Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands Ferry
Dubrovnik (Gruž) → Elaphiti Islands
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- Conventional crossing
- ~30 min–1 h
- Frequency
- Several daily in summer; reduced in winter
- Carries cars
- No — passengers only
Crossing times and frequency are typical ranges and vary by season and operator. Check the operator or Direct Ferries for current sailings before booking.
The islands
The Elaphiti Islands are a small archipelago immediately northwest of Dubrovnik: Koločep, Lopud and Šipan are the three inhabited islands, all within an hour of Gruž harbour. Koločep and Lopud are famously car-free, with stone lanes, pine forests and quiet beaches that feel a world apart from the cruise-ship crowds of Dubrovnik's walls. Šipan, the largest, has a more agricultural character and sees fewer day-trippers.
Getting there
Jadrolinija runs the scheduled ferry service from Dubrovnik's Gruž terminal to all three islands, with the ferry calling at each in sequence on most sailings. Koločep is the first stop (around 30 minutes), Lopud follows (roughly 50 minutes), and Šipan is the final destination (about 1 hour). The service runs multiple times daily in summer and provides a lifeline for island residents year-round.
Day trips from Dubrovnik
Lopud is the most popular day-trip destination — its Šunj beach is one of the few sandy beaches near Dubrovnik, a rarity on this rocky coastline. The island is flat enough to explore entirely on foot in a few hours. Šipan suits visitors looking for a slower pace, a good local restaurant and the feeling of genuine off-season island life.
Practical notes
The catamarans and passenger ferries on this route are foot-passenger only (except for the Šipan car ferry). Timetables shift between summer and winter schedules, so check Jadrolinija's website for current sailings before visiting outside the main season.
Ports & terminals
- Dubrovnik (Gruž)View on map →
Port guides
Related ferry routes
Frequently asked questions
- Which Elaphiti Islands can I reach by ferry from Dubrovnik?
- Jadrolinija runs scheduled ferries to Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. Koločep is the smallest and closest; Lopud is the most popular for day trips; Šipan is the largest and quietest.
- How long is the ferry to the Elaphiti Islands?
- Koločep is about 30 minutes from Dubrovnik; Lopud takes roughly 50 minutes; Šipan (Šipanska Luka) is around 1 hour. Times vary slightly by sailing and route order.
- Are there cars on the Elaphiti Islands?
- Koločep and Lopud are car-free, which adds to their peaceful character. Šipan has a small number of cars; the ferry carries some vehicles on the Šipan route.