City walls and sea air in one day. This is the kind of outing I like because you get Dubrovnik from the water and a full day of island stops, plus a real onboard meal with an open bar. One big consideration: it’s not set up for non-swimmers or for people who get seasick easily.

The crew matters here. In the best reviews, you’ll see names like Anabela and praise for a professional captain and team, which makes a long day feel smooth. The trade-off is simple: you’re on open water in the sun, so pack for waves and heat.

Key Things You’ll Notice Right Away

• Water-level views of Dubrovnik’s city walls that you can’t get from land
• Three Elaphite Islands (Koločep, Šipan, Lopud) with different vibes and time to explore
• Lunch on board + an open bar that includes wine, water, and soft drinks
• Swimming in turquoise coves during the island stops
• Lopud’s Your black horizon art installation paired with time at Šunj Beach

Cruising Dubrovnik’s City Walls for Sea-Level Views

Starting with the panoramic cruise along Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls is a smart move. From a boat, the walls look grand and real at the same time, and you get angles of the Old Town that usually disappear the moment you’re walking on land. You also feel the weather change as you move: sea breeze, shifting light, and the quiet rhythm of gliding past the harbor.

I also like that this part is built for photos without turning into a photo-stress contest. You’re not stuck staring at one spot. You’re moving, and the scenery keeps refreshing.

What you should keep in mind: you’re out on the water early in the day, so sun protection matters right away. Bring a hat and sunscreen, even if you think you’ll be in the shade later.

Koločep Island: Swim, Stroll, or Just Unplug

Koločep is the “slow down” stop. The vibe here is calm and green, with enough time to decide what kind of day you want. If you’re into water time, you’ll have chances to swim in turquoise coves. If you’d rather keep things easy, you can stroll around and soak up the island feel at a slower pace than the main Dubrovnik streets.

This is also a good stop for planning your energy for the rest of the day. You’ll likely do a bit of walking and a bit of swimming, so it helps to treat Koločep as your warm-up: get your sea legs, test the water, and then decide how adventurous you want to be on Šipan and Lopud.

Practical note: towels aren’t included. That sounds basic, but on an island day it’s the difference between feeling comfy and feeling rushed. If you want a smooth swim moment, you’ll want your own towel.

Šipan Island: Olive Groves and Quiet Village Life

Šipan is the largest of the Elaphite Islands on this route, and that size shows. Instead of just beaches and views, you get more of the island’s everyday pace: olive groves, historic villas, and quieter village life. It’s a great contrast to the feeling of Dubrovnik’s walls—less “wow from a distance,” more “how people actually live out here.”

If you enjoy wandering without a strict agenda, Šipan works well. You can take your time moving between viewpoints and shaded areas, and you won’t feel like you’re constantly being pushed along.

The only drawback is that the day is still moving forward. This tour gives you island time, but you’re not staying overnight. So if your goal is long beach lounging for hours on end, you may find yourself wishing for extra time—luckily Lopud is where you get a longer moment to relax.

Lopud Island and Your Black Horizon at Šunj Beach

Lopud is the highlight stop, and you’ll feel the difference right away because it’s the longest stop of the day. This is where you can choose your mix of culture, art, and beach time.

First up: the famous Your black horizon art installation. It’s the kind of piece that works best when you can take a few minutes to slow down and actually look. The setting matters, and Lopud gives you that chance without turning it into a quick photo-and-run moment.

Then there’s the beach option: Šunj Beach, known for soft sand and clear shallow water. Even if you’re not a hardcore beach person, the shallow water makes it an easier place to cool off and hang out without the stress of deeper water right away.

One more practical thing: Lopud is a chance to reset. After Koločep and Šipan, your body is probably ready for either a long swim session or a longer stretch of sitting in the sun. Pack for both moods.

Lunch on Board and the Open Bar That Actually Helps

Food and drinks are a big deal on an 8-hour boat day. The onboard lunch is freshly prepared, and the reviews call it abundant and fresh. That matters because island-hopping tours can sometimes feel like you’re surviving on snacks. Here, lunch is part of the plan.

And yes, the drink situation is generous. The open bar is included, and at least one review specifically mentioned wine, water, and soft drinks as unlimited. For you, that usually means two things: you don’t have to budget drinks all day, and you can stay comfortable while you’re out in the sun.

Just keep a steady head. With swimming stops and lots of bright daylight, it’s smart to pace the wine and save your energy for getting back on the boat and enjoying the last island stop.

What $82 Gets You for a Full-Day Sea Day

For $82 per person, you’re paying for a full package: a panoramic cruise along Dubrovnik’s city walls, visits to Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud, lunch onboard, and an open bar.

Is it cheap? No. But value-wise, it makes sense because you’re bundling what would be separate purchases otherwise: boat time, access to multiple islands, and food/drinks. If you only wanted one island stop, you’d likely spend less. But if your ideal day includes water views, at least one swim, and a proper meal without hunting for restaurants, this price is easier to justify.

I’d call it best value for people who want a “set it and enjoy it” day, not a day built around logistics and timetable hunting.

Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Should Rethink It)

This tour fits best if you’re comfortable with a few hours of being on the water and you want to mix sightseeing with downtime. It’s especially good for:

• People who want Dubrovnik city walls views without hiking for them
• Beach-and-swim lovers who appreciate multiple swim chances
• Couples and small groups who like a guided day but still want time to wander

It’s not a fit for:

• Non-swimmers
• People prone to seasickness

Even if you think you’re fine, be honest with yourself. The itinerary includes swimming time and the boat is part of every segment. If you’re sensitive to waves, take precautions before you go.

Tips on Packing for Sun, Swims, and a Long Day

This is one of those days where your packing list isn’t optional detail. It directly affects whether you enjoy each stop.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• A towel (not included)
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Camera
• Camera-friendly clothes you can handle wet surfaces in

Also, if you plan to do any serious snorkeling, snorkeling gear is not included. If you want to snorkel, bring your own kit so you’re not stuck with only a casual swim.

Finally, think about timing. This is an all-day outing (8 hours), so your body will need water and shade breaks. The open bar helps with drinks, but it doesn’t replace hydration habits.

Should You Book This Island Hopping and Walls Cruise?

If you want a day that feels like Dubrovnik plus the Adriatic in one sweep, this is a strong choice. I’d book it if your ideal day includes sea-level views of the city walls, multiple island settings, a real onboard lunch, and the freedom to swim and relax without planning every step.

I’d skip it if you’re a non-swimmer or if seasickness is a recurring issue. Also, if you hate sun and water-based logistics, plan something more land-based.

Overall, this tour earns its reputation with a simple formula done well: great views from the boat, three island experiences, and onboard comfort that keeps the day from feeling like a rushed checklist.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

It lasts 8 hours. Starting times vary depending on the option you book.

Which islands are included?

You visit Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud, with a scenic cruise along Dubrovnik’s city walls included in the day.

Is lunch and an open bar included?

Yes. Lunch is served onboard, and the tour includes an open bar with refreshing drinks.

Do I need to bring swimwear and a towel?

Yes. You should bring swimwear and a towel for the swimming stops. Towels are not included.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

No. Snorkeling gear is not included.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or people with seasickness?

No for both categories. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers and it’s not recommended for people prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel or pay later?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.