From Dubrovnik: Blue Lagoon and Elaphiti Islands Boat Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast from Dubrovnik by boat offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, historic sights, and relaxing stops. This particular tour, focusing on the Blue Lagoon and nearby islands, promises a memorable day on the water—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it combines sightseeing with leisure. First, you get panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls from the sea—an angle that’s often overlooked but essential for understanding the city’s defenses and layout. Then there’s the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon and snorkel in the Blue Cave, both naturally stunning spots with clear waters and vibrant marine life.

One potential consideration is that the Blue Cave can only be entered by swimming from the anchored boat, not by boat itself—so comfortable swimmers will have an easier time enjoying this part. Also, the tour’s duration is just about 4 to 5 hours, which means it’s perfect for a half-day adventure but might feel a bit rushed if you love lingering in every spot.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and island exploring without the need for a full day’s commitment. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a small group setting, making the experience more personal and engaging.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views of Dubrovnik from the sea offer a fresh perspective on the city’s walls and Old Port.
• Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters at the Blue Lagoon and Blue Cave make this a very active and engaging tour.
• The visit to Lopud Island provides free time in a car-free village, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quick coffee.
• Multiple stops ensure a varied experience—each with its own charm and photo opportunities.
• Included drinks (both soft and alcoholic) keep the mood lively without extra cost.
• The tour operates with small groups (around 10-15 guests), ensuring a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This boat tour from Dubrovnik efficiently packs a variety of highlights into roughly 4 to 5 hours. Starting with a scenic cruise along the city walls, you’ll get your first glimpse of Dubrovnik’s formidable old fortifications from the water—a view that’s both impressive and uniquely different from land-based walks. The experience on the water also takes you briefly into Dubrovnik’s historic Old Port, adding a touch of maritime charm to the introduction.

Next, the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island is a highlight. Since boats can’t enter the cave directly, the real fun here is swimming from the anchored boat into the cave. The water’s glow, caused by sunlight filtering through the cave’s entrance, can be mesmerizing. Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and noodle floaters are provided, making this accessible even to less confident swimmers. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the equipment and the safety measures, especially if they’re new to snorkeling or swimming in open water.

The island of Lopud is a departure from heavy sightseeing—it offers a peaceful, car-free environment where you can stretch your legs, snap photos of waterfront views, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The one-hour free time here is enough for a quick walk along the promenade, a coffee, or some relaxed people-watching.

The final stop at Sjekirica’s Blue Lagoon is a peaceful, turquoise bay near a small rocky peninsula. Visitors frequently comment on how pristine and quiet this spot is, making it ideal for swimming, relaxing, or snorkeling. The calm waters and natural beauty are perfect for unwinding before heading back.

Throughout the tour, the inclusion of unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic beverages keeps everyone refreshed and in good spirits. The professional skipper ensures safety and smooth sailing, even in choppier waters.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour typically begins at one of two convenient meeting points in Dubrovnik—either Porat or Karuzo. After a brief safety briefing and orientation, you’ll board your speedboat, which is designed for small groups (10-15 guests). This means more personal attention, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed vibe.

Your first stop is the city walls, where you’ll enjoy a 15-minute scenic cruise with incredible views of Dubrovnik’s historic fortress walls and Old Town. The boat then heads towards the Blue Cave, with about 30 minutes allocated for visiting, swimming, and snorkeling.

From there, the boat moves on to Lopud Island, where you’ll have around an hour to explore, walk along the waterfront, or relax at a café. This island is known for its peaceful ambiance and charming village life, away from the hustle of busy tourist spots.

The final leg takes you to the Blue Lagoon at Sjekirica, where around 30 minutes are spent swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. This is often cited as one of the tour’s most relaxing and scenic moments.

The return journey lasts about 35 minutes, passing by more beautiful coastlines before returning to Dubrovnik, either at Porat or Karuzo.

The Value and Practicalities

At the price point, this tour offers good value for those who want a half-day trip that balances sightseeing and leisure. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, drinks, and a professional skipper means you don’t need to worry about additional costs or safety concerns.

It’s important to note that food isn’t included, so bringing a snack or purchasing something on Lopud might be wise, especially if you prefer a more substantial meal. Towel and personal expenses are also not included, so pack accordingly.

Given the tour’s duration and small group format, it’s well-suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate, less commercialized experience. The dynamic of a small group tends to foster friendly interaction, which many reviews appreciate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for travelers seeking scenic views combined with active water activities. It suits those who enjoy small-group tours over large, bus-sized groups. Nature lovers, families with confident swimmers, and anyone wanting to see the coast from a different angle will find plenty to enjoy.

It’s less suitable for individuals with mobility issues, back or heart problems, or those prone to seasickness, as the boat trip involves some waves and swimming from the boat. Pregnant women and wheelchairs users might find this tour challenging, too.

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The Sum Up

This Blue Lagoon and Elaphiti Islands tour from Dubrovnik offers a highly engaging experience blending stunning scenery, cultural charm, and water fun. Whether you’re captivated by the view of Dubrovnik’s walls from the sea, enchanted by the glow of the Blue Cave, or just looking to relax in a pristine lagoon, this trip hits all the right notes.

The small-group setup ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear adds comfort and convenience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a half-day escape that balances sightseeing with leisure, especially if you’re eager to see some of the Dalmatian coast’s best spots without a full-day commitment.

For anyone with a sense of adventure and an appreciation for natural beauty, this tour delivers genuine value and memorable moments. It’s especially recommended for those who prioritize stunning views and authentic coastal experiences over overly commercialized excursions.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on the day’s conditions and itinerary flow.

Where does the tour start?
You can choose between two meeting points: Porat Dubrovnik or Karuzo Tour, depending on your preference.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a panoramic cruise along Dubrovnik’s city walls, visits to the Blue Cave, free time on Lopud Island, swimming and snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon, unlimited drinks (water, iced tea, cola, Fanta, beer, and wine), snorkeling equipment, and a professional skipper.

Are there any food options?
No, food is not included. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to buy something on Lopud Island.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and noodle floaters are included for the Blue Cave and Blue Lagoon.

Can I swim into the Blue Cave?
Yes, since boats can’t enter the cave, you will swim from the anchored boat into the Blue Cave, which usually delights visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, children should be comfortable swimming or snorkeling, and be aware of the physical demands.

Is the tour operated in small groups?
Yes, typically around 10-15 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, hotel transfers are not included; you need to meet at the designated starting point.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest picture of what to expect. Whether you’re seeking a scenic escape, water-based fun, or a gentle way to explore the Croatian coast, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable option.

You can check availability for your dates here: