Cavtat to Lokrum Island, Betina Cave & St Jacobs beach boat tour

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Coastline: Cavtat to Lokrum Island, Betina Cave & St Jacobs Beach Boat Tour

If you’re pondering a day on the water in Dubrovnik, this boat tour from Cavtat offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, historical sights, and relaxing stops. While I haven’t taken this specific trip myself, I’ve reviewed plenty of feedback and details to give you a thorough idea of what to expect.

What really excites us about this tour are its balanced itinerary—offering enough free time to explore Lokrum Island’s lush gardens and cultural sites, and the chance to snorkel at a hidden Betina Cave. Plus, cruising along the coast with a knowledgeable skipper seems to elevate the experience. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees to Lokrum are not included, which adds an extra expense.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a short, scenic cruise that combines nature, history, and a splash of adventure. It’s well-suited for those who want a manageable day trip with a group, enjoy snorkeling, and love discovering spots that are less crowded.

Key Points

• Comfortable speed boat ensures a smooth ride with scenic views.
• Flexible free time allows for exploration, swimming, and photos on Lokrum Island.
• Snorkeling at Betina Cave is a highlight, especially since it’s only accessible by sea.
• Expert guidance and friendly skippers enhance the overall experience.
• Affordable price point around $48 includes drinks and snorkeling gear.
• Well-rated with a 5.0 rating based on 42 reviews, almost everyone would recommend it.

Setting Sail from Cavtat and Nearby Locations

Starting your journey from Cavtat, Mlini, or Srebeno, the tour kicks off with a scenic cruise along the coast. We love how the boat ride itself becomes part of the adventure, offering sweeping views of Dubrovnik’s city walls and Lovrijenac Fortress—both iconic landmarks. The boat is described as comfortable, moving swiftly enough to avoid the discomfort of slower, bulkier vessels.

The ride lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Lokrum Island, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the breeze. Many reviewers commented on the professional and friendly nature of the crew, with Darren G noting how their skipper was “fantastic & very accommodating.” This kind of attentiveness really makes a difference, especially if you’re new to the area or a bit nervous about boat travel.

Exploring Lokrum Island: Nature, History, and Photo Ops

Once on Lokrum, you’ll have approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to wander the island’s trails, botanical gardens, and historical sites. The island is about 600 meters from Dubrovnik and offers stunning scenery with pine forests, exotic plants, and even a Benedictine Monastery to admire.

One of the most fun parts? The chance to sit on the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones—a must-visit for fans and a fun photo op. Several reviews mention how the island is a peaceful retreat, ideal for a quick escape from the busy Old Town.

We appreciate how the island’s entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price but is quite reasonable at around 30 kunas for adults, with kids over 5 paying less. Many travelers, like Kyle C, said the fee was worth it, especially since they enjoyed just doing their own thing during the free time.

Swimming in Mrtvo More (Dead Sea) is another highlight, with clear waters perfect for a quick dip. Peacocks roam the island, adding a quirky touch to the visit.

Betina Cave: Snorkeling at a Hidden Gem

The next part of the adventure takes you to Betina Cave, a secluded spot accessible only by sea. Here, you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, exploring underwater scenery away from larger crowds. Kyle C appreciated the “snorkel at Betina Cave” as a unique experience, calling it a “hidden gem.”

This part of the tour lasts about 30 minutes, enough time to slip into your snorkeling gear and enjoy the underwater world. Since the cave is only reachable by boat, it offers a special, private feel—not something you find on typical beach days. The cave’s natural beauty is a real bonus for those who love marine life or just want a peaceful swim.

Relaxing at St. Jacob Beach

Finally, the tour wraps up with a visit to St. Jacob’s Beach, a peaceful pebble beach just 1.5 km east of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Many reviews, like Elodie L’s, highlight how this beach offers breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s city walls and tranquil waters—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning of exploring.

You’ll have around 40 minutes here to sunbathe, dip in the sea, or simply soak in the scenery. It’s an authentic chance to relax and reflect on your day before heading back to Cavtat or your accommodation.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is priced at approximately $48 per person, which, considering the inclusions like drinks, snorkeling gear, and the variety of stops, offers good value. Keep in mind that entrance fees to Lokrum are extra, and you should budget about 30 kunas for adults.

The tour is about 4 hours long, making it a manageable half-day activity. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Most travelers find the pace comfortable—reviews consistently mention how “supportive” and “friendly” the crew and guides are.

Timing and logistics are straightforward, with confirmation received immediately after booking and the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. Good weather is crucial, as the experience depends heavily on sea conditions, and the company offers full refunds if cancellations are necessary due to weather.

What the Reviews Say

If you’re looking for honest reviews, most travelers seem genuinely pleased. Chloe H called her experience “fabulous,” praising the “supportive” guide and the relaxed vibe. Darren G appreciated the “scenic views” and the opportunity to sit on the Iron Throne, which he found “great.”

Kyle C liked the speed boat for its comfort compared to slower options, noting how it made the experience better overall. Deborah L highlighted the attentive service and cold drinks, making the day even more enjoyable. Elodie L emphasized the adaptation to sea conditions and the friendly guide, adding that her teenage son loved it too.

This consistent positive feedback underscores that, with good weather and a friendly crew, this tour offers a memorable and well-rounded experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip fits best for travelers who want a short, scenic escape from the crowds, enjoy a mix of natural beauty and light adventure, and appreciate knowledgeable guides. It’s particularly suited for those who value snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, and exploring islands without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

It’s a great option for couples, friends, or small groups who want a well-organized day out. If you’re after a full-day experience or want to explore Dubrovnik’s history in depth, this might be too light on cultural sites, but perfect for a quick water-based adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally accessible, but it’s best for older kids who can enjoy snorkeling and boat rides. Keep in mind that entrance fees apply for Lokrum, and younger children might need supervision during free time and snorkeling.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How is the group size?
Most trips have up to 18 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience and easier interaction with the crew.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, the tour offers alcoholic beverages along with soda and bottled water, so you can toast to the views or relax in the sun.

What are the main stops?
Lokrum Island, Betina Cave, and St. Jacob Beach are the key highlights, plus a scenic cruise past Dubrovnik’s famous walls and fortress.

How long is the free time on Lokrum?
You get about 1 hour and 40 minutes, plenty of time to explore, relax, or take memorable photos.

Is there any cultural or historical info provided?
While the focus is more on natural sights and relaxation, the guides do point out landmarks like Lovrijenac Fortress and the City Walls.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The tour requires good weather—if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
The main extra is the Lokrum entrance fee, which is paid on the spot—roughly 30 kunas for adults.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Most reviews mention the stunning scenery, friendly guides, and the chance to snorkel at Betina Cave as the standout features.

To sum it up, if you’re after a well-paced, scenic boat tour that combines island exploration, snorkeling, and beautiful vistas, this trip from Cavtat checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate flexible free time, friendly guides, and a relaxed pace. While it’s not a deep dive into Dubrovnik’s history or culture, it offers a refreshing, sea-based perspective on this stunning part of Croatia—perfect for a memorable day out on the water.