Skipping Dubrovnik is the point of this day. I love how this boat tour gives you real beach time and island walking without the usual schedule stress, and I also like that the crew keeps things moving with an English guide plus included lunch and drinks. The main thing to watch is simple: you must be at the meeting point on time, because the big blue boat (named Emili) will not wait.

On paper it sounds like a classic island loop, but in practice it feels like a floating reset. You get a sightseeing cruise out from Dubrovnik, then proper stretches of time on Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep to swim, snorkel, and wander, with a lunch that can be chosen in advance. One drawback to plan around: pickup is only available from the Dubrovnik city area (not all of Dubrovnik-Neretva county), so if you’re outside that zone you’ll need to make your own way to the departure point.

Key Points to Know Before You Go

• Three islands, three different vibes: Lopud feels relaxed and beachy, while Sipan and Kolocep keep things more stop-and-go.
• Sunj sandy beach time on Lopud makes this tour feel like more than just photos.
• Lunch + drinks included, including wine and brandy, plus soft drinks and bottled water.
• Swimming and snorkeling opportunities are built into the stops, so you’re not stuck doing only sightseeing.
• Hotel pickup is limited to the Dubrovnik city area, so check where you’re staying.

From Dubrovnik Streets to the Elaphiti Islands

This is one of the easiest ways to trade crowded stone streets for salt air and moving horizons. The boat sets you up for the Elaphiti Islands right away, and the day is structured so you’re not constantly loading and unloading. Instead, you’ll spend long enough on each island to actually enjoy it.

I like that the tour balances guided moments with freedom. On Lopud you get a guided tour and time to walk, but you’re also free to linger near the water. Then Sipan and Kolocep shift into more self-directed exploring with shorter blocks of time.

And because you’re on a boat for the day, you’re not fighting traffic or parking. You just show up, find your seat, and let the coastline roll by.

Price and What You Really Get for $76

At $76 per person for an 8-hour outing, this tour is priced like an all-in day. The real value is that you’re not paying extra for basic “day-trip extras” like lunch, bottled water, and a drinks setup.

Here’s what’s included that usually costs extra on other tours:

• Lunch
• Bottled water
• Drinks such as Coca-cola and Fanta, plus white wine and brandy
• English-speaking driver/guide and local guide
• All tour activities (including the snorkeling and swim opportunities)

What’s not included is also clear: you won’t get alcoholic drinks beyond the wine and brandy. Also, things like a swimsuit aren’t provided, so bring your own if you want it.

Is $76 a bargain? It’s fair for Dubrovnik, especially because you’re getting a full day on three islands with included food and drinks. If your plan was to rent a boat or book multiple separate transfers, this is the more practical choice.

Meeting Point, Pickup Limits, and Why Timing Matters

The meeting point is at 08:45 at the bus stop across the University building. Look for the big blue boat named Emili, and know that it will not arrive before 08:45. Show up early enough to handle basic boarding lines without stress.

Pickup is optional, but only if you’re in the City of Dubrovnik area. If you’re staying farther out, don’t count on pickup. You’ll likely need to reach the meeting point on your own.

This tour is easy once you’re there, but it’s unforgiving if you miss the boat. I’ve seen how quickly the crew handles a rejoin plan when someone has a timing mix-up at the first stop, yet your best strategy is still: arrive, check in, and breathe.

The 45-Minute Cruise Out: Your Seat Choice Sets the Mood

Right after boarding, you get about 45 minutes of sightseeing cruise time. It’s not long enough to feel like dead travel, and it’s long enough to help you get oriented to the Elaphiti coast.

Pick a seat based on what you want most:

• If you want the best views of the shoreline, aim for the side with the clearest sight lines as the boat turns.
• If you want shade and comfort, choose a spot that stays cooler as the day warms up.

This portion matters because it puts you in the right mindset. You’re not thinking about logistics yet; you’re just watching the islands appear.

Lopud Island (3 Hours): Guided Walk, Photo Stops, and Sunj Beach Time

Lopud is your biggest stop: about 3 hours, and it’s packed with the things that make this day trip feel like a real vacation.

What you can expect at Lopud:

• A photo stop plus a guided tour
• Free time to walk and explore
• Time for swimming and snorkeling
• Scenic views during the approach
• Easy access to the famous Sunj sandy beach

The guided tour is especially helpful here because it gives context fast, then you can wander without feeling lost. If you want a relaxed rhythm, linger after the tour and head toward the beach area. Sunj beach is exactly the kind of place where you can stop thinking about time.

Practical note: if you choose a lunch option that includes fish, it’s worth knowing that bones can be part of the meal depending on preparation. You’ll still get good food, but you’ll enjoy it more if you eat slowly and check carefully.

Sipan Island (1 Hour): Short Break, Self-Guided Exploring, Quick Swim

Then the itinerary compresses. Sipan is about 1 hour, which means you’re doing a “hit the highlights” version of the island rather than a full day of wandering.

At Sipan, you’ll have:

• A break time with photo opportunities
• A visit portion
• Free time to take in sights
• A self-guided element where you can move at your own pace
• Options for swimming and snorkeling, if you want to use the water time

Because this stop is shorter, you’ll want to decide quickly what you care about most. If your priority is beach and water, spend time near the shoreline first. If your priority is viewpoints and walking, aim for a quick loop and come back to the boat area with enough time to board calmly.

This island stop works best if you like variety. You’re not stuck only on one beach all day, and it keeps the overall tour from feeling repetitive.

Kolocep Island (1 Hour): Views, Water Time, and a Smart Beach Move

Next is Kolocep, also about 1 hour. Like Sipan, it’s a short stop, so your time management matters.

At Kolocep, you can expect:

• Photo stop and visit
• Free time for walking and scenic viewing
• Opportunities for swimming and snorkeling

Here’s the trick I’d use: at the last island stop, consider using the golf-buggy taxis if you want a bigger beach and a calmer bay vibe. The idea is simple: you save walking time and end up at a more beach-focused spot with bar options nearby. Even if you don’t want nightlife, a more relaxed swim area can be worth the quick ride.

If you’d rather stay close to the main docking area, that’s fine too. Just don’t assume every corner is equally beachy—some areas are more viewpoint and walk oriented. Choose the part that matches your energy level.

Lunch on Board and the Drinks That Make It Work

Lunch is one of the reasons this tour feels like a true package deal. You choose between three lunch options when booking, and on board it’s served in a way that keeps the day from turning into a hunt for food.

From what you can expect from the meal options:

• There’s typically a solid vegetarian choice (one commonly described as grilled vegetables with potato salad).
• Other choices may include fish, and some preparations can have small bones.
• Portions are generally described as generous, which matters when you’ve been swimming.

Drinks are also part of the value. You’ll have access to bottled water plus soft drinks like Coca-cola and Fanta. Alcohol included in the package is specifically white wine and brandy. Other alcoholic drinks aren’t included, so if you’re a heavy cocktail person, you may still want to budget a bit.

The best part of having drinks included is not the drinking. It’s the lack of decision fatigue. You don’t need to keep track of where to buy something. You can focus on the islands.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Built-In Water Time, Not a Hard Sell

This tour is designed for people who want at least a few moments in the water. The itinerary includes swimming and snorkeling opportunities at the stops, and the day feels more like a sea outing than a land-and-photo route.

That said, snorkeling setup details aren’t stated here, so plan like this:

• Bring your own swimsuit, since it isn’t included.
• If you have your own snorkel mask or gear, bring it. If you don’t, you can still enjoy swimming time even without long underwater sessions.
• Expect that conditions can change, especially with wind or clouds.

One nice touch is that the crew adjusts quickly if weather turns. When rain shows up, they take steps like lowering sides and bringing out blankets, so you’re not stuck freezing on the boat.

Getting the Most From a Short-Day Structure

The biggest challenge on any three-island day is time. You only get long stretches on Lopud (3 hours). Sipan and Kolocep are both about 1 hour, so you can’t treat them like full exploration days.

So I’d run your priorities like this:

1. Decide your beach plan at Lopud (Sunj time + swimming).
2. At Sipan and Kolocep, pick one of these: a quick walk for views or more water time.
3. Keep a buffer for getting back to the boat and reboarding without stress.

This structure also suits people who don’t want a “trip with no itinerary.” You get enough guidance and timing to feel looked after, but you still have room to choose how you spend your free time.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Might Think Twice)

This tour fits best if you want:

• A stress-free day away from Dubrovnik
• Included lunch and drinks
• Real island variation across the day
• Time to swim and snorkel without doing complex planning

It may be less ideal if:

• You need long, unbroken beach hours only. Lopud is your long stop; the others are brief.
• You’re outside the Dubrovnik city pickup zone and don’t want to handle the meeting point on your own.

If you’re traveling with mixed interests (one person wants swimming, another wants walking), this is a strong match because the stops include both.

Should You Book Three Island Boat Tour With Lunch?

If your ideal Dubrovnik day includes a boat ride, included lunch, and time in the water, I think this tour is a smart book. The combination of three islands, Lopud’s Sunj sandy beach time, and the all-in approach to food and drinks means you spend your energy on the places you actually came for.

Book it if you:

• Want a simple, ready-made itinerary
• Like a mix of guided moments and free time
• Appreciate that pickup is available in the Dubrovnik city area

Skip or reconsider if you:

• Need hotel pickup from farther out than the Dubrovnik city zone
• Expect each island stop to feel like a full day

FAQ

How long is the Three Island Boat Tour with Lunch?

The tour runs for 8 hours.

Which islands are included on the itinerary?

The tour includes Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep, plus time at Sunj sandy beach.

What is the meeting point and what time should I arrive?

Meet at 08:45 at the bus stop across the University building. Look for the big blue boat named Emili, and the boat will not arrive before 08:45.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is optional, but it’s only available from the City of Dubrovnik area. Pickup outside the Dubrovnik city area is not included.

What lunch options are available?

You choose between three lunch options when booking.

What drinks are included during the tour?

Included drinks include bottled water, Coca-cola, Fanta, plus white wine and brandy.

Is snorkeling and swimming included?

Yes. The tour includes snorkeling and swimming opportunities during the island stops.

What is included and not included in the tour price?

Included: bottled water, lunch, drinks, local and driver/guide services, and activities. Not included: alcoholic drinks beyond wine and brandy, personal expenses, a swimsuit, and pickup less than 1000 m from the starting point.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you tell me where you’re staying in Dubrovnik (near what area or landmark), I can help you judge how convenient the meeting point will be for you.