Dubrovnik: Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands Catamaran Tour

Swim in the Blue Cave then drift to sandy Šunj Beach on a calm catamaran

You’ll board a roomy catamaran in Dubrovnik with a small group and local skipper, glide across calm Adriatic waters to snorkel inside Koločep’s glowing Blue Cave, then swim ashore at sandy Šunj Beach on Lopud Island. Expect shaded seating, drinks at swimming stops, and moments that linger long after you’ve dried off.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time at each

1. Sveti Jakov Beach1h
2. Elafiti Islandspass by

Blue Cave and Elaphiti Islands tour

• Arrive at Koločep Island
• Explore Blue Cave and snorkel
• Discover Green Cave and beaches
• Relax or swim at Koločep shores
• Sail to Lopud Island
• Visit and relax at Šunj Beach

The experience

We stepped barefoot onto the catamaran in Dubrovnik’s marina: already felt different from those loud speedboats zipping past. Our skipper, Marko, handed out cold water and grinned when someone asked about sea conditions (“You’ll barely notice the waves today!”). The Adriatic was glassy, just a salty breeze and the muffled thump of flip-flops on deck. I found myself stretching out on one of those cushioned benches under the shade: honestly, didn’t expect how much I’d appreciate not roasting in the sun all morning.

The first stop was Koločep Island for the Blue Cave. Marko passed around snorkels and waterproof bags (lifesaver for my phone), then pointed out where sunlight slips through the rock. He called it “the blue window.” I slid into the water and it was colder than I thought at first, but you get used to it fast. Inside, everything glowed electric blue. There was this weird silence except for our own splashing and a couple of fish darting around my ankles. Someone tried to say “plava špilja” (Blue Cave) in Croatian. Marko just laughed and shook his head.

After that we cruised toward Lopud’s Šunj Beach, long stretch of sand that looked almost too pale against all that turquoise water. Here’s the thing: you have to swim from the boat to shore (they give you bags so your stuff stays dry), which sounded like a hassle but ended up being kind of fun. The sand is soft (real sand, not pebbles), and there were families picnicking under pine trees while some locals played cards near the waterline. I lay back for a while with damp hair sticking to my neck and just listened to everyone chatting in Croatian or German or English.

On the way back, people sprawled out quietly or sipped beer as Dubrovnik came into view again: the old city walls catching late afternoon sun. I kept thinking about that blue glow inside the cave. It sticks with you longer than salt on your skin, somehow.

What’s included

• Your day includes boarding a stable catamaran with shaded seating from Dubrovnik’s marina, use of snorkeling equipment and waterproof bags at every stop, up to three drinks per person (water, beer or Coke) during swims, plus access to an onboard restroom.
• A detail you’ll appreciate after hours at sea.
• All swimming stops are guided by your local skipper before returning comfortably in late afternoon.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 12:00Last departure this season: 3 Nov

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (under 13)

GroupUp to 19

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by Regina Maris

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 13).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Blue Cave tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling gear is included for all guests during swimming stops.

Do I need strong swimming skills for this tour?

You should be able to swim short distances confidently since reaching Šunj Beach requires swimming from the boat to shore.

Is there shade and seating on the catamaran?

Yes, there are shaded areas and cushioned seating throughout the catamaran for comfort during the trip.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Bottled water, Coca-Cola, or beer are included at swimming stops (up to 3 drinks per guest).

Can I bring valuables on board?

Waterproof bags are provided so you can safely bring phones or other valuables when swimming ashore.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, unlike many speedboats, this catamaran has a restroom available throughout the tour.

How many people join each group?

This is a small group tour. Exact numbers may vary but expect fewer people than standard large-boat tours.

What happens if weather conditions change suddenly?

The skipper may adjust or change course for safety if weather conditions require it.