Are you planning a sailing trip in Dubrovnik? We help with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. We are happy to help! Dubrovnik is an excellent starting-off point for a sailing cruise. There are numerous attractions and programmes in the city. Therefore, it is not a coincidence why it is called the pearl of the Adriatic. If you are on the deck, why would you skip the islands as wonderful attractions of your cruise nearby? Let’s see the best ports and islands in Dubrovnik and its vicinity. 
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- When is the best cruising time in Dubrovnik?
- Ports in and around Dubrovnik
- Sail in Dubrovnik! Dubrovnik sailing tours & itineraries:
- A complete one-week Dubrovnik sailing plan
- Dubrovnik sailing: 7 days sailing itinerary (longer version)
- Sailing in Dalmatia: 14 days sailing tour
- Sail from Dubrovnik: 14 days sailing trip – for experienced sailors
- Marine gas near Dubrovnik, boat gas stationss in (central and south) Dalmatia and Montenegro
When is the best cruising time in Dubrovnik?
The dominant weather in Dubrovnik and around the islands is the Mediterranean. The temperature turns for better from May. At this time the average temperature is well above 20°C. The water’s temperature is much colder, around 19°C, although the braver ones can dive into it. The temperature can even reach 30°C in the hottest month of the summer, in July and August.
The North-West mistral determines the wind direction in the summer. It is not just pleasant for visitors, but sailors as well thanks to its predictability and continuity. It is worth starting your cruise around noon since you can feel the pleasant mistral after the calm morning weather. This pleasant wind direction stays dominant until sunset. The Jugo or sirocco arrives in spring and autumn that blows moderately from South-East. It may cause severe seawater movements. Waves can even reach 3-4 metres. You really need to pay attention to anchoring, because of Jugo changes quickly. 6-12 hours before the appearance of Jugo there is humid air and the barometer reduces.Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Dubrovnik
Ports in and around Dubrovnik
ACI Marina Dubrovnik
This well-equipped marina is 6 km 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.
Port of Dubrovnik
This port is located North-West 3 km 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 8 km 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 1.5 km.
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
A complete one-week Dubrovnik sailing plan
The Dalmatian islands, that is, the islands around Dubrovnik provide an unforgettable experience to those who sail in this area. As a matter of fact, these islands are very near to each other; thus, you can easily sail from one to the other. Each island provides different experience whether we talk about hiking or bathing.
It is worth spending a few days in Dubrovnik that is full of amazing sites. The attractions of the old town are breath-taking. Not just Dubrovnik, but its vicinity also attracts its visitors with many programmes.
Day 1 Dubrovnik – Koločep island
8.24 km (5.12 nm)
This island with its size of 2.35 km2 is about 5 km 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
6.82 km (4.24 nm)
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)
12.29 km (7.64 nm)
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
18.22 km (11.32 nm)
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 6 km 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
48.45 km (30.10 nm)
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
41.03 km (25.50 nm)
Sailing towards West you will arrive at the island of Mljet which is 37 km long and 3 km 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.
Dubrovnik sailing: 7 days sailing itinerary (longer version)
Day 1. Dubrovnik – Mljet (Sobra)
41.03 km (25.50 nm)
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)
94.69 km (58.84 nm)
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)
45.80 km (28.46 nm)
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 6 km from Vis in the Stoncica bay.
Day 4. Vis – Stari Grad (Hvar island)
40.14 km (24.94 nm)
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
91.19 km (56.67 nm)
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
24.83 km (15.43 nm)
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
64.85 km (40.30 nm)
This tiny green island with a size of 4.63 km2 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.
Sailing in Dalmatia: 14 days sailing tour
Day 1. Dubrovnik – Lopud 13.65 km (8.48 nm), Day 2. Lopud – Sobra (Mljet) 28.79 km (17.89 nm), Day 3. Sobra – Vela Luka (Korcula island) 94.69 km (58.84 nm), Day 4. Korcula – Vis (Vis island) 45.80 km (28.46 nm), Day 5. Vis – Rogoznica 58.47 km (36.33 nm), Day 6. Rogoznica – Zirje 31.36 km (19.48 nm), Day 7. Zirje – Murter 23.44 km (14.57 nm), Day 8. Murter – Pirovac 7.87 km (4.89 nm), Day 9. Pirovac – Tribunj 19.25 km (11.96 nm), Day 10. Tribunj – Krka waterfall 28.77 km (17.88 nm), Day 11. Krka – Primošten 36.04 km (22.39 nm), Day 12. Primošten – Stari Grad 72.01 km (44.75 nm), Day 13. Stari Grad – Lastovo 86.28 km (53.61 nm), Day 14. Lastovo – Saplunara (Mljet) – Dubrovnik 107.53 km (66.81 nm)
Sail from Dubrovnik: 14 days sailing trip – for experienced sailors
Day 1. Dubrovnik – Lopud 13.65 km (8.48 nm), Day 2. Lopud – Vieste (Italy) 170.26 km (105.79 nm), Day 3. Vieste – Manfredonia 42.31 km (26.29 nm), Day 4. Manfredonia – Barletta 47.31 km (29.40 nm), Day 5. Barletta – Molfetta 28.78 km (17.88 nm), Day 6. Molfetta – Bari 24.96 km (15.51 nm), Day 7. Bari – Bar (Montenegro) 213.70 km (132.79 nm), Day 8. Bar – Budva 29.02 km (18.03 nm), Day 9. Budva – Herceg Novi 35, 62 km (22, 13 nm), Day 10. Herceg Novi – Kotor 25.58 km (15.90 nm), Day 11. Kotor – Cavtat 65.19 km (40.51 nm), Day 12. Cavtat – Sobra 54.16 km (33.65 nm), Day 13. Sobra – Ston 27.46 km (17.06 nm), Day 14. Ston – Koločep – Dubrovnik 39.50 km (24.54 nm).
Read more about sailing from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, sail Dubrovnik to Split, or more Dalmatia sailing itineraries.
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, GPS Coordinates: 42.426348, 18.767266,
- TIVAT – Porto Montenegro: Depth: 12 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 42.433897, 18.691430
- HERCEG NOVI – Portonovi Marina: Depth: 20 m, Working time: 0-24, 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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