Just off the coast of Dubrovnik, the Elaphite Islands are an oasis of olive groves, pine-clad hills and sandy beaches. See these Instagrammable isles aboard a 3-hour catamaran cruise complete with all-inclusive drinks, snacks and swim stops. It's a top way to spend the day in Croatia. Jakov, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘They may only be a short hop from busy Dubrovnik, but these 13 islands are a world away. Only three are inhabited, and the total population is less than 1,000 people. They are as beautiful as they are peaceful.'
After pick-up at your hotel, we'll head for the port of Gruz and cast off on our island-hopping adventure. There are more than 1,000 islands in Croatia – but few are more alluring than the 13 Elaphite Islands. Rugged rocky shores are softened by the aromatic Mediterranean vegetation and dimpled with pretty inlets. We'll sail into a selection of the best bays as you indulge in free-flowing beer, wine and soft drinks from the bar. There'll be fresh fruit and snacks, too.
Top up your tan on deck as we weave through the string of islands, and we'll drop anchor in coves that beckon you into the water for a cooling swim. Will you opt for a refreshing dip, or simply stay on board for a snooze in the sunshine? The choice is yours. There's also a swim stop at Blue Cave on Kalamota Island, where you can swim through a low entrance and see the intense turquoise glow where the sun filters through the water. After a few hours at sea, you'll be suitably relaxed as we bob back to port.
Catamaran cruise