Dubrovnik: Lokrum Island and Betina Cave Boat Tour

Planning a day around Dubrovnik’s waters and islands? This boat tour to Lokrum Island and Betina Cave offers a quick, scenic escape that packs in history, nature, and fun swimming spots—all for a reasonable price. With around 4.5 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with many travelers, offering a good mix of sightseeing and leisure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see Dubrovnik’s city walls from the water—something you can’t get just walking around the old town. Second, the balance of free exploration on Lokrum with guided highlights like the botanical gardens and filming spots from Game of Thrones. That said, a potential downside is the entry fee for Lokrum, which is separate and cash-only, so plan for that extra expense.

This tour is perfect for those who want a compact, budget-friendly way to experience Dubrovnik’s coastline with some swimming, snorkeling, and a taste of local history. If you’re after a full day of exploring or traveling with young kids, you might find the 4-hour timeframe or the physical activity a little tight, but for most travelers, it hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Affordable and compact: It offers a solid 4-hour taste of Dubrovnik’s waters and islands for around $47.
• Diverse stops: You get a cruise past city walls, free time on Lokrum, a beach stop, and a cave snorkel.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views of Dubrovnik’s historic walls, Lovrjenac Fortress, and the rocky coastline.
• Swim and snorkel: Several stops like St. Jacob’s beach and Betina Cave mean plenty of time in the water.
• Guided info: An English audio guide enhances the experience, sharing interesting facts and sights.
• Extra costs: Entry to Lokrum is additional (around 30 HRK), paid cash on site, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Setting Sail

Most tours kick off at Lokanda Peskarija, right in Dubrovnik’s old port. It’s a convenient spot, easy to find with clear signage. From there, you’ll hop on a boat—either a glass-bottomed vessel or a speedboat if departing from Cavtat. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, offering views of Dubrovnik’s legendary city walls and the fortress Lovrjenac, which you’ll cruise past early in the trip. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable this part is, with travelers noting the breeze and scenic outlooks.

Approaching Lokrum Island

As you near Lokrum, you’ll notice the rocky cliffs dropping dramatically into the sea—an impressive sight. The boat will pass Lokrum Cave, a notable feature, and the island’s famous nudist beach. This part of the journey is often described as beautiful and dramatic, setting the tone for your exploration.

Exploring Lokrum Island

Disembarking offers about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on your starting point. During this time, you’ll have the chance to walk through lush botanical gardens, view the monastery ruins, and seek out filming locations from Game of Thrones. Several reviews mention the peacocks roaming freely as a delightful surprise.

The “Dead Sea” (Mrtvo More) is another highlight—an inland saltwater lake perfect for a quick dip. Reviewers love the balance of sightseeing and free time, with many saying they appreciated being able to wander independently.

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The Beach and Snorkeling

Next, the tour takes you to St. Jacob’s Beach, where you can swim and snorkel in clear waters. The beach is described as small and often crowded, but that’s typical for popular spots. Many travelers mention how refreshing the water is—some even cite it as the best swimming they experienced in the area.

Betina Cave Adventure

The final segment is a visit to Betina Cave, accessible only by sea. This secluded seaside cave offers snorkeling opportunities inside, with some reviews noting you can jump from the boat for an inside swim. While it’s a unique experience, keep in mind that inside the cave is only accessible by a small jump into the water, which might not suit everyone.

Return Journey and Scenic Wrap-up

As you head back toward Dubrovnik, expect to see sights like Villa Sheherezade and the Lazarets fortress, both visible from the water and adding to the sense of history and beauty. Travelers often comment on how relaxing and well-organized the trip feels, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for those with limited time but wanting a well-rounded taste of Dubrovnik’s coast. It’s great for families or groups who enjoy swimming and exploring at a relaxed pace. If you’re into snorkeling, scenic boat rides, or enjoying historical sites, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer longer explorations or have mobility issues, this might feel a little rushed. The entry fee for Lokrum is an extra, so be prepared for that cash-only expense. Also, the weather-dependent nature of the tour means it’s best on sunny days—many reviews mention how weather can influence the experience.

The Value and Price

At just $47 per person, including boat transfer, snorkeling gear, and an audio guide, the value is quite good, especially given the number of stops and the scenic nature of the trip. Travelers consistently say it’s worth the price, considering the convenience of visiting multiple sites in just four hours. The extra Lokrum entry fee is a small additional cost, but it’s worth budgeting for, especially since many reviews emphasize the beauty of the island.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural highlights, making it a strong choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of Dubrovnik’s coast. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and flexible free time are some of its biggest draws, with many reviewers raving about the friendly crew and beautiful scenery.

While the short duration and extra costs for Lokrum could be considerations, overall, it’s a well-organized, enjoyable outing that delivers on its promises. It’s particularly good for those who want to maximize their limited time and experience a variety of sights without extensive planning or long days.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and reasonably priced way to see Dubrovnik from the water with some swimming and sightseeing thrown in, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need to pay for Lokrum Island separately?
Yes, there’s a mandatory entry fee of 30 HRK for adults and 5 HRK for kids over 6, payable in cash at the island. This is not included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable if I don’t swim?
The tour involves swimming and snorkeling at several stops, so non-swimmers might find it difficult to fully enjoy. If you’re not comfortable in the water, you might miss some of the highlights, like Betina Cave.

How long do I get on Lokrum Island?
You’ll usually have about 2 hours (from Dubrovnik departure) or 2.5 hours (from Cavtat) to explore the island freely, which many find enough to see the gardens, ruins, and take some photos.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the trip is weather-dependent, bad weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Many reviewers mention that the tour is more enjoyable in sunny weather, so it’s best to check the forecast.

Does the boat have amenities?
Most boats come with snorkeling gear included, and the cruise features an English audio guide, helping you understand the sights as you go. The boats are generally comfortable for the short trip.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as suitable for children, many reviews note that families enjoyed it. Keep in mind that swimming and jumping from the boat are part of the experience, so consider the age and swimming ability of your children.

This tour offers a nice snapshot of Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty with enough flexibility to enjoy what matters most to you. It’s a good choice for travelers looking to pack in a little adventure without a long, exhausting day.

You can check availability for your dates here: