Adventure at Sea: A Boat Trip Through Dubrovnik’s Island Gems

This isn’t just sightseeing – it’s a mix of adrenaline, nature, and local discovery. Whether you’re diving into the sea, exploring hidden coves, or just soaking in the sun with new friends, the sea safari is your ticket to Dubrovnik’s best-kept secrets. This is what our experience looked like!

Setting Off from Dubrovnik Old Town: The Adventure Begins

The day started at Dubrovnik’s Old Port, where the stone walls of the city rise like a fortress above the shimmering Adriatic. As you board the boat, you leave the busy streets behind and trade cobblestones for sea spray. The boat glides out past the iconic city walls, offering postcard-perfect views of Dubrovnik from the water – a perspective few travellers get to see and which we recommend.

Sea safari boat ready for adventure at Dubrovnik’s Old Port, just steps away from the city walls and minutes from hidden caves, cliffs, and island beaches

The fresh sea breeze set the tone for the day. As the city faded into the distance, we cruised along the coastline toward Koločep Island, locally known as Kalamota, where the real adventure began.

Snorkelling in Koločep’s Blue & Green Caves: Nature’s Hidden Wonders

Koločep is famous for its untouched coves and secret caves, and the Blue and Green Caves are the island’s crown jewels.

Snorkeling stop – exploring the crystal-clear waters and hidden caves

The Blue Cave

The first stop was the Blue Cave, where the sun’s rays hit the sea at just the right angle, creating a glowing, sapphire-blue world beneath the surface. Tourists from our boat slipped into the water and snorkelled through a narrow entrance, emerging into a natural grotto where the water seemed to shine from below. 

The Green Caves

After that, our boats headed to the Green Caves. Snorkelling in these caves is more than just a swim; it’s like entering a secret world, where the Adriatic reveals its quiet, magical side.They offer a true sense of discovery for those with an adventurous spirit. There are three different caves to explore here, each with its character. The first cave is perfect for a relaxed snorkelling, but the second leads you into complete darkness. This cave is pitch black inside, so if you’re curious enough to enter, you’ll need a flashlight or headlamp to illuminate the interior. For the bravest explorers, the third cave requires basic free-diving skills. Swimming under the rock arch, you’ll pop up in an enclosed lagoon-like area that feels like you’ve reached the secret heart of the island –  a truly unforgettable moment for any adventurer.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time cave explorer, the crew of the boat is always nearby, guiding you and sharing insights about the local marine life and geology.

Swimming and snorkelling at the Green Caves of Kalamota Island, where emerald waters meet dramatic cliffs

Šunj Beach on Lopud: Soft Sands & Chill Vibes

Leaving the caves behind, the sea safari heads toward Lopud Island for the next stop: relaxing at Šunj Beach after a morning of adventure.

After the adrenaline of cave snorkelling, the tour slowed down as we cruised toward Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, the perfect place to relax.  Šunj is one of the rare sandy beaches in the Dubrovnik region, famous for its soft sand and shallow, turquoise waters. It’s ideal for swimming at a relaxed pace, or simply floating in the calm sea. We found a laid-back beach bar where we grabbed a coffee and ate a pizza. We enjoyed the view while waiting for the departure. Here, you can kick back, dry off, and soak up the sun:  no rush, just island time at its best.

For those who are willing to explore the other side of the island, Lopud’s charming village, with its stone houses, galleries and peaceful Mediterranean vibe, is possible to go on foot there or take the “Lopud buggy”. Since Lopud is car-free, these electric carts are the island’s main form of motorised transport for visitors.

Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, a rare sandy beach near Dubrovnik, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a laid-back drink by the sea

Last Stop: Lokrum Island Cliffs

Next, we made our way to Lokrum, a lush, green island that felt like a secret escape,  yet it’s just a stone’s throw from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. While much of Game of Thrones was filmed in Dubrovnik’s Old Town – which served as King’s Landing), Lokrum itself was also used as a set.  As we approached Lokrum,  the cliffs came into view and we agreed that this was one of the island’s most exciting spots for those craving a little adrenaline. Even if you’re not jumping yourself, just watching is part of the adventure. Some chose to climb the rocks and take the leap, plunging into the deep, blue waters below. Others stayed on the boat or swam nearby, cheering with rakija on the brave jumpers.

Cliff-jumping stop at Lokrum Island-whether you’re jumping or just watching from the boat, this spot adds an adrenaline rush

The beauty of this stop is that it’s safe for all levels – whether you’re ready for a small jump or prefer to simply float and take in the view, the experience is yours to choose. Either way, the rush of watching someone leap from ancient cliffs into glassy waters is something you won’t forget.

A Relaxed Ride Back Towards Dubrovnik

We began the relaxed ride back toward Dubrovnik, letting the sea breeze cool us off after a half-day of sun and saltwater. This part of the journey is all about unwinding – sharing a drink, swapping stories with new friends, and soaking in the final moments of the adventure.

Relaxing on the return journey from the sea safari with fresh sea breeze, scenic views, and time to reflect on a day of adventure.

The boat cruises slowly along the coast, giving you a chance to see Dubrovnik from a different angle. The city walls, forts, and old harbour glowed in the late afternoon light, offering a whole new appreciation for the beauty of the Old Town from the sea. 

Coming back to Dubrovnik Old Town from sea safari: caves, cliffs and island beaches

Practical Information for a Boat Trip

For a day of swimming, snorkelling, and exploring Dubrovnik’s coastline, it’s best to come prepared. Make sure to bring your swimsuit, as you’ll be in and out of the water throughout the day, and don’t forget a towel to dry off between stops. The Adriatic sun is strong, even on cloudy days, so sunscreen is essential to keep you comfortable and protected.

If you have your snorkel gear, it’s a good idea to bring it along for the best fit, though some equipment may be provided. Water shoes are also recommended, especially for rocky areas, cave entrances, or when climbing in and out of the boat at cliff-jumping spots.

The sea safari lasts around five hours, but it’s designed to pack in as much adventure and relaxation as a full-day trip. You’ll return feeling like you’ve experienced the very best of Dubrovnik’s sea life in just half a day.

Next time you’re in Dubrovnik, don’t just admire the sea-jump in and explore it!