Dubrovnik Elaphiti Islands Cruise: Pirate Ship, Wine & Beaches

Summary

Elaphiti islands by pirate ship with wine tasting and swimming stops

You’ll sail from Dubrovnik on a replica pirate ship through the Elaphiti Islands, stopping at Koločep’s pine forests, Šipan’s historic villa with optional wine tasting, and Lopud’s sandy beach for swimming or lunch. With a local guide leading the way and hotel pickup included, you’ll feel both cared for and free to wander.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway out of Dubrovnik’s harbor before I realized just how much the Karaka looked like something out of an old storybook — all polished wood and creaking ropes, with the crew in striped shirts chatting in Croatian. The air was salty and a little brisk that morning, but everyone seemed wide awake. Our guide, Ana, handed out water bottles and tokens for drinks (I went for the local white wine — probably too early, but when in Croatia). Someone’s kid kept pointing at the seagulls trailing us. I kind of envied his excitement.

Koločep was our first stop on this Elaphiti Islands cruise. It smelled like pine needles and seaweed, which sounds weird but actually felt sort of calming. Some folks joined the optional hike; I wandered off to the honey farm instead. The beekeeper let me taste something floral and sticky — he called it “med” — and tried to teach me a few words in Croatian. I definitely didn’t get them right. Back on board, Ana told us about local legends (something about pirates hiding treasure here ages ago) while we drifted toward Šipan.

Šipan felt quieter somehow, like time ran slower there. We peeked into this old stone mansion (Skočibuha family — Ana said they used to trade salt centuries ago), then sat under olive trees sipping more wine. The sun came out strong by then, so most of us just lounged around talking or listening to cicadas. There was supposed to be a wine tasting for €10 if you wanted it — honestly, I lost track after my second glass.

Lopud was last — more time here than anywhere else, which made sense because the beach is unreal. The Adriatic water was cold at first but clear enough to see your toes even way out. Some people grabbed lunch at one of those little partner restaurants (smelled like grilled fish everywhere), others just floated or snorkeled with those full-face masks they hand out on the boat (you give a deposit but get it back). I lay on my towel thinking about nothing for once — except maybe how good it felt not to check my phone for hours.

The ride back had everyone a little sunburned and lazy; someone played music quietly near the bow while Ana passed around WiFi info so we could send photos home before we even docked at Gruž again. Not sure why that part sticks with me — maybe because it felt like drifting back from some other world into real life again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Elaphiti Islands cruise and exploration

• Board Karaka ship at port Gruž
• Optional toast and drinks on board
• Arrive at Koločep island
• Optional hiking or honey farm visit
• Travel to Šipan island
• Visit Skočibuha mansion
• Optional wine tasting on Šipan
• Arrive at Lopud island
• Swim and snorkel in Adriatic Sea
• Cruise back to port Gruž

Top questions

How long is the Elaphiti Islands cruise from Dubrovnik?

The tour starts at 8:45 am from port Gruž and returns in the late afternoon; exact return depends on season.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available in Dubrovnik and suburban areas if selected during booking.

What activities are included on each island?

Koločep offers hiking or honey tasting; Šipan has sightseeing and optional wine tasting; Lopud has swimming/snorkeling and optional lunch.

Are drinks or food included on board?

You get a bottle of water upon arrival plus one drink token (water, juice, beer or wine); snacks are available for purchase.

Can I swim or snorkel during this Elaphiti Islands tour?

Yes, especially on Lopud where you have time for swimming or snorkeling using provided masks (with refundable deposit).

Is this cruise suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams/strollers are allowed onboard.

What should I bring for this Dubrovnik islands cruise?

Sunscreen, swimsuit, towel (can be bought onboard), camera, sunhat; casual/light sports clothes recommended.

Are there toilets and WiFi on the pirate ship Karaka?

Yes, both air conditioning/toilets and free WiFi are available onboard throughout the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Dubrovnik or nearby suburbs if you choose transfer when booking, all transport between islands aboard the Karaka replica ship with air conditioning and WiFi, bottled water plus a drink token good for beer or local wine during your cruise, use of full-face snorkeling masks (with deposit), access to onboard toilets throughout the journey, plus plenty of free time to explore each island before returning in the afternoon.