Dubrovnik: Blue Cave & Sunj Beach Boat Tour with Drinks

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik and craving a taste of the sea’s best, a boat tour around the Elaphiti Islands might just be your highlight. This experience promises a blend of stunning scenery, refreshing swims, and some of Croatia’s most famous caves, all with the added bonus of drinks on board. From comments like “really friendly and fun” to “spectacular views,” it’s clear many travelers find this trip a worthwhile addition to their Dubrovnik itinerary.

What we particularly love about this tour? First, the chance to visit the Blue Cave and Green Caves, which are true natural treasures—crystal-clear waters and shimmering rock formations that create unforgettable photo opportunities. Second, the relaxed pace—you get plenty of time to swim, explore, and soak up the sun at Sunj Beach, often praised as one of the best sandy beaches on the Adriatic. That said, a potential consideration is that swimming skills are required for cave exploration, which might limit participation for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.

This trip is perfect for travelers who love beautiful scenery, enjoy small group tours, and like the idea of combining adventure with relaxing beach time. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family (assuming everyone can swim), you’ll likely find this tour offers a good balance of fun and value.

Key Points

• Stunning natural caves and crystal-clear waters
• Flexible stops at Sunj Beach and other scenic spots
• Drinks included—water, wine, beer, and juices
• Experienced guides and safe boats ensure a smooth experience
• Swim skills required for cave exploration
• Great value for the price of around $65 per person

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of Top 12 Cruises And Boat Tours In Dubrovnik.

What Makes This Tour a Solid Choice

This boat tour around the Elaphiti Islands offers a charming way to see Dubrovnik’s coastal gems without the hassle of organizing transport yourself. It’s a full package—beautiful scenery, opportunities for swimming, and a casual social vibe thanks to the drinks and friendly crew. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 2,000 reviews indicates many are happy with their experience, praising guides like Anthony, Mark, and Dominic for their professionalism and friendly attitude.

The tour’s price point of $65 per person offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off (if you select that option), snorkeling equipment, and drinks at each stop. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy a day out without breaking the bank, while still getting memorable moments that are often highlighted in reviews.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Boarding and Safety Briefing

The adventure begins with a speedboat ride that instantly sets the tone—fast, fun, and scenic. You’ll meet at a dock near the bus stop in Dubrovnik, with clear directions provided, and have a safety briefing from your skipper. This prep ensures you’re comfortable before heading out into the waters.

Sunj Beach: The Sandy Jewel

Your first stop is Sunj Beach, often called the most beautiful sandy beach of the Adriatic. Here, you’re encouraged to relax, soak up the sun, and perhaps explore the beachside cafes and restaurants. The shallow, calm waters make it an ideal spot for lounging and swimming. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed their time at Sunj Beach, with some noting they appreciated the opportunity to “spend time at the beach after caves.” It’s a great way to start the day with some restful downtime.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kolocep Island and the Three Green Caves

Next, the tour moves to Kolocep Island, famous for its natural Three Green Caves. This part of the journey is what many travelers describe as the highlight. The caves are accessible by swimming through their openings, which many find exhilarating. One reviewer expressed that their guide “got us to the caves and beach before crowds,” making the experience more intimate and less crowded.

Swimming through the Three Green Caves involves navigating through narrow passages into areas of glowing green water—a truly photogenic moment that leaves many with a sense of wonder. It’s important to remember that swimming skills are essential here, as you need to control your breathing, float, and surfacing safely. Several reviews emphasize the value of guides like Roko or Frank, who “made us feel safe and comfortable,” even in the caves’ sometimes choppy waters.

The Blue Cave Experience

The final major stop is the renowned Blue Cave. Entering this cave feels like stepping into a “forgotten paradise,” as one reviewer put it, due to its crystal-clear waters and shimmering light effects. Swimmers often report feeling like they’re in a dreamscape—beautiful, surreal, and worth the effort. The Blue Cave’s popularity means it can get busy, but experienced guides do their best to get visitors in early or at quieter times.

Return and Relaxation

After exploring the caves, the boat heads back toward Dubrovnik, often with a scenic cruise along the coast. Many travelers enjoy the sunset views as the day winds down, along with the onboard drinks—water, juices, beer, or white wine—that keep the mood lively.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• Sunj Beach: Relax on the sand or dip into shallow waters. Facilities are limited to nearby cafes, so plan accordingly.
• Kolocep’s Green Caves: Swim through narrow, illuminated caves that are a real highlight for adventurous souls. Be prepared to swim and have basic skills.
• Blue Cave: Enter a world of shimmering blue waters and natural beauty. The swim can be brief but memorable.
• Additional time: Many reviews note the balance of time at each stop—approximately 30 minutes at each for exploration and swimming—enough to enjoy without feeling rushed.

The Guide and Crew: Making It Special

Reviews frequently praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides like Anthony, Frank, Erik, and Dominic. They not only navigate safely but often go above and beyond—helping snorkelers, sharing tips for the caves, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Their efficiency at avoiding crowds and scheduling stops at optimal times is another reason many guests say this trip exceeds expectations.

Drinks and Amenities

Included drinks—water, soft drinks, juices, beer, and white wine—are a nice touch that helps keep everyone refreshed. Many reviews mention how the drinks kept flowing, adding a relaxed, social atmosphere to the trip.

Safety and Equipment

Snorkeling gear is provided, but towels are not—so pack your own if you want to dry off comfortably. The tour also offers lifejackets upon request, which are helpful for less confident swimmers or those unfamiliar with open water swimming.

Pricing and Value

At around $65 per person, this tour offers a compelling value, especially with hotel pickup included (if chosen). When you consider the boat ride, cave explorations, beach time, snorkeling gear, and drinks, it’s a comprehensive package that beats the cost of individual activities or private excursions.

Numerous comments highlight how well-organized and professional the experience is, with many reviewers mentioning the “smooth booking process” and “great communication,” making it accessible even for last-minute planners.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Nature lovers eager to see caves and swim in clear waters
• Beach fans keen to relax at Sunj Beach
• Adventurers comfortable with swimming and exploring caves
• Travelers seeking good value for a full day of scenic beauty and fun
• Small groups or solo travelers who enjoy a social, guided experience

However, it’s important to note that swimming skills are essential and that the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, mobility-impaired, or those prone to seasickness. The tour is also not recommended for travelers over 70 or those with back problems or mobility issues.

The Sum Up

This boat tour around the Elaphiti Islands offers a balanced combo of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. The opportunity to swim through the Green and Blue Caves, combined with time on the sandy Sunj Beach, makes it a full-day experience packed with memorable moments. The friendly guides, excellent value, and included drinks contribute to a laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere that many travelers rave about.

Best suited for active travelers who enjoy swimming, exploring caves, and relaxing by the sea. It’s an ideal way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself. Just be sure to meet the swimming requirements, and you’re in for a day of genuine, natural beauty and fun.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option during booking, making the trip more convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and beachwear. Remember, towels are not provided, so pack your own if you’d like to dry off comfortably.

Are there any restrictions on who can join?
Yes, swimming skills are required because swimming through caves is part of the experience. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, mobility-impaired individuals, or those with certain health issues.

Will I get seasick?
The tour involves a speedboat ride, which can be rough for some. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable on the water and not prone to seasickness.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around four hours, with roughly 30 minutes at each major stop for swimming and exploration.

Are drinks really included?
Yes, water, soft drinks, juices, beer, and white wine are included in the price, keeping everyone refreshed throughout the day.

What is the main highlight?
Most reviewers agree that swimming through the Blue Cave and Green Caves combined with relaxing at Sunj Beach are the biggest draws, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: