Dubrovnik: Blue Cave Tour by Speedboat with Small Group

If you’re eyeing a day on the water while in Dubrovnik, a Blue Cave tour by speedboat offers an exhilarating way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. We’ve researched this experience to give you an honest look from the vantage point of seasoned travelers who love authentic, well-organized excursions.

What makes this tour appealing? First, you’ll love the small group setting, which means plenty of personal attention and fewer crowds. Second, the stunning Blue Cave—a natural marvel that never fails to impress with its glowing blue water—creates a memorable highlight. On the flip side, some might find the timing and boat speed a little fast-paced or the lack of included food a minor inconvenience.

This experience suits travelers craving a blend of adventure and relaxation, especially those comfortable with swimming and snorkeling. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the less touristy side of Croatia’s coast with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience.
• Diving into the Blue Cave offers a mesmerizing view of illuminated waters.
• Snorkeling and swimming opportunities in clear, calm waters add fun and relaxation.
• Sun-loving travelers will enjoy time on Sunj Beach on Lopud Island.
• Expert guides like Luca and Toni enhance the experience with local knowledge and good humor.
• Sun protection, swimwear, and towels are essentials to bring along for comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Basics of the Blue Cave Speedboat Tour

This 4-hour adventure departs from Dubrovnik’s Lapadska obala 4, where you’ll meet your guide at a small wooden pier, usually marked by guides in grey shirts and orange shorts during summer. The small group setting—typically limited to a few boats—means you’ll avoid the crowded feeling common with larger tours, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

The speedboat is your chariot across the crystal-clear waters of the Dalmatian coast, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. The overall vibe is casual, with music and drinks onboard, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The Starting Point

Your adventure kicks off at the pier on Lapadska obala 4. From there, a 20-minute speedboat ride whisks you out into the open waters toward the first highlight—the Blue Cave.

Stop 2: The Blue Cave on Kolocep Island

This is the star of the tour. The Blue Cave’s allure lies in its natural illumination—sunlight filters through the water and sand, casting an otherworldly glow. Many reviews mention being first arrivals at the cave, which is a plus since crowds can diminish the experience. One traveler noted, “If you’re a confident swimmer, swimming into the cave is unforgettable.”

The 40-minute stop includes photo opportunities, swimming, snorkeling, and a chance to take in the breathtaking colors of the water. The guide will give tips on how to best enjoy this highlight safely, and some travelers mention bringing waterproof phones or GoPros to capture the moment.

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Stop 3: The Three Green Caves on Kolocep

After a brief 10-minute boat ride, you land at the Three Green Caves, another striking set of formations. Here, guests can swim, snorkel, and take photos. Multiple reviews commend the expert guidance—notably, Luca kept everyone entertained and pointed out the best spots for photos and swimming.

Stop 4: Sunj Beach on Lopud Island

The longest stop—about 100 minutes—at Sunj Beach is a real treat. This sandy stretch is ideal for relaxation, swimming, or grabbing a drink at the beachside bar. Many travelers mention how this stop is a perfect break from the more active cave visits, with some describing it as a highlight for its calm waters and local charm.

Final Return: Back to Dubrovnik

After your time at Sunj, a 30-minute boat ride takes you back to the starting point. The ride home often features music and a relaxed atmosphere, as everyone reflects on the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Blue Cave Experience

Most reviews praise the Blue Cave as a must-see. The natural light refraction creates an intense blue glow that is hard to describe but unforgettable to witness firsthand. Arriving early—around 8 a.m.—seems to be the key to avoiding the crowds and catching the best lighting. Multiple travelers noted good tips from guides like Luca that enhanced their experience.

The Guides and Group Size

Guides like Luca and Toni earn high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Many reviews stress that the small group size allows for more personalized attention, better timing at key spots, and a more relaxed vibe overall. “Luca was an incredible guide,” said one reviewer, “kept us entertained and gave us great tips.”

Snorkeling and Swimming

For those who love to get in the water, the clarity of the sea and the chance to snorkel around caves and beaches are a big draw. Many travelers appreciated being able to swim into caves and explore beneath the surface, which adds a layer of adventure.

The Beach Stop

Sunj Beach offers a welcome break—a sandy paradise with shallow waters, perfect for families or sunbathers. Tourists often comment that this stop lets you decompress and enjoy regional food and drinks, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

Price and Value

While prices aren’t explicitly listed here, the 4-hour tour includes snorkeling gear, life vests, drinks (including wine and beer), and water. Many reviews highlight the value of the experience for the price, especially considering the personalized guide service, small group size, and the variety of sights.

Considerations and Practical Tips

• Timing matters: Booking the earliest tour (around 8 a.m.) tends to yield better lighting and fewer crowds.
• Bring swimwear, towels, and sun protection—the Croatian sun can be strong.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but bringing waterproof phones or cameras is recommended if you want photos.
• The tour doesn’t include food—so plan to grab a quick snack or meal during the Sunj Beach stop.
• Not suitable for children under 2 or non-swimmers, so check your comfort level with swimming.
• The tour can be canceled if bad weather occurs, but you’ll be contacted and refunded if so.

Authentic Experiences and Customer Feedback

The glowing reviews tell a consistent story: knowledgeable guides like Luca and Toni make the day special with their local insights and friendly approach. Guests rave about the beautiful landscapes, the exhilaration of swimming into caves, and the overall relaxing yet adventurous vibe. One traveler summarized it well: “This was the highlight of our trip—small group, expert guides, stunning scenery, and fun music onboard.”

The small-group format ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd—it’s a more personal way to see Croatia’s coast, especially if you appreciate good company and expert tips.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Blue Cave tour is ideal if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It suits confident swimmers who want to explore caves and snorkel in clear waters. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups that prioritize personalized guidance and authentic experiences over big, crowded excursions.

If you’re traveling with a family or friends who enjoy water activities, this tour offers a fun, safe environment. Since it doesn’t include food, it’s best if you’re comfortable grabbing lunch or snacks independently during the beach stop.

It’s also perfect for adventure lovers who want to make the most of their time in Dubrovnik—getting early to the Blue Cave is a recurring tip for maximizing the experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 2 or non-swimmers, as swimming into caves requires comfort in water.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and waterproof phone or camera for photos are advisable.

How long is each stop?
The Blue Cave and Green Caves stops are approximately 40 minutes each, while Sunj Beach gives you about 100 minutes to relax and explore.

Does the tour include food?
No, food is not included. You can buy drinks or snacks during the beach stop.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour provider may cancel due to bad weather, but if that occurs, you will be contacted and refunded.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing insights and ensuring everyone knows where to go and what to do.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Availability depends on the season, but booking in advance is recommended, especially for the early morning departure to beat crowds.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Cave tour by speedboat offers a perfect slice of Dalmatian coast life—combining stunning natural sights, gentle adventure, and the camaraderie of a small group. With expert guides, plenty of swimming, and memorable scenery, it’s a fantastic way to experience Dubrovnik’s waters beyond the city walls.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or simply love soaking up beautiful views from the boat, this trip provides a good balance of activity and downtime. The emphasis on small groups means you’ll feel more like a local sharing a day on the water rather than just a number on a tour bus.

All in all, if you’re seeking a well-organized, authentic experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially rewarding for those wanting to see the Blue Cave in its best light and enjoy a fun, relaxed day exploring the wonders of the Elaphiti Islands.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy water activities, small-group intimacy, and exploring Croatia’s coast from a different perspective. It offers excellent value for the memorable sights and friendly guides, making it a highlight for many visiting Dubrovnik.

You can check availability for your dates here: