Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands

If you’re looking to get a real taste of Croatia’s scenic islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or crowded tours, this boat trip to Mljet and surrounding islands might just be what you need. Based on countless glowing reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating from over 350 travelers, it’s clear this experience resonates with many who want a mix of natural beauty, fun, and relaxation.

What stands out most? First, the knowledgeable guides who are praised for making each stop engaging and safe. Second, the variety of stops, from enchanting caves to lush national parks—each offering something unique. One potential drawback? The cost of national park entrance fees isn’t included, so you’ll need some cash for that.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy a full day of adventure, don’t mind a boat ride, and want to explore Croatia’s islands with a small group. If you’re after a leisurely, well-organized trip that hits the highlights and offers ample swimming, snorkelling, and sightseeing, this trip has a lot to offer.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including Mljet National Park, Odysseus Cave, and three islands.
• Expert guides and crew prioritize safety and create an engaging experience.
• Small group size (max 12) ensures a more intimate, personalized trip.
• Includes all main admission fees except the national park entrance, which is extra.
• Opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling at multiple stops.
• Approximate 10-hour day designed to showcase Croatia’s natural beauty comfortably.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This boat experience offers a rich mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian waters. The crew’s attentiveness and commentary make each stop more meaningful. Plus, the boat itself is described as comfortable and shaded, so you won’t be baking in the sun during the day.

You’ll start bright and early, setting off from Dubrovnik at 7:30 am. The small group size—and the fact that it’s a personalized experience—means you get plenty of attention and flexibility. The itinerary includes a blend of popular highlights like the Odysseus Cave and Mljet’s lakes, plus charming stops on Lopud, Sipanska Luka, and Kolocep.

Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, making the trip special. For instance, Hannah raves about Susi, the guide, who made the snorkeling inside the sea caves memorable. Mary mentions their captain Ante’s capability and attentiveness, which created a sense of security.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Lopud Island

This charming island is a perfect start. With the tallest palm trees in Europe and a Benedictine church with great views, it’s a peaceful spot to soak in the vibe before the tour crowds arrive. Expect about 40 minutes here—just enough time for a quick look around and some photos. Many visitors find this quiet start a lovely way to ease into the day.

Stop 2: Saplunara Beach at Blace

This quick stop gives you a peek at one of Mljet’s lovely beaches. It’s just five minutes long, so don’t expect much lounging here—more of a photo opportunity and a chance to hear some interesting facts about the island.

Stop 3: Odysseus Cave

This is often the highlight for most travelers. The cave, located on the southern side of Mljet, is a magical spot where you can snorkel and enjoy the vibrant marine life. The clear, blue waters and shaded cave interior make for an unforgettable swim. Several reviews praise this stop: “Our favorite part was getting to swim inside the beautiful sea caves,” Hannah notes.

Stop 4: Mljet National Park

The centerpiece of the tour. You get around three hours here, which is enough to explore the pine forests and the two lakes. Many say the scenery is stunning—perfect for walking, relaxing, or swimming. You’ll arrive in Pomena, the gateway to the park. While admission isn’t included in the tour price, many reviews confirm it’s worth the extra fee (about 15-25 Euro, depending on season).

Stop 5: Sipanska Luka

A quaint village on the Elafiti Archipelago, where you can unwind on the beach, enjoy a drink, or explore local monuments. Two hours give you time to relax, sample some local dishes, or stroll through this peaceful spot. Reviewers mention this as a favorite, with several noting it’s a lovely mix of natural beauty and local charm.

Stop 6: Kolocep Island and Blue Cave

The last stop features the infamous Blue Cave, where you can swim in the glowing waters beneath a dark cave ceiling. The area is praised for its beauty, and many travelers say it’s a fitting way to end the day. It’s a chance for a final swim, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

Return to Dubrovnik

After a full day, the boat heads back, often with some relaxing music and good vibes. Most reviews highlight how smoothly and comfortably the trip concludes, leaving travelers with memories of a day well spent.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers fuel, bottled water, safety equipment, snorkel gear, and wind jackets. These essentials make the experience worry-free—no need to bring your own safety gear, and the boat provides protection from the sun with shaded seating options.

However, the national park entrance fee isn’t included, and it varies seasonally—from 5 to 25 Euro, depending on the date and age. Many reviews recommend bringing cash for these payments along with tips and any extra drinks or snacks.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Sunscreen and towels are a must since you’ll be in and out of the water all day.
• Bring some cash for park entry and any additional food or drinks.
• The boat accommodates at least one bag per passenger, so pack light but bring essentials.
• Consider bringing your own snacks for the park to maximize your time exploring.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear if you plan on walking around the parks and villages.
• Seasickness? Many found the boat stable, but taking medication like Dramamine might help if you’re sensitive.

The Crew and Group Size

With a maximum of 12 travellers, you’ll find this tour feels intimate rather than crowded. Guests have consistently praised the crew—friendly, knowledgeable, and safety-conscious. One reviewer specifically mentioned how their guides “created a marvelous experience,” making everyone feel cared for.

The small group setup also means you can ask questions, get personalized recommendations, and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Overall Value for Money

At around $155 per person, this tour strikes a good balance considering the full day of sightseeing, swimming, and guided commentary. Many reviews mention it as a high-value experience, especially given the number of stops and the quality of the guides.

Keep in mind the extra costs for national parks, but many guests feel that the scenic beauty and the opportunity to swim in caves and lakes make it worth the additional expense.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy active days with plenty of swimming and exploration. It’s ideal for those comfortable spending about 10 hours on a boat, with some walking and water activities. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers who like small-group adventures will appreciate the personalized touch.

If you’re seeking a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural spots in one day, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less structured day or have mobility issues, you may want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly advertised as a family tour, older children who enjoy swimming and boat trips tend to have a good time. Always check with the provider if you have concerns about mobility or age restrictions.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
No, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, towels, cash for park entrance fees, and optional snacks. The boat supplies bottled water, snorkel gear, and wind jackets.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from about 5 minutes (for quick photo moments) to 3 hours at Mljet National Park, giving ample time for swimming, walking, or relaxing.

Are safety measures taken seriously?
Yes. The crew provides safety equipment including life jackets and insurance. Many guests mention feeling secure throughout the trip.

What’s the starting point and time?
Meet at Lapadska obala 4, Dubrovnik, at 7:30 am. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, making it convenient for planning your day.

Is the fee for the national park included?
No, it’s extra. Expect to pay around 15-25 Euro, depending on the season and your age.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. No refunds if canceled less than 24 hours in advance.

How many people are on this tour?
A maximum of 12 travelers, creating a more personal experience and allowing for better interaction with guides.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour to Mljet and the surrounding islands offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, exciting water activities, and insightful guiding—all packed into a manageable 10-hour day. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, and who enjoy being on the water exploring Croatia’s scenic coastlines.

While it’s not perfect—extra costs for park entry and some minor weather hiccups are worth noting—the consistent praise from past guests suggests it delivers more than most small-group tours in the region. If you’re after a day of adventure, stunning scenery, and knowledgeable guides, this trip is worth considering.

This experience would suit those who love a bit of everything: nature, history, and swimming. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, small-group adventure that captures the essence of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands.