Dubrovnik Your Way: Sailing Croatia’s Southern Coast

14 March 2025 4 min

Dubrovnik isn’t just a historic city or a postcard-perfect backdrop from Game of Thrones. It’s your starting point for sailing adventures you won’t find anywhere else. Here, every island has its own rhythm, each bay offers something new, and the best memories are the ones you don’t expect. Because with Sunsail, it’s never just about sailing—it’s about discovering something you can’t find anywhere else.

Why Dubrovnik?

First things first, our Dubrovnik base makes getting started easy. Located right by the famous Old Town, you’re within walking distance of medieval city walls, local restaurants, and cozy cafés before even setting sail. Ana, our Assistant Base Manager, sums it up best: “Dubrovnik blends culture, amazing food, and scenery perfectly. You get a little bit of everything before you even untie the lines.”

Must-Visit Spots You’ll Love

Here’s where our team say you absolutely must drop anchor:

Mljet Island – More than Just Green

Green Caves: Becky from our UK Sales Team suggests stopping here for a swim, especially on calm days. Swim into these caves and watch the water turn emerald as sunlight reflects off the rocks—it’s unreal.

Polace: This big, sheltered bay is right in the heart of Mljet National Park. Anchor here, rent mountain bikes ashore, and explore trails with incredible views. When you’re hungry, sit at a seaside restaurant and enjoy Croatian lamb or fresh seafood, slow-cooked over a traditional fire. Becky recommends it as one of her favourites.

Korčula Town – A Little Dubrovnik, Without the Crowds

Korčula is a hidden highlight. Picture Dubrovnik’s charm but smaller and quieter. Walk along cobblestone streets lined with Venetian buildings and find yourself a cozy spot in one of the town’s cocktail bars. Becky from our UK team says it’s a must-stop, and you’ll quickly see why.

Šipan Island – Quiet Beauty

Suđurađ: The largest of the Elaphiti Islands, Šipan is quieter and more laid back. Moor here and wander through olive groves, check out 16th-century architecture, or find your own beach spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Off the Boat: Adventures on Land

Sailing is amazing, but there’s plenty worth stepping ashore for around Dubrovnik:

Dubrovnik Old Town: Walk the ancient city walls, explore narrow streets, grab a gelato, and watch the sunset from Buža bar—a local favourite perched on cliffs right outside the walls.

Mljet National Park: If you’re a nature lover, biking or hiking in Mljet is a perfect choice. Trails lead to saltwater lakes, hidden viewpoints, and quiet spots perfect for a picnic.

Local Food Scene: Every island has its own specialty—try seafood peka (slow-cooked under an iron lid) on Mljet or indulge in Korčula’s famous white wine.

When’s the Best Time to Go?

Croatia’s sailing season runs from April through October, each part offering something different:

Spring (April–June): Perfect for quieter sailing, mild weather, and fewer boats around. The water is warming up, the islands bloom, and you get the best pick of anchorages.

Summer (July–August): The weather’s warm, towns are buzzing, and there’s plenty of energy everywhere you go. It’s peak season for a reason—vibrant and lively.

Autumn (September–October): Locals love this time of year. The weather’s still warm, crowds thin out, and you’ll feel like you have the islands to yourself again.

Local Events Worth Sailing For

Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July–August): Streets and squares transform with open-air concerts, theatre, and dance. It’s a great way to soak in local culture between sailing adventures.

Korčula Wine Festival (July): Taste local wines and meet the winemakers themselves—a fantastic stop if you’re sailing around Korčula during July.

Choosing Your Yacht

We’ve got the right boat for however you want to sail:

Monohulls (34–53 ft): Traditional sailboats perfect for small crews or families looking for classic sailing fun.

Catamarans (40–45 ft): Great for families or friends who want a little extra space and stability.

Sailing Your Way:

Bareboat Charter: Take the helm yourself if you’re confident and ready.

Flotilla Sailing: Sail alongside other boats, with our friendly lead crew making sure you find the best spots.

Skippered Charter: Let an experienced skipper take care of the sailing, so you can sit back and enjoy every moment.

Our Customers Say It Best

“The flotilla took the stress away from planning routes and docking. The lead boat team was fantastic—making everything fun and easy.” – Richard, Flotilla guest

“From booking through to sailing, the staff were incredibly supportive. Even as a nervous skipper, I felt confident every step of the way.” – Ruth, Bareboat guest

Ready to Discover Your Own Dubrovnik?

Sailing from Dubrovnik isn’t about ticking places off a map—it’s about discovering a Croatia you won’t find anywhere else. Swim in emerald caves, explore islands that feel untouched, and taste meals you’ll dream about long after your trip ends. Because with Sunsail, you’re never just sailing—you’re making memories that stick around long after you’ve docked.

So, ready to untie the lines and find your next adventure?