Dubrovnik looks different from the water. This Elaphite Islands cruise takes you past the city, then lets you hop between island bays for swimming and snorkeling with an onboard open bar. It’s the kind of day that feels relaxed, but it still packs in three classic islands, plus an optional Blue Cave detour.

I especially like two things: the hotel-area pickup and drop-off option (when selected) and the way the day balances cruising time with real stop time. You’re not just staring out a window all day—you get walk breaks, beach time, and a proper lunch on the boat.

One consideration: the route is subject to sea conditions, and that can affect timing and whether the Blue Cave stop feels smooth or gets adjusted. If the sea is rough, plan for the day to run a bit differently than the brochure version.

Key things to know before you go

• Open bar included: white wine plus soft drinks and juices for unlimited sipping while you sail
• Three islands in one day: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan each get their own flavor and tempo
• Lopud gets the longest stop: with food, wine, and more time to swim and wander
• Blue Cave can be added: a popular optional side quest when conditions allow
• Two-deck boat with room to move: seating plus two toilets for a more comfortable day afloat
• Guided in English and Croatian: a live guide keeps stops organized and explains what you’re seeing

Why the Elaphite Islands day feels like a real Dubrovnik escape

This cruise is built for people who want the Adriatic experience without doing a lot of planning. In one 8-hour outing, you’ll see Dubrovnik from the water, then spend meaningful time on Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—three islands that each feel distinct once you’re off the boat.

What makes it work is the pacing. You get stretches of sailing (when you can settle in and take in views) but the itinerary also leaves room for actual island life: short walks, time at photo spots, and chances to cool off in clear water. It’s also surprisingly social in a good way—people tend to mix during swim breaks and lunch, while the crew keeps things organized.

And yes, the onboard drinks matter here. You can have a glass of wine or a soda whenever you want, which turns the crossing time into part of the fun rather than just transit.

Meeting Emili dockside: where the day starts and how to avoid stress

Your meeting point is straightforward: board at the dock next to the bus station, on the boat named Emili. If you can’t find it, you’ll need to call the activity provider.

If you choose pickup, the tour notes that pickup time depends on where you’re staying. You’re required to contact the provider before the start to get the exact pickup time. If you don’t, there’s a risk you could miss the tour. That’s not the place to wing it—set a reminder and message the operator as soon as you book.

At the end of the day, the drop-off includes Dubrovnik and also Knjižnica za društvene znanosti. So even without pickup, you’re not stuck figuring out how to get back after you’ve been out on the water for hours.

The boat setup: open views, two decks, and the practical stuff that matters

This is operated on a comfortable boat with two decks, offering plenty of seating and good sightlines. In practical terms, that means you’re not glued to one side trying to catch views. You can shift depending on sun, wind, or where you want to be when the crew is guiding the group to the swim spots.

You also get two toilets on board, which sounds basic until you’ve been on a day tour where that detail gets ignored. Here, it’s included, and it helps keep the day feeling smooth.

The tour includes a live guide in English and Croatian. That matters when you’re moving quickly between islands, because someone is keeping time and sharing context instead of everyone guessing what’s worth walking to.

Included drinks and lunch options: what you get for the $53

The price shown is about $53 per person for the 8-hour day. Whether it feels like a bargain depends on which option you choose, because lunch is included only if you select the lunch option.

Unlimited drinks (what’s actually included)

If you’re looking for value, the open bar is a big part of it. Unlimited beverages include:

• white wine
• water
• Apple juice and orange juice
• Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero, Fanta

So you can do a mix of light sips and full lunch-time refuels without having to pull out your wallet repeatedly.

Lunch choices (and what to expect)

Lunch is available with the option you select, with chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes. The standout takeaway is that lunch tends to be substantial and freshly served, with many people praising the fish.

That said, one review also flagged that the potato component wasn’t the highlight. Translation: if you’re picky about sides, don’t assume every element will taste exactly the way you’d hope. Still, the overall lunch experience seems to land as satisfying for most people.

Koločep: the quick-hit island with swims, snorkeling, and a walk break

Koločep is the first island stop, and it works as a warm-up day. You’ll have about an hour that includes a mix of photo stops, sightseeing, a nature walk, and time for swimming and snorkeling.

Why this stop is worth it: Koločep is often where you first feel the trade-off between sightseeing and doing. You can take short scenic walks when the group regroups, then jump in when you’re ready. That wind-in-your-hair feeling gets replaced by that moment when you hit the water and everything goes quiet for a second.

One practical tip: bring swimwear and a towel (recommended by the tour). You’ll want the flexibility to hop between dry and wet without scrambling.

Blue Cave add-on: why people pay extra and what to plan for

The itinerary includes an option to visit the iconic Blue Cave. When it happens, the stop is built around swimming and snorkeling, and it’s typically timed as part of the day’s routing.

A key detail: the tour is subject to sea conditions. In choppy weather, the operator may adjust the timing to improve the chances you’ll actually experience the cave. One review described them going to the cave early because sea conditions were expected to worsen.

Pricing-wise, there’s at least one documented upgrade price: a review mentioned paying about €20 per person for the Blue Cave add-on. That doesn’t guarantee the current price, but it gives you an idea of the typical add-on range.

Is it worth it? If you want the most “wow” visual moment on the water, this is the stop that tends to deliver it. Even if the cave itself is slightly overrated for some people, the speedboat ride and swim time connected to it often make the add-on feel worthwhile.

Šipan: shorter island time, more traditional rooftops, and an easy stroll

Šipan gets a smaller window—about 45 minutes with a photo stop, visit, and time that mixes guided and self-guided wandering.

This stop is more about atmosphere than activities. You’ll see traditional red-roofed stone houses, and you’ll have a brief chance to walk, soak in the island feel, and then get back on the boat for the next sailing segment.

Why I like this style of stop: it keeps the day from dragging. Some island day trips overload you with too many “tourist checklist” moments. Here, Šipan feels like a quick cultural pause—enough time to feel you’ve reached the island’s identity without turning the day into a sprint.

Lopud: the longest stop with wine, food, and beach time

Lopud is where the day stretches out. You’ll spend about 3 hours here, and the itinerary is packed with options: sightseeing, walks, swimming and snorkeling, plus wine and lunch connected to the stop.

Lopud also includes food experiences. The itinerary notes things like a food tasting and a food market visit. So this is not only a “sit on a beach” stop. You can do a little wandering, then switch to beach mode when you’re ready.

One reason Lopud tends to be the favorite: it offers the most time to actually enjoy an island rhythm. By the afternoon, you’ve had your morning sailing and your first swim opportunities. Lopud lets you settle in—grab a drink, stretch your legs, and spend enough time at the beach to cool off without feeling rushed.

One practical note from reviews that still makes sense: 3 hours can feel long if you don’t find activities that hold your interest. If you’re the kind of traveler who needs a steady stream of structured things to do, plan to mix in walking, swimming, and the food portions so the time passes nicely.

The sailing segments: how the boat time becomes part of the experience

Between islands, you’ll have multiple cruising stretches—about 30 minutes at first, then longer sails in between stops.

Here’s the value of those segments: the sea view is part of Dubrovnik’s story. You’re not just transferring from A to B. You’re watching the coastline change as the boat moves, and you’re getting wind-and-water moments that you won’t see if you stay on land.

Also, the boat layout helps. With two decks and seating, you can move around without feeling trapped. That matters when the group is changing locations for swim breaks or lunch.

Who this cruise suits best (and who should think twice)

This day trip is a strong fit if you:

• want a one-day sampler of the Elaphite Islands from Dubrovnik
• enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and beach time
• like a structured day that still gives you free time on each island
• want food and drinks handled for you (and especially if you pick the lunch option)

It’s less ideal if you:

• have mobility challenges or rely on a wheelchair
• The tour information includes a wheelchair-accessible note in one place, but it also lists not suitable for wheelchair users and people with mobility impairments. If you fall into that category, double-check directly with the operator before you book.
• dislike sea-condition uncertainty
• Since the tour is subject to sea conditions, rough weather may change how certain stops feel or whether they happen as planned.

Value check: what $53 buys you, really

At first glance, $53 sounds like a modest price for a full 8-hour experience with drinks and multiple islands. The real value is in the combination:

• multiple stops (three islands) rather than a single island
• unlimited drinks on board
• lunch inclusion when you choose the lunch option
• a boat with two decks and on-board toilets
• a live guide who keeps the day moving and explains what you’re seeing

If you’re traveling with someone who likes wine or wants easy refreshment, this tour can feel like a clear deal because the drink cost doesn’t become a second expense mid-day. If you don’t care about lunch, you may want to compare your priorities—some value comes from food, and some comes from island time and drinks.

A few smart tips to make the day feel better

• Bring swimwear and a towel. You’ll likely want to hop in whenever the group stops.
• Plan for sun and wind. The boat time and deck time mean you can get sun fast, even when you’re not sweating.
• Use Lopud time for energy reset. It’s long enough that you can walk, swim, and eat without feeling frantic.
• If Blue Cave is on your radar, decide early. When conditions get rough, timing adjustments can happen.

Should you book this Dubrovnik Elaphite cruise?

If your ideal day includes island hopping, time to swim, and a boat ride that feels more like vacation than transportation, I think you’ll like this. The strongest case for booking is the blend of unlimited drinks with proper island stop time, plus lunch when selected.

I’d hesitate only if you’re very sensitive to sea conditions, or if mobility needs make boat access tricky. And if you dislike optional add-ons, note that Blue Cave is not guaranteed in every scenario because the tour runs on the ocean’s schedule.

Overall, this one works well as a Dubrovnik classic: not too complicated, genuinely scenic, and built so you can show up, relax, and let the day happen around you.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup in Dubrovnik included?

Pickup is available in the Dubrovnik city area if you select the pickup option. If you don’t select pickup, you’ll board at the dock next to the bus station.

Where is the meeting point for the cruise?

Meet at the dock next to the bus station, on the boat named Emili. If you can’t find it, contact the activity provider.

What drinks are included during the cruise?

The tour includes unlimited drinks in the onboard open bar: white wine, water, Apple juice, orange juice, Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero, and Fanta.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is included only if you select the lunch option. The lunch includes chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes.

Can I add the Blue Cave to the trip?

There is an option to visit the iconic Blue Cave during the tour.

What should I bring with me?

Bring swimwear and a towel. The tour is also subject to sea conditions.