Elaphite Islands Cruise and Blue Cave Snorkeling Boat Tour

Thinking about hopping on a boat tour to the Elaphite Islands near Dubrovnik? This full-day experience is popular for its combination of stunning scenery, a touch of adventure, and a taste of local hospitality. We’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what you can expect, so you can decide if this trip fits your travel style.

What we like about this tour? First, the chance to snorkel in the Blue Cave is a real highlight—something that promises memorable views and fun underwater moments. Second, the home-cooked lunch at a family house offers a genuine taste of Croatian cuisine that’s a step above typical tourist fare.

One possible drawback? The Blue Cave can be crowded and, according to some reviews, a bit underwhelming visually. Plus, the tour’s pace might feel rushed for those wanting more leisure time on each island. Still, this trip tends to suit travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor without breaking the bank.

If you enjoy boat trips that combine nature, cultural touches, and social vibes, this tour could be right up your alley. Just keep in mind that it’s not ideal if you’re after a super relaxed, slow-paced day—there’s a packed itinerary with a fair amount of moving around.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: Just around $53 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included snorkeling, lunch, and drinks.
• Varied Island Visits: You’ll explore three different islands—Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep—each with its own charm.
• Blue Cave Snorkeling: A quick stop with about 30 minutes free for snorkeling, but note that the cave can be busy and not as visually spectacular as some hope.
• Delicious Homemade Lunch: Enjoy a family-style meal with options including fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes—fresh and made with care.
• Unlimited Drinks: A fun, social aspect; expect soft drinks, water, and wine served throughout the day.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund—ideal for flexible plans.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: The reviews mention a friendly, lively group atmosphere, with some noting that behavior can get a bit rowdy.
• Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users: This tour involves some walking and potentially uneven surfaces, so plan accordingly.
• Weather Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; contact the operator before your trip to confirm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early in the morning with a mini-van pickup, so being prompt helps ensure a smooth start. Once on the boat, you’ll head straight to your first stop: the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island. You’ll have approximately 30 minutes there—enough time to put on your snorkeling gear and maybe snap a photo of the cave’s dark interior. Keep in mind, some reviews mention that the cave isn’t as bright or blue as you’d expect; it’s more a dark, shadowy spot that’s popular precisely because of its uniqueness.

Next, the boat visits Lopud Island, where you’ll have about 3 hours of free time. Many travelers use this opportunity to walk along the coast, relax on the sandy beach, or soak up the atmosphere of this peaceful island. The beach is quite famous for its sand, which is rare for the region, making it a favorite spot for swimming and sunbathing. The pace allows enough time for a leisurely stroll, but some might wish for more time to explore further.

After Lopud, the tour continues to Sipan Island for a family-style lunch. You can choose from a fish, chicken, or vegetarian menu, with many describing the meal as fresh and authentic, prepared in a family home. Reviewers have raved about the homemade quality and the generous servings, with one even calling it “the best fish ever.” Following lunch, there’s time for a short walk through Sipan’s small village of Suura, with its historic castle hinting at the island’s storied past.

Finally, the boat heads to Kolocep Island—the sunniest of the islands, with over 250 days of sunshine annually. You’re encouraged to relax on the beach, enjoy the sun, or take a quick nap before heading back to Dubrovnik. Sunset views from the boat can be quite lovely, offering a perfect end to the day.

What the Experience Feels Like

The overall vibe is lively and friendly. Many reviews highlight the crew’s warmth and the captain’s great music choices, which add to the social atmosphere onboard. You’ll find yourself dancing, chatting with fellow travelers, and enjoying unlimited drinks—on the boat, it’s all about relaxing and having fun.

The snorkeling in the Blue Cave, while a highlight, isn’t necessarily a dive into a brightly lit cavern but more a quick dip into a shadowy spot that still offers the novelty of snorkel gear and the chance to swim in a unique setting. For some, it’s enough to say they snorkeled in a cave; for others, it’s a bit underwhelming visually.

The lunch at a family home is a definite plus—much more authentic and personal than a typical restaurant meal. The hosts are attentive and eager to make sure everyone is satisfied, with some guests noting how delicious the food was and how they appreciated the homemade feel.

However, some reviews mention downsides like the crowds at the Blue Cave, the rushed feel of the day, or less-than-stunning snorkeling gear. Also, the behavior of some fellow travelers can sometimes detract from the otherwise friendly environment—be prepared for a lively crowd, especially in summer.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is straightforward, with a mini-van pickup from designated meeting points. The tour lasts a full day, roughly from early morning until late afternoon, with the boat ride itself being the main focus. The group size is typically manageable, fostering a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere.

The inclusion of unlimited drinks is a simple but appreciated touch, making the trip more festive. Still, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out that too much alcohol can lead to less considerate behavior, especially among groups that might get a little loud or tardy at meeting points.

Pricing and Value

At around $53 per person, this tour offers a solid deal considering the diverse experiences packed into one day—snorkeling, island hopping, a hearty homemade lunch, and drinks. For those eager to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning transportation or multiple bookings, this is a convenient option.

The cost doesn’t include some optional extras, like buggies on Lopud, but the core experience delivers enough to justify the price for most travelers. Remember, you’re paying for the boat ride, the snorkeling gear, the meal, and the drinks—these add up in value if you’re keen on a fun, social day out.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for an active day of sightseeing with a social twist. If you enjoy boat trips with a lively atmosphere, good food, and scenic island views, you’ll probably love it. It’s also suited for those who don’t mind a busier, sometimes boisterous environment and are okay with a bit of crowding at popular spots like the Blue Cave.

On the flip side, if you’re after a more tranquil or exclusive experience, or prefer to avoid busy tourist spots, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, those with mobility issues should be aware that some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore the Elaphite Islands and the Blue Cave, combining natural beauty with local hospitality. The inclusion of a homemade lunch, unlimited drinks, and friendly guides makes for a memorable day, especially if you enjoy social atmospheres and scenic boat rides.

While the Blue Cave may not impress everyone visually and the pace can feel rushed, the overall experience delivers a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural flavor. It’s especially suited for travelers keen on a full-day outing that’s fun and reasonably priced.

If you’re looking for a lively, social experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and tasting local food, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a day on the move and a crowd-friendly environment.

FAQ

Is snorkeling gear included in the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided so you can enjoy the Blue Cave stop and some underwater fun.

How long do we stay at each island?
You’ll have about 30 minutes at the Blue Cave, 3 hours on Lopud, and some free time on Sipan and Kolocep for relaxing or exploring.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a homemade, family-style lunch with options like fish, chicken, or vegetarian is included on Sipan Island.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited drinks, including soft drinks, water, and wine, are offered throughout the day.

What’s the best part of the tour?
Many travelers rave about the homemade lunch and the friendly atmosphere onboard. The scenic island views are also a hit.

Is the Blue Cave worth visiting?
It’s a popular spot, but some reviews mention it can be crowded and not as brightly colored as expected. Still, it’s a unique experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, it’s generally family-friendly, but keep in mind some walking and boat activity.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera or phone for photos—just be cautious with your belongings during snorkeling and on the boat.

This tour packs a lot into one day, making it a convenient way to see several highlights around Dubrovnik. It’s perfect if you love a lively, social vibe and want a taste of island life with some swimming and local flavors thrown in. Just go with an open mind and a sense of adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: