Dubrovnik: Paddleboarding & Snorkeling around Lokrum island

Dubrovnik: Paddleboarding & Snorkeling around Lokrum island

If you’re considering a water-based adventure during your Dubrovnik visit, this paddleboarding and snorkeling tour around Lokrum Island might just catch your eye. We haven’t personally tried it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed breakdown, it offers a fantastic way to see the coast from a different angle, away from busy city crowds.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines a laid-back water activity with opportunities for exploration and relaxation. First, it’s a small-group tour, which generally means more personalized guidance and fewer crowds. Plus, the fact that it’s suitable for beginners makes it accessible to most travelers. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a two-hour activity, so if you’re not comfortable spending that much time on the water, you might want to consider other options. This tour seems ideal for those who love nature, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want a memorable, photo-worthy experience out at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
• Suitable for beginners, so no prior paddling skills needed
• Includes snorkeling and swim stops, perfect for cooling off
• Stunning views and caves, offering excellent photo opportunities
• Affordable price point around $63, offering good value
• Experienced guides provide insight and safety tips

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest highlights of this tour is how it offers a fresh perspective on Dubrovnik’s coast. Instead of only exploring from land or by boat, you get upright on a paddleboard, moving at a pace that lets you soak in your surroundings. If you’re looking for something both active and scenic, this ticks both boxes.

The tour’s starting point is Porto, from where you take a quick ferry ride to Lokrum Island. That ferry ride alone is an enjoyable way to start your day, offering sweeping views of the city walls and the Adriatic. Once on Lokrum, the safety briefing kicks off an experience that’s designed to be accessible, even if you’ve never paddled before. Guide Teo, mentioned in reviews, is praised for being helpful and friendly, making beginners feel comfortable almost instantly.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at Porto, your meeting point after the ferry from Dubrovnik. Here, the safety briefing lasts around 10 minutes, and it’s a good opportunity to get comfortable with the equipment and what to expect.

Afterward, you’ll head to a viewpoint where you’ll spend about five minutes taking in the scenic vistas of Dubrovnik’s coastline and the lush Lokrum Island. This spot is perfect for snapping a few photos or just appreciating the beauty of this historic city from the sea.

The next part is the secret stop for swimming, which lasts about 30 minutes. This is the highlight for many — a chance to jump off your paddleboard into turquoise waters and explore nearby caves or relax in a quiet cove. The reviews show this as a favorite among travelers, with Robin commenting that swimming in a cove and exploring caves was the “highlight of the holiday so far.”

Then, there’s a photo stop of around 10 minutes at a hidden gem, giving everyone a chance to capture stunning shots with the old city walls or rugged coastline as a backdrop.

Finally, the tour wraps up as you paddle back to Porto, ending a two-hour journey filled with scenic views, some physical activity, and moments of tranquility.

What You’ll Receive

Your booking includes a lot of thoughtful extras: an experienced local guide who shares insight into Lokrum and Dubrovnik, a stand-up paddleboard with an adjustable paddle, a life vest and leg strap for safety, and a waterproof dry bag for your valuables. Plus, you get a snack and a bottle of water, which are much appreciated after a paddleboarding session.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Equipment and Safety

The provided equipment is top-notch, with adjustable paddles and safety gear, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. The small group size, limited to about 8 participants, means everyone gets attention, which is a bonus if you’re a bit nervous or just want some tips during the activity.

Meeting Details & Practical Info

The tour departs at 9:00 AM, and you’ll meet right next to the pink house after your ferry from Dubrovnik. Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, and beachwear to stay comfortable, especially since you’ll be out on the water for up to two hours. Note that this activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, those prone to seasickness, or people over 95 years old.

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some flexibility for your plans. Booking is simple: reserve now and pay later.

Why You Might Love This Experience

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Teo, for making the experience both fun and safe. The stunning views and caves are a big draw, especially if you’re into photography or just love peaceful coastal scenery. The value for money is also a common theme, with Robin noting that it was “the highlight of the holiday” and a great way to spend a morning.

This tour is particularly suited for those who want a gentle adventure—those who are comfortable with water but don’t necessarily need prior experience. And if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy outdoor activities, this is a fantastic shared experience. It’s not overly strenuous, but it’s enough to make you feel like you’ve truly explored Dubrovnik from its waters.

The Real Deal from Reviews

The glowing reviews provide a good picture of what to expect. Alexandra from the UK mentioned she “couldn’t recommend this activity enough,” citing the friendly guide and the fun experience for beginners. Robin’s family trip highlights the helpfulness of guides, the beautiful coastline, and the photos and memories they took home.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This paddleboarding and snorkeling experience is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic activity that lets you enjoy Dubrovnik’s sea without the hustle of larger boat tours. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to try out paddleboarding in a safe, supportive environment. Adventure seekers will appreciate the caves and swims, while those looking for peaceful moments will love floating along the calm waters.

It’s especially good if you value small groups and personalized attention, making it feel more like a local outing than a big tour. Families with older children or teens who are comfortable in the water will likely enjoy this, but it’s not suitable for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this guided paddleboarding and snorkeling tour around Lokrum Island promises a memorable morning filled with beautiful scenery, gentle adventure, and a touch of Croatian coast’s magic. It’s a fantastic way to see Dubrovnik from a different angle, especially if you’re craving outdoor activities with a relaxed pace.

The combination of stunning views, helpful guides, and good value makes it a solid choice for many travelers. Whether you’re new to paddleboarding or just want a peaceful day in nature, you’ll likely find this a rewarding experience.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for first-timers, with plenty of guidance and safety instructions provided.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and beachwear. The tour includes waterproof dry bags for your valuables, but it’s good to be prepared for sun and water exposure.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, including safety briefing, paddling, swimming stops, and photo opportunities.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What equipment is included?
You’ll get an adjustable paddleboard, safety gear (life vest and leg strap), and waterproof dry bags for your belongings.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet right next to the pink house at Porto after taking the ferry from Dubrovnik at 9:00 AM.

What if I don’t swim well?
You can enjoy the paddleboarding and swimming stops at your comfort level, but basic water comfort is recommended.

Is this activity suitable for kids?
It’s best suited for older children comfortable in the water, as the tour involves paddling and swimming. Not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Choosing this paddleboarding and snorkeling tour around Lokrum gives you a chance to explore Dubrovnik’s coast with a mix of adventure and relaxation, all in a small-group setting guided by friendly locals. If you love scenic views, calm waters, and a touch of fun in the sun, this could be just the morning activity you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: