Guided Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour to Green Cave and Sipan Island from Lopud

If you’re dreaming of a day sailing through clear blue waters, exploring hidden caves, and discovering small islands away from the crowds, this guided kayaking and snorkeling tour around the Dubrovnik islands might just be perfect. It promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenery that’s hard to beat — especially if you’re into active, outdoor experiences with a splash of local charm.

What really caught our eye are the small-group size—max 15 travelers—which means you’ll likely get a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide. Plus, the chance to snorkel in untouched waters and possibly visit the famous Green Cave makes it stand out from more typical sightseeing tours. However, a consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent, especially for cave visits, so it’s worth planning for that.

This adventure is best suited for those who enjoy moderate physical activity, love water-based fun, and want to see some of the less touristy sides of the Dubrovnik islands. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner comfortable with a moderate level of fitness, you’ll find this trip engaging and rewarding. Families with kids over 8 will also find it manageable, but younger children might find the activity a bit demanding.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Up to 15 travelers for more attention and a relaxed vibe
• Active day on the water: Kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and even cliff jumping
• Visiting iconic spots: Green Cave (weather permitting), fishing villages, and secluded bays
• Flexible and personalized: Professional guides focus on safety and local insights
• Cost-effective adventure: At around $82, it offers a well-rounded experience with gear and guidance included
• Weather-dependent: The cave visit depends on good weather, so flexibility is key

A Closer Look at What to Expect

This tour offers more than just paddling around. It’s about experiencing the beauty of the Elaphite islands from a different perspective—up close and personal with the sea and local spots. The journey begins with a short safety and kayaking instructions session, so even newcomers can feel comfortable setting out on the water.

Exploring the Islands by Kayak

You’ll paddle from Lopud to the Sipan and Ruda islands, taking in the stunning formations of rocks and crystal-clear waters. The kayaking part is leisurely but active enough to keep you engaged, with plenty of opportunities to stop, swim, snorkel, or even cliff jump if you’re feeling adventurous.

Snorkeling and Cave Adventure

One of the tour’s highlights is snorkeling in pristine waters teeming with marine life and exploring the Green Cave — weather permitting. The guide will show you the cave, which adds a sense of thrill and discovery. Deborah, one of the recent reviewers, called swimming into the Green Cave “awesome,” though she also noted it’s best suited for confident swimmers. The cave’s interior and the experience of diving under the inlet are definitely memorable but require comfort in open water.

Visiting a Fishing Village

After your aquatic adventures, you’ll paddle to the Sipan Island’s fishing village, where you can stretch your legs, enjoy some local food or ice cream, and soak in the relaxed island vibe. The free time here is a great chance to explore at your own pace or simply unwind by the waterfront.

The Final Paddle and Return

Your day wraps up with a scenic paddle passing through dramatic rock formations, offering plenty of chances for photos and just taking in the peaceful surroundings. The return to Lopud is smooth, making this about 5 hours of active fun with plenty of downtime incorporated.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

For $82.10, you get a lot: a professional English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, dry bags for your valuables, and all kayak equipment. It’s a convenient package that covers most essentials for a sea adventure. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring your own water or snacks if you get hungry.

Note: The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at the designated location on Lopud. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour starts with safety instructions, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Physical Considerations

The activity is suited for those with a moderate fitness level and travelers aged 8 and up. The group size is kept small for safety and personalized attention, but paddling and swimming do require some stamina. Service animals are allowed, which is a nice touch for travelers with pets.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Deborah’s review highlights the experience’s quality: “The whole experience was superb. Swimming into the cave was awesome & coming out was easy to just dive under. (Only recommended for the most confident). Cave was awesome.” Clearly, the cave experience is a highlight but also a bit more suited for confident swimmers.

Another point to note is that the tour’s small size enhances the feeling of exclusivity, allowing guides to tailor the experience and share insights about the islands’ natural beauty and local life.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At just over $80, this tour offers a good bang for your buck if you’re after an active day immersed in nature. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and dry bags means less hassle for you. Compared to more commercialized sightseeing, the personalized approach and small group make it a more intimate experience, and you’re likely to get more meaningful interactions.

Of course, weather plays a role. The cave visit is weather-dependent, so if the conditions aren’t right, your guide will suggest alternative plans or reschedule. But that’s part of outdoor adventures—flexibility is key.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and love water-based activities. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a more personalized, small-group outing rather than large, crowded tours. Families with kids over 8 will find it manageable, but younger children may find the paddling a bit tiring.

If you’re interested in exploring the Dubrovnik islands from a different angle — paddling along rocky coastlines, snorkeling in clear waters, and discovering secret caves — then this adventure ticks all those boxes. It is perfect for adventurous spirits, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a break from typical sightseeing and a taste of the local sea life.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including paddling, snorkeling, and exploring stops.

Is the Green Cave visit guaranteed?
The visit to Green Cave is weather-dependent. Your guide will decide based on current conditions to ensure safety and a good experience.

What equipment do I need to bring?
All snorkeling gear and kayak equipment are provided. However, bringing a towel, water, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat makes the day more comfortable.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 8 and above can join, provided they are comfortable with moderate physical activity and water.

Do I need any previous kayaking experience?
No, the tour begins with safety and paddling instructions, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I do if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent cave visits or snorkeling, the guide will adjust the plan or reschedule your tour.

Is transportation included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point on Lopud. The tour ends back at the same location.

If you’re after a lively, hands-on way to experience the beauty of the Dubrovnik islands, this guided kayaking and snorkeling tour is a solid choice. It combines the thrill of discovering secluded bays and caves with the laid-back charm of island life. The small-group setting ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the opportunity to snorkel in untouched waters makes it memorable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits but also want some downtime to relax and soak in the scenery. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Croatia’s coast—away from the hustle, close to nature, and full of small adventures.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small family, this trip offers enough flexibility and fun to make your day on the water truly special. Just remember to check the weather forecast and be prepared for an invigorating, scenic journey.