Dubrovnik or Cavtat: Lokrum Island and Betina Cave Boat Tour

Introduction

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and short on time but craving a mix of scenic beauty, history, and swimming, the Lokrum Island and Betina Cave boat tour might just be your best bet. This roughly 4- to 5-hour adventure offers a chance to see Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls from the water, explore lush islands, and enjoy a few well-chosen swimming stops.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines spectacular views of the Old Town, with the chance to relax and snorkel in some of the Dalmatian coast’s clearest waters. Plus, the access to Lokrum’s botanical gardens and the mysterious Betina Cave makes it a uniquely memorable experience.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves just about two hours on Lokrum, which means you’ll need to prioritize your time on the island if you want to see the highlights like the medieval monastery or the Game of Thrones filming locations. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of Dubrovnik’s water-based attractions without a full-day commitment, especially cruise ship passengers or those on a tight schedule.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery: Cruise past Dubrovnik’s City Walls, fortress, and Lovrjenac Fortress with incredible water views.
• Island exploration: Visit Lokrum’s botanical gardens, monastery, and famous filming locations.
• Swimming and snorkeling: Multiple stops, including St. Jacob beach and Betina Cave, offer chances to cool off and see underwater life.
• Accessible only by sea: Betina Cave’s seclusion makes it a special highlight for adventurous swimmers.
• Good value: Includes boat transfer, snorkeling gear, and audio guide at a competitive price.
• Flexible options: Multiple start points and timings adapt to your schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Boats and Starting Points

The tour begins either at Dubrovnik’s historic port at Obala or at Cavtat’s harbor, with the exact meeting point depending on your booking choice. The boat options are a glass-bottomed vessel from Dubrovnik or a speedboat from Cavtat, both providing comfortable and engaging rides.

The ride itself is as much about the views as it is about the journey. You’ll love the way Dubrovnik’s city walls and Lovrjenac Fortress come into view from the water; it’s a perspective that truly highlights the city’s fortifications and history. The boat’s deck offers plenty of space to relax and snap photos while cruising past rocky cliffs and lush islands.

Lokrum Island’s Charm

Once you arrive at Lokrum, you’ll find a wealth of sights packed into a small island – perfect for a quick yet meaningful visit. The tour gives about two hours for exploration, which is enough to walk through the lush Botanical Gardens, visit the Benedictine monastery (which has appeared in several movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones), and even sit on the Iron Throne replica.

From the reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find Lokrum to be a real highlight. As one guest noted, “Lokrum is very interesting and beautiful,” with plenty of options for wandering or relaxing. The island’s peacocks, which roam freely, add a touch of the exotic, and the Dead Sea (or Mrtvo More) provides a peaceful spot for a quiet dip.

The guided narration (via audio guide) enriches the experience, offering insights into the island’s history and scenes from the popular series filmed there. If you’re a fan of TV shows or history buffs, Lokrum’s mixture of nature and culture makes it especially appealing.

Water Activities at Lokrum and Beyond

After exploring on foot, the tour shifts gear to the water. The stop at St. Jacob beach is a favorite among guests. Imagine wading into crystal-clear waves and snorkeling along the seabed. Many reviews praise the opportunity to _”swim, snorkel, and relax in the serene waters.”_

The beach itself can get crowded (one review mentions it being “quite small and very crowded”), but the opportunity to jump into the sea from the boat or snorkel in calm waters makes up for that. You’ll often see mention of snacks or drinks while lounging on the beach, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

Betina Cave: A Hidden Gem

One of the more exciting stops is Betina Cave, accessible only by sea. It’s a secluded, picturesque spot where you can jump into the water and snorkel around inside the cave’s natural formations. Several reviews highlight this as a real highlight: “The cave stop was nice. We could snorkel, jump off the boat, and have a little swim.”

The cave’s remote location means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience. If you’re comfortable swimming and love discovering hidden spots, this is a memorable part of the tour.

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Final Leg and Views Back to Dubrovnik

As the boat heads back toward Dubrovnik, you’ll enjoy additional scenic views of the coastline, including recognizable sites like Villa Sheherezade and Lazarets. Many reviewers comment on how the boat ride itself is scenic and relaxing, offering perfect photo opportunities along the way.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Trip

• Timing and Duration: The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with start times depending on your booking. It’s a perfect half-day excursion that leaves plenty of time to explore or relax afterward.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: From reviews, it seems the tours are often small and friendly, often with just a handful of guests, which makes for a more personal experience.
• Cost & Value: The price covers boat transfer, snorkeling gear, and an audio guide, making it a decent deal considering the scenery and activity. Be aware that the Lokrum Island entry fee (€30 for adults, €5 for kids) isn’t included but can be paid in cash at the meeting point.
• What to Bring: Pack your beachwear, towel, cash for the entry fee, and perhaps some snacks. While the tour offers snacks, many reviews suggest bringing your own water and a light lunch if you want to avoid pricey island options.
• Weather: The activity depends on good weather, so if rain or wind is forecast, be prepared for possible rescheduling.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Based on reviews, the knowledgeable guides and friendly captains really stand out. Guests mention the helpfulness of the crew, particularly when it comes to assisting with swimming or explaining sights. Many found the scenery breathtaking and the relaxing stops perfect for cooling off.

In particular, the opportunity to see filming locations from Game of Thrones adds a layer of fun for fans, and the combination of nature, history, and water makes it a well-rounded experience. Reviewers consistently say it offers great value — with some noting it’s a good way to see many highlights without a full-day commitment.

The Sum Up

This boat tour delivers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, island exploration, and water-based fun. It’s a flexible, well-organized way to experience Dubrovnik’s coastline, especially suited for travelers who want a taste of everything without a long day. Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or just need a quick escape from the busy city, the trip checks many boxes.

Perfect for cruise ship passengers, short-stay visitors, or anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure, this tour provides a memorable peek into Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast. With friendly guides, breathtaking views, and plenty of swimming, it offers real value—especially considering the included gear and services.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old are welcome, but keep in mind that the tour involves swimming and snorkeling, so kids should be comfortable in the water.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, as the tour can fill up, and you’ll want to secure your preferred start time.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the sightseeing cruise, snorkeling gear, and an English audio guide. The entry ticket to Lokrum Island (around €30 for adults, €5 for children) is paid separately at the meeting point.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
This tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, as swimming and snorkeling are core parts of the experience.

How long is each stop?
Lokrum gets about 2 hours or a bit more, St. Jacob beach around 40 minutes, and Betina Cave approximately 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a towel, cash for the island entry fee, and perhaps a waterproof camera or snacks.

Is the tour dependent on good weather?
Yes, the activity requires good weather; thunderstorms or strong winds could lead to rescheduling or cancellation.

Are the boats comfortable?
Yes, both the glass-bottom boat from Dubrovnik and the speedboat from Cavtat are comfortable and equipped for a smooth ride.

What if I have mobility issues?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as some walking and swimming are involved.

This trip offers a delightful slice of Croatia’s coastal charm, blending nature, history, and fun. Whether you’re after great photos, refreshing swims, or a taste of local scenery, it’s a compact adventure that won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: