Dubrovnik Blue Cave & Green Caves: 5-Hour Sea Safari Tour

Summary

Blue Cave swims, sandy Šunj beach time and Dubrovnik coast views

You’ll speed along Dubrovnik’s coastline by boat with a local guide, swim through the glowing Blue Cave, explore three distinct Green Caves, and unwind on sandy Šunj Beach with drinks included. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and those small moments you’ll replay later when you need them most.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to swim inside a cave that glows blue all around you? I didn’t really know what to expect that morning at Dubrovnik’s Old Town pier — just a bit of nerves and the smell of sunscreen everywhere. Our guide (Maja? Maya? I should’ve asked how to spell it) handed out snorkeling masks with a grin and made sure everyone was good before we hopped onto the speedboat. The city walls looked different from the water — older somehow, but also kind of peaceful. There was this salty wind whipping my hair around, and I remember thinking, “Okay, this is actually happening.”

The ride out to the Blue Cave felt quick but also long enough for me to start overthinking whether I’d be cold in the water (I wasn’t). Maja explained how the sunlight hits the cave at just the right angle — I mean, you can read about it online but seeing that glow for yourself is something else. She went in first, splashing around so we’d feel safe following her. Inside, everyone got quiet for a second. It’s not huge or echoey like some caves — more like being inside a secret room where even your own voice sounds softer. The water was chilly at first but then perfect; I could see my feet glowing blue below me. Someone laughed when they tried to take a selfie and dropped their goggles (don’t worry, Maja fished them out).

Afterwards we hit these Three Green Caves — each one had its own vibe. One was wide open with light pouring in; another had this narrow slot you could swim through if you felt brave (I didn’t). There was this weird mineral smell in one spot, not bad exactly, just different. Then we cruised over to Šunj Beach on Lopud Island. It’s sandy — actual soft sand under your toes instead of pebbles — and people were already stretched out sunbathing even though it was barely noon. We got drinks from a cooler on board (beer or soda), just sitting there with wet hair and salty skin watching little kids build sandcastles.

The last bit was looping around Lokrum Island before heading back toward Dubrovnik’s skyline again. By then everyone looked sun-tired but happy; even Maja seemed quieter than before. Sometimes I still think about that blue light inside the cave when I’m stuck in traffic back home — it doesn’t really compare.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Morning sea safari and beach visit

• Start at Dubrovnik Old Town pier
• Enjoy panoramic ride around Old Town
• Visit Blue Cave and snorkel
• Explore Three Green Caves
• Relax at Šunj Beach
• Ride around Lokrum Island
• Return to Old Town by boat

Top questions

How long is the Dubrovnik Blue Cave tour?

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this sea safari?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for swimming in the caves.

Does the tour include drinks?

Bottled water, soda/pop, and alcoholic beverages are provided during the trip.

Where does the Blue Cave tour depart from?

The departure point is Dubrovnik’s Old Town – Big Pier.

Is there time to relax at Šunj Beach?

Yes, there’s extra time at Šunj Beach for swimming or sunbathing compared to shorter tours.

Are guides present during cave swims?

Your guide stays with you in each cave except during designated free time.

Can infants join this boat tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Is this sea safari suitable for travelers with spinal injuries?

No, it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes speedboat transport from Dubrovnik Old Town pier with a friendly local guide who stays close during every cave visit except your free time; all snorkeling equipment; bottled water; soda or beer from an onboard cooler; plus plenty of time relaxing at sandy Šunj Beach before cruising back past Lokrum Island.