Dubrovnik: 6 hours Blue cave & Elaphiti with optional lunch

If you’re planning to visit Dubrovnik and want to experience the stunning coastline and islands just off the mainland, a tour of the Elaphiti Islands is a fantastic choice. This 6-hour trip offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, swimming, exploring charming villages, and relaxing on beaches. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the reviews and itinerary details paint a clear picture of an experience that many travelers find memorable, fun, and worthwhile.

What we especially like about this excursion is the combination of nature, leisure, and local flavor. The Blue Cave swim is a highlight, offering a chance to see one of Croatia’s most photographed natural sights. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared lunch onboard and unlimited drinks adds to the value. One potential consideration is the timing—with multiple stops and activities packed into six hours, it’s a fairly full day, so if you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This tour suits a broad range of travelers—families with kids, friends, or couples—who want an active yet relaxing day on the water, exploring islands away from busy tourist spots. If you love scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and trying Croatian food and wine in a small-group setting, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate and personal experience.
• Swim and snorkel in the Blue Cave, one of Croatia’s most iconic natural attractions.
• Multiple island stops allow for exploration, relaxation, and sightseeing.
• Unlimited onboard drinks keep the mood lively, including wine, soda, water, and rakija.
• Flexible dining options with a delicious lunch choice—fish, chicken, or vegetarian.
• Tour duration is six hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure packed with activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This 6-hour tour is designed for travelers who want a taste of the Elaphiti Islands’ natural beauty and local charm without a full day commitment. Starting from Dubrovnik’s ferry terminal, you’ll cruise through scenic waters aboard boats named Lorena or Kate, with a maximum group size of 25 passengers. That small group size makes interactions more relaxed and gives you better chances to ask questions and take photos without the crowds.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included amenities make a notable difference. You get unlimited drinks onboard—think wine, soda, water, and rakija—so you can toast to the views or cool off after swimming. Snorkeling masks are provided, giving you a chance to explore underwater life near the Blue Cave or around the beaches.

The optional lunch is a highlight, with choices of fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes. It costs around €15 cash, payable on the boat, which is quite reasonable considering the quality of the meal. You’ll also need a small cash reserve for pick-up and drop-off (€5), but the tour handles the logistics smoothly if you opt for hotel transfers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting point: The tour departs from Dubrovnik’s Gruz harbor, next to the TP LINE ferry, with options for pickup from your hotel or meeting directly at the dock.

First stop: Kolocep Island offers about 45 minutes to explore its peaceful, pine-forested landscape. Reviewers say this is a perfect time to walk along quiet paths or relax by the water, soaking in the tranquil vibe.

Blue Cave visit: After Kolocep, you’ll head toward the Blue Cave, where you get around 45 minutes to swim and snorkel. The cave is accessible only by swimming, so bring your swimsuit and gear. The vibrant blue waters inside are a favorite photo opportunity, and reviewers mention the experience of snorkeling here as “the highlight” of their day.

Lopud Island: With about two hours allocated, Lopud’s sandy beaches and charming village give you ample time for sunbathing, swimming, or a quick stroll through local shops. Many reviews highlight how relaxing and picturesque this stop is, with some noting it’s a “brilliant” way to unwind.

Repeating stops: The tour includes several scenic cruising segments with opportunities for photo stops, refreshments, and enjoying the views. Multiple reviewers have appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced itinerary.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer praised the “wonderful day on the sea,” citing the Blue Cave swim, village visits, and tasty onboard lunch as the trip’s “highlights.” Others appreciated the small group size—”we ended up with only us,” remarked a traveler—giving a feeling of exclusivity and comfort.

Many mention the quality of the onboard food and drinks—”very good food on board”—and the friendly, attentive crew. The fact that all this comes with scenic boat rides and free snorkeling gear makes this a good value, especially for those who enjoy active, outdoor experiences with a dash of leisure.

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How to Make the Most of It

To get the best experience, arrive prepared for swimming—bring your swimsuit, towel, and snorkel gear if you have your own, though masks are provided. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on islands and bring cash for lunch and optional extras.

Timing is key—since the tour is six hours, plan for a full, energetic day. If you’re traveling with young children or prefer a slower pace, consider whether the schedule suits your rhythm.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. If you love the idea of swimming in a famous cave, lounging on sandy beaches, and sampling Croatian wines while cruising, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also perfect for small groups wanting a more personal, less crowded outing. Families with kids, couples, and friends sharing a sense of adventure will feel comfortable and well cared for.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or a slower, less activity-packed day, you might find this tour a bit full on. Also, since the Blue Cave is accessible only by swimming, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or who don’t feel comfortable in the water.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this 6-hour trip offers excellent value for travelers eager to explore the Elaphiti Islands without dedicating an entire day. The small group size, combined with snorkeling, scenic cruising, and tasty food, makes for a memorable outing. What really sets this tour apart is the focus on authentic experiences—swimming in the Blue Cave, exploring charming islands, and enjoying Croatian wine and cuisine in a relaxed setting.

It’s perfect for those who want to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, indulge in local flavors, and enjoy a manageable, well-organized outing. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group of friends, this tour offers a wonderful blend of sights, tastes, and leisure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from any hotel in Dubrovnik area, or you can meet directly at the main dock at Gruz.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, beachwear, and cash for lunch and optional extras.

How long is the Blue Cave stop?
You’ll have about 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, and explore the cave.

Can I choose my lunch?
Yes, you select your preferred lunch option—fish, chicken, or vegetarian—by informing the organizer the day before.

What drinks are included onboard?
Unlimited wine, soda, water, and rakija are available throughout the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included for your underwater adventures.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the maximum is 25 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is suitable for most ages, but swimming in the Blue Cave may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long is the entire tour?
Six hours, from departure at Dubrovnik to return, making it a half-day adventure.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this Dubrovnik tour provides a superb balance of natural beauty, leisure, and Croatian hospitality. It’s ideal for travelers who want a small-group, active day filled with scenic views, delicious food, and memorable island experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this trip offers a meaningful way to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline beyond Dubrovnik’s historic walls.

You can check availability for your dates here: