Private tour to the island of Mljet and Odysseus cave

If you’re browsing options for a day trip from Dubrovnik, this private tour to Mljet and Odysseus Cave might catch your eye. It’s been highly praised—receiving a perfect 5.0 rating from six reviews—and seems to strike a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural interest, and relaxing beach time. Whether you’re into nature, history, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean vibe, this tour has elements that cater to a wide range of travelers.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines diverse highlights: the stunning Mljet National Park, with its lakes and lush greenery, plus the intriguing legend of Odysseus’ cave, and relaxing stops at beaches like Saplunara and Plaa Limuni. The fact that it’s a private tour means more flexibility and personal attention, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the day.

One thing to consider is the additional costs—like the national park entrance fee, optional extras such as snorkeling gear or a GoPro, and the fuel surcharge. These add-ons can increase the total price, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly. Also, since it’s a full-day adventure, it’s best suited for those who enjoy being on the water and exploring outdoors rather than expecting a city-heavy itinerary.

This tour seems like a solid pick for travelers who want a comprehensive day spent in nature, with enough flexibility for some leisure time on beaches and a taste of local culture. It’s particularly well-suited for those comfortable with a full-day outdoor experience and looking to avoid crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Private experience offers personalized attention and flexibility.
• Includes scenic boat rides with drinks, snorkeling equipment, and towels—great for relaxed exploration.
• Mljet National Park is a major highlight, with beautiful lakes, flora, fauna, and historical sites.
• Odysseus Cave is a quick, free stop for a bit of legend and coastal beauty.
• Beaches like Saplunara and Plaa Limuni provide perfect spots to unwind, swim, and soak up the sun.
• Additional costs such as entrance tickets and optional extras should be considered when planning.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Mljet National Park: The Heart of the Adventure

The tour kicks off with a stop at Mljet National Park, one of Croatia’s oldest and most visited protected areas. Established in 1960, this park covers significant portions of the island, offering travelers a chance to see Lakes, lush greenery, and local flora and fauna. We loved the way the lakes are framed by dense forests, creating a peaceful, almost untouched environment. The small fee for entry isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

Visitors can expect about an hour and a half here to explore, hike, and take in the natural beauty. While it isn’t a guided tour of the entire park, you’ll get enough time to appreciate its main highlights and snap photos that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.

Odysseus Cave: A Short but Intriguing Stop

Next, the boat pulls up to the Odysseus Cave, a highlight for many. It’s a free stop, giving you a chance to peer into this legendary spot where Odysseus is said to have hidden during his adventures. The cave’s entrance is accessible by boat, and it’s a fun, quick visit—roughly 20 minutes. It’s not a long tour, but the cave itself offers a dramatic view, especially if you enjoy coastal caves and legends.

Saplunara Beach: Relax and Recharge

After the morning sightseeing, the tour offers a two-hour stop at Saplunara, a quiet, beautiful beach known for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you can swim, relax on the sandy shores, or enjoy a delicious seafood lunch if you opt for one. The water is perfect for cooling off, and the natural surroundings—pines and gentle waves—make it a peaceful retreat.

Plaa Limuni: Shallow, Calm Waters and Lush Scenery

Later in the day, the boat heads to Plaa Limuni, on the southeastern coast of Mljet. This beach is particularly family-friendly and ideal for swimming in shallow, calm waters. The surrounding pine forests give it a tranquil, scenic setting. Expect about 30 minutes here—enough to dip your toes and take a few photos before heading back.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides many comforts: drinks on board, snorkeling gear, towels, and floaties to keep everyone comfortable. The skipper is there to ensure safety and smooth navigation, so you can just relax and take in the views.

However, there are some additional costs to keep in mind: the fuel surcharge of $300 per booking, the entrance fee to Mljet National Park, and optional extras like snorkeling gear, a GoPro, or drone filming. If you’re interested in capturing your trip, these extras can enhance your experience but will bump up the total cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, scenic boat rides, and a mix of nature and culture. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy relaxing beach days combined with light hiking and exploring legends like Odysseus. Since it’s a private tour, it offers the flexibility to tailor the experience—ideal if you prefer to avoid large crowds and have a more personalized day.

Travelers who want a full day of outdoor exploration with scenic views, good food, and some leisure will find this trip hits the mark. If you’re traveling with others who appreciate a mix of adventure and relaxation, it’s a good choice. Just be prepared for the additional costs and a full-day itinerary.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One traveler, Amy K, described her experience as “a beautiful day—my favorite of our five days in Croatia—on the water by boat and swimming, with a quick dip at the Blue Cave at the Elaphiti Islands and then on to multiple points in Mljet Island, including stunning Mljet National Park.” Her words highlight how varied and memorable the day can be.

The reviews also emphasize the stunning views and the value for money, noting how well-organized and enjoyable the trip was, despite some optional costs. The opportunity to customize activities—like snorkeling or drone filming—is a bonus for those wanting to capture their adventure in unique ways.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—on average, trips are booked about 38 days ahead.
• The duration is approximately 8 hours, so wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen and hats.
• Check the weather before you go—bad weather can cancel or reschedule, and you’ll get a full refund if that happens.
• Be aware of additional costs: the national park fee and optional extras are not included in the base price.
• If you want to document your trip, consider bringing your own waterproof camera or renting extras.

The Sum Up

This private tour to Mljet and Odysseus Cave offers a well-rounded day for those craving a mix of nature, legend, and leisurely beach time. The combination of scenic lakes, lush forests, historical sites, and relaxing beaches makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want an active yet laid-back day out of Dubrovnik. The personalized nature of the tour ensures you won’t be part of a large crowd, and the variety of stops keeps the experience fresh from start to finish.

While the extras and entrance fees add to the overall cost, many travelers find the value worth it for a full day of memorable sights and peaceful moments. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, stunning views, and a touch of local culture—all delivered with a relaxed, friendly vibe. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s worth considering this tour for your Croatian itinerary.

FAQ

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day experience with plenty of time to explore and relax.

Are drinks provided during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes drinks on board, such as water, beer, wine, and soft drinks, so you can stay refreshed.

Do I need to pay extra for the national park entrance?
Yes, the national park entrance fee isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for that.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely, snorkeling equipment is provided, and you can use it during the trip to explore the waters around Mljet.

Are the beaches suitable for families or children?
Yes, beaches like Plaa Limuni offer shallow, calm waters, making them suitable for swimming and relaxing with kids.

What optional extras are available?
You can rent a GO PRO camera, paddleboard, or drone filming, and add a fruit cup or sparkling wine if you wish.

Is it customizable?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility in how long you stay at each stop and the activities you choose.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and your camera. Optional extras like waterproof gear or snacks are also a good idea.

If you’re after an engaging day out that balances natural beauty, light adventure, and cultural touches, this tour seems to tick those boxes. Just plan ahead, consider the extra costs, and get ready for a memorable Croatian escape.