Dubrovnik: 3 Islands Boat Trip with Drinks (FR, ES, IT, EN)

Exploring the Elaphite Islands on a Full-Day Boat Trip from Dubrovnik

This boat trip offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, all from the comfort of a well-equipped vessel. It promises an 8-hour journey through crystal-clear waters, with stops at Lopud, Sipan, and Koloep, giving you ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing — all with free drinks and optional onboard lunch. What makes this tour stand out is the multilingual narration and the chance to experience unspoiled, car-free landscapes that speak to the authentic beauty of the Dalmatian coast.

Two aspects I particularly appreciate are the friendly, knowledgeable crew—notably guides like Lorenzo—and the generous inclusion of drinks throughout the day, which really adds to the carefree vibe. Plus, the visit to three islands with enough time for swimming and exploring seems well-paced. A potential downside? The busy schedule may mean you won’t get in-depth tours of each stop, especially the castle on Sipan, which some reviews mention as too rushed. But if your goal is scenic fun, this tour definitely delivers.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Multilingual Guides: The tour hosts speak English, French, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers.
• Excellent Value: Drinks, a full-day cruise, and visits to three islands make this a cost-effective way to explore the Elaphites.
• Flexible, Friendly Crew: Guests frequently mention guides like Lorenzo and Lila who keep the atmosphere lively and informative.
• Unspoiled Nature: The islands are car-free, offering peaceful landscapes, historic ruins, and beautiful beaches.
• Swimming Opportunities: Crystal-clear waters at each stop are ideal for quick dips, as highlighted by reviews praising clean, inviting seas.
• Limited Time at Some Spots: Be aware that some sites, like Sipan’s castle, can feel rushed—only about 45 minutes on the island.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Day Trip

Starting with Convenience and Comfort
You’ll meet at the Green Market in Dubrovnik around 10:00 AM, with the boat, TRITON, ready across the street. The pickup, if you opt for it, is straightforward, and the boat’s three decks are equipped with sunbeds, Wi-Fi, toilets, and a sound system—perfect for spending hours at sea. The scheduled departure around 10:15 AM means you start your adventure early enough to make the most of the day.

Cruising Along the Coast
The initial cruise lasts about 45 minutes, giving you a preview of the stunning coastline. The guides, typically speaking in English, French, Spanish, or Italian, share stories and insights, making the scenic cruise both relaxing and educational. The crowd tends to be friendly, with reviews mentioning guides like Lorenzo and Lila who go out of their way to entertain and inform.

Lopud: A Mediterranean Paradise
The first island stop at Lopud is a favorite for many. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and lush citrus groves, Lopud is a peaceful oasis. Guests love visiting the Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s oldest, or taking a quick swim at unj Beach, praised for its soft sands and clear waters. With three hours here, there’s enough time for photos, a leisurely walk, or simply lounging with a drink in hand. One visitor mentioned that the boat staff was flexible and accommodating, especially when last-minute lunch decisions were made.

Sipan: A Taste of History and Nature
Next, the boat cruises for about 20 minutes to Sipan, the largest of the islands. Reviews highlight its charming historic buildings and green landscapes. Guests often mention the brief 45-minute stop as a good chance to snap photos or walk around. Some reviews note that visiting the castle on Sipan feels rushed due to the limited 45-minute window, so plan accordingly. The island’s olive trees are a highlight—possibly the most on a single landmass—adding a layer of agricultural charm to the visit.

Koloep: Natural Beauty and Serenity
The final island stop at Koloep is smaller but packed with beauty. Visitors love its crystal waters, caves, and peaceful ambiance. An hour here allows for swimming, exploring caves, or just soaking up the scenery. Some reviewers mention that the boat’s crew makes sure everyone gets a chance to see the caves and take photos, adding to the feeling of a well-organized experience.

Back to Dubrovnik
The return cruise lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a final look at the coast before heading back to the meeting point. The day ends with the option to enjoy free entry to a top Dubrovnik nightclub, a nice touch for those wanting to extend the fun.

What to Expect: Practical Details and Tips

Included in the Price
– Hotel pickup and drop-off (if you select this option)
– Unlimited drinks throughout the day, including wine, soft drinks, and water
– Full-day boat cruise with visits to three islands
– Multilingual host on board
– Large boat with sunbeds, toilets, Wi-Fi, and sound system

Additional Costs and Considerations
– Towels are not provided, so bring your own for swimming.
– Optional transfer from Lopud to unj Beach is about 3 euros.
– Personal expenses like souvenirs, ice cream, or additional drinks are not included.

What to Bring
– Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear.
– Cash, if you plan to buy souvenirs or extras.

Best For
This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in clear waters, and socializing with a multilingual crew. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, fun day without intense cultural sightseeing—though you’ll get a taste of island charm.

Who Might Not Love It
If you prefer in-depth historical tours or dislike busy schedules, the limited time at each stop might feel rushed. Also, if you’re looking for a luxurious, private experience, this is more of a lively group outing.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

When you consider the full-day experience—including transfers, drinks, and visits to three islands—the value is quite strong. Many reviews note the all-inclusive drinks and flexible crew as highlights, making the cost seem reasonable. The boat itself is spacious, comfortable, and equipped for a full day of fun. The optional lunch, if added, offers fresh fish or vegetarian options, and many say it’s worth it compared to eating out on the islands.

Departure times are typically in the morning, with a flexible schedule depending on availability. The tour’s popularity means booking in advance is wise, especially in peak season. If you’re someone who values a structured, yet lively day out with plenty of swimming and scenic views, this trip offers solid bang for your buck.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, social day on the water with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and island charm. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate friendly guides, generous drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Families, couples, and solo travelers all enjoy it, as long as they’re okay with a busy schedule and limited time at each stop.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Croatia’s best islands without the hassle of planning, this tour provides a convenient, fun, and scenic solution. It’s also a great choice for anyone who values good value for money, as many reviews highlight the quality of the crew, the freshness of the drinks, and the beauty of the islands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Otherwise, you should meet at the Green Market in Dubrovnik.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, and Croatian, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long is each island stop?
Lopud gets about 3 hours, Sipan around 45 minutes, and Koloep roughly 1 hour, giving enough time for swimming, photos, and short walks.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for souvenirs or extras.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is available as an add-on, with options like fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes. Without lunch, you can buy drinks and snacks on board or on the islands.

Can I swim from the boat?
Yes, swimming is encouraged at each stop, and the waters are often praised for their clarity and inviting nature.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In short, this boat trip offers an enjoyable, well-organized way to see some of Croatia’s most scenic islands. With friendly guides, ample swimming time, and free drinks, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to combine relaxation with stunning scenery. Just remember, if you want in-depth cultural visits, this might not be the tour for you—unless you’re happy with a breezy, scenic day on the water.