Dubrovnik, often called the Pearl of the Adriatic, gives you easy access to the dazzling Blue Cave on Koločep Island. Just a 30–45 minute boat ride away, this cave in the Elafiti archipelago glows with sunlight that filters through the water, creating a magical blue shimmer. The best part? You’ll swim and snorkel inside, with time to soak up both the cave’s glow and Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline.
Overview:
Distance from Dubrovnik to Blue Cave: About 8 nautical miles
Duration of the tour: 4–5 hours (half-day) or 6–8 hours (full-day)
Best time of year: May–September, when the sea is warm and the cave glow is strongest
Meeting/drop-off point: Dubrovnik Old Port or Gruž Harbor
Key attractions: Blue Cave (Koločep), Sunj Beach (Lopud), Šipan Island, hidden coves of the Elafiti Islands
Most popular tour:Blue Cave, Green Caves & Sunj Beach Cruise with Drinks
What to expect on the Dubrovnik to Blue Cave Tour
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Scenic cruise from Dubrovnik
Depart from Dubrovnik’s Old Port or Gruž Harbor and set out on a speedboat ride along the Adriatic. The journey itself is a highlight, with views of the city walls fading into open sea and the Elafiti Islands appearing in the distance.
The Blue Cave on Koločep Island
The main stop is the Blue Cave on Koločep Island, where sunlight creates a glowing, electric-blue effect inside the grotto. Depending on conditions, you may swim or snorkel directly into the cave.
Elaphiti Islands exploration
Most tours also visit the nearby Elaphiti Islands known for its sandy Šunj Beach, and Šipan, the largest island with olive groves and fishing villages. Expect time for a swim, a stroll, or a relaxed meal at a local konoba.
Optional upgrades
You can upgrade your ticket to include unlimited drinks, a private cruise, or round-trip hotel transfers within Dubrovnik. Choose the option that best matches the level of luxury you’d like.
Things to know before booking your tours from Dubrovnik
The tour last about 4 hours, making them perfect half-day experiences from Dubrovnik. Choose between morning or afternoon departures to match your schedule.
Expect snorkeling gear, unlimited drinks, sunshade seating, and expert skippers. Some options also include GoPro cameras, private boat hire , or upgraded drink packages (beer, wine, sodas).
Depending on the option selected, tours include hotel pickup in Dubrovnik city area or transfers from a central meeting point.
The Blue Cave on Koločep is accessible only by boat. Swimming inside may require entering through a low natural opening, so be prepared for a bit of adventure.
Pack swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
The glow inside the Blue Cave is strongest around midday (11am–1 pm). So plan for a morning tour to catch the best view.
Note: This tour takes you to the Blue Cave on Koločep Island, which is different from the more famous Blue Cave on Biševo Island. Both are equally stunning, but it’s easy to mix them up.
Boat tour to Blue Cave, Green Caves & Sunj Beach, skipper onboard, snorkeling gear and optional upgrades
Optional round-trip hotel transfers in Dubrovnik city area
Short-stay visitors who want to experience Dubrovnik’s coastal highlights in just 4 hours
Unlimited drinks, drinks (white wine & beer), private speedboat tour, round-trip hotel transfers in Dubrovnik city area, high-end sound system for plug-in or bluetooth connection
Shared boat tour to Blue Cave, Green Cave & Elaphiti Islands, unlimited drinks, English & Croatian-speaking skipper, Snorkeling gear, use of Go Pro camera, life vests and optional upgrades
Shared boat tour with optional pickup from various locations in the Dubrovnik City area
Couples and friends looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation on the Adriatic.
Morning or evening departure, pickup from various locations in the Dubrovnik City area
Pristine landscapes, fragrant pine forests, and crystal-clear bays ideal for a refreshing swim. This is what awaits you on a Blue Cave tour from Dubrovnik.
The sunlight refracts through the water, then reflects off the cave’s white limestone floor, producing a magical blue glow that illuminates the entire cave interior.
Explore more along the way
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Green Caves
Most tours pair your Blue Cave visit with the nearby Green Cave. Here, the sunlight filters through a wide opening in the rock, turning the water a shimmering green. Highlights: Swim, snorkel, and capture stunning photos in luminous waters. Recommended duration: 30–40 minutes. Included in all tours!
Šunj Beach (Lopud Island)
One of the Adriatic’s few sandy beaches, Šunj is the highlight of Lopud Island. It's a perfect stop to unwind, swim, or soak up the laid-back island vibe. Highlights: Sunbathe, sip drinks at a beach bar, or stroll Lopud’s charming paths. Recommended duration: 45-60 minutes. Included in all tours!
Elaphiti Islands (Lopud & Šipan)
The tour takes you through the Elaphiti Archipelago that gives you a taste of the rich Dalmatian heritage. You'll see pine-covered hills, centuries-old monasteries, and quiet fishing villages. Highlights: Explore gardens, visit a medieval monastery, or walk through traditional island villages. Recommended duration: 30–60 minutes depending on stop. Tour included In: Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands Tour
Blue Cave tour from Dubrovnik itinerary
Morning: Start your adventure at the dock opposite Gruz Market, where you'll be boarding your boat. Along the way to Blue Cave, you'll cruise past Dubrovnik's stunning landmarks like the majestic Franjo Tuđman Bridge and the historic Grebeni Lighthouse standing guard over the Adriatic.
Midday: Arrive at the magnificent Blue Cave, where your boat anchors near the entrance. From here, you'll swim into the cave to see the blue glow. Next, you'll be headed to Kolocep's three Green Caves, where you'll see similar natural phenomenon that creates stunning emerald illumination.
Afternoon: Spend time in the Sunj Beach where you can either choose to relax or go around cliff jumping or swimming and snorkelling in turquoise waters. Post this, you'll be returning to Dubrovnik.
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Plan your visit to Blue Cave from Dubrovnik
Blue Cave, Green Caves & Sunj Beach Cruise with Drinks: The tour starts at 9.30am
Boat tour to Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands with Unlimited Drinks: Morning tour starts at 9:30am and afternoon tour starts at 1:45am
Note: The tour timings are subject to change depending on the option selected
Bring your own snorkel gear if you prefer a personal fit.
Swimwear and a towel for swimming and beach stops.
Sandals or flip-flops for walking on the beach.
Avoid carrying extra luggage or large bags on board.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the strong midday sun.
Carry a personal water bottle to stay hydrated, especially around midday when it gets really hot.
Morning light is the best: Visit the Blue Cave between 10am to 12pm for the best sunlight reflection and vibrant blue glow.
Waterproof your tech: Phones and cameras can get wet during swimming or cliff jumping; a small dry bag helps.
Dress for comfort: Lightweight clothes over swimwear work best. That way it's easy to get into the water and change back later.
Scenic sightseeing: Keep your camera ready while cruising past the Elaphiti Islands. Don’t miss landmarks like the Franjo Tuđman Bridge, Grebeni Lighthouse, and hidden bays along Dubrovnik’s coastline.
Consider upgrades for comfort: Opt for unlimited drinks, hotel pickup, or a private cruise to enhance your experience, especially if you prefer a more relaxed, hassle-free day on the water.
Modern speedboat with sunshade area and spacious seating for comfort.
High-end sound system with plug-in or Bluetooth connection for music.
Snorkeling gear and life jackets provided for safe swimming adventures.
Unlimited drinks (water, juices, beer, wine, soda) included as per your option.
Optional hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless start and end to your tour.
Frequently asked questions about Dubrovnik Blue Cave tours
Where is the Blue Cave near Dubrovnik located?
The Blue Cave is on Koločep Island, part of the Elafiti archipelago, about 30 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik.
Can you swim inside the Blue Cave?
Yes, unlike Biševo’s Blue Cave near Split, Dubrovnik’s Blue Cave allows swimming and snorkeling through its natural sea entrance.
How long do Dubrovnik Blue Cave tours last?
Most tours are 4 hours (half-day), though some full-day options last up to 6–8 hours with more time on the Elafiti Islands.
What other stops are included apart from the Blue Cave?
Tours often include the Green Caves on Koločep, Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, and parts of Šipan Island. Expect swimming, snorkeling, and free time to relax.
Are drinks and snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, tours mostly include unlimited drinks (beer, wine, water, soda) and snorkeling equipment. Some tours also provide a GoPro camera for use on board.
Swim through Dubrovnik’s Blue and Green Caves, explore hidden bays, relax on Sunj Beach with unlimited drinks.
Starting point: Meet at the dock next to the bus stop, across from Gruz Market in Dubrovnik
Everything you get: 4-hour guided boat tour, unlimited beer, local brandy, water, and juices, snorkeling gear, live commentary in English and Croatian, stops for swimming and cliff jumping, and free time at Sunj Beach. Optional hotel pickup and drop-off available.
Sights covered: Blue Cave and Three Green Caves (Koločep Island), Sunj Beach (Lopud), Franjo Tuđman Bridge, Grebeni Lighthouse, scenic Elaphiti archipelago.
Why choose this: Dive into crystal-clear caves, relax on the region’s only sandy beach, and enjoy unlimited drinks, all in one top-rated, small-group adventure.
Upgrades: Cruise with transfers, Cruise with unlimited drinks, or a Private Cruise with unlimited drinks for an exclusive experience.
Inclusions
Boat tour to Blue Cave, Green Caves & Sunj Beach
Guide
Snorkeling gear
Unlimited drinks (as per option selected)
Drinks (white wine & beer) (as per option selected)
Private speedboat tour (as per option selected)
Transfers from meeting point (as per option selected)
Round-trip hotel transfers in Dubrovnik city area (as per option selected)
High-end sound system for plug-in or bluetooth connection (as per option selected)
Sun shade area on the speed boat (as per option selected)
Luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard.
Your safety comes first, so visitors with back issues and pregnant people are restricted from participating in this experience.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
This activity requires basic swimming skills. You should be able to enter the water, resurface, control your breathing, float, turn, and swim to safety.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Explore the Elaphites Archipelago area with a visit to the Blue Cave and Green Cave on a boat tour with an English & Croatian-speaking skipper.
Enjoy unlimited self-service drinks onboard your modern speedboat equipped with life jackets, snorkeling gear and a high-end sound system.
Sprinkle a bit of adventure as you jump off cliffs into the turquoise waters and spend a relaxing time on the sandy beach of Sunj.
Swim or snorkel in the waters with the help of an instructor or visit the monasteries and botanical gardens found on Lopud Island.
Inclusions
4-hour shared boat tour
Professional English & Croatian-speaking skipper
Unlimited drinks (water, juices, beer, wine, soda drinks)
Snorkeling gear
Use of Go Pro camera
Life vests
High-end sound system for plug-in or Bluetooth connection
Sunshade area on the speed boat
Morning departure (optional)
Afternoon departure (optional)
Pickup from various locations in the Dubrovnik City area (optional)
Tip: Dubrovnik has some of the finest wineries that you’ll never find in any guidebook. You’ll find one in a town called Sudjaran on the island of Sipan, a tiny stone room hidden down an alley by the shore.
Smoking is not permitted on the boat.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Sightseeing Cruises
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Dubrovnik: Blue Cave, Green Caves & Sunj Beach Cruise with Drinks
Swim through Dubrovnik’s Blue and Green Caves, explore hidden bays, relax on Sunj Beach with unlimited drinks.
Starting point: Meet at the dock next to the bus stop, across from Gruz Market in Dubrovnik
Everything you get: 4-hour guided boat tour, unlimited beer, local brandy, water, and juices, snorkeling gear, live commentary in English and Croatian, stops for swimming and cliff jumping, and free time at Sunj Beach. Optional hotel pickup and drop-off available.
Sights covered: Blue Cave and Three Green Caves (Koločep Island), Sunj Beach (Lopud), Franjo Tuđman Bridge, Grebeni Lighthouse, scenic Elaphiti archipelago.
Why choose this: Dive into crystal-clear caves, relax on the region’s only sandy beach, and enjoy unlimited drinks, all in one top-rated, small-group adventure.
Upgrades: Cruise with transfers, Cruise with unlimited drinks, or a Private Cruise with unlimited drinks for an exclusive experience.