Dubrovnik Islands: Mljet, Blue Cave & Odysseus Boat Day Trip

Summary

Swim, bike or kayak at Mljet then dive into blue caves and island life

You’ll set out from Dubrovnik by boat with a small group and local crew, stopping first on palm-lined Lopud before biking or swimming through Mljet’s pine-scented lakes. Dive into Odysseus Cave’s blue glow, taste fresh seafood at Šipanska Luka, and end with a swim inside Koločep’s Blue Cave—moments that linger long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the slap of sunlight off the water as we left Dubrovnik behind. Our guide, Marko, handed out wind jackets even though it was already warm — “Just wait till we’re flying over open water,” he grinned. The boat hummed and someone pointed out Sveti Jakov Beach sliding past, all white stones and that weirdly clear Adriatic blue. I’d barely finished my coffee when we docked at Lopud. Palm trees taller than any I’ve seen in Europe, honestly — they looked like they belonged somewhere else. We wandered up to a Benedictine church for the view (worth it), and I tried to order coffee in Croatian. The barista smiled but switched to English after my attempt — can’t blame her.

The ride to Mljet felt quick; maybe because everyone started swapping stories about their home countries. When we reached Blace beach on Mljet, Marko shared a bit about how saltwater lakes formed here — something about old legends and tides mixing up the land. The air smelled like pine needles and seaweed, sharp and clean. We biked along flat paths through the national park (main keyword: boat tour mljet), stopping every so often just to stare at the two lakes — Malo Jezero and Veliko Jezero — which looked almost fake with their colors. Some people swam; I just dangled my feet off a dock for a while, watching tiny fish dart around.

I didn’t expect Odysseus Cave to be so dramatic — you swim under this stone archway into cool shadow, then suddenly everything glows blue underneath you. There was this moment where it went quiet except for splashing and someone’s laugh echoing off rock walls. Afterward, we stopped at Šipanska Luka for lunch (seafood risotto if you’re curious; salty but good) before heading toward Koločep’s Blue Cave. By then my skin felt sunburned but happy.

The last swim in the Blue Cave was wild — water cold enough to make me gasp but once you’re in it’s worth it just for that weird light show under the surface. On the way back to Dubrovnik everyone got quiet for a bit, just watching the coastline slide by. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Mljet National Park and Islands

• Explore Lopud island and Benedictine church
• Stop at Blace beach and learn facts
• Visit Odysseus Cave and snorkel
• Discover Mljet National Park lakes by bike or kayak
• Relax and explore Šipanska luka beach and monuments
• Swim and snorkel in Blue Cave on Kolocep
• Return to Dubrovnik and end tour

Top questions

How long is the boat tour from Dubrovnik to Mljet?

The full day trip lasts about 10 hours including stops at several islands between Dubrovnik and Mljet.

Is lunch included on this Dubrovnik islands boat tour?

No set lunch is included but there are stops at places like Šipanska Luka where you can buy local dishes.

Can I swim or snorkel during the Mljet day trip?

Yes, there are several chances to swim or snorkel—especially at Odysseus Cave and Koločep’s Blue Cave.

Are bikes or kayaks available in Mljet National Park?

You can rent bikes or kayaks inside Mljet National Park during your free time there.

Is hotel pickup included in this boat tour?

No hotel pickup is listed; you’ll meet near public transport options in Dubrovnik before departure.

What should I bring for this private wine tour bordeaux style trip?

This isn’t a wine tour; bring swimwear, sunscreen, some cash for meals or rentals, and maybe an extra layer for wind on the boat.

Are there age or health restrictions on this day trip?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, heart problems, pregnancy or those over 65 years old due to activity level.

What happens if weather is bad on my booked date?

If weather cancels your trip you’ll get a new date offered or a full refund according to policy.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water on board plus wind jackets if needed for speedier stretches across open water; all safety equipment like life jackets; snorkel gear ready for cave swims; fuel surcharge covered so no surprise fees—just bring your energy (and maybe some snacks) before returning to Dubrovnik as evening falls.