14-Day Sailing Itinerary from Dubrovnik
Sailing routes on Adriatic sea
Explore the Gems of the Dubrovnik Archipelago
Your journey begins in Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The city’s impressive walls, a marvel of historical fortification, offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the enchanting Old Town below. These walls also served as the backdrop for the iconic King's Landing in Game of Thrones, making Dubrovnik a must-visit for fans of the series. Visitors can tour filming locations such as Fort Lovrijenac and Pile Gate, immersing themselves in the fantasy world of Westeros.
For an even more breathtaking perspective of Dubrovnik, take the cable car up Mount Srđ, where the Imperial Fortress stands. This site, which played a crucial role in the Croatian War of Independence, houses a museum dedicated to that period in history. After taking in the views, Dubrovnik offers plenty of culinary delights. Wander along Stradun, the city's main street, to sample Mediterranean and Dalmatian cuisine at local restaurants, and visit landmarks like the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral for a deeper dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Day 1: Dubrovnik to Koločep Island
Your journey begins in Dubrovnik, setting sail from its iconic harbor under the shadow of the towering city walls. The short sail to Koločep, the closest Elaphiti Island, offers stunning views of the Adriatic. Koločep, or Kalamota as the locals call it, is a small, lush island covered with olive groves, pine forests, and clear waters.
Anchor in Donje Čelo, the island’s main village, which boasts a few quiet cafes and narrow, stone streets. Take a swim in one of Koločep’s many secluded bays, perfect for a refreshing dip. For lunch, stop at Villa Ruža, a seaside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and panoramic views of Dubrovnik in the distance. Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s hidden coves and peaceful walking trails, where the smell of pine needles and lavender fills the air. The evening promises a serene sunset as you dine on grilled fish and local Dalmatian dishes.
Day 2: Koločep to Lopud Island
Wake up early and sail up to Lopud Island, just a short distance northwest of Koločep. Lopud, car-free and serene, is best known for Šunj Beach, a crescent-shaped bay with golden sands and shallow waters perfect for swimming. Spend the morning lounging on the beach and swimming. For those feeling more adventurous, a hike across the island’s lush hills to Lopud village rewards you with spectacular views and historical monasteries along the way.
For lunch, visit Obala, a delightful waterfront restaurant in Lopud village offering Dalmatian specialties like black risotto and octopus salad. After lunch, explore the Franciscan Monastery and the ruins of the Rector’s Palace. As the sun dips below the horizon, Lopud transforms into a peaceful haven, perfect for a tranquil dinner at Restoran Dubrovnik, famous for its romantic setting and locally sourced seafood dishes.
Day 3: Lopud to Šipan Island
Sailing deeper into the Elaphiti Islands, you’ll make your way to Šipan, the largest island in the group. Anchor in the harbor town of Šipanska Luka, a beautiful small village surrounded by rolling hills and olive trees. Before exploring the island, take a swim at Velji Vrh, a quiet bay just outside the village.
Have lunch at Konoba Kod Marka, a family-run tavern where you can indulge in fresh Adriatic seafood, including grilled squid, octopus, and the island’s famed black risotto. Afterward, take a stroll through the village, visiting the Church of the Holy Spirit and the 15th-century Rector’s Palace. The beauty of Šipan lies in its rustic charm. Finish your day with dinner at Bowa, an exclusive, open-air restaurant set on the rocks overlooking the sea, perfect for savoring locally sourced ingredients with the waves gently lapping at the shore.
Day 4: Šipan to Mljet Island
Today, you’ll set sail for Mljet, one of Croatia’s most stunning islands and a haven for nature lovers. Your first stop is Pomena, a small village and the gateway to Mljet National Park. Before diving into the park’s natural beauty, take a dip in one of the nearby swimming spots, such as Prožura Bay.
Once refreshed, spend the day exploring the national park, home to two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero. A boat ride to St. Mary’s Island, located in the middle of Veliko Jezero, will reveal a stunning 12th-century Benedictine monastery surrounded by peaceful waters. For dinner, head to Konoba Maestral, a rustic konoba in Pomena where local dishes such as brudet (a Croatian fish stew) and freshly grilled fish are paired perfectly with a glass of local Plavac Mali wine.
Day 5: Exploring Mljet National Park
Stay in Mljet for another day, this time sailing to Polače, a bay known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and its deep natural harbor. After anchoring, spend the morning swimming in Polače Bay’s crystal-clear waters before exploring the village. Rent a bike or walk the trails surrounding the lakes, where the sounds of cicadas fill the air.
For lunch, visit Konoba Antika, a family-run restaurant offering seafood straight from the boat. Afterward, continue your exploration of the island, perhaps visiting the Odysseus Cave, a hidden gem for swimming and diving. End the day with dinner by the shore, enjoying Mljet’s peaceful atmosphere as you sip local wine under the stars.
Day 6: Mljet to Korčula Island
Sail from Mljet to the historic island of Korčula, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its association with the explorer Marco Polo. Dock at Korčula Town’s marina and spend the morning wandering its narrow streets, discovering landmarks such as St. Mark’s Cathedral and the house where Marco Polo was supposedly born. Swim in the clear waters near Korčula’s old town, where the sea laps against the ancient walls. For lunch, stop at Konoba Adio Mare, where you can sample traditional dishes like peka, a slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish.
In the afternoon, sail along the island’s coastline and discover hidden coves perfect for snorkeling or sunbathing. As the day draws to a close, dine at LD Restaurant, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.
Day 7: Korčula to Lumbarda
A short sail from Korčula Town takes you to Lumbarda, known for its vineyards and sandy beaches. Anchor near Pržina Beach, a wide sandy stretch ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Lumbarda is also home to the unique Grk wine, grown exclusively in this region.
Spend the afternoon visiting local wineries, such as Bire Winery, where you can sample the island’s rare white wine and enjoy stunning vineyard views. For lunch, head to Taverna Lumbarda, a cozy spot offering traditional grilled fish, homemade bread, and locally grown olives. The relaxed atmosphere of this town is perfect for winding down after a long day.
Day 8: Lumbarda to Lastovo Island
Sail westward to the secluded island of Lastovo, part of a protected nature park. The waters around Lastovo are some of the clearest in the Adriatic, making Zaklopatica Bay a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling. Lastovo’s isolation has preserved its natural beauty and traditional way of life.
Explore the island’s charming villages or hike its scenic trails for panoramic views. For dinner, Konoba Augusta Insula offers a fantastic dining experience right on the water’s edge. Enjoy a peaceful evening in this remote paradise, far from the crowds.
Day 9: Lastovo to Sušac Island
The remote island of Sušac, located west of Lastovo, is your next destination. Sušac is wild and uninhabited, offering total solitude and untouched beauty. Anchor in one of the island’s quiet bays and dive into the deep blue waters. The rugged cliffs and hidden caves make it a unique spot for underwater exploration. With no infrastructure on the island, you’ll need to bring your own provisions, making this a perfect day for a picnic lunch onboard your boat. Spend the evening stargazing in one of the most isolated spots in the Adriatic.
Day 10: Sušac to Korčula
Return to Korčula, this time docking in Vela Luka on the island’s western side. Vela Luka is a vibrant town known for its music, art, and cultural scene. Swim in the calm waters of Gradina Bay or visit the nearby Vela Spila cave, an archaeological site that dates back thousands of years. For lunch, dine at Konoba Skalinada, where you can enjoy local specialties like Korčula’s famed olive oil. In the evening, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Vela Luka’s waterfront, filled with local cafes and restaurants.
Day 11: Vela Luka to Mljet
Sail back to Mljet, this time visiting Saplunara Bay on the island’s eastern side. Saplunara is known for its stunning sandy beaches. Spend the day lounging on the beach or swimming in the warm, shallow waters.
For lunch, head to Stermasi, a family-owned restaurant serving up some of the best peka in the region. The peaceful atmosphere of Saplunara offers the perfect contrast to the busier parts of Mljet, making it an ideal spot to unwind.
Day 12: Mljet to Šipan Island
Begin your return journey towards Dubrovnik, with a stop in Sudurad, a sleepy village on Šipan’s southern coast. Sudurad offers a more intimate experience. with fewer tourists and more authentic Dalmatian charm. Swim in one of the hidden bays nearby or explore the village’s historic summer residence of the Skočibuha family. For dinner, visit Konoba Stara Mlinica, a small spot offering local favorites like slow-cooked lamb.
Day 13: Final Day on the Elaphiti Islands
Return to Lopud for a final day of relaxation in the Elaphiti Islands. Spend the day revisiting Šunj Beach or exploring the island’s hidden bays. Treat yourself to a long lunch at La Villa, a chic beachside restaurant offering modern takes on Croatian cuisine, such as freshly caught tuna and homemade pasta. As the day winds down, reflect on your journey with a quiet walk along Lopud’s waterfront, savoring the peacefulness of your final island stop.
Day 14: Lopud to Dubrovnik
On your final day, sail back to Dubrovnik, with the city’s imposing walls coming into view as you approach. Drop anchor one last time and take in the breathtaking sight of Dubrovnik’s Old Town from the sea, a perfect conclusion to your two-week adventure. After docking, enjoy a farewell dinner at Proto, one of Dubrovnik’s most famous seafood restaurants. With its elegant atmosphere and extensive wine list, Proto provides the ideal setting to reflect on your journey through the Dubrovnik Archipelago.
This 14-day sailing itinerary offers the best of Croatia’s island life, combining idyllic swimming spots, historical landmarks, and exceptional local cuisine at every stop. Whether you're exploring remote, untouched islets or soaking in the vibrant culture of Korčula and Mljet, this journey promises unforgettable memories of the Adriatic.
Where are the best spots to dine in Southern Dalmatia?
In South Dalmatia, some of the top dining spots include Villa Ruža on Koločep Island, known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of Dubrovnik. On Lopud Island, Obala offers delightful Dalmatian specialties like black risotto and octopus salad, while Konoba Kod Marka in Šipanska Luka on Šipan Island is famous for its Adriatic seafood dishes, including grilled squid and black risotto. Konoba Maestral in Pomena, Mljet Island, provides a rustic setting to enjoy dishes like Croatian fish stew paired with local wines. For a more upscale experience, LD Restaurant in Korčula Town offers Michelin-starred Mediterranean cuisine.
What are the must-see landmarks accessible by boat?
There are several must-see landmarks that are easily accessible by boat in South Dalmatia. Mljet National Park on Mljet Island features beautiful saltwater lakes and the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on St. Mary’s Island, which is a peaceful and scenic spot. On Korčula Island, explore the historic St. Mark’s Cathedral and the house of Marco Polo, said to be his birthplace. On Lopud Island, visit the Franciscan Monastery and the ruins of the Rector’s Palace. In Vela Luka, Korčula, the Vela Spila cave, an archaeological site dating back thousands of years, is another fascinating landmark.
Are there any notable events happening on these islands?
Although the itinerary does not mention specific annual events, Vela Luka on Korčula Island is highlighted for its vibrant music, art, and cultural scene. This suggests that you may find local festivals or cultural performances taking place during your visit. One of the most notable annual events is a concert held every year in honor of the beloved Croatian singer Oliver Dragojević. This concert commemorates his passing and draws large crowds, as Dragojević was closely connected to the town. Vela Luka, also known for its vibrant music, art, and cultural scene, offers a lively atmosphere during this event, making it a memorable time to visit.
