Elaphiti, 3 islands – 4 locations

If you’re eyeing a trip to Dubrovnik and want to experience the nearby islands without the hassle of planning every detail, a boat tour of the Elaphiti Islands might be just what you’re looking for. This particular trip, rated a perfect 5.0 based on seven reviews, promises a well-rounded afternoon filled with scenic views, opportunities for relaxation, and a splash of adventure. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve seen enough honest feedback and detailed itineraries to give you a clear picture of what to expect — and whether it’s worth your time.

What I really like about this experience is its balance: it offers a mix of free time on charming islands, fascinating caves, and fun activities like snorkeling and cliff jumping. Plus, the crew seems to be genuinely friendly and knowledgeable, which can make the difference between just a trip and a memorable outing. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that transportation to the marina isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. This tour feels best suited for those looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of leisure, especially if you appreciate scenic landscapes and a relaxed vibe.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers a mix of island exploration, caves, beaches, and snorkeling.
• Approximately 5 hours makes it a manageable half-day activity without feeling rushed.
• Small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.
• Free time at key stops like Lopud and Prijeba Beach allows for genuine relaxation.
• Affordable value considering scenic views, activities, and expert crew.
• Not ideal for children under 5 and requires moderate physical activity, like snorkeling or climbing.

What to Expect from the Elaphiti Island Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of the stunning Elaphiti Islands, with a focus on seeing some of their most beautiful and less crowded spots in about five hours. It’s a good fit for travelers who appreciate scenic vistas, some light adventure, and a friendly atmosphere. The price of around $143.87 per person might seem a bit steep for a half-day, but when you consider the inclusions—like snorkeling gear, safety equipment, water, and wind jackets—it’s pretty reasonable for a scenic boat trip with multiple stops.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lopud
Your journey begins on the island of Lopud, arriving early in the morning. This is a real highlight because you get the rare chance to explore before crowds arrive. The island is described as charming and perfect for wandering at your own pace, which is a real plus if you’re someone who loves spontaneous exploration. Imagine strolling along quiet paths, enjoying the view, and soaking in the peaceful morning atmosphere. The 45-minute stay here offers enough time for a quick wander, with no entrance fees, making it a relaxed start to your day.

Stop 2: Sipan
Next, the boat heads to Sipan, a lesser-known jewel among Dubrovnik’s islands. Here, you’ll find the Green Cave, which isn’t as heavily promoted as the Blue Cave but offers a unique experience. The cave is free to explore, and it’s an excellent opportunity for some memorable photos and a bit of snorkeling if you’re inclined. The sense of discovering a hidden gem adds a special touch to this part of the trip. The 45-minute stop is enough to see the cave and perhaps snap some quick pictures.

Stop 3: Prijeba Beach
This is an unexpected highlight for many — a peaceful beach surrounded by cliffs, where you can relax on the sand or dip your toes in the water. The beach bar adds a social element, so you might find yourself chatting with fellow travelers or just soaking up the sun. With 1.5 hours allocated, you’ll have ample time to unwind, swim, or simply enjoy the scenery. It’s a perfect break from the boat’s hustle, and the free sun loungers make it even more enticing.

Stop 4: Kolocep Island
The final stop is at Kolocep Island, home to the famous Blue Cave. This is perhaps the tour’s most visually stunning feature — the brilliant colors of the cave are a sight to behold. You’ll get about 40 minutes here, enough for snorkeling, cliff jumps, or just marveling at the swirling water and vibrant hues. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by the crew’s friendly vibe, and many travelers, like the reviewer Dan, highlight how smooth and enjoyable the boat ride was, with comments on the “friendly crew” and “beautiful islands and caves.”

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour provides all the necessary safety gear—life jackets, snorkeling masks, and fins—plus wind jackets and bottled water, so you can stay comfortable and hydrated. The fuel surcharge is included, which is good news, as it confirms the price covers the full experience. However, transportation to the marina isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there, which is something to keep in mind.

This tour is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate setting and better interaction with the crew. The experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given some light activity like snorkeling and walking at stops. Children under 5 are not recommended, probably due to the boat’s nature and some physical aspects of the stops.

The Experience: Why It Works

The real appeal of this tour lies in its scenic stops and the laid-back vibe. The early arrival at Lopud means you can enjoy a peaceful morning wandering around a picturesque island without the usual crowds—a rare treat. The caves and beaches are the kind of spots that look even better in photos than in person, but the enjoyment of being there, feeling the sun and sea, really makes the trip worthwhile.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the crew plays a key role in delivering a positive experience. Dan mentioned “friendly and knowledgeable crew,” and this can make all the difference when you’re spending several hours on a boat. Their enthusiasm and safety focus add a layer of comfort and authenticity.

The snorkeling gear and free time at the beaches make this a versatile trip. Whether you want to snap pictures, relax on the sand, or jump into the water, there’s enough flexibility to tailor your experience.

How It Compares to Other Tours

Compared to full-day excursions or themed tours like Game-of-Thrones sightseeing, this one feels more organic and relaxed. It’s perfect if you prefer a leisurely pace over a packed schedule. The price reflects this balance—you’re paying for a well-organized, scenic cruise with potential for adventure and quiet moments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a half-day escape to explore multiple islands with minimal fuss. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning views, easy snorkeling, and a friendly crew, you’ll probably enjoy it. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a full-day adventure or intense physical activities, but perfect if you want a taste of the islands without much planning.

It works well for those with moderate physical fitness, who are comfortable on boats and willing to do some light walking, swimming, or climbing in caves. If you’re traveling with kids over 5 who enjoy nature and watersports, they might have a good time, but younger children might find the boat ride or stops less engaging.

Final Thoughts

This Elaphiti Islands tour from Dubrovnik offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and relaxation. You’ll visit four different spots, each with its own character—quiet mornings on Lopud, the intriguing Green Cave on Sipan, lazy hours at Prijeba Beach, and the colorful Blue Cave on Kolocep. The small group size and friendly crew help make it more personal and enjoyable.

While the price might seem a bit high for a half-day, the value lies in the variety of experiences packed into five hours. If you’re looking to tick off multiple islands without hassle, want to enjoy some snorkeling and stunning vistas, and prefer a laid-back pace, this trip will serve you well.

All in all, it’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of Dubrovnik’s most beautiful nearby islands — perfect for travelers who want a memorable, scenic, and comfortable escape from the city bustle.

FAQ

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, the tour does not include transportation to the meeting point. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, from start to finish, including all stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, but older kids who enjoy water activities might find it fun.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which keeps things intimate and manageable.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as the tour involves some walking, snorkeling, and possibly climbing or jumping at caves.

Are snorkeling masks and fins included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the experience.

What stops are included?
The stops are Lopud for a peaceful walk, Sipan to visit the Green Cave, Prijeba Beach for relaxing, and Kolocep for the Blue Cave and water fun.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the price for?
For roughly five hours, you get scenic island stops, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, water, and the expertise of the crew.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If scenic islands, caves, and a relaxed boat ride sound appealing, this tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s nearby gems without the fuss. It balances adventure with leisure, making it a solid pick for those wanting a taste of the Elaphiti Islands.