Cruising Guide: Dubrovnik

By our travel expert ABBY

With this 7-day itinerary, discover the beauty of Dubrovnik and take in the enchanting surroundings.

Sailing Conditions

June to August are the warmest months in Southern Dalmatia. Enjoy a steady afternoon breeze from the northwest, averaging Force 3–5 dying down at night.

A Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 – Dubrovnik

Embarkation in Dubrovnik. Explore Croatia’s famous city, and take in the beautiful historic sites. Visit the distinctive Old Town that is encircled by massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. Pop a visit to the Bǔza Bar for a sun-downer before getting on the boat. Go provision shopping to prepare for your upcoming sail.

Day 2 – Dubrovnik to Slano (14.4nm)

The perfect place for a day in the sun, Slano is the last bay on the Dubrovnik Riviera, and perfect for relaxation. Wander down to the sea edge and swim straight off into the calm Adriatic, or look for some beautiful swim spots around the bay. Spend the day wandering the town, taking in all the numerous castle remains and an ancient Roman castrum on the Gradina hill or an early Christian sarcophagus, placed in front of the Franciscan church. For some regional culinary specialities, visit the restaurants of Grguric and Kolarin, as well as the Maestral tavern.

Day 3 – Slano to Polače, Mljet (23.5nm)

Polače is a village in the western part of the northern coast of the island of Mljet. This island has a sheltered bay, meaning it is a very popular anchorage among sailors. Spend the day exploring the village that has several ancient ruins dating from the 1st to the 6th centuries. The most significant being the 5th century Roman where the town derives its name from. Spend some time in the Mljet National Park, a densely forested area with bike and walking trails.

Day 4 – Polače, Mljet to Korčula (15.9nm)

With a history of exploits from Turks to Venetians, from French to Austrians, and from Partisan to German, Korčula is now a relaxing getaway. With one of the best-preserved mediaeval centres in the Adriatic, this town boasts historical gems to explore. The main street, Ulica Korčulanskog statuta, leads to St Mark’s Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Dalmatian church architecture and design, with Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque influences. Visit the Moro Beach Bar at the tiny Stupe in the Korčula archipelago for the lively beach bar with electronic beats and classic Dalmatian snacks. Swim in the astoundingly clear sea around the Stupe, and explore all the islets around it.

Day 5 – Korčula to Pomena (14.6nm)

Founded by the Govedjari people as a quaint fishing village, Pomena has gained some tourist attention in recent years. The small town offers a hotel, a couple of restaurants and coffee bars, a grocery store and souvenir shops. Enter the Mljet National Park again, this time to explore the Odysseus Cave said to be the cave where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus captive for seven years after becoming shipwrecked. Also in the Mljet National Park, wander 200m to Malo Jezero lake where you can catch the boat to the monastery on Sveta Marija Island, and explore the surroundings.

Day 6 – Pomena to Okuklje (16.7nm)

Situated on the northern shore of Mljet, the bay of Okuklje is a wonderful summer destination. Right as you enter the bay, visit the Restaurant Maestral, founded in 2004, for a unique gastronomical experience and to taste Croatian cuisine paired with famous Croatian wine from many different regions. It is described as the “perfect stop-point for gastro-lovers and for those who are not afraid to try something new and interesting.” Visit Okuklje Beach or Naturista beach for some sun.