Dubrovnik: Elaphiti Islands Blue Cave Swim & Private Boat

Summary

Swim inside blue caves sunbathe on Lopud island and explore local life

You’ll slip into clear Adriatic waters to swim inside Dubrovnik’s famous Blue Cave with all snorkel gear provided, then explore three wild green caves nearby. Afterward, relax on Lopud’s sandy beach with time for drinks or wandering village lanes—sun-warmed skin, salt in your hair, and that easy island feeling will linger long after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the color of the water—it was how quiet everything felt when our boat cut the engine near Koločep. You could hear this soft slap of waves against the hull, and then our guide, Marko, just grinned and pointed at the little opening in the rock. “Blue cave,” he said, like it was obvious. I hesitated before jumping in (the water’s colder than you’d think), but once you’re inside, all that blue light bounces off your skin and you forget about goosebumps. My mask kept fogging up—I probably didn’t tighten it right—but honestly, floating there with sunlight flickering underwater was worth every awkward moment.

After that, we drifted over to these green caves nearby—three of them, each a little stranger than the last. The second one felt tight and dark; I bumped my knee on something and cursed quietly (Marko heard me and laughed). The third cave was this long channel where you have to dive under for a bit—I almost chickened out but ended up popping out into a sandy pocket with no roof overhead. It smelled faintly salty and fresh at once. There’s something about swimming through those narrow spaces that makes you feel both small and weirdly brave at the same time. Not sure I’d try it alone.

Lopud island was next—honestly, I thought I’d just want to swim more but ended up sitting on the sand watching kids splash in the shallows instead. There are bars right behind you if you want a cold drink (we did), and some locals were arguing about football in Croatian nearby. The sun felt heavy by then; I still think about how lazy that hour felt. We could’ve taken a golf cart across the island but decided to just let time stretch out a bit longer before heading back toward Dubrovnik.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Elaphiti islands swimming and exploring

• Boat to Blue Cave
• Swim and snorkel in Blue Cave
• Visit three green caves
• Swim through narrow cave channel
• Relax at sandy Lopud beach

Top questions

How do you get to the Blue Cave from Dubrovnik?

The Blue Cave is only reachable by boat from Dubrovnik as part of a private group tour to the Elaphiti islands.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkels and goggles are provided for swimming in the caves.

Are drinks included during the day trip?

Soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are included on board.

Can children join this Elaphiti islands tour?

The sandy beach on Lopud is great for kids due to its shallow area; infants must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

How many caves do you visit on this private boat tour?

You visit the famous Blue Cave plus three additional green caves near Koločep island.

What facilities are available at Lopud beach?

Lopud beach has bars, restaurants, sun beds, umbrellas, paddle cars for rent, and golf carts for getting around.

Is public transportation available near departure or return points?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby in Dubrovnik.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling gear like goggles and lifejackets plus bottled water, sodas, and alcoholic drinks onboard. You’ll have time to relax at bars or restaurants on Lopud island before returning by boat—the whole trip runs with a local guide who knows these waters inside out.