If you’re looking to see a different side of Dubrovnik beyond the historic walls, this boat tour to the nearby islands might be just what you need. It promises a mix of natural beauty and relaxing time on sandy beaches, all wrapped up in about four hours. From what I’ve read and gathered from travelers’ experiences, it’s a solid way to enjoy Croatia’s coastal charm without too much hassle.
Two standout points we love about this tour are the chance to visit the Blue Cave and the opportunity to relax on unj Beach — both of which are highly praised for the clear waters and stunning scenery. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the tour’s suitability for everyone—it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or non-swimmers, which could limit some travelers. That said, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy boat rides, scenic stops, and don’t mind a packed schedule.
If you’re someone who loves exploring small islands, snapping photos of dramatic caves, and cooling off in crystal-clear waters, this experience could be a good fit. It also works well if you’re after a shorter, half-day excursion that gives you a taste of the Elaphiti Islands without requiring a whole day out.
Key Points
- Quick but scenic: The tour lasts about 4 hours, offering a compact yet scenic experience.
- Highlights include caves and beaches: Visits to the Blue Cave, Green Caves, and unj Beach are the main attractions.
- Comfort and drinks: Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are included, making the ride more enjoyable.
- Small group vibe: The tour operates in small groups, which means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience.
- Flexibility in booking: You can reserve now and pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
- Departure locations: Multiple options including Cavtat, Mlini, Srebreno, and Dubrovnik Old Town Port.
The Itinerary in Detail
This tour kicks off at your chosen meeting point, which could be in Cavtat, Mlini, Srebreno, or right from Dubrovnik’s Old Town Port. The flexibility in pick-up points is handy, especially if you’re staying outside the city center. From there, it’s about a 25-minute speedboat ride to the first highlight: the Blue Cave on Koloep Island.
The Blue Cave
This is the star attraction for many. The cave’s interior is said to be mesmerizing, with visitors swimming or snorkelling inside. The boats anchor around 20 meters from the entrance, giving you enough room to enjoy the view and take photos. Travelers often comment on how beautiful the light reflections are and how clear the water is.
Green Caves on Koloep Island
Next, you’ll visit the Green Caves, which are less famous but equally interesting. These caves offer more opportunities for swimming and exploring. The tour provides about 30 minutes here, enough to enjoy the natural formations, take photos, or just relax in the shaded surroundings.
unj Beach on Lopud Island
After the caves, the boat heads to unj Beach, known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll get around 1.5 hours of free time. This is the perfect stretch to lounge on the sand, swim, or grab a quick snack if you brought one. Many reviews mention how inviting the beach looks—calm, shallow, and ideal for cooling off.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Sightseeing and Return
Before heading back, there’s a brief stop at Lovrijenac Fortress for a quick sightseeing photo. The whole trip wraps up with the boat returning to your starting point, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s beauty.
What You Can Expect on the Day
The experience is designed to be relaxed yet packed with highlights. It’s a small group tour, so you’re less likely to feel cramped, and the pace allows you to enjoy each stop without rushing. The inclusion of soft drinks and alcohol adds to the laid-back vibe, making it easy to toast to a day well spent on the water.
You should be prepared for about 4 hours on the water, with most of the itinerary revolving around stops for swimming or exploring caves. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a half-day trip, but keep in mind that the schedule is fairly tight—this isn’t a leisurely, all-day cruise.
The Pros and Cons
Pros:
– The Blue Cave experience is often praised for its beauty and swimming opportunities.
– Small groups mean more personalized attention and less crowding.
– Including drinks makes the trip more enjoyable without extra cost.
– Multiple departure points give flexibility depending on where you stay.
Cons:
– The tour might be too fast for some if you’re looking for a relaxed, unhurried day.
– Not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with back problems.
– The itinerary is somewhat weather-dependent; rough seas could impact cave visits.
Price and Value
While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the fact that drinks are included and that it covers several key sights suggests good value for a half-day adventure. The smaller group size, combined with the variety of stops, adds to the appeal. If you’re traveling on a budget but want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of the caves, this tour strikes a good balance.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides and natural scenery. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the caves and beaches with minimal fuss and want drinks included to relax during the ride. If you’re traveling with young children who are confident swimmers and comfortable on boats, they might enjoy it as well—just note that non-swimmers and pregnant women are advised against it.
For travelers who prefer a leisurely, unstructured day or have mobility concerns, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re after a quick, scenic excursion with plenty of photo opportunities and a refreshing swim, it’s a good pick.
FAQs
What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 4.5 hours, including all stops and transfers.
Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are provided during the trip.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can make the most of the underwater sights.
Can I swim inside the Blue Cave?
You can swim inside the Blue Cave, but boats anchor about 20 meters from the entrance, so you’ll need to swim or snorkel from the boat.
Where do I meet the tour?
Meeting points vary depending on your booking, with options in Cavtat, Mlini, Srebreno, and Dubrovnik Old Town Port.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It can be for children who are comfortable on boats and confident swimmers, but non-swimmers or those with back problems should be cautious.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the stops.
How many people typically go on this tour?
It’s designed as a small group experience, so expect fewer crowds and a more personalized vibe.
What if the weather is bad?
Tours operate in most weather conditions, but rough seas could affect cave visits. Cancellation is possible, and you should check the policy if weather looks poor.
Dubrovnik & Cavtat: Blue Cave and Elaphiti Islands Boat Tour
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a solid taste of Dubrovnik’s nearby islands, with highlights that many travelers find memorable—especially the Blue Cave and unj Beach. It’s a scenic, activity-packed half-day that balances adventure, relaxation, and beautiful views. While it’s not for everyone—particularly non-swimmers or those needing a more relaxed pace—most who enjoy boat rides and natural sights will find it worth considering.
If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized trip with friendly guides and drinks included, this could be a nice addition to your Dubrovnik itinerary. Just remember to pack your essentials, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a fun day on the water.
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