Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island Cruise w/ Drinks & Optional Lunch

Dreaming of island adventures in Croatia? The Elaphite Islands cruise from Dubrovnik offers a perfect escape from the city’s bustling streets. This full-day journey takes you to three stunning islands – Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan – where crystal-clear waters and charming villages await your exploration.

During this unforgettable day trip, you’ll enjoy unlimited drinks from an open bar featuring wine, soft drinks and water while cruising between islands on a comfortable boat.

The package includes a delicious lunch with options for grilled fish, chicken fillet or vegetarian meals to suit your preferences. The attentive crew ensures your needs are met throughout the journey.

As you hop from island to island, you’ll have opportunities to swim in secluded coves, wander through picturesque settlements, and soak in spectacular views.

Overview of the Elaphite Islands Cruise

The Elaphite Islands cruise offers an unforgettable day trip from Dubrovnik, taking you to three stunning islands with ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation.

Exploring Lopud, Koločep, and Šipan

Your journey begins in Dubrovnik where you’ll board a comfortable vessel for your island-hopping adventure. Each of the three Elaphite islands has its own distinct character and charm.

Koločep, the smallest of the three, welcomes you with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The car-free island offers peaceful walking paths through pine forests and olive groves.

Lopud is famous for its sandy Šunj beach, a rarity in Croatia’s typically rocky coastline. You’ll have enough time to sunbathe, swim, or explore the island’s 15th-century monastery and botanical gardens.

Šipan, the largest of the Elaphiti islands, boasts impressive Renaissance villas and lush vegetation. Here you can wander through small villages, visit historic churches, or relax in a local café.

Activities on Board

During your cruise, you’ll enjoy a range of amenities and activities that enhance your Adriatic experience. The vessels are well-equipped with comfortable seating areas and sun decks.

An open bar serves refreshments throughout the day, including local wines, soft drinks, and water. The cruise package includes unlimited beverages to keep you hydrated as you sail between islands.

Some tours operate on replicas of traditional Karaka ships, adding a touch of historical atmosphere to your journey. These magnificent vessels provide excellent photo opportunities against the backdrop of Dubrovnik’s coastline.

Swimming stops are scheduled between island visits, allowing you to cool off in secluded bays away from the crowds.

Itinerary and Destinations

The Elaphite Islands cruise takes you on a journey through some of Croatia’s most scenic coastal treasures. The day-long adventure includes visits to multiple islands, each offering unique landscapes and cultural experiences.

Departure from the Old Town Port

The magnificent sight of traditional wooden boats waiting in the harbour sets the tone for your day at sea.

Before boarding, the friendly crew will check your tickets and direct you to your vessel. The port itself offers stunning views of Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, providing excellent photo opportunities.

As the boat leaves the harbour, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s iconic coastline. The captain often provides interesting commentary about the history of the region and what to expect throughout the day.

Visiting Lopud and Its Sandy Beach

Lopud Island is typically the first major stop on your Elaphite adventure. This car-free island is known for its stunning Šunj Beach, one of the rare sandy beaches in the region. The boat docks at the main harbour, from which you’ll have approximately 2-3 hours to explore.

You can stroll along the promenade lined with palm trees or hike up to the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery that offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic. The island’s relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding.

Šunj Beach is located on the opposite side of the island, about a 20-minute walk from the main port. Here you can:

Historical Ston and City Walls

Some Elaphite cruise itineraries include a stop at Ston on the Pelješac Peninsula. Famous for its impressive defensive walls—often called “Europe’s Great Wall”—Ston offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval engineering.

The Ston walls stretch for 5.5 kilometres, making them the second-longest preserved fortification system in the world. Your visit typically allows about 90 minutes to explore this remarkable structure and the charming town.

Ston is also renowned for its salt pans, which have been in operation since Roman times. The town’s saltworks remain active today, producing some of the world’s finest sea salt using traditional methods.

Exploring Koločep and Cave Snorkel

Koločep (also known as Kalamota) is the closest Elaphite island to Dubrovnik. This verdant island is covered with pine forests, olive groves, and citrus orchards. Your stop here typically lasts 1-2 hours.

The island features stunning Blue Cave formations along its coastline. Many cruises include snorkelling equipment, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world. The caves create a mesmerising blue glow when sunlight reflects through the water.

Koločep’s two main settlements, Donje Čelo and Gornje Čelo, feature:

More Breathtaking Boat Tours Along the Adriatic Coast

Looking for more coastal escapes? Check out these popular cruises and boat tours from Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, and beyond:

Šipan and Local Culture

Šipan is the largest of the Elaphite Islands and typically the final island stop on your cruise. The boat usually docks at Suđurađ, one of the island’s two main villages. You’ll have about 1-2 hours to explore this authentic slice of Croatian island life.

The island has a rich agricultural heritage, with numerous olive groves and vineyards dotting the landscape. During your visit, you might sample local produce or olive oils at family-run establishments.

Renaissance summer villas and historic churches reflect Šipan’s prosperous past. The 16th-century Skočibuha Castle stands as a testament to the island’s historical importance.

For lunch, many cruises offer traditional Croatian dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. The meal typically includes grilled fish or meat, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and unlimited drinks.

Booking Information

Planning your Elaphite Islands cruise requires attention to a few key details to ensure you get the experience that best suits your preferences. Most cruises depart from Dubrovnik’s main harbour with various package options available.

Choosing the Right Cruise Package

Consider whether you need pickup service, which is typically included only for the Dubrovnik area. If you’re staying outside the city centre, confirm this option is available for your location.

Most cruises include an open bar with water, soft drinks, wine and grappa, but the specific offerings may vary between operators. Check what’s included to avoid unexpected costs.

Sunset Dinner Cruise Options

While daytime excursions are popular, sunset dinner cruises offer a magical alternative for experiencing the Elafiti Islands. These evening cruises typically depart in the late afternoon, allowing you to witness the stunning Mediterranean sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

Sunset dinner packages usually include:

These cruises tend to be smaller and more intimate than day trips. They often focus on one or two islands rather than attempting to visit all three main Elaphite Islands.

Prices are typically higher than day cruises, reflecting the premium experience and enhanced dining options.

Alternate Destinations Like Cavtat

If you’ve already visited the Elaphite Islands or simply want to explore different waters, cruises to Cavtat offer an excellent alternative. Located about 18 kilometres south of Dubrovnik, Cavtat provides a more relaxed atmosphere than the popular Elafiti archipelago.

Cavtat day trips typically include:

The journey to Cavtat offers stunning views of Dubrovnik’s city walls from the sea. These cruises are often less crowded than Elaphite Islands tours, providing a more peaceful experience.

Many operators offer combination tickets that allow you to visit both destinations across multiple days, providing excellent value if you’re staying in Dubrovnik for several days.

Culinary Delights

The Elaphite Islands cruise offers a variety of delectable options to satisfy your hunger and thirst while exploring the stunning Adriatic waters. From refreshing drinks to fresh Mediterranean cuisine, your taste buds are in for a treat.

On-Board Refreshments and Drinks

Throughout your journey around Koločep, Lopud and Šipan islands, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks from the open bar. The cruise includes unlimited beverages to keep you refreshed during your day at sea.

Available drinks typically include:

The open bar service starts once you board the vessel and continues throughout the duration of your cruise. This allows you to sip a cool beverage whilst taking in the magnificent views of the Adriatic coastline and the lush Elaphite archipelago.

Optional Lunch Menus

The cruise offers a delicious optional lunch featuring fresh Mediterranean cuisine prepared with local ingredients. You can select from several menu options when booking.

Menu choices include:

If you have dietary requirements or food allergies, it’s recommended to inform the crew when booking. They can often accommodate special requests with advance notice.

Lunch is typically served whilst anchored near one of the picturesque islands, allowing you to enjoy your meal with stunning views. The fresh seafood options showcase the bounty of the Adriatic waters, whilst the vegetarian dishes highlight seasonal Mediterranean produce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about the Elaphite Island Cruise from Dubrovnik. These details will help you plan your journey and understand what to expect during this popular excursion.

What is the duration of the Elaphite Island Cruise from Dubrovnik?

The Elaphite Island Cruise is a full-day excursion lasting approximately 8 hours. The cruise typically departs from Dubrovnik in the morning and returns in the late afternoon.

This timeframe allows sufficient opportunity to visit the main islands and enjoy activities at each stop.

Are beverages and an optional lunch included in the price of the Elaphite Island cruise?

Yes, the cruise includes unlimited drinks throughout your journey. You’ll have access to high-quality Croatian wine, water, and various soft drinks including Coca-Cola and ice tea.

Lunch is offered as an optional addition to your cruise package. If you choose the lunch option, you’ll typically have a choice between grilled hake, chicken fillet, or a vegetarian meal.

The homemade olive oil served with meals comes from local producers in the region.

Can you advise on the best time of year to take the Elaphite Island cruise?

The optimal time for the Elaphite Island cruise is during the late spring to early autumn months (May to September). During this period, you’ll experience warm temperatures ideal for swimming and outdoor activities.

July and August offer the warmest sea temperatures but are also the busiest months. May, June, and September provide a good balance of pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Weather conditions are most reliable during summer months, reducing the risk of cruise cancellations due to rough seas.

What locations are visited during the Elaphite Island cruise?

The cruise visits the stunning Elaphite archipelago, with primary stops at the islands of Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud. Each island offers unique attractions and landscapes to explore.

Some cruises may also include visits to secluded bays and coves that are perfect for swimming and relaxation.

The exact itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and seasonal considerations.

Is swimming or snorkelling permitted during the cruise to the Blue Cave?

Yes, swimming is permitted at designated stops throughout the cruise. The clear Adriatic waters offer excellent visibility for swimming and snorkelling.

It’s recommended to bring your own snorkelling equipment if you wish to explore underwater. Some cruises may provide basic equipment, but this varies by operator.

Swimming time is typically allocated at each island stop, allowing you to cool off and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Are there any age restrictions or accessibility considerations for guests onboard the cruise?

The Elaphite Island cruise is suitable for travellers of all ages. Children are welcome, though very young children should be supervised at all times.

Regarding accessibility, it’s important to note that boarding the boat requires navigating steps, which may present difficulties for guests with mobility issues.

Some islands feature uneven terrain and pathways. It’s advisable to contact the cruise operator in advance if you have specific accessibility requirements to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.