Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise in the Elaphites With Lunch

Exploring the captivating Elaphite Islands is a must-do activity for visitors to Dubrovnik. The island-hopping cruise promises a day of enchantment, with stops at the picturesque islands of Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud. At just £50.65 per person, this highly-rated tour offers a budget-friendly way to discover the region’s natural beauty and historic sites. With a delicious lunch and unlimited drinks served on board, travelers can soak in the serene coastal vistas and plan their next island adventure.

Key Points

• A full-day adventure exploring the Elaphite Islands near Dubrovnik, including the islands of Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud.
• Offers scenic landscapes, historic sites, and an onboard lunch with unlimited drinks for a price starting from £50.65 per person.
• Highlights of the tour include picturesque villages, ancient churches, and opportunities for hiking, swimming, and relaxation on the islands.
• Provides breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and a serene atmosphere away from the bustling mainland.
• Includes pickup from central Dubrovnik hotels or a designated meeting point and return to the original location after the cruise.

Overview of the Elaphite Islands Cruise

The Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise offers a full-day adventure exploring the captivating Elaphite Islands off the coast of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

This highly-rated experience, with a 93% recommendation rate, takes travelers to the islands of Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud. Priced from £50.65 per person, the 8-hour tour departs at 9:00 AM and features scenic landscapes, historic sites, and a relaxing onboard lunch with unlimited drinks.

Comfortable seating, friendly crew, and opportunities for swimming and hiking await, making this cruise an excellent way to discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Elaphite archipelago.

Highlights of Koločep Island

One of the first stops on the Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise is the picturesque Koločep Island. Guests can explore the island’s pine forests and citrus gardens, while also visiting the late-medieval churches and 600-year-old manor houses.

The island offers a peaceful respite from the bustling mainland, with opportunities to hike, swim, and soak in the serene atmosphere. As the cruise continues, travelers will have time to wander through the quaint villages and enjoy the stunning natural landscapes that make Koločep Island a must-visit destination on this island-hopping adventure.

Exploring the Historic Šipan Island

After exploring the serene Koločep Island, the island-hopping cruise moves on to the historic Šipan Island.

Šipan is known for its 15th-century ruins and scenic walking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Visitors can wander through the island’s charming villages, discovering ancient churches and manor houses along the way.

The cruise provides ample time to take in Šipan’s rich history and natural beauty. Whether hiking the trails or simply relaxing on the boat, the visit to Šipan is a highlight of the day’s adventure.

Relaxing on Lopud Island

After exploring the historic sights of Šipan Island, the island-hopping cruise takes passengers to the picturesque Lopud Island.

Travelers can unwind on the idyllic Šunj beach, known for its fine sandy shores and clear waters. The island’s quaint town offers opportunities to:

1. Stroll through charming streets lined with traditional architecture.
2. Visit the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery and its tranquil gardens.
3. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the boat, featuring freshly-caught seafood and local produce.
4. Soak up the serene atmosphere and stunning coastal views.

With its mix of relaxation and exploration, Lopud Island provides a delightful respite during the Dubrovnik island-hopping experience.

Onboard Dining and Beverage Service

As passengers return to the boat from exploring Lopud Island, they’re welcomed by the crew’s attentive service. Unlimited soft drinks and wine flow freely, allowing guests to quench their thirst.

The lunch options feature locally-sourced ingredients, with choices of meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes. While some previous travelers noted issues with meal availability, the crew works to ensure everyone is well-fed.

The leisurely pace of the cruise allows guests to savor their meal while taking in the stunning island scenery. It’s a delightful blend of delicious fare and picturesque vistas.

Meeting and Pickup Arrangements

The Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise offers convenient pickup options for guests. Centrally located hotel pickups are available, or guests can meet at the designated meeting point on Lapadska obala 6 in Dubrovnik.

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 AM, so guests should arrive by 8:30 AM. The cruise ends back at the same meeting point, providing easy access to return transportation.

Some key details about the meeting and pickup arrangements:

• Pickup available from central Dubrovnik hotels or the Lapadska obala 6 meeting point
• Arrive by 8:30 AM, tour starts at 9:00 AM
• Return to the original meeting point at the end of the cruise
• Convenient for guests to arrange their own transportation to and from the tour

What to Expect During the Cruise

Guests aboard the Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise can expect a comfortable and interactive boat experience. The sailboat offers ample seating, allowing travelers to relax and take in the scenic islands.

Crew members are on hand to answer questions and facilitate the experience. Passengers can help themselves to unlimited soft drinks and wine throughout the day.

The cruise features scheduled stops at each island, providing time for swimming, hiking, and exploring. Lunch, featuring local ingredients, is served while cruising between islands, creating a delightful dining experience.

With this well-designed itinerary, travelers can look forward to a memorable day in the Elaphite Islands.

Additional Details and Traveler Reviews

Though the Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise is highly recommended, with a 93% satisfaction rate, a few travelers have noted some minor issues.

These include:

1. Meal availability: Some guests found limited options for vegetarian or special dietary requests on the boat.
2. Timing on islands: A handful of reviewers felt the time allocated on each island was a bit rushed.
3. Accessibility: The cruise isn’t wheelchair-friendly, which may be a concern for some.
4. Departure time: A few guests wished the tour started a bit later in the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Boat Suitable for Elderly or Disabled Travelers?

The boat is not wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate. Elderly or disabled travelers may find the experience challenging due to the need for mobility to explore the islands. Inquire about specific accessibility accommodations.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

While the cruise does provide unlimited soft drinks and wine, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food or drinks on board. Bringing outside items is discouraged to support the onboard catering and dining experience.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

No special equipment is needed. The cruise provides comfortable seating, unlimited soft drinks and wine, and time for swimming, hiking, and relaxing on the islands. Travelers just need to bring comfortable clothing and footwear.

Can I Customize the Lunch Options to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, you can customize the lunch options to accommodate dietary restrictions. The tour allows you to specify meal types when booking, so you can choose from meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes to suit your needs.

How Reliable Is the Weather and What Happens if It Rains?

The weather in the area can be variable, but the cruise operator closely monitors forecasts and will reschedule or provide indoor activities if rain is likely. They aim to ensure guests have an enjoyable experience regardless of the weather.

The Sum Up

The Dubrovnik Island-Hopping Cruise in the Elaphite Islands is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and rich history of this enchanting region. With stunning landscapes, historic sites, and opportunities for relaxation, this tour offers incredible value for money. Travelers can look forward to a leisurely lunch, unlimited drinks, and convenient transportation, making it an unforgettable journey along Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast.