Snorkeling in Dubrovnik: Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands

Swim into the Blue Cave's natural light show, then drift across shallow turquoise shallows at Šunj Beach.

A private half-day snorkeling tour from Dubrovnik visits the Blue Cave on Koločep Island and Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, led by a local captain with snorkeling equipment and unlimited drinks provided. The boat holds a maximum of five guests, and the tour runs four hours. A live English-speaking guide is included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private boat tour to islands and beaches

• Depart from Dubrovnik by private boat
• Explore the Blue Cave on Koločep
• Relax and swim at Šunj Beach on Lopud Island
• Return to Dubrovnik

The experience

The boat leaves Dubrovnik and heads straight for the Elaphiti Islands, a cluster of islands known for sea caves and clear water just offshore. The Blue Cave on Koločep is the centerpiece: you enter by boat and float inside to watch how the light refracts through the water and bounces off the cave walls. After the cave, the route moves to Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, a long sandy stretch in shallow, clear water where you can swim and snorkel at your own pace.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, along with unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic beverages throughout the tour. The captain is a local who knows the islands and the water conditions, and speaks English. Because the group maxes out at five people, you're not competing for space or attention on the boat or in the water.

The half-day timing means you leave in the morning or early afternoon and return with time left in your day: no full commitment required if you're splitting your time between the water and the old town.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
• a local captain who speaks English.
• a private boat for up to five guests.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 20 May 2027

Book up to10h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

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. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Vagabundo Sea Safari

Is this one for you?The four-hour half-day window fits a free afternoon or a morning slot without consuming your whole day in Dubrovnik. If you need a full-day excursion or want to include lunch and multiple islands beyond these two stops, look for a longer tour instead.

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Top questions

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.

What exactly is the Blue Cave and what will I see inside it?

The Blue Cave is a sea cave on Koločep Island where sunlight enters through an underwater opening and creates natural light effects inside the cave. You enter by boat and float inside to watch how the light refracts through the water and reflects off the cave walls and the water's surface.

Can I snorkel if I've never done it before?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the tour includes time at Šunj Beach, a shallow, sandy area with clear water that is suitable for beginners. The captain can show you how to use the gear before you enter the water.

How long is the tour and when does it leave?

The tour runs four hours. Specific departure times are not listed in the tour details, so confirm the schedule when you book.

Is lunch included, and what should I bring?

Lunch is not included. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. You may want to wear a rash guard or wetsuit for sun protection in the water.

What are the Elaphiti Islands and why are they worth visiting?

The Elaphiti Islands are a group of islands near Dubrovnik known for natural sea caves, clear water and historical heritage. The tour visits two of them: Koločep, home to the Blue Cave, and Lopud, where Šunj Beach offers calm, shallow water for swimming and snorkeling.