Blue cave tour with a speedboat-small group

Introduction: A Refreshing Take on the Dubrovnik Cave Tour

If you’re eyeing a memorable adventure off the Croatian coast, the Blue Cave tour with a speedboat could be just the ticket. Priced at around $80.25 per person, this 4-hour experience departs from Dubrovnik and takes you to explore some of the most iconic sea caves in the Elafiti islands, including the famous Blue Cave on Kolocep. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small group setting, which promises a more intimate, personalized adventure—quite a step up from overcrowded boat trips. The tour is popular and often booked about 39 days in advance, indicating how much travelers value this type of experience.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the focus on authenticity and the chance to avoid the hustle at the major caves by starting early in the morning, from June 1 to September 15. The speedboat promises quick, comfortable transfers with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the free drinks onboard—including wine, beer, water, and juice—add a relaxed, social touch. However, it’s good to note that this isn’t ideal for non-swimmers since you do need to swim into the caves.

Two standout features are the timing and small group size, which significantly enhance the experience. Being on a smaller boat means less crowd, more flexibility, and better access to the caves and swimming spots. The tour’s informative and friendly skipper, often mentioned in reviews, personalizes the trip and ensures you get the most out of your four hours at sea. On the flip side, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, non-water-based experience, this might not be for you, especially considering the swimming requirement.

Key Points

• Small Group Advantage: With a maximum of 50 travelers and smaller boat options, this tour offers a more personal and flexible experience.
• Early Start Benefits: The morning departure from June to September helps avoid the crowds and enhances cave viewing.
• Authentic Exploration: Visits to the Blue and Green caves provide beautiful scenery and the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters.
• Value for Money: For around $80, you get a well-rounded trip with drinks included, boat transfers, and multiple cave stops.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable skippers, like Captain Tom praised in reviews, tailor the trip to your interests and ensure smooth navigation.
• Additional Relaxation: The final stop at Lopud’s Sunj beach offers a chance to unwind, with a cozy bar nestled in the woods.

The Itinerary in Detail: A Day on the Water

Your adventure begins at Lapadska obala 4 in Dubrovnik, where you’ll meet your captain and small group. The first highlight is the Blue Cave on Kolocep Island. This tiny, sun-kissed cavern is famed for its stunning blue hue, created by sunlight reflecting off sandy floors. I love the way the light plays inside, making the water shimmer with a surreal glow—it’s truly one of those sights that linger long after you leave.

Swimming into the Blue Cave is a key part of the experience, so being comfortable in water is essential. If you’re a confident swimmer, you’ll find it exhilarating—many reviews, like Laura K’s, mention the quiet, less-crowded caves and how the skipper modified the itinerary to suit their preferences. They described the trip as “amazing,” highlighting how the speedboat allowed access to such beautiful spots without the typical crowds.

After exploring the Blue Cave, you’ll head to the Green Caves on Kolocep, a cluster of three caves with distinctive green hues. These caves are equally impressive, with clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The marine life and vibrant colors make each stop an opportunity for some memorable photos and underwater discoveries.

The third major stop is Sunj Beach on Lopud Island, renowned for its soft sands and relaxed vibe. Here, there’s ample time to chill, swim, or simply soak up the sun. The bar tucked in the woods offers cold drinks and snacks, making it a perfect spot to unwind after the caves. Many guests appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere—a big plus for those wanting a laid-back finish.

Throughout, snorkeling gear is available for use, allowing you to explore underwater treasures. The tour also includes free drinks, which, according to reviews, enhance the convivial atmosphere onboard. If you’re lucky, you might find that your guide, like Captain Tom, adapts the tour to your preferences, making it a customized adventure rather than just a standard trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who are comfortable swimming and want a more personalized, off-peak experience. It’s ideal for those who appreciate stunning scenery and sea life, as well as a relaxed pace with time to swim and lounge on beaches. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape from Dubrovnik’s crowds, this small-group boat trip offers a more intimate and flexible alternative.

However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or anyone who prefers land-based exploration. Be prepared for cold water (depending on the weather), and remember that the timing is key—early starts make a big difference in avoiding crowds and maximizing the experience.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Book in advance, especially during the summer months, to secure a spot—most bookings are made around a month ahead.
• Bring your own towel if you want to stay dry, as towels are not included.
• Wear water shoes or sandals for comfort on the boat and rocks.
• Bring waterproof sunscreen and a waterproof camera to capture the stunning views.
• Confirm your swimming ability before booking, as the cave entrance involves swimming.
• Arrive a few minutes early to meet your guide and settle in comfortably.

Pricing and Value

At just over $80 per person, this tour offers solid value considering all the stops, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the small-group atmosphere. With the Blue and Green caves being among the top attractions in the area, paying this price ensures you visit these sites without large crowds and enjoy a more personal experience. The expert guidance and flexibility described in reviews add to the value, making it a worthwhile splurge for those interested in sea caves and island hopping.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you dream of crystal waters, stunning cave formations, and a more intimate adventure alongside knowledgeable skippers, this Blue Cave tour is a great pick. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring by boat, as well as those who value avoiding the crowds. The relaxed vibe at Lopud’s Sunj beach and the free drinks onboard round out a package that balances fun, comfort, and natural beauty.

However, if you prefer land-based tours or non-swimmers, you might want to consider other options. Still, for anyone craving a quick, beautiful, and authentic sea exploration experience off Dubrovnik, this small-group speedboat tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable if I don’t swim well?
It’s best if you’re comfortable swimming because you’ll need to swim into the caves to fully experience them. If swimming isn’t your strong suit, you might find this challenging.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers snorkeling equipment, use of the boat, and free drinks (beer, wine, water, juice). Towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you want to dry off quickly.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 4 hours from start to finish, including cave visits, swimming, and beach time.

What is the start time?
For tours from June 1 to September 15, departures are at 8:30 AM, designed to beat the crowds at the caves.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep in mind that late cancellations or no-shows won’t be refunded.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Mostly, yes, provided children are comfortable swimming and are supervised. Non-swimmers should consider other options.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, but smaller boats keep the experience more personal.

Who is the provider?
The activity is operated by Dubrovnik Speedboat Tour, and you can contact them at +385912979806 or via email at [email protected].

To sum it up, this Blue Cave speedboat tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxed island vibes. It’s particularly suited for those seeking an active, intimate, and visually stunning experience in the Dubrovnik area. If you’re eager to see the famous caves in a less crowded, more personalized way, this trip could be exactly what you need—just remember to book early and prepare for a splashy, fun-filled four hours on the sea.