Dubrovnik is one of the most attractive yacht charter bases in the Adriatic, offering quick access to the Elafiti Islands, Mljet National Park and the iconic Dalmatian island chain. The surrounding sailing area combines sheltered bays, historic harbor towns and scenic open-water passages. With a well-planned itinerary you can explore multiple islands, beaches and charming coastal villages within just one week. The routes below help you decide whether a relaxed island-hopping cruise or a longer adventure across the Adriatic suits your crew best.
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- Which month is best for sailing in Dubrovnik?
- Ports in and around Dubrovnik
- Sail in Dubrovnik! Dubrovnik sailing tours & itineraries:
- Marine gas near Dubrovnik, boat gas stationss in (central and south) Dalmatia and Montenegro
Which month is best for sailing in Dubrovnik?
For sailing in the Dubrovnik region, the most rewarding period is usually from late May to early July, as well as September. During this part of the season, southern Adriatic conditions are already warm and inviting, with daytime temperatures mostly between 19 and 27 °C, while the sea gradually reaches around 19–23 °C by late spring and often stays near 24 °C in early autumn. For the yacht charter community, this is the sweet spot where long sunny days, friendly sea breezes and still-manageable traffic come together in exactly the way a Dubrovnik sailing holiday should feel.
Spring around Dubrovnik has a fresh, lightly awakening atmosphere that suits sailors especially well. In March and April, air temperatures are still brisk at around 12–18 °C, but by May they often rise to 19–24 °C, while the sea also begins to feel noticeably more inviting. There are many calm, bright days in this part of the season, and marinas and anchorages are far less crowded than in midsummer, so routes departing from Dubrovnik feel more spacious and relaxed. Spring can still be changeable in the southern Adriatic: bora may bring short, dry and suddenly stronger spells, while jugo can mean humid, overcast conditions. In return, the sea is often calm or only lightly rippled, and the coastline has that luminous, cinematic quality that makes shoulder-season sailing so memorable.
Summer is Dubrovnik’s classic charter high season. From June to August, daytime temperatures usually sit between 23 and 30 °C, with July and August averaging above 25 °C, while sea temperatures climb to a very pleasant 23–25 °C. This is the season when the maestral becomes a sailor’s best friend: in the southern Adriatic, this thermal wind usually starts building through the late morning and strengthens in the afternoon, delivering beautifully sailable conditions for passages between islands. On more open stretches, the sea can become moderately choppy later in the day, but it is generally predictable and enjoyable. This is also the busiest time on the water, however, and in July and August the marinas, popular bays and Dubrovnik-area ports are at their liveliest, so summer sailing here feels vibrant, social and unmistakably Mediterranean.
Autumn is, for many experienced crews, one of Dubrovnik’s finest sailing seasons. In September and early October, air temperatures still tend to range between 20 and 26 °C, while the sea often remains around 24 °C in September, making swimming, anchoring and relaxed cruising especially attractive. The summer crowds begin to ease, coastal towns regain a more natural rhythm, and the days are still long enough for unhurried island-hopping itineraries. At the same time, autumn in the southern Adriatic is more often influenced by jugo, which can bring longer humid spells and a rougher sea state, so open-water crossings call for a little more planning. On good days, though, autumn sailing around Dubrovnik feels warm, polished and wonderfully atmospheric.
Winter is no longer postcard-style charter weather, but a more serious and meteorologically dynamic sailing season. From December to February, average air temperatures are roughly 9–11 °C, while the sea generally stays around 14–16 °C. Weather systems pass through more frequently, and strong bora outbreaks, together with wetter jugo periods, can make sea conditions much more changeable and demanding, especially in exposed areas. Traffic on the water drops dramatically, marinas become quieter and Dubrovnik itself takes on a far calmer character. Winter sailing here is better suited to experienced crews who are looking less for swimming weather and more for the raw, authentic personality of the Adriatic.
Ports in and around Dubrovnik
ACI Marina Dubrovnik
This well-equipped marina is 3.2 nm from the old town of Dubrovnik. As you would expect, it is open all year round. It possesses 425 berths in the water and 140 on the land. There are water and electricity supply, exchange offices, restaurants, laundries, and shower rooms. It is also a marina. The berths can accept a maximum of 60 m long yachts. After visiting all the sights of Dubrovnik this marina can be an excellent starting point to visit the islands nearby. Charter a boat to Dubrovnik and set off to explore the most magical coastlines of Dubrovnik – leave the rest to the wind and sun.
Port of Dubrovnik
This port is located North-West 1.6 nm from the old town of Dubrovnik near Gruz. There are restaurants, cafés, gift shops, exchange offices, and banks nearby. You can even rent a car here. Furthermore, there are no restrictions on the size and length of yachts. The maximum depth of diving is 11 m. The water depth for anchoring is 42 m. rent a boat Dubrovnik
Koločep
Koločep ferry port lies 4.3 nm from Dubrovnik. You can drop your anchor here. The water depth is 2-7 m. The water bottom is sandy and full of seaweed.
Polače (Mljet)
Port of Polače can be found on the North-West part of the island of Mljet. The island lies near Dubrovnik, Korčula Island, and the Pelješac peninsula divided by the Mljet canal. Polače lies in the territory of the Mljet National park; it is, actually, an entrance of the park. You can find here a travel agency, food stores and a lot of diners. For getting ashore go to the North-West part of the bay. The water depth for berths is 3-4 m. Although by the Roman castle ruins it is only 2-3 m.
Lopud
Mostly local yachts stay in the port of Lopud. The water depth is 1.5-5 m. There are just a few temporary berths for shorter stays with a depth of 6.5 m. The huge traffic of yachts and ferries triggers strong seawater movements so check the tightness of your anchor. Moreover, it is important to keep a distance from the pier by casting an anchor.
Žuljana (Pelješac peninsula)
The pier is mostly occupied by local yachts. The permanent berths are between the pier and the beach. The depth of the water is 1-3.9 m. Watch out for strong summer winds.
ACI Marina Korčula
The town of Korčula is often called as the small Dubrovnik. The marina lies next to the historical town centre Korčula was, by the way, the birthplace of Marco Polo, the famous explorer and traveller. There is a magnificent view of the town surrounded by a more than a hundred-year-old stone wall.
There are 159 berths in the water and 16 on the land. You can also find exchange offices, diners, coffee shops, gift shops and food stores too. Moreover, you can purchase sailing accessories. You can buy tools for repairing and maintenance or rent the crane up to 10 tons. The petrol station is 500 m from the marina. Korcula sailing, rent a boat Korcula
Mali Ston
If your yacht is not deeper than 2 m, then you are welcome at the port of Mali Ston; even though locals have totally occupied the western quay of this tiny port. You can drop anchor by the pier beside the fortress. But the water depth is less than 1 metre here. Due to the strong southern wind, the water depth can quickly rise to 2 m. Many restaurants await hungry tourists by the port. The nearest supermarket is in Veli Ston in about 0.8 nm.
ACI Marina „Veljko Barbieri” Slano
The newest port of ACI Marina was named after Veljko Barbieri, the founder of the port network. The history of the town Slano goes back to ancient times. Nowadays owing to its cosy beaches it has become a favourite destination of tourists. The port possesses 193 berths. There are countless facilities ranging from exchange offices to swimming pools, restaurants or even self-service laundries. You can rent a car or a bicycle too. In case of technical failures do not hesitate to contact the yacht service. Above all, there is a Tesla charging point in the port of Slano. Slano sailing, rent a boat Slano, or rent a boat in Slano
Sail in Dubrovnik! Dubrovnik sailing tours & itineraries
HELP ME TO CHOOSEA complete one-week Dubrovnik sailing plan
This one-week itinerary focuses on the islands close to Dubrovnik, featuring short sailing legs and easily navigable waters. It’s perfect for relaxed cruising where you can discover a new bay or island every day. Recommended level: beginner Open sea passages: no
Day 1: Dubrovnik – Koločep island (4.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
This island with its size of 1.3 nm2 is about 2.7 nm from the Gruž port of Dubrovnik. This is the member of the Elafit island group, locals call it Kalamota. You can have a bath or go hiking here. Due to its fabulous surroundings and sandy shore, the Gornje Celo Beach is very popular.
A thick pinewood embraces the island of Koločep on the East and West. There are also many small coves. If you are keen on swimming, find the cave of Plava Splija which is only accessible in the water. A sheer adventure!
The island also provides active holiday programmes. For instance, you can choose from a lot of tourist paths for walking, hiking or cycling. Water sports lovers can try diving, surfing or kayaking. Or you can have a good time on the beach by playing volleyball or badminton in the sand.
Day 2: Koločep – Lopud island (3.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
The Franciscan Church of the island has recently been renovated. You can see here artistic works. Its most beautiful beach is on the South in Sunj bay. Here the water is very shallow and it deepens slowly making it an ideal bathing place for children.
Day 3: Lopud – Sipan (Sipanska Luka) (6.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
The local architecture of Sipan Island has a long history. The luxurious villas have preserved their original outlook. They create a special atmosphere of Sipan. The island possesses one new building dedicated to sailors: the port complex of 35 million Euros.
All in all, Sipan is a pleasant tranquil island far from the rushing working days. For gourmets, Sipanska Luka is highly recommended. The two famous restaurants are Kod Marka and Tauris.
Day 4: Sipan – Ston (9.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
The island of Ston is the gate of the Peljesac peninsula. The town has two parts. One of them is Mali Ston very close to the beach with restaurants offering crabs and oyster. You should definitely visit it. The town is also famous for the 3.2 nm long bulwark that protected the local salt mines. Ston is famous for its 2000-year old salt production. If you are passing by, visit a distillery.
Day 5: Ston – Žuljana (26.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 5 hours)
Žuljana lies on the southern part of the Peljesac peninsula. Locals deal with fishing, winery, olive oil production and of course tourism. It has become a popular tourist resort at the beginning of the 1920s. Its popularity has been continuously growing. Its beaches are either pebble-stoned or sandy. Children love bathing in the shallow clear seawater.
Day 6 -7: Žuljana – Mljet – Dubrovnik (22.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours)
Sailing towards West you will arrive at the island of Mljet which is 20.0 nm long and 1.6 nm wide. For a peaceful holiday come here and spend two days with bathing, hiking or kayaking. If you sail around the Polače bay it can happen that you will be pulled to the shore by a motorboat and you can buy your ticket there. Moreover, you will receive a map of the island automatically.
For hiking purposes, the Mljet island is an excellent destination. It is a real pleasure walking on the trails in the National Park or if you rent a bike, you can cycle in the neighbourhood. You can even watch the island from the water since kayaking is permitted. Bathing is also pleasant in the lakes; its water is warmer than the sea. After exploring the beauties of Mljet turn back to Dubrovnik on your last sailing day.
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
Dubrovnik sailing: 7 days sailing itinerary (longer version)
A classic 7-day sailing loop from Dubrovnik heading toward Mljet, Korčula and Hvar with longer daily distances and some exposed sections. It’s ideal if you want to experience several iconic Dalmatian islands within a single charter week. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: yes
Day 1: Dubrovnik – Mljet (Sobra) (22.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours)
Mljet is also called as the green island after its large forests in its National park. The island is also proud of its two lakes, one is them is a sweet water lake whereas the other is saltwater. You can easily reach the lakes from the towns of Pomena and Polače or the Gonoturska bay.
Day 2: Mljet – Vela Luka (Korcula island) (51.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 8 hours)
The small town of Vela Luka lies on the western part of the island in a deep wide bay. This is the port of boatmen as it is regarded as a secure anchoring point. Its green bushes and pine trees make it an excellent hiking place. The Vela cave is a real historical attraction. This archaeological site is on the southern slope of the Pinski Rat Mountain. Moreover, you can have a splendid view of the vicinity from the lookout tower of Hum town. There is also a small abandoned military fortress. For culinary experience book a table at the Adria or Poseidon restaurants.
Day 3: Korcula – Vis (Vis island) (24.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours)
Vis Island, though, can be found on the open sea. Its highest point is Hum, its centre lying in a big protected bay has the same name. The town of Vis is unique owing to its green palm trees. There are many pebbled or sandy beaches to choose from. One of the best beaches on the island is Vis Hawaii. This cosy beach is 3.2 nm from Vis in the Stoncica bay.
Day 4: Vis – Stari Grad (Hvar island) (21.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours)
Stari Grad stretches along the deep bay of the island of Hvar on North-West. The old farming method is still used on the lands of Stari Grad. It has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. There are vineyards, lavender fields and olive trees. The architecture of Stari Grad is also amazing. There are stone houses, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches along the shore. You can visit the permanent exhibition in the city museum displaying equipment from ancient shipwrecks. The Tvrdalj fortress is near the museum whose dovecot, fishing lake and garden make an integral part of the old town.
Day 5: Hvar – Orebic (49.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 8 hours)
Orebic lies on the Peljesac peninsula which is Croatia’s second-largest peninsula. It is mostly famous for its kilometre-long beaches. The most popular one is, by the way, Trstenica Beach. It is pebbly with quickly deepening water. Thanks to its favourable location if you arrive here at 4-5 pm, you will not face the hot sun. Scuba diving is a sheer pleasure here: you can marvel at diverse colourful fishes and octopuses. The local wine, dingac, is worth a try. It is one of the top 10 wines in the world.
Day 6: Orebic – Žuljana (13.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours)
High pine trees surround the pebbly beach of Žuljana. Here the sea is calm and warm. Due to its ideal and easy access and shallow water, it is a great choice for families with children. This beach is dedicated to people looking for a tranquil holiday avoiding the crowd.
Day 7: Žuljana – Lopud – Dubrovnik (35.0 nm – Sailing time*: about 6 hours)
This tiny green island with a size of 2.5 nm2 is the best destination for relaxation and hiking in an untouched area. The marina can be found on the North of Lopud. This is the starting point of your tour towards the island’s centre which has poor infrastructure. Here, the undisturbed nature awaits you.
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
Sailing in Dalmatia: 14 days sailing tour
This 14-day itinerary offers a deeper exploration of the Dalmatian coast, combining historic ports, national parks and beautiful island anchorages. It’s perfect if you have two weeks and want to cruise the region at a comfortable pace. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: yes
Day 1: Dubrovnik – Lopud (7.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 2: Lopud – Sobra (Mljet) (15.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 3: Sobra – Vela Luka (Korcula island) (51.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 8 hours), Day 4: Korcula – Vis (Vis island) (24.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours), Day 5: Vis – Rogoznica (31.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 5 hours), Day 6: Rogoznica – Zirje (16.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours), Day 7: Zirje – Murter (12.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 8: Murter – Pirovac (4.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour), Day 9: Pirovac – Tribunj (10.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 10: Tribunj – Krka waterfall (15.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 11: Krka – Primošten (19.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours), Day 12: Primošten – Stari Grad (38.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 6 hours), Day 13: Stari Grad – Lastovo (46.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 7.5 hours), Day 14: Lastovo – Saplunara (Mljet) – Dubrovnik (58.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 9 hours)
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
Sail from Dubrovnik: 14 days sailing trip – for experienced sailors
An adventurous two-week sailing route that crosses international waters and visits Italy and Montenegro along the Adriatic coast. With several long offshore legs and more complex navigation, it is best suited for experienced crews. Recommended level: advanced Open sea passages: yes
Day 1: Dubrovnik – Lopud (7.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 2: Lopud – Vieste (Italy) (91.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 14.5 hours), Day 3: Vieste – Manfredonia (22.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours), Day 4: Manfredonia – Barletta (25.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours), Day 5: Barletta – Molfetta (15.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 6: Molfetta – Bari (13.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 7: Bari – Bar (Montenegro) (115.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 18 hours), Day 8: Bar – Budva (15.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 9: Budva – Herceg Novi (19.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours), Day 10: Herceg Novi – Kotor (13.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 11: Kotor – Cavtat (35.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 5.5 hours), Day 12: Cavtat – Sobra (29.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 4.5 hours), Day 13: Sobra – Ston (14.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 14: Ston – Koločep – Dubrovnik (21.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours)
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
Read more about sailing from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, sail Dubrovnik to Split, or more Dalmatia sailing itineraries.
How to choose a Dubrovnik sailing route?
- If you prefer short sailing days and relaxed cruising: choose the 1-week island route around the Elafiti Islands.
- If you want to visit several famous Dalmatian islands in one week: the classic 7-day Dubrovnik itinerary is the best option.
- If you have more time to explore the Dalmatian coast: the 14-day sailing itinerary offers the most complete experience.
- If you are looking for a real offshore adventure: the advanced 14-day international route provides the greatest challenge.
Marine gas near Dubrovnik, boat gas stations
in (central and south) Dalmatia and Montenegro
Marine gas station near Dubrovnik
- DUBROVNIK, ACI Marina: Depth: 4m, Working time: 8-20, GPS Coordinates: 42.670687, 18.127007
- DUBROVNIK, Orsan: Depth: 3, 7 – 4, 9 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.660463, 18.079714
- SOBRA, MLJET: Depth: 5m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.740951, 17.598208
- LASTOVO: Depth: 2, 5 – 4, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.745218, 16.824718
- ACI Marina KORCULA: Depth: 3, 5m, GPS Coordinates: 42.956744, 17.138561
- VELA LUKA: Depth: 3-4 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.959407, 16.714213
- PLOCE: Depth: 10-12 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.057252, 17.428057
- MAKARSKA: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.293683, 17.019819
- VRBOSKA, HVAR: Depth: 2 m, Working time: 8-15, GPS Coordinates: 43.180978, 16.673233
- HVAR: Depth: 1, 8 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.170339, 16.444642
- MILNA, HVAR: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.327293, 16.448249
- VIS: Depth: 2, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.057443, 16.190497
- SOLTA: Depth: 4, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.395533, 16.303849
- SPLIT: Depth: 3, 5 – 4 m, Working time: 6-24, GPS Coordinates: 43.502079, 16.427268
- MARINA KASTELA: , VHF: 17, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.546155, 16.405204
- TROGIR: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 8-19, GPS Coordinates: 43.513687, 16.248574
- PRIMOSTEN: Depth: 3 – 4, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.587926, 15.92353
Marine gas station in Montenegro
- KOTOR: Depth: 8, 5 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 42.426348, 18.767266,
- TIVAT – Porto Montenegro: Depth: 12 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 42.433897, 18.691430
- HERCEG NOVI – Portonovi Marina: Depth: 20 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 42.433903, 18.603754
- BUDVA – Dukley Marina: Depth: 4 m, Working time: from May 1st through October 1st from 8-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.279906, 18.838321
- BAR – AD Marina: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 7-20, GPS Coordinates: 42.098617, 19.088010
Sailing in and around Dubrovnik is a real pleasure. This tiny island group hides countless natural beauties and adventures. Do not hesitate; visit all these small pearls of Dalmatia! Rent a boat with us! The most wanted Dubrovnik boat rentals:
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