How to Have the Best Romantic Boat Trip in Dubrovnik
Boat tours still remain a dominating tourist trend in Croatia even in 2021. The southernmost city of Dubrovnik has such a perfect variety of islands that one can't help but get slightly seduced by the charm of the nearby archipelago. The Elafiti islands experienced a massive boost of tourism last year, considered by many as a much safer place to be epidemic wise than Dubrovnik itself and it looks like this trend is going to continue in 2021. Even if you are not planning to backpack on the islands during your entire stay, definitely pay them a short visit! Small, cosy and greenish collectivity of islands is located just within the vicinity of the Pearl of the Adriatic and gives so much inspiration for a fun romantic getaway when you and your partner need some time away from the hordes of tourists.
Once the favourite summer retreat for the local Dubrovnik nobility, the Elafites is a very beautiful place where you can enjoy a lot of wonderful sceneries, make a stop at some really good sandy beaches, immerse yourself in the world of lush Mediterranean vegetation and unforgettable rural vibe. Treat yourself to a comfortable private speedboat ride, hop on a regular ferry that departs from Dubrvonik several times a day, do a simple group tour with lunch included – doesn't really matter which way you choose to explore the islands – you can do a lot of great things during the trip that you and your partner will surely never forget. It's also important to mention that most boat rentals include a visit to this lovely archipelago as well: a swimming stop near one of the 13 islands that make up this incredible archipelago is a great and fun adventure! Local captains know how to get off the beaten path and let customers explore the best remote escapes of this impressive part of the Adriatic.
Planning a romantic getaway on the Elafites is easy! No matter which of the islands you choose, you will have a chance to spend quality time together. Just 3 of the islands are actually populated: Lopud, Šipan and Koločep, with Šipan being the largest. The hilly, blooming and aromatic Šipan is a bit more rural and laid back than its more poshy neighbour – Lopud, and definitely not so overcrowded with tourists. A real superstar among all sail boat lovers is the town called Šipanska Luka – a real jewel in the collection of Dubrovnik archipelago settlements. A visit to this remote place will create wonderful memories!
Don't let the island mislead you - Šipan is not only all about bucolic traditions: the very much raved about Bowa restaurant is also located here! And it looks nothing like a simple rural tavern, to say the least. Though this might appear a bit too fancy for some one, if you are after some fashionable romantic experience, and want to impress your partner, Bowa is a must. Make sure to book your speedboat and your very own cabana in advance and ask your skipper to make a swim stop at the Blue Cave on the way!
Romantic adventures in the sea cannot really be complete without visiting Lopud: the so much overhyped but still incredibly irresistible island. A bigger part of the famous Dubrovnik fleet was stationed on Lopud back in the past. Now it's a fantastic resort with several prominent monuments not to miss: the fortified Franciscan monastery from the late fourteenth century, the private chapel of the Dubrovnik shipowner Miho Pracat and the lovely Đorđic-Mayner park. But the real tourist magnet is a great sandy beach Šunj, located on the opposite side of the island.
Lesser-known and a true romantic retreat is the small island of Koločep, also called Kalamota. The charming fishing village of Donje Čelo, where the time stands still, has absolutely spectacular sunsets – here you can enjoy the wonderful seafront with a sandy beach, some restaurants and coffee bars. Perfect for those who are not so much obsessed with material things and luxury.