Dubrovnik or Cavtat: Lokrum Island and Betina Cave Boat Tour

Imagine cruising past ancient city walls, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring lush islands—all in just half a day. That’s exactly what this boat tour offers. Whether you’re a cruise ship guest, short on time, or just eager to see Dubrovnik’s waters from a new perspective, this trip packs a punch.

What we love about this experience is its blend of scenic views, cultural touches, and opportunities to cool off in nature. You’ll enjoy a comfortable boat ride with commentary, explore a UNESCO World Heritage site, and have plenty of chances to swim and snorkel in gorgeous spots. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour duration varies slightly depending on your departure point, which could impact how much time you spend on each stop.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation, and appreciate authentic, smaller-group experiences. If you’re after a way to see Dubrovnik’s waters with minimal fuss and maximum fun, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Views and Historic Sights: Cruise past Dubrovnik’s City Walls, Lovrjenac Fortress, and Villa Sheherezade, all from the water.
• Beautiful Islands and Beaches: Explore Lokrum’s botanical gardens and relax at St. Jacob’s beach with options to swim and snorkel.
• Unique Experiences: Visit Betina Cave, accessible only by sea, and snorkel inside this secluded natural wonder.
• Good Value for Money: With included snorkeling gear, an audio guide, and flexible durations, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s coast.
• Small Group Feel: The trip often feels personal, with friendly guides and manageable group sizes.
• Weather Sensitive: The tour depends on good weather for safety and comfort, so check the forecast before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Out: Convenient Meeting Points and Transportation

The tour begins at one of two locations: either Obala near Lokanda Peskarija or in Dubrovnik’s historic port. From there, you’ll board either a glass-bottomed boat or a speedboat, depending on your starting point in Cavtat. The boat ride itself offers a chance to take in Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls from afar—something you won’t get from land alone.

Guests consistently mention that the boat ride is both scenic and informative. An English audio guide plays throughout, providing context about the landmarks you pass, such as Lovrjenac Fortress, which appears as a real-life filming location for Game of Thrones. Reviewers like Madison appreciated that they got a relaxed, less crowded boat, making the ride more comfortable.

Exploring Lokrum Island

The highlight for many is the stop at Lokrum Island, a designated UNESCO Heritage site. The island is packed with greenery, caves, and history. You’ll have around two hours (or 2.5 hours from Cavtat), so there’s ample time to walk through the lush botanical gardens, visit the Benedictine monastery, and catch sights from the Game of Thrones series, including the Iron Throne.

Multiple reviewers praised how well-organized the free time was. Sigourney mentioned that her captain, Ivo, was super helpful—offering insights about each stop and helping guests on and off the boat. The island’s Dead Sea (Mrtvo More) is a standout spot, where you can float and relax, while the peacocks roaming freely add to the sense of stepping into a fairy tale.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Lokrum and St. Jacob’s Beach

Many travelers love that they can swim or snorkel at Lokrum’s beaches. The water is described as pristine, and the submerged caves are a real treat for underwater enthusiasts. Reviewers like María appreciated that they got enough time on the island to enjoy the sea, though some wished for slightly more time to explore.

Next, the tour heads to St. Jacob’s Beach, a peaceful spot ideal for swimming and lounging. The shallow, clear waters make it easy to snorkel and see plenty of marine life. Guests often comment on the relaxing vibe and the chance to rinse off in the sea after sightseeing.

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Inside Betina Cave

The highlight for adventurous swimmers is the visit to Betina Cave, accessible only by sea. You can snorkel around the outside or swim into the small beach inside the cave. A few reviewers, like Danielle, loved the rare opportunity to jump into the water from the boat and snorkel inside this secluded spot. Be aware that access inside the cave involves a small jump, which might not suit everyone—especially younger kids or less confident swimmers.

Return Trip and Scenic Sights

As the tour winds down, the boat cruises back past Dubrovnik’s signature sights, including Villa Sheherezade and Lazarets. The ride offers wonderful photo opportunities, and many guests remark on how beautiful the coastline looks from the water.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours, with the exact timing depending on your departure point.
• Price: Good value considering it includes snorkeling gear, an audio guide, and multiple stops. The entry ticket to Lokrum Island costs 30 HRK (Croatian kuna) for adults, payable in cash at the meeting point.
• Group Size: Usually small to medium-sized, fostering a friendly and personalized vibe.
• Transport: Comfortable, well-maintained boats with scenic routes.
• Weather Dependency: The tour is weather-sensitive. It’s wise to check the forecast, as tours can be canceled or rescheduled in heavy wind or rain.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

We found that this boat tour offers a well-rounded experience of Dubrovnik’s nearby natural beauty and historic charm. It combines sightseeing, cultural spots, and outdoor fun—ideal for those who prefer active relaxation. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and an informative guide means you’re getting a lot for your money.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, especially Captain Ivo, and the fact that stops are long enough to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The small-group atmosphere makes it feel more intimate and less touristic, which enhances the authentic vibe.

If you love a mix of light adventure, scenic cruising, and cultural exploration, this tour will likely be a highlight. Just remember to bring cash for the Lokrum entry fee, a towel, and some beachwear for your swim stops.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, want to see Dubrovnik from a different angle, and aren’t afraid of a bit of swimming or snorkeling. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to tick off some top sights and natural spots nearby.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or non-swimmers, as some access points and activities require confidence in the water. The tour’s weather dependency also means it’s better suited for clear, calm days.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Children over 6 years old are welcome, but they should be comfortable swimming, as some stops involve snorkeling or jumping into the water.

Do I need to pay the Lokrum Island entry fee separately?
Yes. The entrance fee of 30 HRK for adults (and 5 HRK for children) must be paid in cash at the meeting point.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring beachwear, a towel, cash for the entry fee, and possibly a hat or sunscreen. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you might want your own if you prefer.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
No, the activity depends on good weather conditions. If weather is poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. It’s best to check the forecast beforehand.

How long do I get on Lokrum Island?
You’ll have about 2 hours (or 2.5 hours from Cavtat) to explore, swim, or relax. Some reviews suggest that a little more time would be perfect, but most find the duration sufficient.

Can I jump into Betina Cave?
Yes, you can jump from the boat into the water to snorkel around the cave. However, it involves a small jump, so it’s best suited for confident swimmers.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island offers a fantastic way to enjoy the coast’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning all the logistics yourself. The combination of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and opportunities for swimming makes it a versatile, value-packed experience.

Ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything—history, nature, and sea adventure—this tour hits the right notes. The small groups, friendly guides, and stunning views ensure you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments.

If you’re after a relaxed yet active half-day, with the chance to see Dubrovnik from a unique perspective, this trip deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just remember to pack your swim gear, bring cash for Lokrum’s entry, and prepare for some spectacular scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: