Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Three islands, one easy boat day from Dubrovnik.

This full-day cruise around the Elaphite Islands is a simple recipe for swim breaks and big-water views, with an onboard open bar to keep the mood light. I love that you get a proper lunch at sea (meat, fish, and vegetarian choices) instead of just snacks, and I also like how the day mixes beach time with small island sights like churches, gardens, and harbor strolls. The tradeoff is that this is not a quiet, romantic escape, and if you’re prone to motion sickness you may want to think twice.

On the water, the rhythm is straightforward: you move between islands, then you have set time to wander or swim. The day runs about 8 hours, but the vibe can skew party-like once drinks are flowing, and a few spots feel short depending on what you want. Also, this tour is best suited to people who enjoy getting in and out of the water, not those hoping to relax fully from their seat the whole day, especially if you hate boats.

Quick hits

• Onboard lunch + open bar keeps food and drinks from being a logistics headache.
• Three islands in one day gives you variety without spending your vacation jumping ferries.
• Šunj beach on Lopud is built for easy swimming and sunbathing.
• Sipan stop is brief so it works best as a harbor visit, not a long explore.
• Kolocep is the swim-and-snorkel payoff with caves, cliffs, and sandy shore time.
• Pickup is limited to Dubrovnik city area and can be unavailable if you’re very close to the meeting point.

Price and what you really get for $78.60

At about $78.60 per person for an 8-hour boat day, this trip is mainly good value because key costs are bundled in. You’re not just paying for transportation between islands, you’re paying for the full package: lunch onboard, drinks, and scheduled time on three different islands.

Here’s the practical part: if you were doing this independently, you’d still need to solve for boats or ferries, buy lunch, then add snacks or drinks. Even a single guided day with a decent meal can get pricey in Dubrovnik. This cruise keeps it simple, especially if you want an easy plan where you can go straight from Dubrovnik to swimming without spending hours piecing it together.

The open bar is also a big “feel” factor. It is not a fancy cocktail bar, but it is enough to make the day feel like a celebration rather than a chore. White wine and brandy are included, plus soft drinks and water, and there’s a clear minimum age rule: no one under 18 for alcohol.

Getting there: Lapadska Obala meeting point and pickup limits

The meeting point is Knjižnica za društvene znanosti, Lapadska obala 7, Dubrovnik, with a 9:00 am start. If you do not select pickup, you’ll meet at that location.

Pickup can be offered, but only if you choose the pickup option and you’re within Dubrovnik city area. There’s also a specific catch: pickup is not available if you are staying less than 1000 m from the starting point. So if you’re near that area, expect to walk to the meeting point instead of being collected.

Timing matters. The pickup time can vary, and it is scheduled before the official departure, typically between 45 minutes and 5 minutes prior. They emphasize contacting you to confirm the exact time or meeting spot, and missing that contact can risk missing the transfer. My advice: message or call ahead of time so you’re not guessing the day-of.

Finally, there’s a maximum group size of 110 travelers. That size usually still feels manageable on a boat, but it is not a tiny private charter.

Life on board: lunch, drinks, and the “island-hopping” pacing

The boat day is structured, not free-form. You cruise from Dubrovnik toward Lopud first, then you get lunch onboard after that island time, and you continue to Sipan and Kolocep before heading back.

Lunch is one of the best reasons to do this tour. You choose your meal type when booking:

• Meat: grilled chicken fillet with vegetables
• Fish: grilled hake with vegetables
• Vegetarian: grilled Mediterranean seasonal vegetables from the local area

They also include bottled water, soft drinks (Coca-cola, Fanta), and alcoholic drinks (white wine and brandy). Reviews repeatedly call out that the food portion is generous and the drink service keeps coming.

One more pacing note: island “crossings” are quick, and the time between stops can feel short. That is part of how they fit three islands into one day. It’s great if you like variety, but it can feel like a lot of moving if you want one big long beach day.

If you hate choppy water or you’ve had seasickness before, take the warning seriously: this is not recommended for people who get sick on boats.

Stop 1, Lopud Island: Šunj beach, gardens, and a relaxing first hit

Your first real island time is Lopud, and this stop is built to help you settle in. You get about 3 hours, and that’s enough time to do at least two things well: swim and either wander a bit or explore a sight.

The beach focus is hard to miss. Šunj beach is the go-to spot here. It’s a sandy shore setup, and it’s usually exactly what you want after a morning departure. If you prefer shade, bring it with you. Towel, sunscreen, and water are smart because you’re on the water and sun can hit fast.

If you’re the type who likes a short walk between swims, you can also aim for the more cultural side of Lopud. The tour includes a botanical garden entrance tied to Djordjic Mayneri Park and there are heritage pieces like churches and general island charm you can wander at your own pace during the time you’re given.

A small consideration: a few people feel that the last stop has more beach time than Sipan, so if Lopud is your main beach day, spend your time well. Don’t blow it all on one long swim if you still want to take a look around.

Stop 2, Sipan harbor: olive trees, pirates, and why the stop is short

After lunch, the boat continues to Sipan. Here, your on-island time is about 1 hour, mostly for a self-guided shore look.

The draw is that Sipan feels like a slower island read. You’ll be in the old fisherman’s port area, and the tour frames it as the kind of Mediterranean place that still feels like it used to. You can also explore a few standout historical and nature facts if you’re interested in stopping for small details:

• Sipan is connected to a Guinness record for the island with the biggest number of olive trees.
• There’s a castle built for defense against pirates in the 15th century.

In real life, though, this stop is brief. If you’re expecting a full town walk or major sightseeing, 1 hour is mostly a quick harbor circuit, a look at a few buildings, and maybe a relaxed pause with a drink (beyond what’s included). Some people come away feeling Sipan is more of a “transition stop” than a destination.

My advice: treat Sipan as a short cultural breather between beach islands. If you time your walk well, you’ll get the best of it without feeling rushed.

Stop 3, Kolocep Island: sandy beaches, snorkeling, and optional Blue Cave fun

Your final island is Kolocep, again with about 1 hour. This is the stop aimed at water lovers. Kolocep is known for caves and cliffs, and the plan includes time for swimming and snorkeling plus beach time.

This is also the stop where you’re most likely to feel the payoff. You’ve already had a beach moment on Lopud, but Kolocep tends to feel more adventurous because of the cliffs and cave scenery. If you like getting in the water often, you’ll probably time your snorkeling and swim sessions around when you’re anchored.

A practical tip from the day-to-day reality: this is not usually a “jump in and swim whenever you want from the boat” situation. The swimming is typically tied to when you reach the islands. Once you’re there, you can make it a swim-focused block.

There’s also an optional extra that comes up in this kind of itinerary: a speedboat trip to the Blue Caves for an additional fee (often mentioned around 20 euros). If they offer it and it fits your budget, it can be a fun add-on because it changes the feel from island beach time to a more “scenery cruise” style.

What to pack so the day feels easy

This is a water-based day, so pack like you’re going to the beach, not like you’re doing a museum tour.

Bring:

• Swimwear under your clothes, plus a light cover-up
• Towel (if you have one)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• A small waterproof bag for phone and keys
• Comfortable sandals or water shoes for rocky edges near shore

If you get cold easily on boats, bring a layer too. Even on a warm Adriatic day, wind off the water can change how you feel.

And if you’re thinking about drinks, remember you’re swimming. Go easy and pace yourself, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Who should book this Elaphite cruise

This tour is a strong match if you want:

• A low-effort day from Dubrovnik with zero need to plan ferry schedules
• Lunch and drinks included, so your money goes toward experiences, not meals
• Beach time on multiple islands instead of spending your whole day in one place
• A group atmosphere where it feels social, not stiff

It’s also good for families and friend groups because the schedule gives something for everyone: swimming, shopping time, quick exploring, and relaxed time to sit and enjoy the water.

You might skip it if:

• You get seasick or you know boats are a problem
• You want a quiet, off-the-grid experience with minimal crowds
• You want long, deep sightseeing on one island, because the time is spread across three stops

Should you book? My decision guide

If you picture your Dubrovnik vacation as a mix of old-city walks and at least one big “get out on the water” day, I’d book this. The value is strongest when you want lunch included, drinks included, and a structured route that hits Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep in one go.

Book it especially if your priority is swimming and easy beach time, because Kolocep and Lopud deliver that. You’ll enjoy the variety, and you won’t waste vacation time juggling transport.

If you’re sensitive to boat motion or you prefer quiet, choose carefully. The open bar and group size can make it feel lively, not laid-back.

If you want a fun, organized island-hopping day that doesn’t turn into a checklist, this cruise is a practical pick.

FAQ

What islands are included on the cruise?

The cruise visits Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep. You get free time on each island to swim, snorkel, and explore at your own pace.

Is lunch included, and what meal options are available?

Yes, lunch is included onboard. You can choose between grilled chicken with vegetables, grilled hake with vegetables, or a vegetarian option with grilled Mediterranean seasonal vegetables.

What drinks are included during the tour?

Included drinks are bottled water, soda/soft drinks (Coca-cola and Fanta), and alcoholic beverages such as white wine and brandy. Alcoholic drinks are not included beyond those specified.

Is hotel pickup available from Dubrovnik?

Pickup is available only if you select the pickup option and you are in the Dubrovnik city area. Pickup is not available if you are staying less than 1000 m from the starting point near Lapadska Obala.

Where is the meeting point and what time does the tour start?

The meeting point is Knjižnica za društvene znanosti, Lapadska obala 7, Dubrovnik, Croatia. The tour start time is 9:00 am.

How long is the cruise, and is weather a factor?

The duration is approximately 8 hours. The tour requires good weather, and the route or schedule can change due to weather or other demanding conditions.

Is the tour recommended for people who get seasick?

No. It is not recommended for travelers with seasickness.