Dubrovnik or Cavtat: Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands Boat Tour

This well-rated half-day tour offers a chance to experience some of Croatia’s most captivating coastal sights, all while cruising comfortably on a modern speedboat. From exploring the glowing Blue Cave to relaxing on one of Croatia’s rare sandy beaches, this trip promises a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and laid-back coastal charm.

What really makes this tour stand out for us is the opportunity to snorkel in stunning caves—especially the Blue Cave where sunlight creates a mesmerizing blue glow. It’s also great that the boat is spacious and new, making the journey itself comfortable and enjoyable. A potential snag? The itinerary can shift depending on sea conditions or time of year, so flexibility is key. This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy water activities, scenic cruising, and a small-group vibe for a more personal feel.

If you’re comfortable swimming and love discovering hidden coves, this tour will suit you perfectly. Families with older children and those looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure will find plenty to love here. But if you’re not a confident swimmer or have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting that the Blue Cave requires swimming to access, and there’s no dedicated safety officer onboard.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate, personalized experience
• Includes visits to Blue and Green Caves for snorkeling and exploring
• Unlimited drinks, including soft drinks and beer, add to the fun
• Comfortable, brand-new speedboats make travel smooth and stylish
• Flexible itinerary based on weather conditions, which can impact the visit to Blue Cave
• Ideal for water lovers who are comfortable swimming or willing to wear life jackets

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour covers some of the most scenic spots around the Elaphiti Islands, starting from a meeting point that varies depending on your booking choice. You’ll be on a spacious, modern speedboat—a significant advantage since many boat tours use older vessels that can feel cramped or sluggish. The tour’s duration is roughly half a day, giving you a taste of the islands without demanding a full day away from Dubrovnik or Cavtat.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Phenomenon

The Blue Cave is the star of the show, renowned for sunlight filtering through underwater openings, illuminating the cave in a glowing blue hue. The tour notes that access is by swimming, which adds an element of adventure. Several reviewers mention that guides are encouraging and supportive, especially if you’re a bit hesitant about swimming. Some travelers choose to wear life jackets for comfort and safety, which is a smart move if you’re not a strong swimmer.

While the Blue Cave is a major highlight, it’s worth noting that access can be affected by sea conditions. During rough weather, the itinerary might change, possibly skipping the Blue Cave altogether. This flexibility is a practical consideration, but it does mean you should be prepared for a potentially altered experience.

The Green Caves and Snorkeling

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to the Green Caves, a series of smaller caverns with vibrant emerald waters. Here, you can snorkel and take in the natural beauty of these lesser-known spots. Reviewers describe swimming in the Green Caves as “unforgettable,” with some noting that the waters are warm and inviting.

The Green Caves also provide an opportunity for relaxation away from crowds, as they’re less visited than the Blue Cave. Many guests appreciated being able to snorkel and explore at their own pace, thanks to the included equipment.

Lopud Island: Car-Free Paradise

Lopud is often called the “green oasis” of Dubrovnik, and for good reason. It’s a car-free island with a charming village, lush gardens, and seaside cafés. The tour includes a stroll through this peaceful island, giving you a taste of local life away from the hustle. Reviewers loved the calm atmosphere and the opportunity to explore on foot.

One of Lopud’s standout features is unj Beach, a rare sandy beach in the region. The shallow, warm waters and golden sands make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the scenery. Many describe unj Beach as “perfect for relaxing after cave snorkeling,” and visitors appreciate having ample time here to unwind.

Practicalities and Comfort

The tour provides snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, and beer—all included. The small group (up to 15 people) creates a friendly, less rushed environment, which many travelers find appealing. The boat’s comfort and newness are often highlighted, making the ride enjoyable even during the longer stretches.

What’s Not Included?

While meals aren’t part of the package, you’re free to bring your own snacks or lunch. This flexibility allows you to customize your experience, especially if you have dietary preferences or want a quick picnic on the beach.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Many who’ve taken this tour comment on the knowledgeable guides, who are often praised for their friendliness and support. One reviewer shared, “The guides were encouraging and supportive, especially for those hesitant about swimming.” This kind of personalized attention elevates the experience, especially for less confident swimmers.

Another guest mentioned that despite initial worries about their swimming skills, wearing a life jacket made the Blue Cave visit enjoyable, and they appreciated the support from guides. The small group size also meant that everyone felt engaged and able to ask questions or get assistance.

The overall vibe is relaxed, with many noting the unlimited drinks and the scenic views as perfect ingredients for a memorable day. Even on cloudy days, the calm waters and beautiful landscapes manage to shine through, making it a versatile option for various weather conditions.

Transportation and Logistics

Starting points vary depending on your booking, but generally, you’ll meet at a designated spot close to Dubrovnik or Cavtat. The tour lasts about half a day, making it a manageable addition to your sightseeing plans. The modern speedboats not only look stylish but also ensure a smoother ride, helping you avoid seasickness and fatigue.

The small group size (max 15) keeps the experience intimate, allowing for a more personalized interaction with guides and fellow travelers alike. The inclusion of fuel surcharge is a nice detail, ensuring transparency in pricing.

Pricing and Value

At $66 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of multiple caves, snorkeling equipment, and unlimited drinks. Compared to longer or more commercialized tours, the price reflects the small-group intimacy and the quality of the boat.

While you can’t include meals, the flexibility to bring your own snacks means you can stretch your budget further. The tour’s focus on natural beauty, comfort, and a relaxed pace makes it a practical choice for those wanting a half-day escape without overextending their schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for water enthusiasts who enjoy snorkeling and exploring caves. It’s well-suited for travelers comfortable with swimming or willing to wear a life jacket—especially since access to the Blue Cave is by swimming. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a small-group feel will find it rewarding.

If you’re after a relaxing day with picturesque views, friendly guides, and a mix of adventure and leisure, this tour hits the mark. It’s less ideal if you’re not comfortable swimming or if mobility is a concern, given the nature of the Blue Cave access.

The Sum Up

This Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands boat tour provides a well-balanced mix of natural wonders, scenic cruising, and relaxed beach time. The small-group environment and the excellent guides enhance the authentic feel, making it a standout choice for anyone wanting to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline in an intimate setting. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and snorkeling gear adds to the value, creating a fun, laid-back atmosphere that encourages camaraderie and adventure.

The tour’s flexibility and focus on natural beauty make it ideal for those who appreciate underwater scenery and peaceful island escapes. While some parts of the experience depend on weather conditions—particularly access to the Blue Cave—the overall package offers a memorable taste of Croatia’s coast that many travelers rave about.

If you’re eager to see stunning caves, enjoy swimming in warm waters, and prefer small, friendly groups, this tour is an excellent choice. Just remember to come prepared to swim and bring your camera to capture those unforgettable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave accessible by boat or only by swimming?
Access to the Blue Cave is only by swimming, which allows you to experience the glow from inside. Some travelers choose to wear life jackets for comfort and safety, especially if they’re not strong swimmers.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and capture memories. Since the tour involves snorkeling and swimming, having your essentials handy is a good idea.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Yes, unlimited soft drinks and beer are included, making the trip more enjoyable and relaxed.

What happens if the sea is rough?
In rough sea conditions, the itinerary might change, potentially skipping the Blue Cave or other stops. Flexibility is built into the experience, but this means you should be prepared for possible modifications.

Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely. Meals aren’t included, but you’re free to bring snacks, sandwiches, or drinks to enjoy on the boat or at the beaches.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and teenagers comfortable with swimming and water activities. Non-swimmers or those with mobility issues may find access to the Blue Cave challenging, as swimming is required.

This boat tour offers a fantastic slice of Croatia’s coastal beauty, combining natural wonders with comfort and small-group intimacy. Whether you want to snorkel in glowing caves or relax on sandy beaches, it promises a memorable day in the Dalmatian archipelago.