Dubrovnik: Lokrum Island and Betina Cave Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and want a taste of the sea, nature, and a dash of local charm, this boat tour offers it all. It promises a scenic cruise past the iconic city walls, time to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site, a chance to swim in crystal waters, and the thrill of discovering a secluded sea cave. After reviewing many traveler insights and the tour details, it’s easy to see why this experience scores a solid 4.5 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews.

What we love about this tour is how efficiently it packs four hours of varied activities into a manageable outing — perfect for those with limited time but eager to explore beyond the city streets. The highlight for many is Lokrum Island’s lush gardens and filming locales, along with the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax. We also appreciate the quality of the guides, with many travelers praising their friendliness and knowledge. However, a potential downside is the need to pay an extra fee for the island’s entry ticket, which can add to the overall cost.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, outdoor activity, and some personal downtime. It’s ideal for those who prefer small-group experiences over large, crowded ferries, and who want to see a handful of scenic spots without rushing. If you’re ready for a lively, well-organized day on the water, this trip could be a real highlight of your Dubrovnik visit.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing past Dubrovnik’s walls and fortress offers breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
• Two hours (or more) on Lokrum Island gives ample time for exploring gardens, monasteries, and filming spots.
• Includes snorkeling gear and access to swim at St. Jacob’s beach, perfect for refreshing dips.
• Visit Betina Cave, a hidden gem only accessible from the sea, ideal for snorkelers and adventure seekers.
• Affordable at $47 per person, the tour provides excellent value considering the variety of activities and sights.
• Small-group atmosphere enhances the experience, making it more personal and less crowded.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to This Dubrovnik Boat Tour

This boat trip promises a well-rounded taste of Dubrovnik’s natural beauty and coastal charm within a few short hours. It’s a trip designed for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of adventure without dedicating an entire day. From the moment you set out past the ancient city walls, you’re treated to postcard-perfect views of Dubrovnik’s skyline, its fortress walls, and the Lovrjenac Fortress standing guard over the water.

Two particular aspects stand out. First, the ability to explore Lokrum Island at your own pace — whether walking through lush botanical gardens, snapping pictures of the Iron Throne filming spot from Game of Thrones, or simply relaxing by the water. Second, the chance to snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters, topped off with a visit to Betina Cave, which adds a sense of discovery and adventure.

One thing to remember is the extra cost for the Lokrum Island entry, which is €30 for adults and €5 for kids over six. This fee is payable in cash on the spot, so plan ahead. Also, the tour depends on good weather, so check the forecast before booking. Overall, it’s a flexible experience suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a snapshot of Dubrovnik’s coastal highlights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at Dubrovnik’s historic port, right next to Lokanda Peskarija Restaurant, making it easy for travelers to find. You’ll meet your captain at the booking desk with a clear “LOKRUM TOUR” sign. For those departing from Cavtat, a speedboat transfer is available, broadening your options for convenient start points.

Cruising Past Dubrovnik’s Iconic Walls

As you leave the harbor, expect to see Dubrovnik’s famous City Walls and Lovrjenac Fortress from the water — sights that are both striking and provide a different perspective from the usual walking tour. Travelers often mention how enjoyable it is to cruise past these historic structures, with some quoting that the views are “breathtaking” and “great photo ops.”

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Approaching Lokrum Island

The boat then glides past Lokrum’s rocky cliffs and the island’s caves, including the Lokrum Cave and nudist beach. The cruise itself is smooth and comfortable, often described as “not crowded,” which enhances the experience. Many reviews highlight how the guides’ commentary helped us appreciate the significance of each site.

Exploring Lokrum Island

Disembarking around the two-hour mark if departing from Dubrovnik (or 2.5 hours from Cavtat), you’re free to wander Lokrum’s trails, botanical gardens, and monastery grounds. Some travelers mention the famous filming spots from Game of Thrones, giving the island a pop culture twist. The peacocks, roaming freely, add a touch of charm, and the Dead Sea (Mrtvo More) offers a peaceful spot to dip your toes.

Swimming at St. Jacob’s Beach

Next, the boat heads to St. Jacob’s Beach, where you can swim or snorkel in clear, inviting waters. Many reviews rave about how this is the best swimming spot in Dubrovnik, with the water described as “crystal clear” and perfect for relaxing. You might also enjoy a cold drink or ice cream while soaking up the sun with Dubrovnik’s skyline in the distance.

Visiting Betina Cave

The final stop is the Betina Cave, a secluded spot only reachable by sea. Many travelers describe snorkeling around the cave and jumping into the water from the boat as the tour’s highlight. Be aware that access inside the cave requires a small jump into the water, which might not suit everyone, especially young children or non-swimmers.

Returning to Dubrovnik

After the cave visit, the boat makes its way back along the coast, passing notable sights such as Villa Sheherezade and Lazarets. The return cruise offers more chances to enjoy the views and reflect on your day.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour provides a good balance of guided commentary and free time, making it appealing to many. For history buffs or film fans, Lokrum’s monasteries and filming locations offer engaging exploration. For those wanting to cool off, the swimming stops are convenient and scenic. The small group size (usually under 15 people) fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and the friendly guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and helpfulness.

Some reviews note that the timing could be tighter at Lokrum or the cave, with a few wishing for longer at each stop. Still, most find the duration of stops sufficient to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The tour’s price point of $47 for a half-day of adventure also makes it a good value, especially considering it includes snorkeling gear, an audio guide, and boat transfers.

The Downsides

Weather dependence is the main caveat — rain or wind can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The extra Lokrum Island entry fee is also an additional cost to keep in mind, so budget accordingly.

What Travelers Say

Numerous reviews emphasize the quality of guides, with one traveler noting “Anastasia and Nikola were brilliant guides,” and another mentioning how the captain was very informative and friendly. Many also appreciate the opportunity for personal moments, like jumping from the boat into Betina Cave or simply relaxing on the deck.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves outdoor adventures, water-based activities, and scenic sightseeing, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s suitable for those who prefer small, intimate groups over large crowds and appreciate authentic natural spots like Betina Cave. It’s best for non-mobility impaired and confident swimmers, given the snorkeling and jumping opportunities.

Those on a tight schedule will find it a perfect half-day excursion. However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration of Lokrum or want more time at each stop, you might consider spending longer or choosing a different tour.

The Sum Up

This boat tour offers a lively and authentic way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s coast, combining sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of adventure with friendly guides and well-chosen stops. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to maximize their time and experience the natural beauty of the area without feeling rushed.

The mix of stunning scenery, engaging commentary, and opportunities for personal exploration makes it a memorable part of any Dalmatian itinerary. While the extra fee for Lokrum’s entry adds to the cost, most find it worthwhile given the value of the experience and the quality of the stops.

If you’re seeking a fun, active, and scenic half-day on the water, with a good chance to relax and enjoy some of Dubrovnik’s best-kept secrets, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything for the tour?
Yes, bring beachwear, a towel, cash for the Lokrum Island entry fee, and any snacks or drinks you want. Snorkeling gear is included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for kids over 6 years old, but non-swimmers or those with mobility issues might find it challenging, especially during cave jumps.

How long do I spend on Lokrum Island?
If departing from Dubrovnik, you get about two hours to explore Lokrum and its highlights. From Cavtat, it’s about 2.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the sightseeing cruise, snorkeling gear, an English audio guide, and boat transfer. The Lokrum Island entry fee is extra.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour depends on good weather for safety and comfort.

Is the tour crowded?
Most reviews mention a small, friendly group with a more personal experience, especially compared to ferry options.

Are there any hidden costs?
The only additional cost is the Lokrum Island entry fee of €30 for adults and €5 for children over 6, payable in cash.

What if I miss my scheduled time?
The tour team has been flexible, accommodating travelers who miss their original slot due to transportation delays, so contact them as soon as possible.

Whether you’re after stunning views, a bit of adventure, or a relaxing day on the sea, this Dubrovnik boat tour offers a well-balanced experience that’s sure to be a memorable part of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: