Private Boat Tour to Island Lokrum St Jackob Beach Betina Cave

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Dubrovnik’s gorgeous coast, a private boat tour to Lokrum Island, St. Jakov Beach, and Betina Cave might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews suggest it’s a memorable way to see some of the city’s best seaside spots with the help of a knowledgeable local skipper.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized attention on a private boat means you’re not just another face in a crowded group. Second, the combination of scenic cruising, swimming, and cultural highlights offers a well-rounded taste of Dubrovnik’s marine charms. On the flip side, potential travelers should keep in mind that it’s a short, two-hour trip — so if you’re craving a deep dive into each site or a longer adventure, this might feel a bit compressed.

This tour is ideally suited for those who want a flexible, intimate way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s coastline without a rigid schedule. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group of travel enthusiasts, it offers a balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic sights at a fair price.

Key Points

• Private experience means exclusivity and personalized service.
• Expert local skipper adds depth of knowledge and safety.
• Multiple swim stops at Lokrum, Sv. Jakov Beach, and Betina Cave.
• Stunning views of Dubrovnik’s coast and surrounding islands.
• Convenient pickup and easy access from Old Town.
• Short duration of roughly 2 hours, ideal for a quick scenic escape.

An Authentic Dubrovnik Water Adventure

This private boat tour offers a refreshing alternative to the bustling city streets, giving you the chance to see Dubrovnik from the water’s perspective. Starting at the Porat Dubrovnik port near Old Town, your skipper — often praised for his friendliness and deep local knowledge — will guide you through a compact itinerary that hits some of the area’s most photogenic spots.

While the tour lasts only about two hours, it’s packed with highlights: cruising around Lokrum, swimming at both Lokrum’s Portoc Bay and Sv. Jakov Beach, and visiting Betina Cave. It’s a quick, yet enriching way to soak in the coastal scenery and enjoy a relaxed swim in clear Croatian waters.

What You Get on the Tour

The experience is entirely private, so it’s tailored to your group — up to six people for $322.21. This makes it a good value, especially considering the personalized attention you receive on a well-maintained boat. With pickup offered from a central Dubrovnik location, transit is straightforward, and you can jump straight into the adventure.

Your skipper will navigate around Lokrum Island, famous for its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. Expect a visit to the Pigeon Cave, a favorite among visitors for its unique setting, and a cruise along Portoc Bay, renowned for its calm waters perfect for a quick swim.

The highlight for many is stopping at Sv. Jakov Beach, a popular local spot with a sandy shoreline, a restaurant, and a coffee bar. Many reviewers mention that the swimming here is a real treat — clear waters and a relaxed vibe. You’ll also get the chance to visit Betina Cave, a somewhat hidden gem where swimming and cliff-jumping are possible, adding a dash of adventure to your trip.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

• Lokrum Island: This nature reserve just off Dubrovnik’s coast is renowned for its lush landscape and peaceful ambiance. Your skipper will take you around, pointing out notable sights and stopping for a swim at Portoc Bay.
• Pigeon Cave: A picturesque spot on Lokrum, great for photos and a quick dip.
• Sv. Jakov Beach: One of Dubrovnik’s most popular beaches, perfect for a relaxing swim. The beach has amenities—a restaurant and a coffee bar—so you can easily extend your time here if you wish.
• Betina Cave: This lesser-known cave offers an intimate swim spot where you can cool off and enjoy the tranquility away from the crowds.
• Return: The boat will bring you back to Old Town, leaving you with fantastic memories and, hopefully, some photos of your water-bound adventures.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating reflecting satisfaction with the experience. One reviewer praised Mato, the skipper, for his knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, adding that he made the trip “the best time.” Others appreciated the flexibility of the schedule and the beautiful swimming spots, with one remarking, “He pulled up to one of the swimming areas on Lokrum so the kids could swim and jump off the cliffs” — a highlight for families or anyone looking for fun, spontaneous moments.

The value for money is clear in these reviews, especially given that the trip includes personalized service, scenic stops, and swimming opportunities — all within a short, 2-hour window. Multiple guests highlighted that the tour was perfect for young children, citing the ideal length and safe swimming spots.

Practical Details & Tips

Price: At $322.21 for up to 6 people, this tour offers good value considering the exclusivity and personalized attention. It’s an easy way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s coast without the crowds or the hassle of larger group tours.

Duration: Just over two hours, making it suitable for a morning or afternoon outing. If you’re on a tight schedule, this trip fits well without demanding a long commitment.

Meeting Point: The tour starts at Porat Dubrovnik near the Fish Market (Ribarnica ul. 1). It’s near public transportation, so getting there is straightforward.

Weather Considerations: As with any outdoor water activity, good weather is essential. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone. The boat provides a relaxed, scenic ride with plenty of opportunities to swim, so be prepared for getting wet.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a customized, intimate water trip with minimal fuss. Families with kids will appreciate the short duration and safe swimming spots. Small groups or couples looking for a romantic or fun-filled escape will find it perfect. If you love scenic cruising combined with swimming and exploring lesser-known caves, this trip hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour offers a wonderful taste of Dubrovnik’s seaside treasures, without the crowds and with the benefit of a knowledgeable captain guiding your way. The mix of scenic views, swim stops, and cozy small-group setting makes it a fantastic choice for anyone short on time but eager for a genuine coastal experience. The positive reviews confirm that guests leave with memorable moments, friendly service, and the feeling of having seen a more authentic side of Dubrovnik.

While it’s a short trip, it’s anything but superficial — the boat’s flexibility, the scenic stops, and the friendly guidance make it stand out among Dubrovnik’s many water excursions. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting a relaxed, personalized adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of local life on the water.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?

Approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet satisfying experience.

• What is included in the price?

The price covers the private boat, a local skipper, and the scheduled stops and swimming spots. Admission tickets to sites are not included.

• Can I cancel the tour?

Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Where does the tour start?

It begins at Porat Dubrovnik (Ribarnica ul. 1), near the Old Town.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the short duration and safe swimming spots make it family-friendly, especially for young children.

• How many people can join?

Up to 6 guests per group, making it intimate and manageable.

• Do I need to bring anything?

Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The boat is equipped for comfort, but personal items are recommended.

• What happens if the weather is bad?

The tour may be canceled due to poor weather, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Is food or drink included?

No, but there are restaurants and a coffee bar at Sv. Jakov Beach where you can buy refreshments.

• How experienced is the skipper?

Guests consistently praise the skipper, Mato, for his knowledge and friendliness, making the trip informative and enjoyable.

In the end, if you’re after a flexible, scenic, and relaxing way to explore Dubrovnik’s coast with a knowledgeable host, this private boat tour is an excellent choice. It offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, swimming, and authentic local flavor – all tailored just for you.