Private tour to the island of Mljet and Odysseus cave

Discover the Private Mljet and Odysseus Cave Tour from Dubrovnik

This private tour to Mljet Island and Odysseus Cave offers a full-day adventure packed with natural beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxing beach stops. Priced at $358.48 per person, it provides a personalized experience with a dedicated skipper and use of snorkeling equipment, making it perfect for those seeking an intimate, flexible exploration of Croatia’s lushest island.

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with most bookings made about 38 days in advance. It includes several stops at Mljet’s most scenic spots—such as the Mljet National Park, the Odysseus Cave, and the beaches of Saplunara and Playa Limuni. While the tour offers excellent value with drinks included and optional extras like snorkeling gear and underwater photography, travelers should budget separately for park entrance fees and lunch.

This experience is especially suitable for travelers wanting a customized, scenic day on the water with clear opportunities for swimming and sightseeing. The tour’s private format ensures a comfortable pace, focused entirely on your group’s interests, making it a standout choice for those craving a tailored Croatian adventure.

Key Points

• Private 8-hour boat tour from Dubrovnik to Mljet Island and Odysseus Cave
• Most bookings occur 38 days in advance, ensuring availability for high-demand periods
• Includes stops at Mljet National Park, Odysseus Cave, Saplunara Beach, and Playa Limuni
• Snorkeling equipment, towels, and floaties are provided for water activities
• Drinks on board include water, beer, wine, and soft drinks, with optional extras like snorkeling gear and camera rentals
• Additional costs apply for park entrance tickets, lunch, and optional extras such as SUP paddles and drone filming

Experience the Scenic Beauty of Mljet National Park

The tour begins with a visit to Mljet National Park, one of Croatia’s oldest and most stunning protected areas, established in 1960. Covering a large part of the island, the park features Small and Large lakes, lush forests, and diverse flora and fauna. While the admission ticket is not included, the park’s unspoiled scenery and peaceful atmosphere make it a highlight of the day.

Guided by your skipper, you’ll learn about the park’s natural features, and the boat allows for easy exploration of the lakes and their surroundings. The area provides perfect opportunities for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing amidst nature. The park’s size and beauty are well worth the visit for those interested in Croatia’s natural landscapes.

Exploring the Odysseus Cave by Boat

A key highlight of this tour is the Odysseus Cave, a famous cavern on Mljet Island. The 20-minute stop at the cave is free of charge and offers a chance to see the natural rock formations and swim in the clear waters. The cave is known for its association with Homer’s legend of Odysseus, who supposedly used it as a hideout.

The accessibility by boat makes it easy to visit without the need for strenuous trekking, and the shallow waters around the cave are ideal for swimming. The guide provides insights into the myth and geology of this intriguing natural feature, adding a touch of legend to your day.

Relax at Saplunara Beach and Playa Limuni

After exploring the natural reserves and caves, the tour includes a two-hour stop at Saplunara, a peaceful beach destination. Here, you can unwind, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the tranquil setting.

Another stop is at Playa Limuni, located on the southeastern part of Mljet. This sandy beach is surrounded by pine forests and is known for its shallow, calm waters—ideal for leisurely swimming or simply soaking up the sun. Both beaches are free to access, providing perfect spots for relaxation and water-based fun.

Included Amenities and Optional Extras

The tour complements its scenic stops with drinks on board, including water, beer, wine, and soft drinks. You also get towels, snorkeling equipment, and floaties to enhance your water activities. The skipper is there to navigate and share local insights, ensuring a smooth experience.

Optional extras are available to customize the day further: SUP paddle boards for €20, a GO PRO camera for €20, and drone filming for €50. For those interested in deeper knowledge, a licensed tour guide can be added for €170. Keep in mind that fuel surcharge (€300) and park entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

Practical Details and Booking Information

This private tour is designed for groups, with only your party participating, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility. It departs from Dubrovnik and is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with water activities and walking. The tour is near public transportation, making access convenient.

Most travelers find it best to book at least 38 days in advance, especially during peak seasons. The experience is weather-dependent, with cancellations offered if poor weather conditions arise. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The personalized nature of this private boat trip, combined with visits to Mljet’s most scenic spots, appeals to those seeking a tailored outdoor experience. The combination of natural parks, caves, and beaches offers a well-rounded exploration of Mljet’s highlights.

The inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear enhances the day, allowing for comfortable swimming and water activities. The flexible itinerary means you can spend more time at your favorite stops or explore additional areas with the optional extras.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

Travelers who enjoy nature, water activities, and cultural legends will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s ideal if you prefer a private, intimate setting rather than a large group tour, and if you value customization and comfort. The tour suits those interested in beach relaxation, scenic boat rides, and exploring historic sites like the Odysseus Cave.

The tour is perfect for adventurous families, couples, or small groups who want a flexible and scenic day on Mljet, with the convenience of having a dedicated skipper and gear at their disposal. It’s a good choice for travelers looking to combine natural beauty with legendary stories and water fun.

Mixture of Natural and Cultural Highlights

This tour balances natural attractions like Mljet’s lakes and beaches with cultural points of interest such as the Roman ruins and the legendary Odysseus Cave. While the park entrance fee is extra, the guided explanations and scenic stops enrich the experience.

The delicious local cuisine is recommended for those who want to enhance the day with fresh seafood, octopus salad, black risotto, and grilled fish—though these are paid separately. The tour’s pace allows for plenty of swimming and relaxing time, making it a versatile option for many visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Mljet and Odysseus Cave Private Tour

This 8-hour private boat trip offers a well-rounded experience focused on scenic beauty, water activities, and cultural legends. The high rating of 5.0 from six reviews indicates consistent satisfaction, especially regarding the stunning scenery and personalized service.

While some costs like park entrance tickets and lunch are extra, the inclusion of snorkeling equipment, drinks, and a dedicated skipper adds significant value. The tour’s flexible and private format makes it a recommended choice for those seeking a relaxed, tailored day exploring Croatia’s lush Mljet Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the private boat trip, drinks on board, snorkeling equipment, towels, and floaties. Optional extras like cameras or paddle boards are available at additional costs.

How long is the tour and what stops are included?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and includes stops at Mljet National Park, Odysseus Cave, Saplunara Beach, and Playa Limuni.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, meals are not included. There is an opportunity to try local seafood separately at the beaches or nearby restaurants.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but participants should be comfortable with water activities and walking at the stops.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled within this window.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 38 days in advance, especially during busy seasons, to secure availability.

Can I customize the tour or add extras?
Yes, optional extras like SUP paddle boards, drone filming, or a licensed guide can be added for additional fees.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provider ToDo Dubrovnik, with contact details available for further queries.