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Most popular locations for boat tours in Dubrovnik

In this article we will make a summary of the best locations for boat tours in Dubrovnik.

Boat tours are one of the easiest ways to experience the coastline around Dubrovnik. Many travellers use them to escape the summer crowds, swim in cleaner water, and explore nearby islands that can’t be reached by foot.

Some tours last an hour or two, while others cover several islands in one day. The most visited places tend to be close by, with simple logistics. You can choose between short tours (around 2h), half-day tours (4-6 hours) and full-day tours.

This guide covers the most popular stops, what makes each location worth visiting, and what to expect on board.

Popular choices for boat tours in Dubrovnik are:

  • Boat tour to Lokrum
  • Blue Cave boat tour
  • Dubrovnik panorama tour (panoramic sightseeing of Dubrovnik)
  • Sunset panoramic tours
  • Elaphiti Islands tour
  • Pelješac & Ston with Oyster tasting
  • Tour to Mljet Island by boat
  • Tour to Korčula Island by boat

In this article, we will mention some of the options from the list.

Lokrum Island: quick getaway from the city with dramatic cliffs and calm waters

If you are wondering what that island is over there while you walk down the old town in Dubrovnik, the answer is Lokrum. Lokrum is a green oasis and very popular for short boat trips.

Lokrum is the closest island to Dubrovnik, located just 600 meters from the Old Town port. It’s easy to spot from the city walls, but it still feels like a real escape once you get close. Boat tours often include a slow ride around the island to show the cliffs on the southern side, which are home to nesting birds and dramatic rock formations.

Lokrum’s botanical garden is one of the best-kept secrets in Dubrovnik.

The island is protected as a nature reserve, so there’s no commercial development. From the sea, you can see the remains of a Benedictine monastery, the botanical garden, and a small saltwater lake locals call the Dead Sea. Most tours don’t land here, but a quick loop around Lokrum is often included in short panoramic cruises or sunset rides. It’s a good choice for people who want a scenic route without spending a full day at sea. 

Our zipline guests have a chance to see Lokrum from the air while sliding down the zip.

Photo: View on Lokrum Island from our zipline

Elaphiti Islands: full-day tours with beach stops, local food, and island time

The Elaphiti Islands are the most popular destination for organized boat tours from Dubrovnik. This group of islands northwest of the city includes Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. They’re relatively close to each other, making it easy to visit all three in a single day. Most tours depart between 9:00 and 10:00 in the morning and return before dinner.

• Koločep is the first stop on most itineraries. It’s known for blue-green water, caves accessible only by boat, and quiet swimming spots.

• Lopud is where many tours take a longer break. It has one of the rare sandy beaches in the area, called Šunj. Some boats dock on the opposite side of the island and offer a short walk to the beach.

• Šipan is the biggest of the three but still very quiet. The harbor has a few restaurants and cafes where you can grab a drink or try seafood, depending on the tour plan.

Most of these full-day tours include lunch on board, a few drinks, and enough free time at each stop to swim or explore on foot. If you want a low-effort day outside the city with a mix of nature and local atmosphere, this route is a reliable option. A trip to Elaphiti is a great options for both: having a group acitivities in Dubrovnik or having a family-friendly activities in Dubrovnik.

Available options: half-day tours, full-day tours.

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Blue Cave on Koločep: short but spectacular stop for swimming and snorkeling

The Blue Cave is located on the outer side of Koločep Island and is one of the most photographed sea spots near Dubrovnik. It’s only accessible by small boat or swimming in from the open sea. The cave gets its name from the way sunlight reflects off the white seabed, creating a glowing blue effect inside.

Many speedboat tours include a stop at the Blue Cave, along with other hidden coves nearby. These tours usually last 3 to 4 hours and combine fast travel with time in the water. Some also include cliff jumping spots or snorkeling equipment.

Because the cave can only be visited in calm sea conditions, this is considered a weather-dependent activity. If you’re looking for something active but still easy to join without preparation, Blue Cave tours are a popular half-day choice.

Mljet National Park: full-day adventure for travelers who enjoy hiking and nature

Mljet is further away than the other spots on this list, but it’s a strong choice for travellers who want more than just a boat ride. The western part of the island is protected as a national park, with two large saltwater lakes, forest trails, and a small monastery on a tiny island in the middle of one lake.

Tours to Mljet typically use speedboats and take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the island. Once there, you’ll have time to walk, rent a bike or kayak, and explore the park at your own pace. Some tours also include park entrance in the price, while others charge it separately.

This option is best for people who don’t mind a longer travel time and want a mix of sea and land activities in one day. It’s also one of the best ways to experience Croatian national parks if you’re staying only in Dubrovnik. Mljet is the top trending Croatian destination in 2025.

Korčula Island: long-distance day trip with strong historical appeal

Korčula is one of the furthest destinations offered as a day trip from Dubrovnik by boat, but it’s still a popular choice among travelers who want a mix of culture, history, and coastline. The ride usually takes 2 to 2.5 hours by speedboat, depending on weather and departure point. It’s a longer journey, but the time spent on land makes it worthwhile. Boat tour to Korčula is one of the best options for day trips from Dubrovnik.

The town of Korčula is often compared to a mini version of Dubrovnik. It has a compact medieval center, stone streets, fortified towers, and a long seafront promenade. The island is also widely known as the supposed birthplace of Marco Polo, and some tours include a stop at the small museum dedicated to his legacy.

Visitors usually get 3 to 4 hours to explore the town, try local food, or swim nearby. This tour is less focused on swimming and more on sightseeing, so it appeals to travelers interested in architecture, wine, or cultural landmarks.

Let’s not forget about Ston Island and Oyster tasting

Some tours combine Korčula with a stop at the Pelješac peninsula for wine tasting or lunch in a traditional konoba.

Because of the distance and fuel cost, these tours tend to be slightly more expensive than local island options. Still, for those who want to see more of southern Dalmatia beyond the Dubrovnik area, Korčula is a solid option.

Get to know Croatia coastline - Korčula
Photo: Korčula Island

Private boat tours: customized routes for families, groups, or special occasions

If you’re traveling with a group or want to control the schedule, private boat tours are a flexible option. Most companies in Dubrovnik offer private versions of their standard tours, with or without a skipper. This allows you to choose how long to stay at each location, which route to follow, and whether to include extras like drinks, lunch, or snorkeling gear.

Private tours can feel more relaxed, especially if you want to avoid crowded boats or keep kids comfortable. Prices vary based on boat size and season, but for groups of 4 or more, it’s often close in price to shared tours. We’d say that the starting price for private boat tours in Dubrovnik is around 400€.

This setup also works well for proposals, birthdays, or any reason to enjoy a day on the sea without a strict itinerary.

Most popular locations for boat tours in Dubrovnik
Photo: Boat tours in Dubrovnik are very popular

What to know before booking a boat tour in Dubrovnik

  • Morning tours usually offer calmer seas and clearer views
  • Not all boats have shaded areas, so ask if sun cover is important to you
  • Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen—most tours stop for a swim
  • Drinks and food are sometimes included, but not always—check in advance
  • Some islands don’t have card payment options, so bring a small amount of cash
  • July and August tours sell out quickly—book early if you're visiting in peak season

Boat tours in Dubrovnik offer something for everyone

Boat tours are a simple way to enjoy the Adriatic without too much planning. They offer a break from walking and sightseeing and give access to places that can’t be reached any other way. Each route has its own atmosphere—some quiet and relaxed, others active and packed with swim stops. 

If you’re already planning to spend a full day out, the Elaphiti Islands or Mljet are strong choices. For shorter breaks, a Lokrum loop or Blue Cave cruise might be all you need.