Dubrovnik: 6 hours Blue cave & Elaphiti with optional lunch

Contents show

Exploring the Elaphiti Islands: A 6-Hour Croatian Escape

Taking a boat tour around Croatia’s Elaphiti Islands is a popular way to see some of the country’s most beautiful coastlines and charming islands in a single day. From the glowing Blue Cave to sandy beaches and lush pine forests, this journey offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and laid-back island life. While it’s a well-organized experience, it’s important to note the tour’s specific pace and offerings to see if it suits your travel style.

What immediately draws us to this tour are three standout features: the chance to swim in the famous Blue Cave, the intimate group size of up to 25 people (which promises a more personal experience), and the inclusion of unlimited drinks onboard—a real treat after a day under the Croatian sun. Plus, with the option of a tasty onboard lunch, this tour combines adventure and relaxation.

However, one consideration might be the timing of stops, which could feel rushed if you’re a slow explorer or prefer more leisure time. Also, since the Blue Cave is only accessible by swimming, you’ll need to be comfortable in the water. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic boat rides, island hopping, and a taste of Croatian cuisine but may be less ideal for travelers seeking extensive sightseeing or cultural tours.

If you’re looking for a lively, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to sunbathe, snorkel, and savor local flavors, this experience is likely to tick many boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Small-group experience enhances intimacy and personalized service
Swimming in the Blue Cave is a highlight, but requires comfort in water
Multiple island stops provide variety: lush Kolocep, sandy Lopud, and scenic views
Unlimited onboard drinks keep the mood light and refreshing
Optional lunch offers fresh, customizable Croatian dishes
Flexible booking options allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubrovnik

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Gruz New Port in Dubrovnik, with convenient options for hotel pickup and drop-off. The boat crew operates on the Lorena or Kate, and the entire experience lasts approximately six hours, with departure times varying based on availability. This flexible scheduling is helpful for planning your day without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour is designed to showcase Croatia’s stunning coastal scenery while providing ample time for sightseeing and relaxation. Here’s what you can expect:

Stop 1: Kolocep Island
Your adventure kicks off with a 45-minute stop at Kolocep, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and pine forests. It’s an ideal spot for a quick walk, a photo of the charming village, or simply soaking up the tranquility. Reviewers mention enjoying the serene environment, perfect for unwinding. You might even explore some of the charming paths or relax by the water, as one guest noted, “visiting two different villages on the beautiful islands.”

Stop 2: The Blue Cave
The tour’s signature moment is the Blue Cave, where you’ll have 45 minutes to swim and snorkel into its glowing depths. This spot is only accessible by swimming, so bringing your swimsuit and goggles is essential. Reviewers describe the experience as “wonderful” and highlight the vibrant underwater scenery. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see some of Croatia’s famed sea life, with snorkeling gear provided onboard.

Stop 3: Lopud Island
Lopud offers about 2 hours of free time on its famous sandy beach, Sunj Beach. Here, you can sunbathe, take a dip, or wander the picturesque streets. Multiple guests, including one who called it a “perfect relax day,” appreciated the generous amount of time to enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe and scenic surroundings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Food and Drinks

One of the tour’s standout features is the unlimited drinks onboard. Expect a variety of wine, soda, water, and rakija, Croatia’s traditional spirit. Guests have appreciated the friendly atmosphere created by the crew, which makes the cruise feel more like a gathering of friends.

The optional lunch is a highlight for many, with choices of fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. It’s a cash payment of €15 per person, but many reviewers mention that the food is fresh and well-prepared, complementing the day’s activities. One guest described the onboard meal as “delicious”, emphasizing how it adds to the value, especially when paired with Croatian wines and the relaxed vibe.

There's plenty more to explore in Dubrovnik

Additional Stops and Scenic Views

Throughout the day, the boat takes you on a scenic cruise, with plenty of photo stops and spectacular views of the coastline, islands, and open sea. The crew provides apertifs, spirits, and wine tastings, which enhance the experience and allow guests to enjoy Croatian hospitality at its best.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 25 guests, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. Guests consistently mention how this small group size results in a more personalized experience. One reviewer even said, “very small group ended up with only us so private cruise, brilliant,” which underscores how flexible and accommodating the experience can be.

Practical Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s best for those comfortable on boats and in water. Bring comfortable shoes, beachwear, and cash for extras such as lunch and optional pickup. The crew contacts guests the day before to confirm their lunch choice and hotel pickup, making the process smooth.

Is This Tour Worth the Cost?

When evaluating whether this tour offers good value, consider the all-inclusive drinks, multiple island stops, and the chance to swim in the Blue Cave—all in just six hours. The small group size and personalized vibe add to its appeal, especially if you value a relaxed and friendly environment.

The lunch is a nice bonus, providing a hearty meal to fuel the rest of your day, though it’s an additional cash expense. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty also makes it a low-risk option.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or friends seeking a laid-back day on the water, combined with scenic island visits and time to relax on the beach. People who enjoy snorkeling, drinking wine, and exploring small villages will find plenty to love here. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s coast without the fuss of a full-day tour or cultural excursions.

Final Thoughts

This 6-hour boat trip strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, offering stunning scenery, refreshing drinks, and delicious food options. The small-group setting ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere, which many guests have appreciated. If you’re after a fun, scenic, and easy-going day on Croatia’s coast, this tour is a solid pick.

However, if you prefer more culture or longer exploration time on each island, you might find this tour a bit limited. Still, for those wanting a quick escape into nature, with some of Croatia’s best sights, it delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave accessible by swimming?
Yes, the Blue Cave can only be entered by swimming, so bring your swimsuit and snorkeling gear. The tour provides masks, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the underwater scenery.

How long do we spend on each island?
You’ll have about 45 minutes on Kolocep to explore or relax, 2 hours on Lopud to sunbathe or walk around, and 45 minutes at the Blue Cave for swimming and snorkeling.

What is included in the drinks?
Unlimited wine, soda, water, and rakija are available onboard, making for a lively and refreshing cruise experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is lunch included in the price?
Lunch is optional and costs €15 cash, with a choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian. It’s highly recommended to enhance your day, but it’s not mandatory.

Does the tour pick up from my hotel?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs from Dubrovnik hotels are included, or you can meet at the Gruz New Port near the TP LINE ferry.

This well-rounded tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Croatia’s coast, perfect for travelers wanting a friendly, scenic, and engaging day out. While some stops may feel brief, the combination of natural beauty, good company, and tasty Croatian drinks makes it a worthwhile addition to your Dubrovnik adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: