Full Day Kayaking and Snorkeling to Green Cave with GoPro photos

If you’re planning a day on the water around Dubrovnik’s enchanting Elaphite Islands, this kayaking and snorkeling tour promises a full immersion into Croatia’s maritime charm. From the moment you set out from Dubrovnik’s Gru Harbor to paddling beneath dramatic rock arches and snorkeling inside the famed Green Cave, this experience offers a fascinating blend of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic local flavor.

What makes this tour particularly attractive? First, the small-group setting ensures a more personal, relaxed time with your guide—no crowded boat or noisy crowd here. Second, the all-inclusive equipment and professional guidance mean you can just focus on enjoying yourself without worrying about gear.

Of course, a potential consideration is the physical aspect—the itinerary involves quite a bit of paddling, often in open water, which might challenge some travelers, especially if you’re not accustomed to kayaking. However, if you’re active and eager to explore at a steady pace, this tour is a fantastic choice.

This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, scenic water views, and a taste of local Croatian culture. Families with children aged 6 and up, solo travelers, and couples seeking a memorable day on the water will likely find this trip a perfect fit.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 12 Best Canoe & Kayak Experiences In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Equipment & Guides: You’ll get top-end kayaking gear, snorkeling equipment, and a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way.
• Stunning Water-Based Adventure: Expect paddling past rugged coasts, swimming in caves, and exploring multiple islands.
• Unique Highlights: Snorkel in the Green Cave, paddle under rock arches, and try cliff-jumping—adventure and beauty combined.
• Flexible for All Levels: The tour is suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike, with instructions provided.
• Authentic Local Experience: Enjoy lunch in a charming fishing village with local Croatian delicacies.
• Memorable Photos: GoPro photos and videos are included, helping you relive the adventure afterward.

Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out

This full-day kayaking and snorkeling trip around the Elaphite Islands offers a lively way to experience Dubrovnik’s coastline and nearby islands beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a well-rounded adventure that combines active paddling, scenic sightseeing, and opportunities for underwater exploration—ideal for travelers looking for something engaging and authentic.

We particularly like how the trip emphasizes small-group intimacy—up to 8 participants—making it easier to connect with your guide and fellow travelers. The inclusion of high-quality equipment and GoPro photos enhances the value, allowing you to focus on the fun without fussing over gear or missing photo opportunities.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary involves quite a bit of paddling—about 90 minutes each way at a brisk pace—so it’s best suited for physically active travelers or those willing to push through some tired muscles for stunning views and a memorable experience.

This tour seems perfect for outdoor lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who wishes to explore Croatia’s coast in a fun, relaxed, and informative manner.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Dubrovnik’s Gru Harbor

Your day begins at Obala Stjepana Radia 40, within Dubrovnik’s historic port. From here, you’ll hop onto a ferry for a scenic one-hour ride to Lopud Island. The ferry ride itself is a lovely introduction to the area—see the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and get a glimpse of the islands’ rugged coastline as you approach.

First Stop: Lopud Island & Kayaking to the Green Cave

Once on Lopud, your guide will give a safety talk and kayaking instructions—important for those unfamiliar with paddling. After that, you’ll set off across the channel towards the Green Cave, a sea grotto that’s a favorite for snorkeling and exploring. Expect to paddle past rocky coasts and beaches, soaking in views of this unspoiled stretch of Croatian paradise.

Snorkeling & Cliff-Jumping at Sipan

The Green Cave is the centerpiece here, but the real excitement comes when your guide ties up the kayaks so everyone can swim into the cave’s opening. Multiple reviews highlight how few know about this hidden gem, making it feel like a special discovery. Many travelers describe snorkeling in the cave as a highlight, with reviews mentioning the variety of fish and the unique experience of swimming into a sea grotto.

For the more adventurous, cliff-jumping is available—though it’s entirely optional. The guides are attentive to safety and help create a fun, inclusive atmosphere. As one reviewer put it, “The cave and cliff jumping experiences were good fun,” capturing the sense of adventure that this tour fosters.

Lunch Break at Uura Village on Ipan

After the morning’s activities, you’ll visit Uura, a charming fishing village on Ipan, for a well-deserved lunch. Expect local delicacies—probably fresh seafood—served in a relaxed setting. Many mention that the food is a highlight, with reviews praising the delicious, fresh fish and the chance to enjoy Croatian cuisine in a picturesque setting.

Post-lunch, there’s time to explore the village or relax before heading back into the water.

Paddling Back & Exploring Ruda Island

The return trip involves paddling back toward Lopud, with a stop at Ruda Island, another scenic spot to explore and kayak into yet another cave. This final stretch offers stunning water views, and some reviews note how the guides are great at keeping everyone moving at a comfortable pace.

End of the Day: Return to Dubrovnik

As the day winds down, you’ll ferry back to Dubrovnik, ideally with plenty of photos and memories of a rich, active day. The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, leaving you with the satisfaction of having experienced Croatia’s sea in a very personal way.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

According to reviews, guides like Luka, Filip, and Miro are consistently praised for their friendliness, expertise, and effort to make everyone comfortable. Several mention how guides go above and beyond, whether taking photos or adjusting plans according to weather conditions.

Many reviewers appreciated the balance of activity and relaxation—paddling, swimming, exploring, and savoring local cuisine. The small group size helps foster a sense of camaraderie, and the inclusion of GoPro photos means you’ll have plenty of snapshots to relive the day.

Some highlight the physical challenge—paddling across open waters can be tiring, especially for those new to kayaking. Yet, most found the effort worthwhile, describing the experience as both fun and rewarding. As one reviewer said, “It was a challenging trip but so much fun,” capturing the sense of adventure.

The majority agree that it’s great value, especially considering the all-inclusive gear, expert guidance, and memorable stops.

Practical Details & Why They Matter

The cost of $89 for a full day includes virtually everything: all kayaking and snorkeling equipment, guides, and photos. That’s quite reasonable given the length and depth of the experience, particularly in a scenic location like Dubrovnik. Plus, the small-group format enhances safety and personalization.

The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a full-day commitment but also offering a lot of activity-packed fun without feeling rushed. The start point is near public transportation, easing access for travelers staying in Dubrovnik, and the meeting point is straightforward to find.

Children aged 6 and above are welcome, provided they are in a double kayak with an adult. This makes the experience suitable for families, especially those with adventurous kids happy to paddle and snorkel.

Weather can impact the trip, with a full refund offered if canceled due to poor conditions. This flexibility is reassuring—Croatia’s coast can be unpredictable, but safety always comes first.

Value and Overall Impression

This tour offers excellent value for the price, blending active outdoor fun with cultural and scenic highlights. The inclusion of professional guides and top-tier gear ensures a smooth experience, even for first-timers. The chance to snorkel in the Green Cave and paddle under rock arches is unique, making it stand out from standard boat tours.

Many reviews emphasize how guides like Luka, Filip, and Miro make the day memorable with their friendliness, local knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile—whether helping with photos or adjusting plans for weather.

The lunch on Sipan island, featuring local delicacies, adds a satisfying pause to the morning’s kayaking and snorkeling, giving a taste of authentic Croatian cuisine in a relaxing setting.

This trip particularly suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, don’t mind some physical exertion, and want a personalized experience away from large crowds. Families with kids over six, solo adventurers, and couples seeking a day full of sea, sun, and discovery will find this tour well worth the price.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all experience levels. Guides provide instructions and safety guidance, and the equipment is top quality. However, be prepared for some paddling, as it involves about 90 minutes each way.

What should I bring?
Bring beach or sporty attire, water shoes or flip flops, and a towel. Since the tour involves kayaking and snorkeling, clothing that can get wet is recommended. Bring Kuna for lunch on Sipan if you wish to purchase additional snacks or drinks.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 6 and above are welcome if accompanied by an adult in a double kayak. It’s a family-friendly adventure with safety as a priority.

How long is the ferry ride to Lopud?
It’s approximately one hour, offering a scenic start to your day. The ferry ride provides a good chance to relax and enjoy views of the coastline.

What’s included in the price?
All activities, kayaking gear (single and double), snorkeling equipment, guide services, and GoPro photos/videos are included. Food and drinks are not, but lunch in Sipan is provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Safety always comes first.

Final Thoughts

This kayaking and snorkeling tour around Dubrovnik’s Elaphite Islands is a fantastic way to spend a full day immersed in Croatia’s stunning coastal scenery. It blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty seamlessly, offering a genuine glimpse into the region’s maritime charm. With expert guides, well-maintained gear, and memorable stops, it’s an activity that provides excellent value and lots of photo-worthy moments.

Ideal for active travelers, families, and anyone eager for a hands-on experience, this trip delivers both excitement and authenticity. Whether you’re into snorkeling in caves, paddling under dramatic rock formations, or sampling fresh local seafood, it’s a day you’re unlikely to forget.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging, and scenic adventure with friendly guides and superb scenery, this trip is definitely worth considering when visiting Dubrovnik.