Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands Cruise w/ Drinks, Optional Lunch

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik and craving a day on the water? The Elaphite Islands cruise offers a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, enjoy a relaxing day with unlimited drinks, and indulge in a tasty onboard lunch. This tour, operated by Dubrovnik Islands Tours, consistently receives glowing reviews and high ratings—an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from over 1,600 travelers.

What draws many to this experience? It’s the combination of stunning scenery, friendly crew, and the value for money that makes it a popular choice. Whether you’re after a laid-back beach day, a scenic boat ride, or a chance to see the Blue Cave, this trip has a lot to offer.

One thing to consider is that the tour can be quite packed, especially during the busy season, and the last island may feel a bit long for some. Still, if you love cruising, island hopping, or just want a hassle-free way to explore the Adriatic’s treasures, this tour is well worth considering. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy social outings, good food, and relaxed days on the water.

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Key Points

All-in-one island visit to Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan in just one day
Unlimited drinks including wine, water, juice, and soft drinks
Comfortable boat with two decks, offering fantastic views and plenty of space
Optional Blue Cave trip for a unique experience (extra fee)
Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple
Delicious onboard lunch with fish, chicken, or vegetarian options

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise

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Easy and Convenient Start

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, which is a real plus for travelers who dislike the fuss of finding meeting points. You’ll be transferred to the dock next to the bus station, where the boat “Emili” awaits. The entire process is smooth, and the crew is known for their friendliness and attentiveness, with reviews highlighting guides like Natasha and Emily for their excellent service and local insights.

The Spacious, Well-Equipped Boat

The cruise is operated on a comfortable boat with two decks, giving you plenty of options for seating and viewing. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively yet relaxed, constantly serving drinks and making sure everyone stays comfortable. There are two toilets on board, which might seem like a small detail but really helps keep comfort levels high during the cruise.

Discovering the Islands: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan

The core of the trip involves visiting three islands, each offering its own charm.

Koločep: Often praised for its peaceful vibe, it’s the first stop where you can admire the quiet beauty of this less touristy spot. Reviewers mention the island as “beautiful and peaceful,” a perfect chance for a quick nature walk or a swim in the clear waters.
Lopud: Known for its charming houses with red roofs, it’s a favorite for its beach at Sunj, which travelers describe as a white sand haven with shallow, warm waters suitable for swimming and relaxing. Many visitors appreciate the extra time here (about 1.5 hours) to explore or simply lounge. One reviewer notes, “the beach was lovely, with fish to snorkel and a laid-back atmosphere.”
Šipan (or Šipan Island): Offers a chance to explore a traditional Croatian island with local architecture and a slower pace.

The reviews highlight that you’ll get enough time at each location to enjoy a swim, take photos, or take a leisurely walk, though the last island can sometimes feel a bit long if there’s not much else to do (some travelers mention that 3 hours on Šipan is “WAY too long”).

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Optional Blue Cave Excursion

For those willing to pay a bit extra, the Blue Cave trip is a highlight. It’s described as “fantastic” and “worth the extra money,” offering a fun speedboat ride, a chance to swim in the cave, and some adventure. While the cave itself may be somewhat overrated according to some, the ride there, guided by friendly skippers like Dino, makes it an exciting addition.

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Lunch and Refreshments: A Real Treat

One of the standout features of this tour is the all-day open bar, with unlimited white wine, water, soft drinks, and juices. Reviewers love the constant flow of drinks, with one saying, “the drinks were non-stop, and the staff kept topping us up.” The onboard lunch is hearty, with options including fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, freshly prepared and well-reviewed. Travelers like Gosia and Carla mention the delicious fish, and Megan notes that the lunch was a highlight.

What Makes this Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the scenery, many reviewers comment on the friendly, attentive crew, especially Emily and Natasha, who are praised for their knowledge and hospitality. The tour’s pace is well-balanced, with enough time on land to enjoy the islands’ charms without feeling rushed.

The Experience: Real Insights from Travelers

Megan highlights that the Blue Cave was the highlight of her trip, adding, “it would’ve been dull without it.”
Chris describes the stops as “perfectly timed,” appreciating the experience of “gorgeous views and fun speedboat rides.”
Gosia emphasizes the fantastic lunch and the helpful advice from Emily, who recommended taking a golf trolley for easier access to the beach.
Many travelers note that the unlimited drinks and delicious food significantly add to the value, making it a party-friendly, yet relaxing day.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour costs about $53 per person, which includes most essentials—lunch, drinks, transportation, and island visits. The only extras are if you choose the Blue Cave trip or want additional drinks like beer, which carries a small charge.

Timing-wise, expect a full-day experience, typically starting in the morning and returning by late afternoon. The boat’s two decks offer great views and plenty of space, so it’s suitable even for larger groups.

Travelers have praised the well-organized nature of the trip, which balances land exploration, swimming, and relaxing on the boat. The large, comfortable boat combined with attentive staff ensures a smooth, enjoyable day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to those who enjoy scenic boat rides, social atmosphere, and easy access to beautiful islands without hassle. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a fun, relaxed day out.

If you’re eager to experience the Blue Cave, enjoy good food and drinks, and appreciate a well-organized, scenic trip, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, if you prefer more secluded, slower-paced experiences or are on a tight schedule, you might want to plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. If you select the pickup option, you’ll be collected from your accommodation in Dubrovnik and taken directly to the dock.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection. The tour involves time on the beaches and in the water, so comfortable clothing and footwear are also recommended.

Is the Blue Cave trip included?
No, it’s an optional extra. You can pay for it separately and enjoy a speedboat ride plus a swim in the cave.

How long is the trip?
The full-day cruise typically lasts around 8 hours, including transportation, island stops, and the Blue Cave excursion if chosen.

What kind of food is served?
A freshly prepared lunch with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian preferences. Many reviews mention the deliciousness of the fish and the generous portions.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes. The open bar includes unlimited white wine, water, juices, and soft drinks, served throughout the day.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, with the extra Blue Cave option, you’ll get a chance to swim and snorkel in the cave, making for a memorable experience.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It’s best suited for guests who are comfortable on boats and walking on island terrain.

What is the group size?
The tour is operated on a large but well-managed boat, accommodating up to 50 people, but reviews suggest that it still feels personable and friendly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

The Elaphite Islands cruise in Dubrovnik offers an enjoyable blend of scenic views, island exploration, and relaxed fun on the water. The friendly crew, delicious food, and unlimited drinks make it a standout value, especially for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a lively atmosphere.

Ideal for those who want a hassle-free way to see multiple islands, enjoy some swim time, and indulge in great Croatian cuisine and wine, this tour is a smart pick for a memorable day. Its balanced pace, comfortable boat, and well-planned itinerary ensure you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and maybe a little sunburn—perfectly earned after a day in Croatia’s beautiful coastal waters.

If you’re looking for a fun, social, and scenic experience in Dubrovnik, this cruise could be just what you need. Just remember to bring your swimming gear, a smile, and maybe an extra bottle of water!