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Dubrovnik to Blue Cave Tours

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Boat navigating through Blue Caves
























































Top things to do in Split

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

Boats in front of Dubrovnik's old town walls and historic buildings.
Aerial view of Kolocep Island coastline with boats in the Adriatic Sea, Croatia.
Person on a boat near Blue Cave, Dubrovnik, with rocky arch and clear water.
Guests enjoying drinks on a private sunset cruise in Dubrovnik.
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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.

Blue Cave tours from Dubrovnik explained

TourDuration Inclusions Transfers Best suited for Upgrades Starting from
Half-day tour from Dubrovnik

4 hours

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

€65
Tour with unlimited drinks

4 hours

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

€65
Set sail for the Elaphiti Islands

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.

Highlights of Blue Cave on Koločep Island

Sailboat near Dubrovnik coast with view of Elaphiti Islands and historic buildings.

Stunning blue light phenomenon

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.

Father and son giving thumbs up while snorkeling in clear ocean water.
Boat tour inside Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, Croatia, with blue light illuminating the water.

Explore more along the way

Visitors swimming and paddleboarding near the rocky entrance of Green Cave, Croatia.
Tourists relaxing on Sunj Beach, Lopud Island, Croatia, with clear blue waters and lush greenery in the background.
Historic church on Lopud Island, Elaphiti Islands, Croatia, with coastal view.
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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

Private boat approaching Blue Cave, Dubrovnik, with passengers enjoying the view.
  • 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
Snorkel gear hanging in a shop near the beach.
  • 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.
Franjo Tudman Bridge spanning over Dubrovnik's scenic coastline with boats in the Adriatic Sea.
  • 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.
Guests on a speedboat tour
  • 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.