Sailing Dubrovnik: The Crown Jewel of Croatia’s Coast
Dubrovnik is the undisputed gem of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, a breathtaking mix of medieval charm, sun-kissed beaches, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts centuries-old stone walls, picturesque harbors, and a lively Mediterranean atmosphere. Whether you're wandering its historic Old Town, indulging in world-class seafood, or exploring the nearby islands, Dubrovnik is the ultimate destination for a coastal escape. While Croatian is the official language, English is widely spoken, making it easy for travelers to navigate this stunning region.
How to Get There
Dubrovnik is well-connected to international destinations, making it an easy-to-reach starting point for your Croatian sailing adventure.
By Air: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is located about 20 km from the city center, with direct flights from major European cities, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Rome.
By Road: If you're already in Croatia, you can take a scenic coastal drive from Split (about 3.5 hours) or Zagreb (around 6 hours). Buses also run frequently along the coast.
By Sea: Dubrovnik is a major stop for Mediterranean cruises and ferry routes, connecting to Italian ports like Bari and Ancona.
Coastal Attractions & Activities
A sailing trip along Dubrovnik’s coastline offers access to stunning beaches, charming islands, and vibrant cultural hotspots. Here are some must-see locations:
Lokrum Island – Just 10 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik, this lush island is home to hidden beaches, the Benedictine Monastery, and peacocks roaming freely.
Elafiti Islands – A small archipelago perfect for island-hopping. Highlights include the sandy beaches of Lopud, the car-free tranquility of Koločep, and the historic charm of Šipan.
Mljet National Park – A paradise of lush forests and saltwater lakes, ideal for kayaking, hiking, and exploring the stunning Benedictine Monastery on St. Mary’s Island.
Cavtat – A quieter, more relaxed alternative to Dubrovnik, with scenic promenades, waterfront dining, and a rich history.
Ston – Famous for its impressive medieval walls and delicious oysters, Ston is a must-visit for food lovers.
Korčula Island – Often called "Little Dubrovnik," Korčula features a charming Old Town, world-class wineries, and crystal-clear waters.
Sveti Jakov Beach – A secluded beach just outside Dubrovnik with stunning views of the city walls.
Blue Cave on Koločep – Snorkel through this luminous cave and experience the surreal blue glow of the Adriatic.
Bowa Restaurant – A high-end dining experience on Šipan Island, serving locally sourced seafood in an overwater bungalow setting.
Trsteno Arboretum – A historic garden overlooking the sea, famous for being a Game of Thrones filming location.
Suggested Itinerary (1-Week Sailing Route)
Day 1: Dubrovnik to Lopud (12 NM) Start your journey with a short sail to Lopud, home to the stunning Šunj Beach.
Day 2: Lopud to Šipan (15 NM) Explore Šipan's picturesque harbors, medieval churches, and family-run wineries.
Day 3: Šipan to Mljet National Park (18 NM) Spend the day hiking, kayaking, or swimming in Mljet's famous saltwater lakes.
Day 4: Mljet to Korčula (20 NM) Wander through Korčula's charming Old Town and enjoy an evening of local wine and seafood.
Day 5: Korčula to Ston (22 NM) Visit Ston’s historic walls and feast on the freshest oysters in Croatia.
Day 6: Ston to Cavtat (25 NM) Enjoy the laid-back vibe of Cavtat, with waterfront cafes and scenic promenades.
Day 7: Cavtat to Dubrovnik (10 NM) Return to Dubrovnik for a final night exploring the city's ancient walls and lively nightlife.
Best Time to Visit
Dubrovnik enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination.
High Season (June-August): Expect warm weather, lively crowds, and buzzing nightlife.
Shoulder Season (May & September-October): Perfect for sailing, with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation costs.
Low Season (November-April): Quiet and peaceful, but some restaurants and attractions may be closed.
Why a Sailing Vacation is the Best Way to Explore the Coast
Many travelers book hotels, resorts, or villas in Dubrovnik, but staying on a yacht offers an entirely different experience—often for a lower cost, especially when traveling in a group.
Hotels & Villas: While Dubrovnik has luxurious accommodations like Hotel Excelsior and Villa Dubrovnik, they come with a hefty price tag, especially during peak season.
Sailing vs. Traditional Stays: A yacht provides the freedom to explore multiple destinations, avoid the tourist crowds, and wake up to a different breathtaking view every morning.
Group Savings: A private yacht charter split among friends or family can be more cost-effective than multiple hotel rooms.
Ultimate Privacy & Flexibility: No need to follow hotel schedules—you decide when and where to go!
Recommended Sailing Experience
Dubrovnik's sailing conditions are ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors.
Winds: The summer Maestral wind is mild (10-20 knots), making navigation easy.
Challenges: Some areas can have strong Bura winds, so checking weather forecasts is essential.
Bareboat vs. Skippered Charter: If you're not experienced, hiring a skipper is a great option to ensure a stress-free journey.
Conclusion
Sailing around Dubrovnik is the ultimate way to experience Croatia's breathtaking coastline, charming islands, and historic landmarks. Whether you're looking for hidden beaches, world-class dining, or medieval charm, this adventure has it all. Why settle for a hotel when you can wake up to the gentle sound of waves in a new paradise every day?
Let Sail.Wind.Sea take care of your dream sailing holiday—we'll match you with the perfect yacht, crew, and itinerary for an unforgettable Adriatic adventure. Get in touch now to start planning your vacation!