Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional Lunch

If you’re considering a day out on the water near Dubrovnik, the Elaphite Islands cruise is often recommended as a top way to see some of Croatia’s most charming and scenic spots. This tour, offered by MARINERO excursions, promises a blend of stunning views, charming villages, swimming opportunities, and tasty local food—all for about $53 per person. With thousands of reviews praising its value and atmosphere, it’s definitely worth a closer look.

We love that this cruise combines beautiful scenery with authentic Croatian food and drinks. The freedom to explore each island at your own pace, plus the comfort of a well-equipped boat, makes it an attractive option. One possible drawback? The limited time at each island might leave some travelers wishing for more, especially if you’re eager to explore every corner. That said, if you prefer a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, this tour will hit the mark.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy laid-back cruising, scenic landscapes, and good value. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with others who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, or if you simply want to avoid the hassle of planning your own island-hopping day. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what this cruise is really like.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat with open top and air-conditioned salon for varied weather conditions
• Well-paced itinerary with enough time at each island for exploration and relaxation
• Includes drinks and optional lunch, adding value to the experience
• Friendly, knowledgeable crew praised in reviews for their hospitality
• Stunning views along Dubrovnik’s coast and during the island stops
• Limitations on time on smaller islands might require some quick sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour promises a full day of exploring three of the most beautiful islands in the Elaphiti archipelago: Lopud, Sipan, and Koloep. From the moment you step aboard the boat, you’ll notice how smoothly everything runs, thanks to the well-organized schedule and attentive crew.

Starting Point and Setup

You’ll likely begin your journey at Lapadska Obala, near the Dubrovnik Faculty of Economics, where the crew and boat—named “RITA”—await. The option for hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik makes things convenient, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

The boat itself is quite nice: a fully equipped vessel with both an open top for basking in the sun and a lower, air-conditioned salon, perfect for escaping the heat or a sudden shower. There are two spotless toilets onboard, so you won’t need to worry about comfort.

First Stop: Lopud Island

Lopud is usually the highlight for many. It’s the largest of the three islands and offers a real escape from crowds. You’re given around 3 hours here, giving you ample time to explore. Many reviews note the beautiful sandy Sunj Beach, perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

Some travelers, like Anthony, suggest altering the schedule by visiting Sipan first and spending more time there, but the standard plan includes a good amount of time on Lopud. You can wander the car-free streets, visit a church or monastery, or simply relax by the water.

One of the things we loved is how the guides share information about the island’s history, natural beauty, and local culture, making the experience educational as well as scenic. Multiple reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness.

Second Stop: Sipan Island

Sipan is the largest island in the group and often considered a more relaxed, vineyard-filled spot. It’s the ideal place for some wine tasting and enjoying the lush landscape. The roughly 1-hour stop might seem brief, but many appreciate it as just enough time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Dona L highlights the friendly staff and their attentiveness, which really enhances the experience. You might find the stop perfect for a quick walk or a refreshing drink at a local bar before heading to the last island.

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Final Stop: Koloep Island

Koloep is the most tranquil of the three. It’s perfect for a quick swim or a peaceful stroll through pine forests. Many reviews mention the crystal-clear water ideal for swimming—something you’d want to take advantage of, especially in the heat.

The one-hour stay here is enough for a dip and some relaxed beach time. The crew often reminds guests to enjoy the scenery before heading back to Dubrovnik.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight

The lunch option is frequently praised as a highlight. You can choose among fish, chicken, or vegetarian, and reviews confirm the lunch is hearty and tasty. For many, it’s a surprisingly good meal for a boat tour, especially when paired with Croatian wine and soft drinks.

Throughout the day, the crew serve free drinks—water, water, and local wine—and they’re attentive in keeping everyone refreshed. As one review put it, “The staff was wonderful… always coming by with drinks and they were so friendly.”

If you opt for the lunch, it’s a good value considering the overall price. The meal usually includes a potato salad and a main dish, with some reviews pointing out the quality and generous portions. Plus, the wine and drinks flow freely, making the experience even more relaxing.

Comfort and Practicalities

The boat is described as comfortable and well-maintained. Its open-top deck is perfect for sunbathers, while the air-conditioned salon offers a cool retreat. Reviews frequently mention the friendly crew and how smoothly the day runs.

A couple of comments mention overcrowding, but overall, most travelers find the boat spacious enough, especially if you arrive early or choose a spot outside.

Towels and snorkeling gear aren’t included, so pack your own if you want to make the most of swimming and sunbathing. The boat provides ample space for relaxing, but if you prefer more privacy or quieter spots, arriving early to claim your space is wise.

Timing and Group Size

The tour lasts about 8 hours, from pickup (if you select that option) to returning. The timed stops ensure you get enough time to explore each island without feeling rushed, based on many positive reviews emphasizing well-distributed time.

The group size can be large but is often described as a friendly, lively atmosphere, with travelers from all over the world. The crew manages the schedule efficiently, which helps keep everyone content and engaged.

Cost and Value for Money

At $53 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the included drinks, lunch, and the entire day’s itinerary. Many reviews highlight the quality of the experience relative to its price. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic, and well-organized day trip that combines sightseeing with swimming and dining, this cruise fits the bill.

What We Like and What to Keep in Mind

Pros:
– Spectacular views along Dubrovnik’s coast and from the islands
– Knowledgeable, friendly crew who go out of their way to make it enjoyable
– Good value with drinks and lunch included
– Flexible stops for swimming, exploring, or lounging

Cons:
– The short time on each island might feel rushed for eager explorers
– No snorkeling equipment included (bring your own if you want to snorkel)
– The overcrowding risk on busy days, so early arrival is recommended

This tour is ideal if you want a relaxed, scenic day that covers several islands with minimal fuss — perfect for first-timers or those wanting a taste of the Dalmatian coast without overextending.

Who Should Do This Tour?

If you enjoy cruising along beautiful coastlines, sampling local wine and food, and swimming in clear waters, this cruise is a no-brainer. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a well-organized, laid-back experience rather than a packed itinerary. The inclusion of drinks and lunch adds especially good value, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting to maximize the experience.

Travelers with limited time in Dubrovnik or those who want an effortless way to see the islands tend to love this trip. Families or groups seeking a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing will find it particularly enjoyable.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you book the option, your pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik are included, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

How long do we spend on each island?
The schedule typically gives you about 1 hour on Sipan, 3 hours on Lopud, and 1 hour on Koloep, though some reviews suggest longer stops would be preferable.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the boat ride, drinks (water, soft drinks, Croatian wine), and an optional lunch with your choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. Towels and snorkeling gear are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly family-specific, many reviews mention traveling with kids. The relaxed pace and swimming opportunities make it generally family-friendly.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment isn’t provided, so if you want to snorkel, bring your own gear.

What about the boat’s comfort?
Most reviews describe the boat as comfortable, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery. Early arrivals might find better spots outside.

How is the crew?
Consistently praised for friendliness and attentiveness, the crew helps create a welcoming environment.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sunhat, sunglasses, swimwear, camera, comfortable shoes, and maybe a light jacket for the cooler parts of the day.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Elaphite Islands cruise is a solid choice for anyone wanting a scenic, relaxed, and well-priced day trip from Dubrovnik. The combination of beautiful landscapes, friendly staff, and inclusive drinks and food makes for a day that balances fun and comfort.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic local experiences, good organization, and time for swimming and exploring. While the short stops mean you won’t see every inch of each island, what you get is a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty and laid-back charm. If that sounds appealing, this cruise is worth booking.

In a nutshell: For a relaxed, scenic, and value-packed day out in Croatia, this cruise offers a chance to see multiple islands without the stress of planning each detail. Whether you’re into swimming, wine, or simply beautiful views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this well-reviewed trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: