Dubrovnik: Lokrum Island and Betina Cave Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and want to see its coastline from a different perspective, this boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, island exploration, and sea activities. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty without spending the whole day on the water.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the classic sights—like Dubrovnik’s city walls—from the water, with the chance to step onto Lokrum Island and experience its lush gardens and historic ruins. Plus, the stops at St. Jacob’s Beach and Betina Cave provide ideal spots for swimming and snorkeling, making the experience both visual and tactile.

The main caveat? The tour’s timing is quite packed, and some travelers might wish for more time at each stop, especially Lokrum Island. Still, if you’re in Dubrovnik with limited time but want a taste of its coast and nature, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, a bit of history, and water-based fun.

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway Views: Cruise past Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls, fortress, and historic sites, offering a fresh perspective on the city’s ancient charm.
• Flexible Island Exploration: Free time on Lokrum Island allows you to walk through botanical gardens, see filming locations, and relax at your own pace.
• Fun in the Sea: Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and jumping into Betina Cave make the trip exciting and refreshing.
• Underwater Adventure: The glass-bottomed boat gives a peek at marine life, adding an extra layer of interest for snorkelers.
• Secluded Cave Visit: Betina Cave, accessible only by sea, offers a unique, photo-worthy spot inside the rocky coastline.
• Great Value: At around $47, the tour covers transportation, guides, and multiple stops, providing excellent value for a half-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting the Adventure: From Dubrovnik or Cavtat

The tour begins at the lively port of Dubrovnik, right next to the Lokanda Peskarija restaurant, a familiar meeting spot for many travelers. From there, you’ll hop on a glass-bottomed boat or speedboat—depending on your departure point—and set off to explore. The boats are generally comfortable, and the crew is friendly, helping to create a relaxed atmosphere from the start.

The cruise itself is a visual treat—think of the crisp blue waters contrasting with the old city’s rugged stone walls. As you glide past the fortress of Lovrjenac and the city walls, you’re treated to a perspective that many visitors miss when walking the ramparts.

Lokrum Island Exploration

Once at Lokrum Island, you’ll have about two hours (if departing from Dubrovnik) or up to 2.5 hours (from Cavtat) to explore. The island is a genuine sanctuary—surrounded by the sea, dotted with peacocks wandering freely, and filled with lush gardens and historical ruins.

A highlight is the Botanical Gardens, where you can wander among exotic plants and enjoy tranquil views. The old Benedictine monastery adds a touch of history, and many visitors are surprised to learn that parts of the island served as filming locations for Game of Thrones—notably the Iron Throne.

Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated the freedom to explore at their own pace: “Lokrum Island was amazing! So much to see,” notes one traveler. Others enjoy sitting quietly by the water, dipping their toes in the “Dead Sea”—a small, salty lake on the island.

Beach and Sea Time at St. Jacob’s

After exploring Lokrum, the boat takes you to St. Jacob’s Beach, a quiet cove perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The water is described as crystal-clear, and this stop provides a lovely break from sightseeing.

Many reviewers mention how relaxing it is to float in the gentle waves or snorkel along the seabed. You might also see some enjoying a cold drink or ice cream while soaking up the sun with Dubrovnik’s ancient walls in the background. One traveler summed it up: “Swimming at the beach was so peaceful, and the scenery was stunning.”

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Betina Cave: A Hidden Gem

The final stop is Betina Cave, accessible only by sea. It’s a secluded spot where you can snorkel around the cave’s entrance and inside the rocky bay. The cave is a favorite among travelers for its unique setting—a perfect blend of adventure and nature.

As one review states: “The cave is lovely, and jumping from the boat into the water is a thrill.” Keep in mind, access involves a small jump or swim, which might not suit non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.

Returning to Dubrovnik

The trip wraps up with the boat cruising back along the coast, giving you more chances to admire Dubrovnik’s shoreline and other notable sights such as Villa Sheherezade and Lazarets. The return journey offers an opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour price of roughly $47 includes the sightseeing cruise, snorkeling and swimming gear, and an English audio guide. You’ll need to pay a separate entry fee of around 30 kuna (cash only) to access Lokrum Island, which covers the gardens and ruins.

Travelers should bring essentials like beachwear, a towel, cash for entry fees, and perhaps some snacks or drinks, although the tour itself doesn’t include food. The boat provides a comfortable, social environment, and small group sizes—reviewers frequently mention how friendly and helpful the staff are—make it feel more personalized.

It’s important to note that good weather is essential for this tour; if the sea is rough or the skies cloudy, the experience might be less enjoyable. Non-swimmers and those with mobility issues should consider this, as the main activities involve water and jumping.

Timing and Flexibility

The duration is about 4 hours, with multiple departure times available. If you miss your slot, the flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it easier to adapt if weather or plans change.

Authentic Traveler Reviews

Across the board, reviews are glowing. Many emphasize the knowledgeable guides—saying guides like Anastasia and Nikola made the trip memorable with their friendly demeanor and interesting commentary.

The stunning views of Dubrovnik from the water, especially of the ancient city walls and fortress, consistently impress travelers. Multiple reviews highlight how much they appreciated the chance to see Dubrovnik from the sea, capturing that perfect postcard shot.

Swimming and snorkeling are praised by many as high points, with comments like “the water was so clear” and “the caves and beaches were fantastic.” Several travelers appreciated the opportunity to jump off the boat or snorkel inside Betina Cave, making the trip feel adventurous.

Good value for money is a recurring theme. For under $50, travelers feel they’re getting a well-organized, diverse experience that combines sightseeing, water fun, and relaxation. The small group size and attentive staff add to that sense of value.

Notable Challenges or Downsides

Some reviews mention that the time in Lokrum could be a little longer, especially considering the island’s many spots. Others note that Betina Cave requires a small jump or swim, which may not be suitable for everyone. Also, the entry fee to Lokrum must be paid on-site in cash, a minor hassle but worth noting.

If you’re looking for a quick, engaging way to see Dubrovnik’s coast and enjoy some sea time, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect if you want a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with swimming or jumping into the water.

This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and active fun, but may not suit those with mobility issues or non-swimmers. It’s also a good choice for families or groups who want to explore without committing to a full-day tour.

This boat tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty, combining iconic views, lush island scenery, and refreshing swims. The experience’s strength lies in the personalized feel, thanks to small groups and attentive staff, along with the chance to explore Lokrum Island at your own pace.

For those with limited time in Dubrovnik but craving a taste of the sea and history, it’s hard to beat the value and variety this tour provides. You’ll come away with memorable photos, stories of caves and beaches, and a new appreciation for Croatia’s beautiful coastline.

While more time on Lokrum or inside Betina Cave might be ideal, the tour’s highlights still make it a highly recommended activity for the curious and active traveler alike.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with about 2 hours on Lokrum Island and time allocated for swimming and exploring other stops.

Do I need to pay any extra fees?
Yes, there’s a cash entry fee of around 30 kuna for Lokrum Island, payable at the meeting point before boarding.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, the tour involves swimming and jumping into the water, so it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a towel, cash for the entry fee, and perhaps some snacks or drinks, as food isn’t included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for uncertain weather or personal schedules.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Absolutely, good weather is essential for safety and enjoyment, especially for swimming and snorkeling.

What’s the group size?
Most reviews mention small groups, which help make the experience more personal and less crowded.

Will I see Dubrovnik’s city walls from the boat?
Yes, the cruise offers excellent views of the walls and fortress Lovrjenac, great for photos and getting a different perspective.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boats are generally well-equipped with glass bottoms and are designed for a pleasant ride.

Are guided commentary provided?
Yes, an English audio guide is included, providing interesting facts and context about the sights along the way.

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This tour balances adventure with laid-back exploration, making it a strong choice for anyone wanting to combine scenic cruising, island discovery, and sea fun during their stay in Dubrovnik.

You can check availability for your dates here: