Depart from Dubrovnik and set your sails towards the pristine islands of Mljet, Sipan, Korcula, and the historic town of Ston. This itinerary offers sailors the challenge of navigating the Adriatic's diverse conditions, from tranquil bays to open waters. Along the way, explore secluded anchorages, rich marine life, and visit ancient sites.
Day 1Dubrovnik
Your sailing vacation will start from ACI Marina Dubrovnik. After check-in and provisioning don't miss a chance to explore the Old Town of Dubrovnik. It will surprise you with a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, palaces, and charming squares. Highlights include the iconic Stradun (main street), the Sponza Palace, the Rector's Palace, and the Cathedral of the Assumption. Dubrovnik's city walls, dating back to the 13th century, offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-roofed buildings of the Old Town. Walking along the walls is a must-do experience for visitors.
Day 2Lopud
10 nm3 hours
Lopud is known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches, and tranquil atmosphere. The main settlement on Lopud is the village of Lopud, characterized by its old stone houses, narrow streets, and picturesque waterfront. The village offers a relaxing ambiance with cafes, restaurants, and shops lining the harbor.
Sailors visiting Lopud will find a small marina and anchorage areas where they can moor their boats. While facilities are limited, the peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of Lopud make it a delightful spot to spend time.
Day 3Okuklje (Mlet)
12 nm3 hours
Okuklje is a picturesque village and bay located on the northeastern coast of the island of Mljet in Croatia. This small and tranquil settlement is nestled in a deep natural harbor surrounded by dense pine forests. Okuklje is an ideal spot for anchoring and mooring boats, offering sheltered waters and good holding ground. The bay provides a peaceful setting for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in crystal-clear waters.
You will find several local restaurants and small grocery store for basic provisioning.
Day 4Pomena
18 nm5 hours
Pomena is an ideal destination for sailors seeking a peaceful and scenic retreat amidst the natural beauty of Mljet Island and the Adriatic Sea. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and outdoor activities within the enchanting surroundings of Mljet National Park.
We recommend to anchor or moor boat in the calm waters of the bay, with easy access to the village and the national park. The village offers a range of amenities including restaurants, cafes, accommodations, and small shops.
Day 5Korcula
15 nm4 hours
Korčula is a must-visit destination for sailors seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic Croatian charm along the stunning Dalmatian coast. The main town of Korčula, also named Korčula, is often referred to as a mini-Dubrovnik due to its well-preserved medieval architecture and fortified walls. The town's narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and impressive St. Mark's Cathedral create a captivating atmosphere for visitors.
Ston is a historic town located on the Pelješac Peninsula in Croatia, renowned for its impressive defensive walls, salt pans, and delicious oysters. The most striking feature of Ston is its defensive walls, often referred to as the "European Wall of China." These walls, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, stretch over 5 kilometers and are among the longest defensive stone walls in Europe. They were constructed to protect the valuable salt pans, which were a significant source of wealth for the region.
Sailors can explore the town's historic center, with charming streets, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. We strongly recommend to visit local seafood restaurants serving fresh oysters and seafood.
Day 7Sipan
15 nm4 hours
The main settlement on Sipan is the village of Sudurad, situated on the northeastern coast of the island. Sudurad features charming stone houses, a small harbor, and a relaxed waterfront promenade lined with cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local dishes.
We recommend to anchor or mooring in a small marina in Sudurad, that provides basic services. The island's sheltered bays and clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Day 8Dubrovnik
10 nm3 hours
Return to the marina for the check-our procedure.
Optional Stops Along the Route
ACI Marina Dubrovnik
marina
The marina offers convenient, tranquil location compared to central Dubrovnik, modern facilities, and cleanliness. There is notable criticism about high pricing, especially for multihulls or add-ons—a common trait of ACI marinas—leading to some feeling the rates are exploitative. The marina is worth considering for its peaceful atmosphere and as a good base for exploring Dubrovnik.
This anchorage has a security, outstanding holding in mud, and natural wind protection provided by the river canyon. It offers convenient access to Dubrovnik, serving as a cost-effective alternative to the expensive marina, with Sailors generally reporting multiple-night stays without issues. While there have been occasional requests from marina staff to move further from the entrance, authorities are generally tolerant if designated areas are respected.
The marina offers excellent, modern facilities, professional service, and prime location for visiting Dubrovnik. The marina is suitable for short and longer stays alike, with families and sailors noting its comfort. Despite high prices, Sailors generally find them justified by the service level.
The anchorage near Dubrovnik’s Blue Cave offers natural beauty and serves as an excellent first stop after leaving ACI Marina Dubrovnik. Sailors especially suggest it as a short, refreshing swim stop, making use of paddleboards and floatation devices for cave exploration before resuming their sail.
This anchorage is very well regarded. Sailors appreciate the beautiful natural setting, clear water, and the rare sandy beach. Access is good, and the area allows for shore walks and access to a nearby village with restaurants.
Sailors note its charming, tranquil, and well-protected setting, with the atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. The scenic location and inclusion of basics like water and electricity in the price are appreciated. Some, however, feel the pricing is high compared to similar marinas, causing a few to anchor instead.
Šipanska Luka bay offers picturesque setting, tranquil atmosphere, and easy access ashore. Sailors often mention the village’s beauty, stone houses, and the preserved natural environment. The anchorage features good restaurants, friendly bars, and a handy small supermarket, all of which are popular with cruisers.
This anchorage is well regarded. Sailors appreciate the beautiful surroundings, peaceful nights, and crystal-clear water well suited for swimming and snorkeling. Even on nights with music from the bar, the vibe remains relaxed without excessive noise disturbance.
This anchorage is a charming, calm natural bay with a relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by scenic mountains and a small village offering several bars, restaurants, and some cultural sites. Access ashore is known as easy, and the setting is seen as picturesque, though the large hotel at the head of the bay is noted as an architectural blemish. The area has the peaceful setting, highlighting the location as ideal for a peaceful stopover with modest village amenities.
Private Dock - Mooring & Electric energy for yachts
marina
Sailors feel about this privately owned dock. The bay is tranquil, beautifully sheltered, and ideal for quiet stays with family or friends. While limited services and shops are noted, especially out of season, the clean water, natural beauty, and isolation make it attractive for those seeking relaxation.
Okuklje offers picturesque setting, crystal-clear water, and tranquil atmosphere. Sailors appreciate the scenic beauty, natural environment, and calm nights, enhanced by local amenities such as a small grocery store and hiking trails to a historic church. Family-run restaurants are central to sailors, providing genuine hospitality and quality local cuisine.
Maestral marina in Okuklje offers scenic, well-protected bay and warm hospitality. Sailors enjoy free mooring with restaurant dining, the quality of meals and service, and the charm of the location. While the lack of water or electricity is noted, it rarely detracts from the experience.
Sailors describe this bay as a beautiful, clean, and peaceful spot, featuring crystal-clear water, surrounded by small islands and woods. The environment is natural and very tranquil, well-preserved and ideal for relaxation away from the busier ports. The peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly feel are recurring highlights.
The bay offers a beautiful natural setting, sandy beaches, and clear water, great for swimming and paddle-boarding. Several family-run restaurants are valued for their warm welcome and quality dishes, often with local ingredients and reasonable prices. Sailors enjoy the calm outside high season, easy walks to nearby lagoons or beaches, and welcoming beach bars.
The anchorage is appreciated for its natural setting, crystal-clear water, and serene atmosphere, making it one of Mljet’s most attractive stops. Sailors appreciate the excellent swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing possibilities in a peaceful environment amidst picturesque seagrass beds and sandy spots. Occasional negative aspects include the presence of mosquitoes in the evenings or noisy seagull colonies, and rare litter.
Sailors describe this anchorage as exceptionally tranquil, especially in the evenings and at night, with an impressive natural setting. The water is crystal-clear with plenty of sea life for snorkeling, and the landscape is ideal for a peaceful swim stop.
Sailors consider this anchorage idyllic, with very clear water, beautiful sandy beaches, and an unspoiled natural setting. Access is easy for most boats, with manageable depths and a peaceful atmosphere.
Feedback on this marina is mixed: some Sailors appreciate the beautiful setting and friendly staff, while Skippers should note excessive pricing, only average food quality, and at times unprofessional management.
Sailors tend to like Ston marina for its protected location, historic charm, and proximity to attractions like the famous walls and saltworks. Skippers should note beautiful surroundings, easy reservation (especially via WhatsApp), and good local restaurants. However, Skippers may find high prices given the limited services (no showers or toilets, water and electricity cost extra), resulting in mixed feelings about value for money.
Sailors appreciate the warm welcome, attentive service, and excellent value for money, especially regarding food quality. Multiple visitors state their intention to return, underlining the high level of enjoyment and the marina's welcoming ambiance.
This anchorage is beautiful and quiet, with a preserved natural setting. Sailors note opportunities for walking, hiking, and cycling. Although infrastructure and marine life are limited, the area is appreciated for its scenic value.
Polace bay offers natural beauty, calm environment, and unique sense of seclusion, even during the high season. Sailors consistently describe their experience as peaceful and restorative, surrounded by wooded landscapes, clear water, and scenic views of the national park and monastery. Many suggest renting bikes to explore the lakes, highlight the ease of swimming from the anchorage, and enjoy the tranquility.
Sailors overwhelmingly appreciate the marina for its warm welcome, the quality of the Stella Maris restaurant, and its scenic environment. Free berthing when dining at the restaurant, easy access to the national park, and nearby activities all contribute to experiences. Sailors note returning, good value for money, and recommending the marina.
Sailor feedback is consistent, emphasizing good value despite some higher costs for certain services. The marina is seen as suitable for families and various types of sailors, reflecting a well-rounded, experience.
Feedback on this harbour is mixed: staff are valued for being friendly and helpful, with good moorings and basic amenities. However, Sailors often criticize the food quality and consider prices excessively high, particularly for special set menus. While the experience is generally pleasant due to the location and mooring convenience, restaurant issues negatively impact the impression.
This anchorage is valued for clear turquoise water, scenic pine forests, peaceful surroundings, and easy access to nearby beaches and a village. The natural setting evokes comparisons to the Caribbean, and wildlife encounters, such as dolphins, add to the appeal. The anchorage is a worthwhile stop for sailors heading toward Korcula or Dubrovnik.
Trstenik is a charming small town with clear water and a long pebble beach. Sailors highlight its picturesque and peaceful setting (outside peak party times), enjoyable scenery, and convenient shore access. The town offers local charm, though seen as limited in attractions beyond its restaurants and winery.
Marina Korcula offers prime location next to the charming old town and easy access to shops and amenities. However, its small size means docking and maneuvering can be challenging, especially for larger boats or those without a bow thruster. Prices are high, but most visitors find the location and provided services justify the cost.
This anchorage is outstanding, peaceful, and set in beautiful surroundings, especially especially for the view of the monastery and the presence of tame deer on the island. The area has clear water for swimming, the scenic island walking paths, and the convenient access to Korcula town. While busy during the day in peak season, the anchorage remains pleasant and quiet at night, with many recommending overnight stays.
Sailors speak positively about this small marina, appreciating its friendly atmosphere and affordable prices. It is a convenient, less crowded alternative to Korčula’s main marina, with good protection reported in most conditions.
This anchorage offers consistently beautiful, peaceful, and well-protected, with clear water ideal for swimming. Skippers should note the tranquil atmosphere, natural surroundings (even spotting wildlife such as sea turtles), and convenient access ashore. Proximity to Korčula and Lumbarda allows for easy exploration of local culture, food, beaches, and wineries.
Feedback on Lumbarda marina is mixed. Sailors value its pleasant location, more reasonable pricing than nearby marinas, and generally peaceful atmosphere. Negative remarks mention the 2024–2025 marina closure, expensive buoys, and occasional difficulties with maneuvering or staff behavior in busy or windy conditions.
Sailors appreciate this small marina for its welcoming atmosphere and local charm, often viewing it as a relaxing, affordable alternative to busier and pricier destinations like Korcula. While it has limited facilities and lacks formal staff, reasonable or non-existent fees, a pleasant village setting, and good shelter make it a popular spot for a peaceful stop, especially out of season.
The anchorage is valued for quiet charm, clean and scenic environment, and the proximity of a pleasant small town with restaurants and a mini-market. The clear, swimmable waters and easy access to onshore amenities are highlighted. It works well as a calm stopover, ideal for relaxation, with a genuine local atmosphere.
This bay is beautiful, spacious, and boasting clear water ideal for swimming and relaxing. The nearby village is small but valued for its authenticity, good local restaurants (notably fresh fish), and tranquil atmosphere. There are no major attractions, but the bay's natural beauty, sunsets, and opportunities to watch fish or dolphins are highlights.
This bay is a tranquil anchorage with clean, often clear water and a peaceful setting. It is large, easy to approach, and has beaches with a few restaurants or cafés nearby. Ashore, sailors can enjoy swimming, relaxing, and quiet nights at anchor.
Share your thoughts & ideas about sailing from Dubrovnik
We’d love to hear your comments and suggestions! Share with fellow sailors recommended marinas or coordinates of anchorages to stay for the night or even your favorite restaurant, winery or oyster farm.