The Elaphite islands are situated just northwest of Dubrovnik, and the main 3 of them that you can visit are Kolocep, Sipan and Lopud. These islands are the perfect escape from the crowds in Dubrovnik, especially during hot summer months.
Getting to the Elaphite islands from Dubrovnik is easy, as there is a regular boat service from Gruz ferry port with several daily departures in both directions.
Jadrolinija ferry boat runs daily between all islands, stopping at each one. The boat first stops on Kolocep (30 minute ride), then on Lopud (25 minutes more) and finally in 15 minutes more arrives to Sipan (Sudjuradj). T&P Line has also daily catamaran from Dubrovnik to Sipanska Luka.
Of course, if you want to avoid using public transport, you can always book an organised tour (both private or group).
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During the summer, there are 4 daily departures from Dubrovnik (10am, 2pm, 4:30pm and 8:00pm) with regular returns from each island (see here for timetable).
Make a day trip to the Elaphites by taking the morning boat and returning in the evening. Or just do a half-day trip and return in the afternoon.
The one-way boat ride costs €4.91 for the age of 12 and over, while children from 3-12 pay around €2. The boat tickets can be bought from Jadrolinija office or online.
You will travel to the Elaphites on the Dora catamaran and you'll enjoy the ride. The inside space is airconditioned with plenty of comfortable seats and tables. Or grab one of several seats on the open deck from where you can enjoy open-air views of the islands and passing yachts and vessels.
Just be sure to be on time for boarding (be there at least 30 minutes before departure), especially during the peak summer months.
👌 See some of the best beaches in the area in one morning (or afternoon) by taking this fun-fillled private boat tour from Dubrovnik.
In addition to this catamaran, there is also a Hanibal Lucic ferry (taking both cars and passengers) that departs from Dubrovnik and sails to Lopud and Sipan (Sudjuradj), 3 times a day in both directions.
If landing at Dubrovnik airport and heading to one of the Elaphite islands, you'll first need to reach Gruz port and from there catch one of the boats to the islands.
To reach the port from the airport you have several options: an airport shuttle bus (the cheapest), taking a regular taxi or booking a private car transfer (book with Welcome Pickups for the same price as local taxi).
If you pre-book a car transfer, your driver will meet you at the arrivals terminal, help you with your luggage and drive you to the port, where you can wait for your boat.
If taking a shuttle bus, you'll need to get off the bus at the bus station which is conveniently located next to Gruz port. From there you can easily walk to the pier to embark the boat.
The airport shuttle bus runs frequently throughout the day and you can catch it just outside the airport building (to the right). Tickets can be bought from the airport counter once you leave the baggage claim area or online.