Dubrovnik: 6 hours Blue cave & Elaphiti with optional lunch

Planning a day on the water around Dubrovnik? This 6-hour tour offers a good mix of swimming, scenic cruising, and island strolling, all in a small-group setting. Whether you’re after stunning natural sights, a peaceful escape, or a taste of local flavors, this trip has plenty to offer.

What we like most? The chance to snorkel in the Blue Cave, with its striking blue waters, and the relaxingly uncrowded Kolocep Island. The unlimited drinks onboard — including wine, soda, and rakija — add a festive touch, and the lunch options promise a satisfying meal after a morning of exploration.

A potential downside? The Blue Cave can get crowded, as noted by some travelers who found it more like a “boat car park.” For those who highly prize tranquility, this might be a minor frustration. But overall, this tour suits travelers looking for a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water with good value and friendly hosts.

This experience is perfect for families, friends, or couples who want a taste of Croatian coastlines, combined with some swimming, sightseeing, and local hospitality.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Swim and snorkel in the Blue Cave, a highlight for many travelers.
• Island stops include Kolocep’s lush surroundings and Lopud’s sandy beaches.
• Unlimited onboard drinks make the cruise more enjoyable and social.
• Flexible lunch options cater to different tastes, with fish, chicken, or vegetarian choices.
• Comfortable boat ride with scenic views, though the pace might be slow for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This 6-hour cruise covers three main stops: Kolocep Island, the Blue Cave, and Lopud Island. Each offers a different flavor of the Croatian coast, making for a varied and engaging day.

Kolocep Island — The Peaceful Beginning

Your journey begins on Kolocep Island, famous for its tranquility and pine forests. With about 45 minutes of free time, you can wander along quiet paths, relax on the rocky coastline, or just enjoy the lush scenery. As one reviewer put it, “Marco and Peter are great hosts,” making the boat trip feel welcoming. This stop is ideal for those who want a gentle start, free from crowds and noise.

The Blue Cave — The Natural Wonder

The Blue Cave is the star attraction, accessible only by swimming and snorkeling. You’ll have approximately 45 minutes here, enough time to marvel at the vibrant blue waters and snorkel gear to explore underwater. We loved the way the reviews highlighted the cave’s stunning beauty, with one saying it’s “absolutely gorgeous.”

However, some travelers note that the Blue Cave can be busy, with many boats vying for space, making it less peaceful than anticipated. As Devina commented, “it was like a boat car park,” which means patience and a willingness to share the space are necessary.

Lopud Island — Sand, Sun, and Serenity

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to Lopud Island, known for its sandy beaches and charming village. With around 2 hours of free time, you can lounge on the famous IJuna Beach, explore local streets, or simply soak in the slow-paced island life. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable this stop is, especially for sunbathers and those wanting a peaceful retreat. “The barbecue lunch on the boat was so good,” one reviewer shared, adding to the appeal of this relaxing stop.

What to Expect Onboard

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with enough shade to keep cool. The small group size (up to 25 people) means you’re not just another face in a crowd. The crew, often praised as “great hosts,” provide snorkeling masks and life jackets, making the experience accessible and safe.

Food and Drinks

The tour offers unlimited drinks, including wine, soda, water, and rakija, which help keep spirits high during the cruise. The optional lunch can be ordered in advance and includes a choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes. The cash payment for lunch (around €15) is worth it, given the quality of the freshly prepared food, as many reviews mention.

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Practical Considerations

• Meeting point: Located at the New Port Gruz, with boarding in the middle of the promenade. Pickup from Dubrovnik hotels is available, making logistics straightforward.
• Duration: The full experience lasts about 6 hours, balancing sightseeing and free time.
• Weather: The tour can be adjusted or canceled in bad weather, so flexibility is key.
• Price: At $68 per person, it’s a competitive option considering the included drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple stops.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the friendly atmosphere onboard. Fiona called it a “calm and lovely trip,” while Marcus appreciated the crew for making everyone feel “at home.” The lunch received high marks as a highlight, especially for fish lovers, with Tony describing it as “especially tasty.”

Critics note that the Blue Cave can be crowded, but even then, the experience of swimming in such clear waters leaves a lasting impression. Devina’s comment about the “great value for money” sums up the general consensus: this tour offers a lot for a reasonable price.

Why This Tour Works

This cruise offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll have moments of quiet contemplation on the islands, exhilarating swimming in the Blue Cave, and convivial onboard camaraderie over drinks and lunch. The small group setting ensures a more intimate experience, and the scenic boat ride is a lovely way to see the coastline.

It’s not a tour for those seeking total tranquility — the Blue Cave’s popularity can make it crowded — but it’s perfect for travelers who want a lively, enjoyable day with friendly guides and authentic Croatian scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a bit of swimming, a scenic boat trip, and sampling local hospitality, this tour fits well into your Croatia itinerary. It’s especially suited for those wanting a comprehensive, value-packed experience that captures the essence of the Elaphiti Islands without rushing.

Families with kids, groups of friends, or couples looking for a peaceful escape with a social edge will find plenty to enjoy. Just keep in mind that if you’re very sensitive to crowds or prefer secluded spots, some moments—like the Blue Cave—may be less perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including stops at the islands and the Blue Cave, with free time to explore each location.

Is there an option for lunch?
Yes, you can opt for a freshly prepared meal with fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. The lunch costs around €15 and is paid in cash on the boat.

Can I meet the tour at the meeting point?
Absolutely. The main meeting point is at the New Port Gruz promenade, directly across from Obala Stjepana Radica 16, or pickup from your Dubrovnik hotel can be arranged.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, beachwear, and cash for optional extras. Don’t forget your swimsuit for swimming at the Blue Cave.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind the Blue Cave involves swimming, so children should be comfortable in the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unfavorable, so stay flexible.

How many people are in the group?
The group is limited to 25 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the Blue Cave crowded?
It can be busy, with several boats competing for space, so patience and a relaxed attitude are helpful.

Final Thoughts

This 6-hour tour around the Elaphiti Islands offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, relaxing beaches, and friendly hospitality. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying Croatian cuisine without breaking the bank.

While it’s not a fully secluded experience, the small-group setting and the chance to snorkel in the Blue Cave make it memorable. Plus, the inclusion of unlimited drinks adds a casual, social vibe to the journey.

If you’re after a fun, authentic Croatian adventure that combines scenery, culture, and comfort, this tour deserves a spot on your Dubrovnik itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: