Gastro Cruise | Cruise around Dubrovnik Old Town with Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Dubrovnik beyond its famous Walls and bustling streets, a gastro cruise around Dubrovnik Old Town might just be your ideal half-day adventure. This tour promises a blend of sightseeing, authentic Croatian cuisine, and a boat ride that highlights the city’s stunning seaside charm. It’s a short, sweet experience—lasting around two hours—that’s packed with flavor and beautiful views.

What we love about this tour is its balance of scenic beauty and local culinary delights—it’s a chance to see Dubrovnik from the water, taste traditional dishes, and soak up the atmosphere without committing to a full-day tour. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and snacks makes it a good value, especially considering the central location and easy access.

One aspect to keep in mind is that, since this tour combines sightseeing and dining in a relatively short period, it’s best suited for travelers who want a quick but memorable experience. If you’re curious about Dubrovnik’s seaside life, love fresh seafood, or simply want to enjoy a relaxed way to see the city, this cruise ticks all those boxes. But if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration or a comprehensive cultural tour, you might prefer something longer and more detailed.

Key Points

• Ideal for a quick, scenic overview of Dubrovnik from the water
• Includes a 3-course traditional Croatian meal with drinks, offering good value
• Combines sightseeing of the old city walls and Lokrum Island with relaxation
• Limited to around 2 hours, making it perfect for tight schedules
• Small group size (max 40 travelers) fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere
• Booking well in advance (average 21 days) helps secure your spot at a good price

An In-Depth Look at the Dubrovnik Gastro Cruise Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour kicks off at Porat DubrovnikRibarnica ul. 1, right at the Old Town’s port, which is an ideal starting point for those already exploring Dubrovnik’s historic center. At around 1:30 pm, you’ll set sail on a boat that circles around the famous Dubrovnik City Walls and heads toward Lokrum Island.

The first part of the tour is nearly a sightseeing cruise, giving you a chance to see the city from a different perspective—think sweeping views of the medieval fortifications, the terracotta rooftops, and the shimmering sea. You’ll appreciate how the boat ride showcases Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty and provides a peaceful contrast to the often crowded streets.

As you glide past the City Walls, you’ll be welcomed aboard with traditional local snacks and appetizers—a small but thoughtful touch that sets the tone. This is where the culinary aspect begins: a delicious fish menu lunch served on the boat, featuring grilled Seabass or Gilthead Seabream along with side dishes. The fact that this meal is served just in front of Old Town adds a special charm—imagine enjoying fresh seafood while overlooking the historic cityscape.

The food is straightforward but authentic, and the reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the quality. One guest called it a “great experience,” praising the delicious food and friendly operators. Many mention the excellent wine selection, with three drinks included, or a bottle of wine per couple—ideal for leisurely sipping as you relax.

The Lokrum Island Stop and Scenic Views

The second part of the tour takes you around Lokrum Island, a lush, forested retreat just across from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. You’ll enjoy a panoramic tour of the island’s coastline, with plenty of chances to snap photos of the rugged shoreline and the fortress ruins. The boat ride provides an excellent vantage point of the island’s natural beauty, a highlight for anyone fond of coastal scenery.

While on the way, you’ll savor more stunning views of the city walls, the sea, and the island, making this a perfect photo op. The boat ride lasts about an hour, enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Overall Experience: Value and Atmosphere

What truly makes this cruise stand out is its combination of sightseeing, authentic cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere. The included WiFi on board is a nice touch, letting you share your experiences or look up more about Dubrovnik as you cruise. The tour is designed to be informal and intimate, with a maximum of 40 travelers, so it feels more like a shared outing than a crowded tour bus.

Pricing at $87.12 per person might seem modest compared to full-day excursions, but the value lies in the quality—a well-prepared meal, drinks, scenic views, and a chance to see Dubrovnik from a unique angle. The three reviews all rate it a perfect 5 out of 5, emphasizing how fun, delicious, and authentic the experience was. Guests appreciated the friendly operators and the delicious seafood, often mentioning they’d do it again or highly recommend it.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early—this tour is popular and often booked 3 weeks in advance.
• Arrive at the designated meeting point (Porat DubrovnikRibarnica) a little early to settle in.
• Dress comfortably and bring a hat or sunscreen if the weather is sunny.
• Enjoy the drinks included—a nice touch to relax and soak in the views.
• Consider your seafood preferences—the menu is fish-based; if you don’t eat fish, check with the operator beforehand.
• Tipping is not included, so if you appreciated the service, a small gratuity is customary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a quick yet authentic Dubrovnik experience. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of local cuisine, stunning coastal views, and a relaxed vibe, it’s a solid choice. It’s also well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides combined with good food in a friendly environment.

Those who appreciate seafood, local wines, and picturesque vistas will find this tour especially satisfying. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a comprehensive cultural or historical tour—this is mainly about the sea, food, and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it an ideal option for travelers with limited time.

What is included in the price?
You get a 3-course lunch featuring fish dishes, three drinks included (or a bottle of wine per couple), snacks, bottled water, and WiFi on board.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Porat DubrovnikRibarnica ul. 1 in Dubrovnik’s Old Town and ends back at the same spot.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended—you can expect to book about 3 weeks ahead on average to secure your spot.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but check with the operator if you have specific needs.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather; bring sun protection if sunny. The boat’s covered but open-air, so layers are advisable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik gastro cruise offers an excellent way to combine sightseeing, local cuisine, and a touch of leisure in a short time. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience with authentic flavors and beautiful scenery without the commitment of a full-day tour. The inclusion of seafood, wine, and scenic views from a boat makes it a memorable addition to any Dubrovnik itinerary.

For travelers craving a taste of Dubrovnik’s seaside life—paired with a delicious meal and great company—this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a simple, enjoyable way to see the city from a unique perspective, especially if you’re short on time but want a genuine experience.

In summary, whether you’re a seafood lover, a lover of scenic boat rides, or someone eager for a quick taste of Dubrovnik’s charm, this tour offers solid value, authentic flavors, and unbeatable views—all wrapped into a cozy two-hour package. It’s a small taste that might leave you wishing for a little more, but for many, that’s part of the charm.