Dubrovnik: small group boat tour to Blue Caves & Sandy Beach

Exploring the coast near Dubrovnik by boat is one of those experiences that makes you feel like you’ve truly escaped into a more relaxed, scenic world. This small group boat tour, run by Ragusa Boat Charter & Tours, offers a fantastic way to see some of the Dalmatian coast’s most iconic sights without the crowds or the hassle of a large tour. It’s perfect for those who value personal attention, authentic scenery, and snorkeling fun.

What we really like about this trip is its intimate size—up to 10 people—which means your skipper can answer questions, adapt the trip if needed, and give it a personalized touch. Plus, the tour hits two major highlights: the Blue Cave, a natural spectacle famous for its glowing blue waters, and Lopud’s sandy beach Uj for some well-earned downtime.

However, since the tour is only four hours, it’s relatively quick, which might not suit travelers looking for a full-day adventure or a relaxed beach day on its own. Still, if you’re after a taste of the Elaphiti Islands with plenty of excitement, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is well-suited for active travelers, couples, or small groups who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing. It’s especially good if you’re keen to avoid large crowds and prefer a more personal and engaging boat ride.

Key Points

• Intimate Group: Small groups of up to 10 people for personalized attention.
• Unique Highlights: Snorkeling in the Blue Cave and visiting Lopud’s sandy beach.
• Expert Skipper: Knowledgeable guide who can answer questions and offer tips.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks, snorkeling gear, and life vests are provided.
• Flexible Booking: Full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Price for Value: At $88 per person, it offers a good balance of scenery and activities for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary

Departure from Dubrovnik and Initial Views

The tour kicks off from a dock opposite an old villa and parking area—an easy, straightforward meeting point. Once aboard the speedboat, you’ll immediately enjoy views of Gruž port, Babin Kuk beaches, and Daksa Island. The fast-paced boat ride is an exciting way to start, giving you a sense of the Dalmatian coast’s rugged beauty.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

The main highlight of this tour is the Blue Cave. This small, mysterious cavern is renowned for its electric blue waters, which are created by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening, illuminating the entire space with a shimmering glow. We loved the way the guide explained the cave’s formation and shared tips on swimming into it.

You can enter the cave and swim in, marveling at the surreal color—something you won’t want to miss. The reviews highlight this experience as a “very good” and “excellent,” with one reviewer even calling their skipper “the best.” You’ll be in the water with snorkeling gear, so bring your swimsuit and a towel if you want to dry off afterward.

Scenic Ride Along Koločep Island

After the Blue Cave, the boat glides along the jagged coastline of Koločep, one of the beautiful Elaphiti Islands. As you cruise past, you’ll see small bays and charming coves—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. The boat’s speed allows you to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

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The Three Caves Adventure

Next, the boat stops at the Three Caves system—a connected trio of caves right on Koločep. The real thrill here is that you can enter one cave from one bay and exit on the other side, making it an adventurous and fun experience. It’s a quick, energetic stop designed to give you that “wow” factor and a chance to explore an unusual natural formation.

Relaxing at Lopud’s Sandy Beach Uj

The final stop is the sandy beach Uj on Lopud Island. This is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, famous for its warm, shallow waters and soft sand. You’ll have time to relax, swim, or just enjoy some beachside drinks from nearby bars. The atmosphere is laid-back and ideal if you’re looking to unwind after the boat’s more active stops.

Return and Reflection

The tour concludes back at your starting point, leaving you with memories of a quick, scenic, and engaging ride along Dubrovnik’s coast. Throughout the trip, your skipper will be there to offer cold drinks—water, soda, beer—and provide snorkeling equipment and safety gear.

The Value of This Experience

At $88 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the personalized service, scenic stops, and inclusion of snorkeling gear. It’s a short trip, but packed with memorable sights and opportunities to cool off in clear waters. For travelers wanting a guided, small-group experience that balances adventure and relaxation, this is a strong option.

The reviews reinforce this—one traveler called the tour “great,” praising the knowledgeable and fun skipper and exceptional views. Another remarked on the importance of having a guide who can answer questions and make the experience more meaningful.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting Point: Dock opposite an old villa and parking—easy to find.
• Duration: Four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Includes: Drinks, snorkeling gear, life vests, guide.
• Not included: Lunch or snacks, towels—bring your own if you plan to stay longer at the beach.
• What to bring: Towel, beachwear, sunscreen, and a camera.
• Suitability: Not for children under 5 or travelers over 70, but perfect for active, curious explorers.
• Booking: Flexible, with the option to reserve and pay later; cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up

This small group boat tour from Dubrovnik to the Blue Caves and Lopud’s Sandy Beach offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for those who want a more intimate and personalized outing, away from large crowds or generic tours.

You’ll love the chance to snorkel in the stunning Blue Cave, explore the connected caves in a fun and slightly daring way, and unwind on a beautiful sandy beach. The knowledgeable skipper and inclusive drinks make the trip feel comfortable and engaging, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water.

For travelers who appreciate authentic experiences with a personal touch, this tour hits the mark. It’s a great way to add a splash of adventure to your Dubrovnik itinerary without overextending your schedule or budget.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, making it a perfect half-day activity from Dubrovnik.

What is included in the price?
You get a speedboat ride, snorkeling equipment, life vests, drinks (water, soda, beer), and an English-speaking skipper.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you can swim into the Blue Cave and enjoy the vibrant blue waters. Just remember to bring your swimsuit and a towel.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the dock opposite an old villa and parking lot and returns there at the end of the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 years old and not recommended for travelers over 70 years old.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a towel, beachwear, sunscreen, and a camera. Towels are not provided.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This Dubrovnik boat tour strikes a good balance between adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of the islands with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the Dalmatian coast’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: