That bright turquoise light in the Blue Cave is the show. This speedboat trip mixes sea views, cave swims, and beach time into a very doable half-day.

I love that the boat part feels fun, not stiff: you get a steady flow of included drinks and snorkeling gear so you can jump in without extra planning. I also like the payoff at the end—Šunj Beach on Lopud is sandy, shallow, and easy to enjoy.

The only real catch is fit: the stops are active (swimming/snorkeling), and you need basic swimming skills. If you’re prone to seasickness or you have back issues, this may be the wrong kind of day on the water.

What makes this trip worth your time

• Dubrovnik’s city walls from the sea on the way out is instant wow.
• Blue Cave is accessed by swimming through a narrow entrance—bring a calm mindset for it.
• Three Green Caves gives you variety, from easy snorkel zones to a swim-through passage.
• Šunj Beach on Lopud is one long sandy stretch with water shallow far out.
• Drinks included throughout (beer, wine, soda, tea, water) keeps the day easygoing.
• Guides like Ivan, Rino, Dora, and Mario are repeatedly praised for making the ride lively.

Why the Blue Cave + Lopud Beach combo feels like real value

This tour is built for people who want a lot of Croatia in one afternoon, without the “rush, rush, rush” vibe. You start on the open water with those famous Dubrovnik views, then you transition into swimming and snorkeling where the scenery turns three-dimensional.

I also like the practical structure: short speedboat hops between stops keep you moving, but the cave and beach segments give you time to actually enjoy being there. It’s not just sightseeing from a seat. You’re in the water, you’re close to the rock, and you feel the change in the coastline fast.

Price-wise, $71 per person can feel high until you tally what’s included. You’re getting snorkeling equipment and multiple drinks, which matters on a day that can otherwise rack up small costs quickly.

Getting on the boat: Dubrovnik and the nearby coast stops

This tour runs from multiple departure options, including Dubrovnik Old Town port, plus pickup areas such as Cavtat, Mlini, and Srebreno. Meeting point can vary by which option you book, so I’d treat your meeting details as “check twice” information.

What you gain by this setup is flexibility. If you’re staying outside Old Town, you might avoid an extra scramble across Dubrovnik just to reach the pier. The drop-off is also split across the same general areas, so you’re not stuck backtracking after a fun day on the water.

The ride itself is by speedboat, so you’ll feel the motion right away. If you’re sensitive to waves, plan for it early rather than hoping the sea will behave.

The first magic moment: Dubrovnik’s walls from the water

Once you’re out on the Adriatic, Dubrovnik looks bigger, older, and more dramatic. From the sea, the medieval fortifications and red roofs sit above you like a postcard that somehow became real.

This part matters because it sets the tone. You’re not just traveling to caves. You’re traveling with views that explain why people come here in the first place.

You’ll also get that “moving panorama” effect. Instead of standing in one spot, you see the coastline unfold as the boat heads toward the islands.

Koločep Island quick hop: how the day shifts gears

Koločep Island is the first real turning point. The boat ride is short, and then the group focuses on water time—break, visit, and snorkeling/swimming around the cave area.

This is where small-group energy starts to make sense. With fewer people, you spend less time waiting for your turn and more time actually in the water. You also get a better chance to follow your crew’s timing, which is important when multiple boats are nearby.

If you’re the type who likes a clear plan, you’ll appreciate how the day is paced: hop, cave swim, hop, cave swim, then beach.

Blue Cave on Koločep: what the narrow entrance really takes

The Blue Cave is famous for a reason. The light turns turquoise, and the glow reflects in the water like the sea is lit from inside.

But here’s the part you should understand before you arrive: access involves swimming through a narrow entrance. That means you’re not just popping on a mask and floating around the edge. You’ll need to enter, breathe steadily, and keep your body moving with confidence.

Included snorkeling equipment (masks and snorkels) helps a lot, and the crew can manage the flow of swimmers. Lifejackets are available for safety, but they’re not a substitute for swimming ability—so think of it as backup, not a plan.

For the more adventurous, there can be cliff-jumping from surrounding rocks, depending on conditions. If that’s on your list, listen carefully to the captain first and only go when the entry and exit look safe to you.

Three Green Caves: easy snorkels plus one swim-through challenge

After Blue Cave, you shift to the Green Cave area on Koločep. This stop is built for different comfort levels.

You can expect two wider, more welcoming caves that are easier for snorkeling and relaxed swimming. Then there’s the third option: a narrower passage that lets swimmers move through the cave and exit on the other side. That swim-through is the moment that feels most like a real adventure and less like a “tour stop.”

In practice, this is also where you’ll want to manage your phone. One practical tip that pops up from real life: a phone case that works underwater can save you from regret later. If you don’t have one, consider leaving your main phone secured and using it for photos only when you’re back on the boat.

Also, cave visits can get busy in peak season. When there are multiple boats and lots of swimmers, keep your attention on your timing and on the space around you.

Šunj Beach on Lopud: the sandy reset you’ll feel in your legs

Then the day shifts again, and you get something calmer: time on Šunj Beach on Lopud Island. This is a one-kilometer stretch of fine white sand, and the water stays shallow for a long way—nearly 100 meters out.

That shallow shelf is a big deal. It makes the beach feel more swim-friendly and less like you suddenly need strong depth tolerance. You can walk in, cool off, float, and relax without the stress of sudden drops.

The boat anchors as close as possible for easy disembarkation. That saves energy, especially if you’ve been swimming and climbing in and out of the water for hours.

One extra bonus if you want a more “set up” beach moment: Šunj has beachfront bar service, and if you order there (blue umbrellas), you may receive a complimentary sunbed and umbrella. Many people do this as a reward after cave swimming.

A timing note matters here: Šunj bars and services begin operating in May. From November to April, the beach scene may be different, since your stop is adjusted to either Lopud village or Koločep village depending on the day and what’s open.

Drinks, music energy, and why the boat ride feels social

One of the most praised parts is how the crew keeps things moving and comfortable. Drinks are included throughout the trip: local beer, white wine, ice tea, cola, Fanta, and water.

This makes the day feel less like a strict activity schedule. It’s easier to settle in after your first swim, and it helps you stay refreshed during the beach break.

I also like the vibe element. Multiple guides are known for lively music on board, and on some days the return ride can turn into more of a party mood. It’s not everyone’s style, but most people seem to enjoy the atmosphere as part of the experience.

If you’re planning your own comfort, remember that this is a shared small group tour, not a private charter. You’ll have a mix of ages and swimming abilities on board, so go with patience and a good attitude.

Safety and fitness: who this day suits best

This trip is not for everyone. The requirement is basic swimming ability—being able to enter the water, resurface, float, turn, and swim to safety. Noodle floaters may be available as an alternative, but you still need to be comfortable in the water.

Lifejackets (PFDs) are provided for safety, yet they’re not a replacement for swimming. If you’re not sure how you’ll feel in a cave entrance or during a swim-through, this is the moment to be honest with yourself.

It also isn’t a good fit for people with back problems, wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or people over 80 years. If you’re prone to seasickness, plan for that too. Speedboats move, and the day includes multiple short boat rides.

Toilets are usually available at Šunj Beach on Lopud. Sometimes a speedboat with a toilet is available, so it’s worth asking the crew on the day.

Bring swimwear and a towel. That sounds basic, but on a day built around water time, it’s the difference between enjoying yourself and scrambling at the beach.

Price and logistics: $71 per person, and what makes it add up

At $71 for about 4 to 5 hours, this tour is priced like an experience, not a budget water taxi. The key reason it can still be good value is that you’re not paying extra for snorkeling equipment and you’re getting drinks included.

Also, the time allocation is tight. You spend real effort on the water and get multiple highlights in one run: Dubrovnik views, Blue Cave swimming, Green Cave variety, and then the long sandy beach break.

The tradeoff is simple: lunch isn’t included. If you want a full meal, plan to eat at Šunj or elsewhere after the tour. Since you’re already paying for drinks, it’s normal that food is separate.

Finally, the captain can change the order of stops for weather or sun position. That flexibility is a good thing, but it means you should be open-minded if the order shifts.

Who should book this tour (and who should skip it)

If you love swimming, snorkeling, and being out on the water, you’ll probably have a great day. This is especially a good choice for first-timers who want the big Dubrovnik visuals plus island time without committing to an all-day excursion.

It also suits groups of friends who want fun energy. The crew guidance, the drinks, and the lively music approach make it easy to socialize while still having structured stops.

Skip it if you’re worried about motion sickness, you’re not a confident swimmer, you need accessible infrastructure, or your body doesn’t do well with active water activities. This day is about moving through water, not just looking.

Should you book the Blue Cave, Sunj Beach Speed Boat Tour?

I think you should book it if your ideal Dubrovnik day includes sea views, cave swimming, and a proper beach reset at the end. At $71, it’s a strong deal when you factor in snorkeling gear and the included drinks.

You should hold off if swimming in caves feels stressful or if seasickness is a frequent issue for you. Since the tour does require water comfort, the best decision is the one that matches your comfort level, not your wishful thinking.

If you do book, bring swimwear and a towel, listen closely to the crew at the cave entrances, and give yourself time to relax on Šunj. That last sandy stretch is what makes the whole trip feel complete.

FAQ

How long is the Blue Cave, Sunj Beach Speed Boat Tour?

It runs for about 4 to 5 hours, depending on the day and starting time.

Where does the tour depart from?

You can depart from several options along the Dubrovnik coast, including the Dubrovnik Old Town port area, plus Cavtat, Mlini, and Srebreno. The exact meeting point can vary based on the option you choose.

What caves and beach stops are included?

You visit Blue Cave (on Koločep), also stop at the Three Green Caves (on Koločep), and you get free time on Šunj Beach on Lopud.

Are snorkeling masks and snorkels included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you’ll use masks and snorkels during cave swimming stops.

What drinks are included?

Local beer, white wine, ice tea, cola, Fanta, and water are included.

Is lunch included?

No lunch is not included.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

The tour requires basic swimming skills, including the ability to enter the water, resurface, float, and swim to safety. Noodle floaters may be available, but lifejackets are not a replacement for swimming ability.

What if the weather is bad?

The captain can change the itinerary if needed due to conditions like bad weather or sun position.

Are bathrooms available?

Toilets are usually available at Šunj Beach on Lopud, but sometimes a speedboat with a toilet is available. It’s best to ask the crew on the day.

When is Šunj Beach bar service open?

Šunj Beach bars and services begin operating in May. From November to April, the beach stop is adjusted to other locations like Lopud village or Koločep village depending on what’s open.