Sun, Sea& Speed: Private boat tour to Dubrovniks Blue Cave!

Sun, Sea & Speed: Private Boat Tour to Dubrovnik’s Blue Cave

Exploring the Croatian coast by boat sounds like a dream, and this private tour from Cavtat offers just that—an intimate, flexible adventure on the water. Covering the famous Blue Cave, the Green Caves on Kolocep, and the sandy Sunj Beach on Lopud, this experience promises a blend of natural beauty, fun snorkeling, and relaxed sightseeing.

What really makes this tour stand out is the personalized touch—a private skipper who acts as your guide, along with the option to connect your playlist via Bluetooth to keep the vibe lively. The boat itself, a sleek Mercan Excursion 34, combines speed with comfort, making it ideal for exploring multiple locations in a single day.

One thing to consider is the extra cost of fuel—which isn’t included in the price—and can add up depending on your chosen duration. Also, the tour might be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues since it involves boat travel and some swimming. This tour fits best for travelers who value flexibility, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure in a private setting.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your schedule and preferences
• Expert local skipper with knowledge about caves and hidden gems
• Includes snorkeling gear, beverages, and sunbathing mats for maximum comfort
• Multiple scenic stops including Blue Cave, Green Caves, and Sunj Beach
• Option to connect your music for a personalized boat ride
• Fuel costs are extra and paid in cash, so budget accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour departs from Cavtat, just a 15 km drive from Dubrovnik. This small but charming town offers a quieter launch spot, away from the hustle of Dubrovnik’s crowds, yet close enough for easy access. The boat, a sleek Mercan Excursion 34, is equipped with sunbathing mats, a bathroom, shower, and sink—making it a surprisingly comfortable vessel for the day. The boat is rented only with a skipper, ensuring that you’re in experienced hands to navigate and point out the best sights.

Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with pickup from your accommodation—choices include multiple locations like Dubrovnik city, Cavtat, Mlini, and Srebreno—making it convenient to join from various spots along the coast. Once aboard, your skipper will take you on a panoramic drive around Dubrovnik’s Old Town, perfect for snapping photos of the city walls and terracotta rooftops from the water. This initial view sets the tone for the day—spectacular and full of character.

Next, you’ll head toward Kolocep Island, renowned for its pristine waters and unspoiled nature. Here, you’ll explore the Blue Cave—a highlight—where you can swim, snorkel, and marvel at the vivid colors inside the cave. This natural spectacle, with its shimmering blue water, promises a memorable photo opportunity and a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear sea.

Following the Blue Cave, you’ll visit the Green Caves on Kolocep, which are equally enchanting. Snorkeling in these caves allows you to see underwater formations and marine life, enhancing your connection with nature. Reviewers mention enjoying the flexibility to moor up and jump into the water at their own pace, which adds a relaxed, playful element to the experience.

Lopud & Sunj Beach

A key stop is Lopud Island, home to the famous Sunj Beach. The beach’s shallow waters stretch nearly a kilometer, making it ideal for families or anyone who enjoys lounging or gentle swimming. You’ll have about an hour here, giving enough time for a quick swim, a relaxing walk along the sand, or perhaps even some beach games like volleyball or picigin.

From the reviews, it’s clear that Sunj Beach is a firm favorite—“The beach is so shallow that you walk 100 meters to swim,” one guest notes, emphasizing its family-friendly nature. The relaxed break also allows you to explore the small island or simply soak in the sun.

Additional Islands & Hidden Gems

Depending on your chosen duration, the boat might take you to Ipanipan, the largest island of the Elafiti group, known for its peaceful bays and upmarket beach bars like Bowa. This is a more secluded spot, perfect for those wanting a little extra tranquility or a taste of local seafood (though the latter can be pricey).

Throughout the day, your skipper will share insights about the islands, caves, and local history, making the experience educational as well as scenic. “Nick was very knowledgeable about the caves and the area,” a review mentions, highlighting how a good guide can elevate the trip with stories and tips.

The Practicalities: What to Know

Comfort & Equipment

The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, pool noodles, and a fridge filled with beverages—including local wine, soft drinks, and water—adding to the comfortable and fun atmosphere. The inclusion of drinks is a nice touch, especially on a warm Croatian day. Travelers should bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, towels, and water shoes to maximize comfort.

Timing & Duration

The tour can last from 1 to 8 hours, allowing for full or half-day adventures. The detailed itinerary above is based on an 8-hour trip, but shorter options are available if you want a quick escape. Pickup is flexible with eight locations, and the tour offers full flexibility with a “reserve now, pay later” policy—perfect for last-minute planners or those wanting to keep options open.

Cost & Additional Expenses

The listed price is $284 for up to three people, which breaks down to roughly $95 per person—quite reasonable considering the private boat, guide, and included amenities. However, fuel costs are separate, ranging from €40 for a sunset tour up to €150 for an 8-hour voyage, payable in cash. This means budgeting an extra €50-€150 depending on your chosen duration.

Accessibility & Suitability

While the experience is fantastic for most, it’s not suited for wheelchair users, babies under one year, or those over 95, mainly because of boat and swimming activities. The boat’s design and the need to move between caves and beaches naturally limit certain mobility issues.

Authentic Insights from Guests

The sole review available offers a glowing testimonial—“It feels expensive but we thoroughly enjoyed it, still smiling and really happy we did it.” The guest appreciated the knowledgeable guide and the boat’s comfort, noting that the flexibility at the caves was a highlight. This suggests that travelers who value expert commentary and the freedom to explore at their own pace will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This private boat trip is perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized, scenic, and relaxing day on the water. Travelers who enjoy snorkeling, stunning coastlines, and a flexible schedule will appreciate the customizable nature of this experience. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer the comfort of their own boat with a knowledgeable skipper.

While its price might seem high compared to group tours, the value lies in the privacy, flexibility, and direct access to the most beautiful caves and beaches. If you’re keen on a memorable Croatian sea adventure with a bit of luxury, this trip delivers.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The price includes the skipper, snorkeling equipment, alcohol, water, and beverages like soda and local wine. The boat features sunbathing mats, a toilet, sink, and shower, making it comfortable for the day.

Are meals or food included?
No, meals are not included, but there might be options for special food and beverage service at additional costs if requested.

How long can I choose to stay on the boat?
The tour duration can be from 1 hour up to 8 hours, depending on your preference and booking choice.

Where do I meet the boat?
The boat departs from Cavtat, with pickup options available at multiple locations including Dubrovnik, Mlini, and Srebreno.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, towel, sunscreen, change of clothes, water shoes, and a camera if you wish to take photos.

Can I play my own music on the boat?
Absolutely. You can connect your device to the boat’s Bluetooth radio and play your favorite tunes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since Sunj Beach has shallow waters ideal for families, but very young children or infants under 1 year may not be suitable due to boat activities.

How much does fuel cost?
Fuel costs are extra, ranging from €40 for a sunset tour to €150 for a full 8-hour trip. Payment is in cash on the boat.

To sum it up, this private boat tour offers a fantastic balance of comfort, adventure, and flexibility. Its well-rounded itinerary, combined with the intimacy of a private group and knowledgeable skipper, makes it a superb choice for those wanting an authentic, scenic Croatian sea experience. Whether snorkeling in caves, relaxing on Sunj Beach, or enjoying the panoramic coast views, you’ll find that this trip truly captures the essence of Dalmatia’s stunning coastline.