Travelers visiting Dubrovnik often seek out its iconic Old Town and stunning coastline, but for those craving a bit more adventure and natural beauty, this day trip to Mljet National Park and the Elaphiti Islands offers a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re into kayaking, snorkeling, biking, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, this tour promises a taste of Croatia’s lesser-known gems away from the crowds.
What we love about this experience is how small-group intimacy amplifies the sense of adventure, and how ample time at each stop allows for real exploration, not just quick photo ops. The highlight that keeps popping up in reviews? The Odysseus Cave and the Blue Cave, which promise unforgettable swimming and sight-seeing. On the flip side, some travelers might find the long duration a bit tiring, especially if they’re not keen on boat rides or early mornings.
This trip suits travelers who appreciate authentic nature encounters, enjoy active pursuits, and want to skip the big tour crowds. It’s also ideal for those with a flexible schedule who are looking for a comprehensive day of island hopping, complete with local food, swim opportunities, and cultural insights.
Key Points
- Small-group tours tend to be more personalized and less crowded
- Multiple activity options — biking, snorkeling, kayaking, cliff jumping
- Includes a visit to Mljet’s national park and the Odysseus Cave
- Delicious Dalmatian food and beach relaxation are highlights
- Value for money considering the variety of stops and activities
- Strong reviews praise knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery
A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience
This tour kicks off early in the morning at a meeting point just outside Dubrovnik’s Old Town. From there, your speedboat whisks you away towards the islands, emphasizing speed and thrill — yes, expect some waves and wind, but that’s part of the fun.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Odysseus Cave.
The Journey and the First Stop: Lopud
Your day begins with a cruise across the shimmering coastline, with the boat’s lively atmosphere and music making the transit enjoyable. The first stop on Lopud serves as an excellent introduction to the local island vibe. While not explicitly detailed in the description, reviews suggest the crew is friendly and sharing interesting local insights, setting the tone for the day.
Mljet National Park — A Natural Wonderland
The highlight for many will be the Mljet National Park, where you’ll spend over two hours exploring. The park is famous for its salt lakes and lush scenery, perfect for biking around or just soaking in the views. One reviewer happily noted that they loved riding the 6-mile loop trail through the park, making it a manageable yet scenic activity.
What makes Mljet special is the chance to swim in Odysseus Cave and snorkel in its bright blue waters. The cave, connected to the legendary Greek hero Odysseus, features crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and picture-taking. Many reviews rave about the bright, vibrant waters and the opportunity to do some cliff jumping—an activity that adds a splash of adrenaline.
The Secluded Bay: Moon Beach
Next, the boat docks in the Moon Beach area, a quiet spot for swimming, relaxing, and learning about the island’s geography from your guides. It’s the kind of place where you can listen to the gentle lapping of waves and forget about the busy world for a while.
More Great Tours NearbySipan and Cultural Highlights
The tour then transitions to Sipan, a smaller island with a rich heritage linked to the Dubrovnik Republic. Here, you get a chance to learn a bit about Croatia’s history, relax on the beach, or enjoy a beach bar. One review pointed out how perfect this location was for lunch and downtime.
Blue Cave Excursion and Snorkeling on Kolocep
The Blue Cave visit is often described as a must-see highlight. You’ll snorkel on Kolocep, exploring the underwater world in crystal waters, often with the guides helping less confident swimmers get inside the cave safely. Some reviews mention extra caves that weren’t scheduled but turned out to be wonderful surprises, making the experience feel exclusive.
The Return Ride
The day ends with a leisurely ride back to Dubrovnik, often accompanied by music and stunning sunset views. The trip is long — around 11 hours — but the pace allows for ample breaks and genuine immersion in Croatia’s natural beauty.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s price of $153 per person is quite reasonable considering the diversity of activities and stops. Included are skipper and host, safety gear, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, windproof jackets, bottled water, and insurance.
However, travelers should note that lunch and National Park entrance fees are not included, which can add to the cost. The current entrance fee for the park is around 25 euros per person, and extra for equipment like kayaks or bikes if you choose to rent.
Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own. The starting time of 7:30 AM means an early start, but that’s typical for full-day island tours.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you enjoy active pursuits like biking and swimming, you’ll appreciate the variety of options. The small-group setting means you’ll get more personalized attention from guides who are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and eager to share Croatia’s hidden gems.
It’s an excellent choice for those who love natural beauty and want to avoid the crowds at more popular sites like the Blue Cave. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day that combines history, scenery, and fun, this trip delivers.
This isn’t for travelers who prefer luxury or comfort over adventure — the boat ride can be bumpy, and the day is quite full, so it requires a reasonable level of stamina and flexibility. Also, the tour is not suitable for young children under 5, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or older adults over 65, based on safety and activity levels.
The Value and Overall Impression
Considering the long hours, variety of activities, and small-group atmosphere, many travelers feel this trip offers outstanding value. It’s a chance to see multiple islands, enjoy water sports, taste authentic Dalmatian cuisine, and learn about Croatian heritage — all in one day.
The reviews speak volumes about the guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery. One traveler called it “a trip for people who want to see as much as they can,” and others appreciated how the small group made the experience more personal and enjoyable.
In terms of cost, the tour delivers a lot of memorable moments for a reasonable price, especially when compared to larger, more crowded boat trips. The balance of adventure and relaxation makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from active families to solo explorers.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included? No, you need to arrive at the meeting point in front of Summer House P. Sorkoevi by 7:30 AM.
What is the tour duration? The trip lasts about 11 hours, covering multiple stops and activities.
Are meals included? No, lunch is not included but can be purchased separately at the stops, such as the beach bar on Sipan.
Do I need to bring anything special? Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, snacks, breathable clothing, sports shoes, and cash for entrance fees and extras.
Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 65.
What activities are available at Mljet? Biking, snorkeling, swimming, and cliff jumping are the main activities, with plenty of free time to enjoy at your own pace.
How crowded are the sites? The small-group format makes for fewer crowds, especially at popular spots like the Blue Cave. Some sites can still get busy, but your guide will help navigate this.
Is there a lot of free time? Yes, especially at Mljet National Park and Sipan, giving you opportunities to relax, explore, or enjoy a meal.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, with a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Final Thoughts
This Dubrovnik day trip to Mljet and the Elaphiti Islands stands out as an excellent option for travelers wanting a full day of authentic island experiences. The combination of stunning scenery, active pursuits, and small-group intimacy creates a memorable adventure that’s worth the price, especially for those eager to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s walls.
Ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone craving a less touristy glimpse of Croatia’s beautiful coastline, this tour delivers a well-balanced mix of fun, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re snorkeling in Odysseus Cave or biking through Mljet’s salt lakes, you’ll come away with stories and photos that last a lifetime.
If you like the idea of personalized attention, scenic beauty, and active exploration, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for an early start and a full day — but for many, that’s part of the adventure.
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