Dubrovnik: Lokrum Island and Betina Cave Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and want a quick, engaging escape to explore some of its most photogenic and secluded spots, this boat tour might be just what you need. It promises a blend of scenic cruising, island exploration, swimming, and snorkeling—perfect for those short on time but eager to experience more than just the city walls.

What we love about this experience is how it packs in three distinct stops within just four hours, giving you time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. The views of Dubrovnik’s famous City Walls and Lovrjenac Fortress from the water are breathtaking, and the chance to explore Lokrum Island’s lush gardens and caves adds an authentic touch.

A potential drawback? The tour’s timing is quite tight, especially if you want to fully explore Lokrum or spend more leisure time at the beaches. Also, there’s an entry fee for Lokrum (around $30 cash), which isn’t included in the ticket price, so budgeting for that ahead of time is wise.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of Dubrovnik’s natural beauty and history without committing a full day to sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural sights in a short window.

Key Points

• Short but Sweet: The 4-hour duration packs in multiple stops, making it perfect for a quick overview.
• Authentic Experience: Access to Lokrum’s botanical gardens, caves, and filming locations adds an authentic and fun element.
• Great Value: For $47, the combination of boat, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary offers good bang for your buck.
• Scenic Views: The cruise past Dubrovnik’s walls and fortress provides a stunning perspective of the city.
• Flexible & Friendly: With options to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and accommodating guides, it’s accessible and relaxed.
• Note the Extra Fee: Lokrum’s entry fee is cash-only, so remember to bring some change.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Ease of Access

The tour kicks off at Lokanda Peskarija, the lively port area right in Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Finding the check-in desk with the “LOKRUM TOUR” sign is straightforward, and the process is smooth, especially since the staff are friendly and helpful—reviewers mention a warm welcome and easy instructions, which sets a positive tone. If you arrive early or are running late, most guides are flexible, as some reviewers noted that they accommodated last-minute schedule changes.

The Cruise & Scenic Highlights

Once on board, you’ll be treated to a half-hour sightseeing cruise. Expect to see the city walls, Lovrjenac Fortress, and other iconic Dubrovnik landmarks from the water. The boat itself is comfortable, with an English audio guide playing commentary about the sights and the history behind them.

Traveling past rocky cliffs and cliffsides gives you a sense of the raw natural beauty that surrounds Dubrovnik. Reviewers consistently comment on the stunning views and the feeling of getting a different perspective of the city from the sea.

Lokrum Island Exploration

The highlight for many is the two-hour free time on Lokrum Island. The island itself feels like a mini paradise—lush green gardens, an ancient Benedictine monastery, and some filming locations from Game of Thrones. One reviewer pointed out that they loved walking through the Botanical Gardens and spotting peacocks roaming freely, which adds a whimsical touch.

You’ll get a chance to walk around, take pictures of the mysterious Dead Sea (Mrtvo More), and even climb the Fort Royal for panoramic views. Another traveler mentioned they appreciated the informative guides, who shared local history and tips. Keep in mind, you need to pay $30 cash per adult to enter Lokrum, which can catch some visitors off guard if they’re not prepared.

Beaches & Snorkeling

After exploring Lokrum, the boat takes you to St. Jacob’s Beach, about 40 minutes later. This spot is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The clear waters and quiet environment are ideal for relaxing and floating around. Multiple reviews highlight how refreshing and beautiful this beach is, especially since the tour allows enough time to dip into the sea and enjoy the surroundings—“swimming in crystal-clear waves” seems to be a common praise.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can snorkel and explore the seabed, with many reviews mentioning how clear and lively the underwater scenery is. It’s worth noting that the beach can get crowded, but being part of a smaller group (compared to larger ferry loads) means less chaos and more personal space.

Betina Cave – A Hidden Gem

The next stop is the Betina Cave, accessible only by sea, which makes it feel like a real secret tucked away from the crowds. Here, you’ll have around 30 minutes to snorkel around and explore the inside of the cave. Reviewers loved this moment, describing it as “a natural wonder” and “a secluded paradise”. Some mention that jumping into the water from the boat adds an extra thrill, although this isn’t suitable for everyone—non-swimmers or those with mobility issues might find it less accessible.

The Return & Final Sights

As the tour concludes, your boat heads back toward Dubrovnik, passing by Villa Sheherezade and the historic Lazarets. Many reviews mention how the trip ends with a sense of satisfaction, having seen so much in just a few hours. The trip wraps up at Lokanda Peskarija, where you started—convenient for those planning to explore Dubrovnik further.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking & Payment: The tour costs $47 per person, which is reasonable considering the included gear, commentary, and the boat transfer. Remember, the entry ticket for Lokrum is paid in cash ($30 adults, $5 kids over 6), so bring enough change.
• Duration & Group Size: Lasts about 4 hours, with small group sizes that tend to make the experience more personal and less crowded.
• What to Bring: Pack your beachwear, towel, cash for entry fees, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case. Snorkel gear is included but bringing your own might be more comfortable.
• Weather & Conditions: The activity is weather-dependent, so check the forecast. A choppy sea or strong wind can affect the cruise and snorkeling conditions.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest from the UK mentioned, “Lokrum Island was amazing—so much to see,” emphasizing that the island feels bigger and more varied than it initially appears from the mainland. Another from South Africa said, “We missed our time slot because of bus delays, but the staff was lovely and accommodated us,” highlighting the flexible and friendly attitude of the team.

Many guests appreciated guides like Anastasia and Nikola for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging manner, which truly elevated the experience. They also noted that the small group size made the trip feel intimate and allowed more interaction, unlike crowded ferry excursions.

The snorkeling spots, especially Betina Cave, are the real highlights for those who love aquatic adventures. Reviewers consistently mention how crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches make this tour worth every penny.

The Sum Up

This boat tour offers a compact but well-rounded taste of Dubrovnik’s natural and cultural highlights. It’s especially ideal for travelers who don’t want to dedicate an entire day but still crave an authentic, scenic adventure. The combination of stunning views, secluded beaches, and interesting stops like Lokrum Island and Betina Cave make it a compelling choice.

If you enjoy a relaxed pace with enough time to explore, swim, and take photos, this tour will meet your expectations. The knowledgeable guides, friendly atmosphere, and value for money—considering the included gear and commentary—make it a solid pick for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

Just keep in mind the extra Lokrum entry fee and the weather dependency. Overall, it’s a balanced, enjoyable experience that will leave you with memorable photos and a few stories to tell back home.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, from departure to return, with about 2 hours on Lokrum Island plus time at St. Jacob’s Beach and Betina Cave.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the sightseeing cruise, snorkeling gear, and an English audio guide. You’ll need to pay cash on-site for Lokrum’s entry fee ($30 per adult).

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Lokanda Peskarija, in the historic port of Dubrovnik.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s an option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for kids over six years old, especially since the cave and snorkeling involve some physical activity, and non-swimmers might find parts challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a towel, cash for the Lokrum entry fee, and perhaps a waterproof phone case or camera.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially in peak season, to secure your spot as the tour is popular and limited in size.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. The tour can be canceled or rescheduled in case of heavy wind or storms.

This boat trip offers a fantastic snapshot of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained. It’s a smart choice for those short on time but eager to see some of Croatia’s natural gems.