white wine, and brandy, with staff regularly topping up your glass.

Can I explore the islands on my own?
Absolutely. Each stop provides free time for walking, swimming, or relaxing, giving you flexibility to do your own thing.

What kind of lunch is served?
A freshly cooked regional meal with options like chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes is provided on board. Additional lunch options are available at 20 euros.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially with plenty of swimming and exploration time. However, it’s not designed for those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs.

How long is each island stop?
Koloep: about 1 hour, Sipan: 45 minutes, Lopud: around 3 hours, with flexible free time for activities.

What’s the boat like?
It’s a spacious vessel with outdoor and shaded seating, well-maintained with a friendly crew known for their attentive service.

Can I see dolphins?
Some reviews mention dolphins on the way back, but it’s not guaranteed as it depends on sea conditions.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour operates subject to sea conditions, so bad weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

The Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation. You’ll love the ease of travel, the chance to unwind with good food and drinks, and the incredible views of Croatia’s coast.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to experience Dubrovnik’s nearby islands without the stress of organizing multiple excursions. The attentive crew, coupled with the authentic charm of the islands, makes for a memorable day that’s more than just a boat ride — it’s a true taste of Dalmatia.

If you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable, value-packed day out with a mix of adventure and downtime, this cruise is likely to tick all your boxes. Just be ready for a lively, sometimes busy, but overall very rewarding experience on the Croatian waters.