Dubrovnik Boat Tour: Lokrum Island, Betina Cave & St.Jacobs Beach

Discovering Dubrovnik’s Coastal Charms: A Detailed Look at the Boat Tour to Lokrum Island, Betina Cave & St. Jacobs Beach

If you’re looking to experience Dubrovnik from the water without the hassle or expense of private charters or massive group tours, this small-group boat trip could be just what you need. Spanning approximately four hours, it promises a relaxed way to see some of the city’s most beautiful coastlines, including the lush Lokrum Island, a hidden sea cave, and pristine beaches—some of which are only accessible by boat.

What we love about this tour? First, the small-group setting makes for a more intimate experience, allowing for better interaction with the crew and more flexible stops. Plus, the inclusion of snorkel equipment ensures hassle-free swimming and exploring beneath the waves. That said, one potential consideration is the extra cost for Lokrum’s entrance fee, which visitors should budget for in addition to the tour price.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling in scenic coastal environments. It’s particularly good for those who prefer a more personal touch over crowded boats, but be aware that it’s not suited for non-swimmers or those less comfortable in the water.

Key Points

• Small-group experience creates a more relaxed and personal atmosphere compared to large cruise ships.
• Multiple scenic stops include Lokrum Island, Betina Cave, and St. Jacobs Beach, offering diverse natural beauty.
• Snorkeling gear provided allows for easy, stress-free underwater exploration.
• Lokrum entry fee of €30 per person is not included and needs to be paid in cash on the day.
• Timing of stops is generally sufficient but can feel slightly rushed according to some reviews.
• Knowledgeable crew and captain, such as Evo, enhance the experience with helpful info and local insights.

The Experience: A Dive into the Details

Start Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at Lokanda Peskarija, a lively spot in Dubrovnik’s Old Town harbor area. The small boat, with a maximum of 12 travelers, lends a cozy feeling that’s often missing from larger, more commercial tours. From the outset, the crew seems friendly and eager to share their knowledge, setting a tone of relaxed exploration.

Cruising Past Dubrovnik’s Walls and Fort

The journey kicks off with a scenic ride past Dubrovnik’s famous city walls and Fort Lovrijenac. This segment is perfect for snapping photos of the medieval walls from the water, offering a perspective that’s quite different from wandering on land. Several reviews mention how striking these views are, helping you appreciate Dubrovnik’s historic defenses in a new way.

Lokrum Island: Gardens, Monastery, and Free Time

The highlight for many is the stop at Lokrum Island. The boat anchors for around two hours, giving you time to explore its botanical gardens, visit the historic monastery, or simply stroll along the rocky coast. Notably, the admission fee of €30 is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay cash on arrival.

Reviewers like Kelly appreciated the “two-hour stop on Lokrum, with coves and swimming spots,” and some mentioned the island’s rocky terrain makes water shoes or sandals a must—especially for navigating slippery rocks. Several travelers also noted that there are limited flat, sandy beaches, which might disappoint those expecting sandy shores but will delight adventurers who prefer rocky coves for snorkeling.

Sveti Jakov Beach: A Quiet Beach Stop

Next, the boat docks at St. Jacobs Beach, just a short walk from the boat. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Reviewers like Megan described it as “pretty good,” but also mentioned that the rocky terrain means bringing water shoes is essential.

The water here is often clear and inviting, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. However, some reviews note that the beach can be crowded, especially during peak season, so arriving early or being flexible with your timing can improve your experience.

Betina Cave: Hidden Gem Only Accessible by Sea

The final stop is at Betina Cave, a private treasure accessible solely by boat. You’ll have around 30 minutes here, with the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or simply marvel at the stunning cave-internal beach. Reviewers like Gagik appreciated this “hidden gem,” calling it “amazing.” The cave has its own small beach, perfect for a relaxing dip away from busier spots.

Since Betina Cave is only reachable by sea, it’s a unique addition that underscores the tour’s value for those looking for lesser-known coastal marvels. It’s worth noting that the caves can become crowded, especially in high season, but the boat’s small size helps avoid the large crowds common at popular spots.

Snorkeling and Equipment

The tour includes snorkeling gear, which many reviews highlight as a great feature. It allows you to focus on the underwater world without worrying about renting or carrying equipment. As Jennifer pointed out, “Lokrum is very rocky, so shoes or water sandals are wise”, and the same applies for Betina Cave and the beaches.

The Guides and Crew

While reviews mention that the captain Evo was friendly and knowledgeable, some travelers felt that the guidance could be more engaging. That said, most agree that the crew’s local insights and the boat’s glass bottom feature added value. The audio guide provides some context, but a more lively, interactive guide might improve the experience for those who love storytelling.

Timing and Pacing

Some reviews, like Tiffany’s, point out that the stops can feel “slightly rushed”. With just about 40 minutes at each major site, you need to move efficiently if you want to see everything thoroughly. This is probably a deliberate choice to fit all stops into the four-hour window but something to be aware of if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

Cost and Value

Beyond the tour’s price of around $48, travelers should budget an additional €30 cash for Lokrum’s entrance fee if they choose to visit the botanical gardens and monastery. Several reviewers felt the tour was “very efficient” considering the multiple stops, but some found the overall value diminished slightly because of the extra costs and the short duration at each stop.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see Dubrovnik’s coastline from the water without the crowds or hefty price tags of private charters. It’s perfect if your goal is a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling in scenic locations, and you don’t mind rocky beaches or paying extra for park entry.

It’s especially great for those who appreciate small-group tours that foster a more personal atmosphere, and for those eager to explore Lokrum Island’s botanical and historic sites. However, it’s less ideal for non-swimmers or travelers seeking sandy beaches or a more leisurely, unhurried pace.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to discover Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty. The small-group setting and inclusion of snorkeling gear are definite highlights, making it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery. The stops at Lokrum Island, Betina Cave, and St. Jacobs Beach provide a good variety of natural experiences—whether you prefer exploring gardens, swimming in clear waters, or discovering hidden caves.

The main considerations? The extra cash for Lokrum’s entrance fee and the brief stops that can feel rushed. If you’re prepared for rocky beaches, don’t mind paying a small additional fee, and want a focused, intimate adventure on the water, this tour will serve you well.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a value-packed, scenic, and memorable Dubrovnik coastal experience—especially if you’re keen on snorkeling, enjoying beautiful views, and avoiding the chaos of large tour boats.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour is not recommended for non-swimmers since swimming and snorkeling are key parts of the experience. If you’re uncomfortable in the water, this might not be the best fit.

How long do stops at each location last?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours on Lokrum Island, 40 minutes at St. Jacobs Beach, and 30 minutes at Betina Cave. The total tour duration is about four hours.

Do I need to pay for Lokrum Island entrance separately?
Yes, the €30 entrance fee is not included in the tour price and needs to be paid in cash at Lokrum. This fee covers the botanical gardens, monastery, and other attractions.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the tour includes use of snorkeling equipment, making it easier to explore underwater without extra cost or hassle.

Can I expect a guided commentary during the tour?
An audio guide is provided, but some reviews suggest that a more engaging, live guide could improve the experience. Expect basic commentary with the option of listening to the audio guide.

What is the group size?
The max number of travelers is 12, which helps keep the tour intimate and less crowded than large cruise options.

What should I bring along?
Water shoes or sandals are highly recommended due to rocky beaches, and bringing cash for Lokrum’s entrance fee is a must. Sunscreen, towels, and waterproof bags will also make your day more comfortable.

In essence, this Dubrovnik boat tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, water activities, and intimate group size, making it a worthwhile choice for those ready to explore the coast without the fuss.