Dubrovnik's position on the southern Adriatic coast makes it one of the best launching points for island exploration in all of Croatia. Within an hour's boat ride you can be swimming in hidden coves, wandering car-free villages, or hiking through a national park - worlds away from the Old Town crowds. Here are the best boat trips from Dubrovnik, whether you have a full day or just a few hours to spare.
The Elaphiti archipelago is the most popular boat trip from Dubrovnik, and for good reason. The three main islands - Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan - each have their own distinct character, and a full-day tour visits all three.
Kolocep is the smallest and closest, known for its sandy beaches (rare on this part of the coast) and lush pine forests. Lopud is the most visited, with a long sandy beach called Sunj that's ideal for swimming and a car-free village perfect for a leisurely stroll. Sipan is the largest and most relaxed - olive groves, a quiet harbour, and the pace of life that reminds you why you came to Croatia in the first place.
The Elaphiti Islands tour typically departs in the morning and returns by early evening, with swimming stops and plenty of time to explore each island. Book your Elaphiti Islands tour here.
Mljet is one of Croatia's most beautiful islands, and its national park covers the western third of the island - dense forest, two saltwater lakes, and a 12th-century Benedictine monastery on a small island in the middle of one of those lakes. It sounds like a postcard, because it essentially is one.
The boat trip from Dubrovnik to Mljet takes around 1.5-2 hours depending on the vessel, so it's best done as a full-day excursion. Once there, you can swim in the lakes, rent a bike to explore the park, or take the small ferry out to the monastery island. It's a trip that tends to stay with people long after they've returned home.
If you're looking for a shorter boat trip from Dubrovnik, Cavtat is only about 30 minutes away by speedboat. This charming coastal town sits on a peninsula between two bays and has the relaxed, unhurried feel that Dubrovnik itself has somewhat lost to mass tourism.
Stroll along the palm-lined waterfront promenade, visit the Mausoleum of the Racic family, a masterpiece by sculptor Ivan Mestrovic, or simply sit at a cafe by the harbour and watch the boats come and go. Cavtat makes for a perfect half-day trip, especially if you want a quieter, more authentic taste of Dalmatian life.
For those with limited time, Lokrum Island is just 10-15 minutes from Dubrovnik's Old Port and offers a surprisingly rich experience for such a short trip. A nature reserve since 1976, Lokrum is home to a botanical garden, a ruined Benedictine monastery, a saltwater lake called the Dead Sea, and a population of free-roaming peacocks.
Game of Thrones fans will recognise it as the filming location for the city of Qarth in season two. Whether or not you're a fan, it's a lovely half-day escape from the city. Read our full Lokrum guide here.
Further afield but absolutely worth the journey, Korcula is one of the most beautiful islands on the Adriatic. Its medieval Old Town, built on a small peninsula jutting into the sea, is often compared to Dubrovnik, but without the crowds. The island also claims to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, which makes for a fun bit of local lore to explore.
The trip from Dubrovnik takes around 2 hours by speedboat, so this one is best suited to a private full-day tour where you can set the pace.
Whatever you choose, Dubrovnik Boat Club can arrange it - from scheduled group tours to fully custom private charters.
In July and August, book at least a week ahead. In May, June, and September, a few days is usually enough.
Tours may be cancelled or modified in strong winds or rough seas. We always contact guests in advance if conditions are a concern.
June and September offer the best balance - warm sea, reliable weather, and significantly fewer crowds than peak summer.
Yes, all our tours are family-friendly. Life jackets are provided for all ages.
