Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The historic walled city of Dubrovnik is a popular destination for tourists flocking to the sunny Adriatic coast. Its ancient walls, baroque architecture, and easy access to the coast and beaches ensure a steady stream of visitors. It’s close to several island groups on the Dalmatian coast, making it an ideal place to start a cruising vacation.

The Moorings base marina is modern and offers plenty of amenities including a grocery shop, shower/toilets, laundry, tennis courts, swimming pool, and parking (for a fee).

Near the marina’s entrance is a Konzum market. This local market sells a variety of produce, including bakery goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, deli items, dairy products, and fresh meat.

Whether you’re looking for pristine beaches, active nightlife, fresh local foods, snorkeling and diving, or just great boating, you’ll find it in Croatian waters. There are over one thousand islands off the coast, ranging from tiny uninhabited islets to islands with a thousand years of history. Dubrovnik puts you near dozens of good sized islands ripe for exploration.

Just outside the mouth of the Dubrovnik River, as you leave the Moorings base, the Elaphiti islands beckon—an easy first-day stop. They’re all within a few hours and have nice beaches, small towns with dining and cafes, and beautiful architecture and ruins dating back to the 11th century.

Past the Elaphiti islands towards Split are six of the largest islands off Croatia and the verdant Peljesac peninsula. Each island has multiple coastal towns you can visit, and each has a distinct history and character you can discover among the beautiful baroque buildings and hikes through the hills and fields. Lively Hvar is famous for its nightlife and offers UNESCO World Heritage historical sites and picturesque beaches. Vis is quieter, with more wildlife. Large Brač has several towns and harbors, with beaches, resorts, and restaurants dotting the coast.

Visit the Peljesac peninsula for the fine wineries, alfresco dining on the freshest local seafood specialties, and long hikes between the coves, villages, and beaches. A trip to the Malo More nature preserve is certainly worth a day. 

Sailing the Dalmatian coast is mostly line of sight, with gentle breezes much of the year and clear water. Waters are deep, and many harbors have rental moorings along with designated anchorage zones and marinas. Local restaurants and resorts may have moorings to encourage visiting yachts to come ashore. They’re often free to stay on while you dine but may have an overnight charge.

Ranging further north, the Dalmatian islands open up with hundreds of possibilities. Longer trips can take you to the Kornati National Park or up the Krka River to the stunning falls in the Krka National Park. You’ll find charming towns, good snorkeling, clear water, and beautiful beaches and waterfront throughout the islands.

Flights originating all across Europe go to Dubrovnik. It’s about a thirty-minute transfer from the Dubrovnik Airport in Cilipi to the Moorings base.

AMENITIES

HIGH SEASON June 16 – Sept 22
LOW SEASON Sept 23 – June 15
TIDAL RANGE 1 ft 25 cm
WATER TEMP DURING HIGH SEASON 71° F 21° C
WATER TEMP DURING LOW SEASON 61° F 16° C
WIND STRENGTH DURING HIGH SEASON 10-20 knots
WIND STRENGTH DURING LOW SEASON 10-20 knots