Morning or Afternoon Blue Escape

Imagine slipping away from the bustling streets of Dubrovnik for a half-day adventure that combines stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of local charm. That’s exactly what the Blue Escape tour offers — a chance to experience the incredible beauty of the Elaphiti Islands without spending an entire day on the water. Guided by a knowledgeable skipper, you’ll explore sea caves, relax on sandy beaches, and enjoy all-inclusive refreshments, making it a great choice for those looking for a quick yet memorable escape.

What really caught our eye about this experience is its balance of adventure and relaxation. You get to see some of Croatia’s most iconic caves, snorkel in calm waters, and lounge on a sandy beach — all within just four hours. Plus, the all-inclusive setup means no worries about extra costs for drinks or gear, which adds to the ease of the trip. On the flip side, if you’re someone who loves a longer, more immersive journey, this might feel a bit rushed, but for most, the time frame hits the sweet spot for a scenic taste of the islands.

This tour suits travelers who prefer a small, private group experience, want to see the highlights without long hours on the water, and appreciate the flexibility of choosing between a morning or afternoon departure. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Dubrovnik who want a manageable yet gorgeous escape, as well as seasoned travelers craving a quick scenic fix.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Drinks, snorkeling gear, and fees covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Stunning Caves & Landscape: Visit the Blue Cave, Green Caves, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.
• Flexible Schedule: Choose between morning or afternoon trips based on your plans.
• Short but Sweet: Four hours of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing — perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Professional Skipper: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Family Friendly: Calm waters and sandy beaches make this suitable for families with kids.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Departure and Initial Journey

The tour kicks off at Lapadska Obala Pier, a convenient meeting point facing the summer residence of Petar Sorkoevi. From here, a speedboat whisks you across the shimmering waters of Dubrovnik’s coastline in about 20 minutes. The boat itself is typically comfortable, and with small group sizes (up to six), you’ll find the ride intimate and relaxed rather than crowded. The short journey gives travelers a quick taste of the open sea and sets a lively tone for the day ahead.

The First Stop: Kolocep Island and the Blue Cave

One of the tour’s main highlights is visiting the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, swimming and snorkeling in the cool, clear waters. The Blue Cave is renowned for its dazzling light effects — sunlight filters through the water and rocks, casting a surreal glow that visitors find mesmerizing.

Several reviews mention the skipper’s expertise in navigating these caves, making sure everyone gets good views and safety during the swim. You’ll also visit the Green Caves, which are equally impressive, giving you more chances to snorkel and explore the sea’s hidden wonders. The guides often point out interesting features of these caves, adding a layer of understanding that enhances the experience.

Mid-Morning: A Quick Photo Stop and the Green Caves

After the Blue Cave, there’s a brief photo stop (about five minutes), perfect for catching a shot of the coastline’s jagged cliffs and lush islands. Then, it’s time to visit the Three Green Caves — an enchanting cluster of sea caves on Kolocep Island. As one reviewer notes, “The Green Caves are just as stunning, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.” Expect another 30 minutes here for snorkeling and swimming — the calm waters make it safe and enjoyable for all skill levels.

Lunch Break & Relaxation on Lopud Island

The next part of the trip centers on Lopud Island, often lauded as a sandy haven with shallow waters, ideal for families or anyone seeking a relaxed break. You’ll have roughly 2.5 hours here, giving plenty of time to snap photos, sip drinks, or simply float and unwind. The beach’s gentle, sheltered waters are frequently described as perfect for kids, and the free loungers, if you order food or drinks, add a touch of luxury.

Many reviews highlight that the beach bar offers a selection of complimentary drinks (water, wine, beer, Coca-Cola, iced tea), and you’re welcome to buy cocktails or wine, making the whole experience leisurely. Some guests mention that ordering food at the bar is simple and helps extend the relaxing vibe.

Return Journey and Final Scenic Highlights

After a restful stay, a 25-minute speedboat ride takes you back towards Dubrovnik, offering one last chance to enjoy the sea views. The entire tour wraps up back at Lapadska Obala Pier, leaving you with wonderful memories and excellent photos of the coastline.

What the Tour Includes and What to Consider

The all-inclusive nature of this tour truly stands out. The price of $262 for a group of up to six covers your professional skipper, life jackets, snorkeling gear, and unlimited drinks. The fact that all fees and taxes are included simplifies planning, and reviews confirm the gear is fresh and well-maintained.

However, there’s a small additional cost if you want the skipper to handle fuel, which varies from €65 to €100 depending on the length of your trip. Also, while the tour provides the option for pickup and drop-off for €25, most find it easiest to meet directly at the pier.

The duration of four hours manages to pack in a good variety of highlights, but it’s worth noting that some travelers feel the schedule is a bit tight if you want to linger longer at each stop. If you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back, extensive experience, you might want to consider longer tours, but for most, this offers a satisfying balance.

The Skipper and Guides

Guests consistently praise the skipper’s professionalism and local knowledge. They often mention how guides share interesting facts about the caves and islands, making the tour not just pretty but informative. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and easier navigation through the caves.

Practical Tips

• Bring towel and beachwear for comfort.
• Don’t forget sun protection — hats, sunscreen, sunglasses.
• Pack cash if you want to tip the skipper or buy food/beverages on the beach.
• In case of bad sea conditions, the tour might be postponed or routes altered, but the team communicates clearly about any changes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This mini adventure is perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the Elaphiti Islands without committing to a full-day tour. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a personalized, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. If you’re a fan of caves and scenic coastlines and want an experience guided by knowledgeable locals, this tour delivers.

It’s also great for those visiting Dubrovnik for a short stay who want to maximize their time on the water and see some of Croatia’s stunning maritime scenery without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

The Morning or Afternoon Blue Escape from Dubrovnik offers a well-balanced, value-packed experience. It combines the thrill of exploring sea caves like the Blue and Green Caves with the tranquility of relaxing on sandy beaches. The all-inclusive setup, professional guides, and flexible schedule make it a practical choice for travelers seeking both adventure and downtime.

While it might be a tad fast-paced for those wanting a leisurely, comprehensive tour, most guests will find that four hours is just enough to see the highlights, take plenty of photos, and head home with a smile. The intimate group size and knowledgeable skipper ensure a friendly, personalized atmosphere that enhances the journey.

If you’re after a scenic, fun-filled escape from Dubrovnik with stunning views, lively caves, and calm waters, this trip is a solid pick — especially when you value ease, comfort, and authentic local insights.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 4 hours, including all stops, swimming, and relaxing time on Lopud Island.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Lapadska Obala Pier, a convenient location across from Petar Sorkoevi’s summer residence.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a professional skipper, life jackets, snorkeling gear, unlimited drinks (water, wine, beer, soft drinks), and all fees and taxes.

Can I choose morning or afternoon departure?
Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and sandy beaches make it a family-friendly option, especially with shallow swimming areas.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a towel, beachwear, sun protection, and optional cash for tips or additional purchases.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of unsuitable sea conditions, the tour may be postponed or route modified with prior notice.

Is there an option for pickup and drop-off?
Yes, for €25, you can request hotel pickup and drop-off — check availability when booking.

This Blue Escape tour from Dubrovnik offers a quick but impactful taste of Croatia’s stunning coast, caves, and beaches. It’s a wonderful choice for those looking to squeeze in a scenic adventure without a full day’s commitment, all while enjoying the comfort of an intimate, well-guided trip.