Dubrovnik Blue Cave & Koločep Caves Boat Tour Small Group

Summary

Swim in blue cave sip wine on deck and find quiet coves near dubrovnik

You’ll swim through Dubrovnik’s glowing Blue Cave with a small group, snorkel hidden spots around Koločep Island with local guides, then unwind on sandy Šunj Beach with drinks included. Expect laughter, salty hair, and real stories—not just sights—plus time to soak up sun or chat over a cocktail before heading back along the coast.

What’s the experience like?

“You can leave your shoes here if you want,” our skipper Luka grinned as we stepped onto the boat just outside Dubrovnik. I hesitated—my sandals were already half-full of sand from Sveti Jakov Beach, but honestly, it felt right to go barefoot. The sea was that kind of blue that almost looks fake in photos. We set off with just five others, everyone a little shy at first, passing around bottles of water and trying to remember each other’s names.

The ride to Koločep didn’t take long—maybe 25 minutes? Luka pointed out a crumbling stone house on the shore and told us about his grandfather fishing there before tourism was even a thing. Then we reached the Blue Cave. You could smell salt and something almost metallic as we slid closer. The entrance looked tiny; I wasn’t sure I’d fit (I did). Inside, the light turned everything this weird electric turquoise. It felt cooler in there, like the air changed. Someone laughed when my snorkel fogged up—I think it was Ana from Zagreb. Swimming under that blue ceiling is something I still think about when I’m stuck at my desk back home.

Afterwards we stopped at three smaller caves nearby—honestly, they’re easy to miss unless you know where to look. Luka handed out snorkeling masks and let us jump off wherever looked good. The rocks were rough under my toes but the water was so clear you could see every pebble on the bottom. At one point I tried to say “thank you” in Croatian (“hvala”), but probably butchered it because Luka just grinned wider.

Last stop: Šunj Beach on Lopud island. We had about an hour there—some people stretched out on the sand, others wandered off for cocktails (the bar makes a mean mojito). There’s no road traffic here, just soft sand and distant voices drifting over from another group somewhere down the beach. On the way back we shared cold beer and stories while sun dried salt into our skin. If you’re looking for a Blue Cave tour from Dubrovnik that doesn’t feel rushed or crowded—well, this was it for me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Blue Cave and Šunj Beach

• Boat to Blue Cave entrance
• Explore Blue Cave and snorkel
• Visit three smaller nearby caves
• Boat to Šunj sandy beach
• Relax, swim, or enjoy drinks

Top questions

How long is the Blue Cave boat tour from Dubrovnik?

The tour lasts about 4 hours total.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for all guests.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Beer, wine, soda, bottled water are included; you can also bring your own drinks.

How many people are on each boat tour?

The tour runs with small groups for a more personal experience.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

Can children join this Blue Cave tour?

Yes, children are welcome; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What happens if weather is bad?

If sea conditions aren’t safe, tours may be rescheduled or refunded.

Do I need to swim far to enter the Blue Cave?

No—the skipper brings the boat close so swimming distance is short.

What’s included

Your day includes a spot on a comfortable new boat with two friendly local crew members who share stories along the way; all your drinks (beer, wine, soda), bottled water kept cold in an onboard fridge; use of snorkeling equipment for exploring caves; plus time at Šunj Beach before returning to Dubrovnik by sea breeze and late afternoon light.