Guided Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour to Green Cave and Sipan Island from Lopud

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Islands by Kayak and Snorkel: An Authentic Adventure

This Guided Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour to Green Cave and Sipan Island from Lopud offers a refreshing way to see the Elaphite islands, combining active exploration with moments of pure relaxation. Designed for small groups, it emphasizes personalized attention and genuine connection with the stunning Croatian coastline. Expect to paddle past dramatic rock formations, swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover hidden spots that are often missed by larger tours.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances adventure and comfort. With a maximum of 9 travelers, the guides can tailor the trip to the group’s pace and interests. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and dry bags ensures you’re well-equipped to enjoy every moment. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent—if the conditions aren’t right, some highlights like the Green Cave might be unavailable. That said, the overall value for the price is high, especially for those who love outdoor activities and authentic island encounters.

This tour is ideal for active travelers aged 8 and up who crave a hands-on experience and want to see Dubrovnik’s islands from a different perspective. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and enjoy being on the water, this adventure will suit you well. It’s also perfect for those who want a more intimate, less crowded alternative to larger boat excursions.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Includes snorkeling gear and dry bags, making it easy to enjoy water activities without worries.
• Visiting Green Cave and fishing villages provides a mix of natural wonders and local culture.
• Flexible stop options like swimming, cliff jumping, and cave exploration enhance the adventure.
• Professional guides are knowledgeable, making the journey both safe and informative.
• Ideal for ages 8 and up, suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking active fun.

A Dive Into the Details: What to Expect

From the moment you meet at Mjesni odbor Lopud, the experience kicks off with a safety briefing and paddling instructions. This setup is crucial because it ensures everyone is comfortable before hitting the water. The guides, led by seasoned professionals, are not only attentive but also eager to share their knowledge about the islands and the best spots for swimming and snorkeling.

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the Green Cave, a stunning natural formation that, according to reviews, is well worth the effort to reach. One reviewer, Deborah H., described her experience as “superb,” noting how swimming into the cave was “awesome” — a comment that hints at a genuinely exciting and memorable moment. However, it’s important to remember that cave visits depend on weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to be flexible if the cave is inaccessible during your trip.

Paddling from Lopud to Sipan involves passing through dramatic rock formations and exploring tranquil bays. The guides make frequent stops, giving ample opportunities to swim, snorkel, or even cliff jump. Snorkelers will appreciate the crystal-clear waters and untouched reefs, which provide excellent visibility and a chance to see marine life. We loved the way the guides often pointed out local fish and interesting underwater features, making each swim feel like a mini adventure.

The first stop on Sipan is a fishing village, where you’ll have free time to explore. Whether you want to wander through narrow alleys, grab an ice cream, or sip a macchiato at a seaside café, this pause adds a lovely local flavor to the trip. One reviewer emphasized the delicious food and tapas available, which could be an appealing way to recharge after kayaking.

Back on the water, the group continues to paddle past amazing rock formations and smaller islands, enjoying the peaceful scenery. The return journey to Lopud is about 20 minutes, but the entire outing lasts approximately five hours, including stops and free time.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $82.10 per person, which includes professional English-speaking guides, snorkeling equipment, dry bags, and kayaks. While meals aren’t included, the free time on Sipan allows for spontaneous snacks or drinks. Since hotel pickup isn’t part of this experience, you’ll need to meet at the designated spot in Lopud, which is conveniently near public transportation.

This tour is suitable for ages 8 and above, making it family-friendly, but it requires moderate physical fitness. If you’re comfortable paddling and swimming, you’ll find this experience rewarding. The small group size, capped at 9 travelers, fosters a more intimate atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer personalized attention over large crowds.

Weather can impact the day’s activities, especially cave visits. The provider offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring if weather conditions turn unfavorable. This flexibility is especially helpful given the unpredictable nature of outdoor water activities.

Authentic Touches from Reviews

Insight from past participants adds depth to this review. Deborah H. shared, “The whole experience was superb,” highlighting how the swimming into the Green Cave stood out as awesomely memorable. She also noted that coming out of the cave was easy, but emphasized that it’s “only recommended for the most confident,” so be honest about your comfort level with water and swimming.

Another reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable guides and how they made the experience both safe and fun. The guides’ familiarity with the islands and natural formations meant that you could relax and focus on enjoying the scenery, knowing you were in capable hands.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, especially kayaking and snorkeling, this tour offers a wonderful blend of both with added cultural flavor. It’s ideal for adventurous families, couples, or small groups looking for a more authentic, hands-on way to explore Dubrovnik’s coast. The small group size makes it a great choice for those seeking a personalized, less commercialized experience.

On top of that, the tour’s emphasis on natural beauty, local villages, and hidden caves makes it perfect for travelers eager to see lesser-known spots away from the crowds. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with moderate physical activity who want a memorable, active day on the water.

The Sum Up

This guided kayaking and snorkeling tour delivers more than just a scenic ride — it offers real encounters with Croatia’s stunning islands, marine life, and caves. With expert guides enhancing every step, the trip balances adventure, education, and relaxation. You’ll leave with a fresh perspective of the Elaphite islands and a collection of memorable moments, from swimming into a cave to tasting local treats in a fishing village.

For travelers who value small groups, personalized attention, and authentic experiences, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a day that combines physical activity with plenty of opportunities for spontaneous swimming, exploring, and soaking in natural beauty.

Just keep an eye on the weather, wear appropriate gear, and be ready for a fun, active adventure that captures the spirit of the Croatian coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate, provided they’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and water-based activities.

What should I bring? Wear swimwear, bring a towel, and consider sun protection like hats and sunscreen. The tour supplies dry bags for your belongings, but personal items should be waterproofed.

Is the Green Cave visit guaranteed? No, the visit depends on weather conditions. If the weather doesn’t permit, guides will suggest alternative spots or reschedule.

How long is the kayaking journey? The entire tour lasts about 5 hours, including paddling, swimming stops, free time at Sipan, and the return.

Are meals included? No, meals and drinks are not included. There are local cafes on Sipan where you can purchase refreshments.

What if I can’t swim? While swimming is optional, snorkeling requires some comfort in the water. Guides are experienced and will advise on safe practices.

Is this tour physically demanding? It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. Paddling and swimming are involved, but the pace is manageable with guidance.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour offers a genuine, active way to explore Dubrovnik’s coastal gems, perfect for those eager to combine adventure, culture, and natural beauty in one memorable half-day.