Blue Cave is the main act, and you get sand time too. This speedboat tour strings together cave swimming and the famous Šunj shoreline with big views of Dubrovnik from the sea.

I especially like two things: the drinks included (beer, white wine, ice tea, cola, Fanta, and water) and the fact that snorkeling gear comes with the tour. You’ll also get plenty of time in the water, not just a quick stop, which makes the afternoon feel worth it.

One thing to consider: it’s not for everyone. If you’re prone to seasickness, have back problems, can’t swim well, or need wheelchair access, this route is usually a mismatch.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Blue Cave entry that’s swim-through, not just look-at-it: you access it through a narrow opening in the sea.
• Two Koločep cave styles: easier snorkeling caves plus one narrow passage for the more adventurous.
• Šunj Beach is shallow for a long way out: you can anchor close, then wade or swim comfortably.
• Included snorkeling kit: masks and snorkels are provided, plus lifejackets and noodle floaters are available.
• City walls views from the water: you’ll see Dubrovnik’s fortifications before you even change into swimwear.
• On-boat fun that’s actually mentioned often: music, friendly crews, and drinks are a recurring theme.

Why this speedboat combo makes sense from Dubrovnik and Cavtat

This is a classic “Croatia in motion” outing: a fast ride between islands, then real time swimming where the water is clear and interesting. The value is that you get multiple natural stops in a short window, plus the option to relax on sand at the end.

The tour runs from Dubrovnik Old Town port, Cavtat, Mlini, and Srebreno, depending on your booking. That flexibility matters because it can save you travel time before you even step on the boat.

You should also know the captain can swap the cave order if weather or sun position changes. In practice, that means you’ll still hit the big cave experiences, but the sequence might flip.

Dubrovnik city walls from the water, before the wetsuit even comes out

One of my favorite parts of this kind of trip is the “arrive by sea” view, and Dubrovnik delivers. From the water, the medieval walls and red rooftops of Old Town rise right out of the Adriatic, so you get a big, dramatic perspective.

That matters because it turns the tour from a simple swim day into a coastal sighting session too. Even if caves are your goal, this is the first taste of why the area is so famous.

If you’re sensitive to motion, keep in mind the boat is a speedboat, and the ride can feel lively. You’ll want to hold steady during bumpy stretches, especially after drinks have started making the waves feel more entertaining.

Koločep Island and the Blue Cave: turquoise light and narrow-entry swimming

Blue Cave is the reason most people sign up, and the mechanics are part of the thrill. You reach it on Koločep, and access is by swimming through its narrow entrance, so you’re not just standing outside looking in.

Inside, the cave glow comes from turquoise light reflecting off the sea. The effect is the whole point, and it’s why this stop feels different from most “caves with stairs” experiences.

Here’s the practical side: the first entry can involve waves, depending on the day. One rider noted the waves were quite strong at the first cave, so you’ll want to follow the crew’s timing and be ready for a bit of push and pull as you enter.

What I recommend for a smoother Blue Cave moment:

• Wear swimwear you can move in easily.
• Keep your snorkel mask secured before you head in.
• If you’re newer to open-water swimming, practice controlled breathing before the cave entry.

Three Green Caves: easy snorkeling, plus a narrow passage for brave swimmers

After Blue Cave, you head back out for a second Koločep cave block, often with multiple cave options. This is where the tour becomes more “choose your comfort level,” which I appreciate.

Two of the Green Caves are wider and welcoming, so snorkeling and floating feel more straightforward. Then there’s the third cave, the one that’s narrower, with a passage that swimmers can go through and exit on the other side.

That third option is exciting because it’s not just a static view. You move through the space, and that changes the whole experience from sightseeing to a real swim event.

For safety and comfort, the tour includes lifejackets and noodle floaters. They’re there to help, but lifejackets are not a substitute for swimming ability. You’ll still want basic skills like being able to enter the water, resurface, float, turn, and swim to safety.

Šunj Beach on Lopud: the sandy payoff and the shallow-water anchoring

The final stop is Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, known for its long stretch of fine white sand and shallow turquoise water. The tour’s plan anchors the speedboat as close as possible so it’s easy to disembark.

The detail that makes Šunj especially relaxing is the water depth out to about 100 meters. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, you can usually enjoy a float-and-wade style break without feeling like you’re far from safety.

Time on shore is generous for a half-day tour, about 1.5 hours. That’s enough for sun time, a full swim break, and a snack or drink at the bars.

Two timing notes to keep you comfortable:

• Šunj beach services begin operating in May. If you’re going outside that window, you might not get the same bar setup.
• From November to April, the stop is adjusted to either Lopud village or Koločep village depending on which places have open cafés, restaurants, and shops.

The sunbed and umbrella trick

On the beach, bars with blue umbrellas may offer a simple deal: buy a drink, and you may get a complimentary sunbed and umbrella. If you want that comfort, it’s worth ordering something at the beachfront bar once you’re settled.

Also, if you care about photos, grab an underwater phone case. One rider specifically suggested one for cave photos, and it’s a smart move because water shots are the whole point here.

Drinks, snorkeling gear, and the on-boat vibe that keeps it fun

This is where the tour earns a lot of repeat praise. Snacks aren’t the highlight, but the included drinks are. You get local beer, white wine, ice tea, cola, Fanta, and water, and many guides keep the drinks coming throughout the day.

It’s not a subtle part of the experience. People mention that the boat can turn into a party atmosphere on the ride back, with music playing while you bounce on the waves. One review even called out a disco-like vibe, so if you like an upbeat day, this fits.

Good to know about the snorkeling setup:

• Snorkeling equipment is included (masks and snorkels).
• You’ll also find lifejackets and noodle floaters available.
• Toilets are usually available only at Šunj on Lopud, though sometimes the boat may have a toilet, so it’s smart to ask the crew.

Snorkeling gear included is a big deal because it removes one logistics headache. You can show up with swimwear and towel only, and you’re ready to get in the water when it’s time.

Who you might get as your guide

Different departures can have different crew. From the names shared in feedback, you might meet guides like Ivan, Mario, Rino, Dora, Marco, Leo, or Tommy, and skippers like Peter or Luka. Across these names, a recurring theme is friendly hosting, music choices, and practical help with the day’s swims.

That means you’re not just buying access to caves, you’re buying into a crew who manages timing, drinks, and safety on a moving schedule.

Timing, pacing, and what your half-day will actually feel like

The tour runs about 4 to 5 hours total, so it doesn’t drag. It also keeps a steady rhythm: speed between stops, then a swim-and-snorkel window, then another ride.

A typical flow looks like this:

• A speedboat ride to reach the cave area
• Short guided swim time for Blue Cave
• Another quick transfer to the Green Caves
• Then the beach break at Šunj with about 1.5 hours on shore
• A return cruise along the coast, with a pass-by of Dubrovnik’s Old Port on the way back

Keep in mind the cave stops can be busy in peak season. One rider noted the Blue Cave area can get congested with other boats and swimmers, so the key is mental prep. You’ll want to listen to the crew, wait for your turn, and avoid trying to force extra time in the water if it gets crowded.

Price and value: why $71 can feel fair for what you get

At about $71 per person, you’re paying for speedboat transport, access to two cave swim stops, snorkeling gear, and a full set of drinks. You’re also getting a proper beach break at the end, not just a quick splash.

Lunch is not included. That’s the one clear cost you might add, especially if you arrive hungry or want a proper meal rather than snacks. Still, drinks are covered, which is a major part of the day’s spending for many people in Dubrovnik.

If you like your days packed with water time and views, this pricing often makes sense because you’re not paying separately for boat transfers or hiring snorkeling gear. If you’re looking for a quiet nature walk and minimal water time, you might feel this is a louder, more active day.

Who should book it, and who should skip it

This tour suits you if:

• You can swim and feel comfortable entering and resurfacing in open water.
• You want an active half-day with snorkeling and cave swimming, plus a beach finish.
• You enjoy an upbeat atmosphere with music and lots of drinks.

It’s usually not a fit if:

• You have back problems.
• You need wheelchair access.
• You’re a non-swimmer.
• You’re prone to seasickness (speedboat rides can be rough).
• You’re over 80 years old.

If you’re uncertain about swimming confidence, noodle floaters are available, but that doesn’t change the basic requirement. You still need the core ability to return to safety on your own.

Should you book this Blue Cave and Šunj Beach speedboat tour?

I think you should book if you want the best combination of Croatia’s water wow and easy sun time in one trip, especially if you care about actually swimming in the caves and not just staring at them. The included snorkeling kit and the drink set make it good value for a short day, and the Dubrovnik city wall views from the sea are a strong bonus.

Skip it if your plan is mostly about calm, land-based sightseeing, or if you’re likely to struggle with boat motion or open-water confidence. In that case, caves can quickly turn stressful instead of fun.

If you’re in the middle, here’s my practical call: bring a towel and swimwear, think about an underwater phone case for cave photos, and listen carefully when the crew explains entry timing at Blue Cave. Do those basics, and this tour turns into exactly the kind of half-day you’ll remember.

FAQ

Where are the meeting points?

The meeting point can vary depending on the option you book. The tour lists three starting locations including Porat Dubrovnik, H6J8+RJ, and J6C4+Q4.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 4 to 5 hours.

What’s included in the price?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with local beer, white wine, ice tea, cola, Fanta, and water.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Basic swimming skills are required. You should be able to enter the water, resurface, float, turn, and swim to safety.

Is there snorkeling gear and are float options available?

Snorkeling equipment is included (masks and snorkels). Lifejackets (PFDs) are always available, and noodle floaters are also available as a better alternative.

Are toilets available during the tour?

Toilets are usually only available at sandy beach Šunj on Lopud island. Sometimes a speedboat with a toilet is available, so it’s best to ask the crew.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The captain has the right to change the itinerary in case of bad weather, including changing the order of cave stops depending on conditions.

Are Šunj beach services available year-round?

Šunj Beach bars and services begin operating in May. From November to April, the beach stop is adjusted to either Lopud village or Koločep village based on what is open.

What are the driver or guide languages?

The driver operates in English, Croatian, Bosnian, and Serbian.