Dubrovnik: Elafiti Islands Boat Tour with Lunch & Drinks

Summary

A slow boat day across elafiti islands with lunch and laughter

You’ll join locals and travelers on a laid-back boat trip from Dubrovnik to three Elafiti islands—Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—with freshly grilled lunch served on board. Expect unlimited wine (and maybe some laughter over spilled drinks), time to wander old villages or swim, plus hotel pickup for a smooth start and finish.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat—literally. My coffee took too long at Port Gruž, so I jogged down the dock, waving at a crew member who just grinned and held out his hand. That’s how my Dubrovnik islands boat tour started: out of breath, shoes untied, but instantly welcomed. The benches were already filling up with people chatting in different languages, and there was this faint smell of pine and sea salt hanging in the air. Someone was already pouring wine—at 10am. No judgment here.

Our captain, Marko (who had the driest sense of humor), gave us quick tips as we reached each of the Elafiti islands—Koločep first, then Šipan and Lopud. He pointed out old stone churches half-hidden by fig trees, told us where to find sandy beaches or a bakery that sells something called “pogača” (I probably said it wrong; Marko just laughed). On Šipan, I wandered into a tiny chapel where it was so quiet you could hear your own footsteps echo off the cool stone. Back on board, the chef started grilling fish right there—smoke curling up into the sunlight while everyone drifted back from their island walks.

I picked the fish lunch (the grilled hake was flaky and tasted like summer), but there were chicken and veggie options too. The salads were simple but fresh; tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes. Someone spilled their grappa when the boat rocked—a little chaos, lots of laughter. There was music playing softly in the background but mostly you heard people talking about where they’d come from or what they’d seen that morning. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed—maybe it was the wine or just being surrounded by water for hours.

By late afternoon we were sunburned and happy, drifting back toward Dubrovnik with plates cleared and bottles emptying fast. The crew seemed to know when to chat and when to leave you alone staring at the coastline slipping past. When we got back to port, there was a van waiting for hotel drop-offs—I nearly forgot my bag under the bench (again). I still think about that moment on Šipan: standing under olive trees with my hands smelling like salt and lemon juice from lunch.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubrovnik Islands boat tour with lunch

• Arrive at Port Gruž boat
• Settle at tables with sunshade
• Listen to captain's island introductions
• Visit Koločep Island
• Visit Lopud Island
• Visit Šipan Island
• Watch chef grill lunch on board
• Enjoy unlimited drinks and lunch
• Relax and sightsee during 8-hour tour
• Return to harbor
• Transfer back to hotel or apartment

Top questions

How long is the Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands boat tour?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours including all island stops.

Is lunch included on this Dubrovnik islands day trip?

Yes, lunch is freshly prepared on board with fish, chicken or vegetarian options.

Are drinks included during the boat tour?

Unlimited white and red wine, soft drinks, water, and grappa are included throughout the day.

Which islands do you visit on this Dubrovnik boat tour?

The tour visits Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—the main Elafiti islands near Dubrovnik.

Is hotel pickup provided for this Elafiti Islands tour?

Yes, transfer service is included for pickup from your hotel or apartment in Dubrovnik.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian meals are available if requested at booking.

Are there restrooms on board during the island cruise?

Yes, there is a toilette available on the boat for passenger use.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Dubrovnik accommodations, all taxes and fees covered upfront, unlimited wine plus soft drinks throughout your journey between Koločep, Lopud and Šipan islands—and a freshly grilled lunch served onboard as you watch village life drift by before returning in comfort in the evening.