That open sea feeling starts fast.

This full-day Elaphite Islands cruise from Dubrovnik mixes serious Adriatic scenery with an onboard open bar and lunch that makes the day feel effortless. You’ll float between three islands—Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep—with enough time ashore to actually enjoy beaches and a little wandering, and the crew (often led by friendly staff like Emily) keeps the mood moving.

One consideration: if you’re prone to seasickness, this isn’t the low-risk option, and pickup is limited to the Dubrovnik city area. If you’re staying within 1 km of the Lapad meeting point, you won’t be eligible for pickup either—so plan to arrive on your own.

Key Highlights I’d Plan Around

• Onboard lunch + drinks included: three meal types and nonstop drinks make this good value for a full day at sea
• Three-island format with real beach time: you’re not just passing by; Lopud and Kolocep are made for swimming
• Lopud’s beach and gardens combo: you can go sandy at Šunj or choose Djordjic Mayneri Park
• Sipan stop with quick cultural payoffs: old harbor vibes plus olive-tree lore and a pirate-era castle
• Kolocep’s cliffs and cave area: built for snorkeling and beach breaks
• Service style that keeps things flowing: from the top deck to the tables, the crew focuses on keeping you comfortable

Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands: why this day feels efficient

The best part of this cruise is how it turns a complicated day into simple island hopping. Instead of figuring out ferries, schedules, and connections, you get one clear plan and a boat ride that does the heavy lifting while you focus on swimming, sun, and views.

You also get variety in a short time. Lopud leans beach-and-wander, Sipan gives a quieter harbor stop with history markers, and Kolocep is all about the water—coves, cliffs, and sandy swim spots.

The route runs about 8 hours, and it starts at 9:00 am back at the Lapad meeting area. That early start matters in summer when island time can vanish quickly.

Price and what you actually get for $78.60

For $78.60 per person, you’re not just paying for transportation. You’re paying for a full-day “island access pass” that includes lunch and drinks while you’re on the water.

Here’s what the bundle covers based on the tour details:

• Lunch onboard with meat, fish, and vegetarian choices
• Drinks including soft drinks (Coca-cola, Fanta) plus white wine and brandy
• Bottled water and the usual non-alcohol options
• A driver/guide plus local guide, depending on the day’s operation
• Time at three islands with swimming and shore exploring

That’s why this tends to feel like value compared with piecing together a ferry day, then buying lunch and paying for drinks separately. If you like beaches and you’ll drink at least a glass or two of wine, the math tends to work.

9:00 departure, Lapad meeting point, and pickup rules that matter

The meeting point is:

Knjižnica za društvene znanosti, Lapadska obala 7, 20000 Dubrovnik

The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Pickup is available only if you select it, and only for the Dubrovnik city area. If you’re staying less than 1 km from the starting point, pickup isn’t available, so don’t assume the van will find you.

A key practical detail: pickup time can vary and is scheduled before departure—often 45 minutes to 5 minutes prior. The operator asks that you contact them for your pickup time or meeting point (email/phone/WhatsApp). If you don’t, there’s a real risk of missing the transfer, and then refunds aren’t issued for that kind of miss.

My advice: once you book, message them immediately and confirm where you’ll be picked up. It saves stress.

The boat experience: open bar timing and what lunch feels like on day cruises

You spend a lot of time on the water, so this cruise is as much about the onboard atmosphere as it is about the islands. Expect easy, casual pacing: arrive, settle in, toast your trip, eat, then come back to water time.

The drink plan is simple and generous. White wine and brandy are included, and the crew generally circulates so you don’t have to hunt for refills. Soft drinks are included too—Coca-cola and Fanta, plus water.

Lunch is one of the strongest reasons to pick this style of trip. You’ll get a plated onboard meal rather than scrambling for food once you reach the islands:

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

If you’re the type who gets snacky by mid-day, this matters. A lot of Croatia day plans run you hard, then leave you to find lunch. Here, the meal is part of the schedule.

One more note: the tour says it’s not recommended for travelers with seasickness. If you know you’re sensitive on boats, consider planning a different day trip or bring your own remedy.

Lopud Island: Šunj beach time and the optional park wander

Lopud is your first real stop, and it’s designed for “choose your own vibe” island time. The schedule gives about 3 hours, and you can split that between beach time, a short sightseeing loop, and relaxing.

You’ll likely hear the two anchors of Lopud right away: Šunj beach and the botanical gardens at Djordjic Mayneri Park. There’s also mention of churches/heritage and nature, so even if you don’t want full-on beach mode, there’s enough to break up the day.

The beach option is the obvious win. If weather cooperates, you can swim and soak up the sun without needing a second plan. If the conditions aren’t ideal, the gardens and older areas give you something to do that’s still outdoors and scenic.

Practical consideration: Lopud gives you time, but not unlimited time. Decide early what you want most—sand time or a calmer walk—and keep the rest as a bonus.

Sipan Island: harbor culture, olive-tree trivia, and a castle moment

Sipan is shorter—about 1 hour—so treat it like a quick palate cleanser between swims. The draw here is its small harbor energy and the sense that you’re seeing a calmer side of the archipelago.

Expect a stop at an old fisherman’s port and a chance to look around with a little self-guided time. The tour info also points to a fun local angle: Sipan is noted in the Guinness book of records as the island with the biggest number of olive trees.

There’s also a castle built for defense against pirates in the 15th century. With only about an hour, you’ll want to pick one “anchor activity” here—either port strolling or a quick look connected to the castle area—rather than trying to do everything.

My take: Sipan works best if you like atmosphere over checklists. This is where the day becomes “slow travel for one hour,” not a full excursion.

Kolocep Island: caves and cliffs, plus your main swim and snorkel push

Kolocep is the water-focused finale with about 1 hour. It’s known for caves and cliffs, and for snorkeling and swimming on sandy beaches.

Even if you’re not a hardcore snorkeler, this is the stop where you can usually get the most direct time in the water. Think of it like your payoff: earlier you may choose beach relaxation on Lopud, but Kolocep is where the tour leans into the dramatic coastal feel.

A useful way to use this hour:

• Get into the water early if the boat timing allows
• Spend the middle time snorkeling if conditions are decent
• Keep a little buffer to climb down or walk along the shore if you change plans

If the sea is calm, you’ll likely feel like the day ends on the best note. If the wind picks up, focus on one beach and one swim window instead of spreading out.

On the water between islands: what makes the scenery worth your attention

The crossing times are part of the show. The islands are close enough that you’re not stuck on long travel stretches, but you still get that feeling of distance from Dubrovnik—the water and coastline become the main scenery.

Also, the boat setup makes a difference. Many departures have a top deck view. From the cruise vibe described, being up top with a light breeze tends to be where the “this is why I booked” feeling shows up.

If you want great photos, bring a plan:

• Photograph early while the light is clean
• Protect your phone/gear from splash
• Keep your hands free so you don’t miss the moment when the coastline lines up

Who this cruise suits best (and who should skip it)

This is a solid match for people who want max value without stress. It’s especially good for:

• Couples and friends who want an easy day with food and drinks included
• Families who like the idea of multiple islands but don’t want ferry logistics
• Beach lovers who want at least two true swim opportunities (Lopud and Kolocep)

It may not be the right fit if:

• You’re very sensitive to boat motion (it’s not recommended for seasickness)
• You prefer quiet, low-crowd experiences (the group size can go up to 110 travelers)
• You want lots of deep, guided history at each stop (Sipan and Kolocep are short stops)

Small practical tips that make your day better

A few things I’d do before you go:

• Plan which lunch option you’ll want (fish, chicken, or vegetarian) and enter it correctly at booking
• Bring swim gear. The tour lists it as not included, so you’ll need to pack your own suit
• Pack sunscreen and something for shade on the boat and at the beaches
• Bring a light layer if the breeze picks up during crossings

If you’re considering a Blue Cave add-on: some versions of this day include a speedboat trip to caves for an extra fee (often mentioned around 20 euros). Since it’s not guaranteed in the core details, you’ll want to ask what’s available on your specific sailing date.

Should you book this Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands cruise?

I’d book it if you want a full, relaxing Adriatic day with lunch and drinks handled, plus real time on Lopud and Kolocep for swimming. The strongest reason is simple: it’s a day-trip format that doesn’t make you scramble for food, then wait hours for the next ferry connection.

I’d think twice if you’re seasick, you hate shared group settings, or you want long, in-depth shore excursions. In those cases, you may prefer a slower ferry-based approach where you can control pacing.

If you’re booking with an upbeat mindset—sun, water, and an easy schedule—this one is hard to beat for the price.

FAQ

How long is the Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands cruise?

The tour runs about 8 hours (approx.).

Which islands are included on the cruise?

You’ll visit Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep.

Is lunch included, and what are the meal options?

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

Are drinks included?

Yes. The tour includes bottled water, soft drinks (Coca-cola and Fanta), and alcoholic drinks such as white wine and brandy. Alcohol is included under the tour’s beverage offering, with a minimum drinking age of 18.

Do they offer hotel pickup?

Pickup is offered only if you select the pickup option and you’re in the Dubrovnik city area. Pickup is not available if you’re staying less than 1 km from the starting point.

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

The meeting point is Knjižnica za društvene znanosti, Lapadska obala 7, 20000 Dubrovnik. The start time is 9:00 am. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Is there a mobile ticket?

Yes, the tour includes a mobile ticket.

Can vegetarians or people with allergies join?

Yes. You should enter dietary needs (including vegetarian preferences or allergies) in the special requirements box at booking or by contacting through Manage My Booking after you book.

Is the tour suitable if I get seasick?

It’s not recommended for travelers with seasickness.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.