Dubrovnik Islands Boat Tour with Lunch and Unlimited Drinks

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water while exploring some of Croatia’s most scenic islands, the Dubrovnik Islands Boat Tour with Lunch and Unlimited Drinks might just be what you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a popular choice, boasting near-perfect ratings and a great balance of sightseeing, comfort, and good food.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines a full day of sailing with leisure—no rushing, plenty of time on each island, and some well-thought-out extras like unlimited drinks and a freshly-made meal. The other big plus? It’s a budget-friendly way to see more of Croatia’s charming islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. On the flip side, you might want to consider the weather, as this is a boat-based activity and weather cancellations can happen. Still, if you enjoy a relaxed cruise that mixes scenic beauty with good company, this tour tends to fit the bill.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who love being on the water, want a taste of local island life, and enjoy casual, all-inclusive outings. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a low-stress way to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s city walls, and a decent option for those who appreciate good food and drinks in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat with amenities: The vessel includes tables, sun shades, toilets, and music, making the long day comfortable.
• All-inclusive drinks and lunch: Unlimited soft drinks, wine, and a freshly-made meal give this tour great value and a laid-back vibe.
• Flexible island exploration: You get free time on three different islands, each with its own charm, from beaches to historic sites.
• Ideal for relaxed travelers: The tour’s pace and social atmosphere suit those looking for a chilled-out day on the water.
• Weather can influence the experience: Cancellations due to bad weather are possible, so keep an eye on forecast updates.
• Excellent reviews from past travelers: Most guests praise the crew, the food, and the overall relaxing atmosphere.

What Does the Tour Involve?

This full-day cruise kicks off early, with a morning pickup from your hotel in Dubrovnik. From there, you’ll be transported to Gru Harbor, where the boat awaits. The vessel itself is well-equipped for comfort, with tables and benches for socializing or relaxing, a sunshade to shield you from the Croatian sun, and a toilet on board—definitely a plus on an 8-hour trip. The boat’s sound system and the relaxed atmosphere make it feel more like a day out with friends than a formal tour.

The cruise lasts roughly eight hours, during which you’ll visit three of the Elafiti Islands: Koloep, Lopud, and Ipan. Each island has its own appeal, from ancient churches and charming villages to pebble beaches perfect for swimming or snorkeling (remember to bring your gear). The itinerary isn’t jam-packed, which feels refreshing—there’s plenty of time to explore, relax, or simply take in the scenery.

What’s Included?

For $77.93 per person, the value here is quite good. The tour covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges, along with local taxes. The meal on board is prepared fresh based on your order—options include a fish meal (grilled hake with sides), a meat option (grilled chicken with salads), or vegetarian (grilled vegetables). The lunch is generally well-reviewed, with many saying it’s tasty and satisfying.

Beverages are unlimited, with options ranging from soft drinks and water to unlimited red or white wine and grappa. Past travelers have expressed appreciation for the generous drinks service, which helps keep the mood light and festive throughout the day.

What’s the Island Hopping Experience Like?

Each island brings its own flavor. Koloep is often praised for its natural beauty—pine and carob trees line the coast, offering shade and scenic views. Lopud is a favorite for its gardens, historic churches, and pebble beaches. Ipan, though less detailed in reviews, promises a quiet escape with authentic Croatian charm.

While the islands are scenic, some travelers have noted that there’s not a huge number of activities on each stop—primarily sightseeing, walking, or relaxing on the beach. If you’re expecting a lot of structured activities, this might not be your best choice, but if you enjoy leisurely exploration at your own pace, you’ll likely feel content.

The Food and Drinks

Based on reviews, the lunch is consistently praised. Many travelers highlight the quality of the grilled hake or chicken, accompanied by fresh seasonal salads. The vegetarian option also garners positive remarks, with grilled vegetables and salads. Having a choice beforehand ensures you’re not caught off guard, and the meal feels more like a well-prepared picnic than a simple snack.

The unlimited drinks, especially the wine and soft drinks, keep the atmosphere light. As one reviewer put it, “the drinks were plentiful and the crew very friendly,” which helps create a convivial vibe.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Reviewers often mention the friendly and professional crew. Natasha, the guide mentioned in reviews, is praised for her helpfulness and knowledge. The boat’s size—small enough to feel intimate but large enough to accommodate up to 60 travelers—means you’re not lost in a crowd, which encourages conversation and relaxation.

The music, the laid-back pace, and the opportunity to swim or snorkel make this a very easygoing experience. Many reviews highlight how relaxed and enjoyable the day was, even when the weather wasn’t perfect.

Considerations and Downsides

No tour is perfect, and a few things are worth noting. The biggest potential hiccup is weather dependency—bad weather can lead to cancellations, as one disappointed traveler experienced. The company does offer full refunds or rescheduling if weather conditions prevent the trip from happening.

Another point is that the islands themselves are mostly for sightseeing and relaxing—there’s not an abundance of structured activities, so if you’re after a more active or adventure-focused day, this might not be the best fit. Also, some reviews mention that the main attraction is the scenery and the boat trip itself, rather than the islands’ attractions.

Lastly, the price includes lunch and drinks but not entrance fees to local monuments if you choose to visit any. So, if you’re planning on exploring historical sites or churches, budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for laid-back travelers who want to enjoy a scenic day on the water, indulge in good food and drink, and take their time exploring Croatian islands. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfort and a convivial atmosphere, and don’t mind a more relaxed, unstructured visit to each island. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling on a budget but still want a full experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the relaxed pace and family-friendly amenities on the boat make it suitable for children, provided they enjoy boat trips and water activities. Be mindful of the weather and the need to bring snorkel gear if desired.

What are the meal options?
You can choose from a fish meal (grilled hake and salads), a meat meal (grilled chicken with salads), or a vegetarian option (grilled vegetables and salads). Make sure to specify dietary requirements when booking.

How long does the trip last?
The entire tour is around 8 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, including island stops and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, beverages (soft drinks, water, unlimited wine, and grappa), and lunch are included. Entrance fees to local monuments are not included.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 60 travelers, but many reviews mention a comfortably sized boat that doesn’t feel crowded.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to weather are fully refunded if they occur before the departure day. The tour is weather-dependent, so keep an eye on forecasts.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, if you plan to swim or snorkel, bring your own equipment, as it is not provided.

Is the tour accessible if I have mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility features, so it’s best to contact the operator directly for details.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The starting point is Lapadska obala 5, Dubrovnik. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach from most accommodations.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Notify the tour provider when booking so they can accommodate vegetarian options or other dietary needs.

All in all, the Dubrovnik Islands Boat Tour with Lunch and Unlimited Drinks offers a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Croatia’s beautiful islands without the stress of planning. The combination of comfortable boat conditions, good food, and a friendly crew makes it a solid choice for travelers who want a laid-back day on the water.

If you’re after a low-key, enjoyable way to see the Elafiti Islands—especially if you value a good meal and drinks—this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy social, unhurried experiences, and don’t mind a bit of weather variability. Just be sure to keep an eye on the forecast, and you’ll have a memorable day in Croatia.

Remember: Always check the latest reviews and confirm details before booking, especially regarding weather policies and dietary needs. Happy sailing!