Elaphiti Islands: Half-Day Boat Tour – Visit Hidden Caves

The Elaphiti Islands, a hidden gem off the coast of Dubrovnik, offer a captivating opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich history. A half-day boat tour provides a chance to take in the tranquil waters and uncover the enchanting Blue Cave on Koločep Island, where diverse marine life and geological wonders await. Beyond the allure of the caves, the tour also promises the discovery of secluded coves and the chance to explore the cultural heritage of the archipelago. This immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to venture beyond the well-trodden paths of Dubrovnik.

Good To Know

• A 6-8 hour boat tour exploring the Elaphiti Islands, including swimming, snorkeling, and visiting hidden caves and grottos on Kolodep Island.
• Relax on the pristine sandy Sunj beach on Lopud Island and explore the island’s monasteries, botanical gardens, and historical sites.
• Discover the olive tree groves and former aristocratic summer residences on Sipan Island, immersing in the island’s rich history and natural beauty.
• The tour is priced at £504.89 per group of up to 6 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour departs from Lapadska obala 5, Gruz, Dubrovnik, with a live English-speaking guide and includes use of snorkeling equipment and refreshments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

Offering an immersive half-day boat tour, the Elaphiti Islands excursion provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the picturesque archipelago located northwest of Dubrovnik.

Priced at £504.89 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour lasts 6-8 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Accompanied by a live English-speaking guide, the private group experience departs from Lapadska obala 5 in Dubrovnik.

Highlights include visiting the islands of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, where activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local attractions await.

Plus, the tour includes the use of snorkel equipment, life jackets, and refreshments.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a meeting at Lapadska obala 5 in Gruž, Dubrovnik. From there, guests embark on a 20-25 minute speedboat journey to Koločep Island, where they can visit 5 caves, including the famous Blue Cave, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling for 1.5 hours.

Location	Activities	Duration
Koločep Island	Visit 5 caves, swim, snorkel	1.5 hours
Lopud Island	Visit Šunj beach, swim	1 hour
Šipan Island	Visit, free time	1 hour

The tour then continues to Lopud Island, where guests can relax on the sandy Šunj beach and swim for 1 hour. Finally, the tour visits Šipan Island for 1 hour of exploration and free time.

Main Attractions

The tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse natural and cultural attractions of the Elaphiti Islands.

One of the main highlights is the chance to swim and snorkel in the captivating Blue Cave and other sea caves around Koločep Island.

Lopud Island’s Šunj beach, known for its clear waters and sandy shoreline, provides a serene setting for relaxation.

Cultural enthusiasts can discover the Dominican and Franciscan monasteries, botanical gardens, and local parks on Lopud.

Šipan Island, notable for its olive tree density, summer houses of Dubrovnik aristocrats, and picturesque landscapes, offers a chance to immerse in the islands’ rich history and natural beauty.

Inclusions

The tour includes the use of snorkel equipment and an underwater camera, providing guests the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the aquatic adventures.

Safety is also prioritized, with life jackets available for adults and children.

To ensure a refreshing experience, the tour provides bottled water, beer, and soft drinks throughout the journey.

Plus, the tour covers all necessary costs, including the skipper, fuel, and applicable taxes and fees.

• Use of snorkel equipment and underwater camera
• Life jackets for adults and children
• Bottled water, beer, and soft drinks
• Skipper, fuel, and all taxes/fees

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Departure and Return

Departure for the Elaphiti Islands boat tour commences at Lapadska obala 5 in Dubrovnik’s Gruž neighborhood. The speedboat journey to the first island, Koločep, takes 20-25 minutes. Upon arrival, participants have 1.5 hours to explore five caves, including the famous Blue Cave, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling. The tour then proceeds to Lopud Island, where guests can relax at the sandy Šunj beach for an hour. The final stop is Šipan Island, with one hour of free time to explore. The tour returns to the starting point at Lapadska obala 5.

Departure	Duration
Lapadska obala 5, Gruž	6 – 8 hours

Islands Visited	Time Allotted
Koločep	1.5 hours
Lopud	1 hour
Šipan	1 hour

Koločep Island Activities

After a 20-25 minute speedboat journey from Dubrovnik, participants arrive at Koločep Island, where they can spend 1.5 hours exploring five captivating caves, including the renowned Blue Cave.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. Swimming and snorkeling through the breathtaking Blue Cave, known for its ethereal, glowing blue waters.

2. Discovering hidden grottos and smaller caves along the rugged coastline, providing a glimpse into the island’s geological wonders.

3. Observing the diverse marine life that inhabits these protected coves, from schools of colorful fish to curious sea creatures.

4. Enjoying the peaceful solitude and rejuvenating atmosphere of these natural sanctuaries.

Lopud Island Activities

Upon arriving at Lopud Island, visitors are treated to the pristine, sandy beach of Šunj, known for its clear waters and idyllic setting. Guests are given one hour to enjoy the beach, swim, and explore the surrounding area.

Lopud is home to several cultural sites, including Dominican and Franciscan monasteries, botanical gardens, and local parks, which offer opportunities for visitors to enjoy the island’s history and natural beauty.

Whether relaxing on the beach or discovering the island’s hidden gems, Lopud provides a tranquil and picturesque respite from the bustle of the mainland.

Šipan Island Activities

The final stop on the Elaphiti Islands boat tour is Šipan Island, known for its dense olive tree groves, historic summer homes of Dubrovnik’s aristocracy, and picturesque landscapes.

Visitors can explore the island at their own pace during the allotted one-hour stop.

Key attractions on Šipan Island include:

1. The olive tree-lined countryside, showcasing the island’s agricultural heritage.
2. The remains of former aristocratic summer residences, offering a glimpse into the island’s history.
3. Local parks and gardens, providing opportunities for relaxation and appreciation of the natural surroundings.
4. Stunning coastal vistas, allowing visitors to soak in the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snorkeling equipment for the tour. The inclusions of the tour package already cover the use of snorkel equipment, but you may prefer to use your own gear.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions mentioned for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, with life jackets provided for both adults and children. All participants can enjoy the activities during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no explicit option to extend the tour duration. The tour is offered as a half-day experience, lasting 6-8 hours. Any requests to extend the duration would need to be discussed directly with the tour operator.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

While the tour does not include any meals, it’s recommended to contact the tour provider in advance to inquire about the possibility of accommodating special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or halal options, if needed.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour provides some accessibility features, such as life jackets for adults and children, but the rocky terrain and boat transportation may present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. Prior coordination with the tour operator is recommended to discuss specific accessibility needs.

Sum Up

The half-day boat tour to the Elaphiti Islands offers a breathtaking exploration of the region’s hidden caves, pristine waters, and diverse marine life. Departing from Dubrovnik, the tour invites visitors to experience the natural splendor and rich history of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan Islands, creating unforgettable memories along the way. The tour provides an opportunity to swim, snorkel, and discover the geological wonders of the Elaphiti Islands, immersing visitors in the natural beauty of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: