1H Sunset cruise around the Old Town Dubrovnik

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and looking to see this enchanting city from a fresh perspective, a sunset cruise around the Old Town might just be perfect. Based on what travelers have shared, this trip offers a relaxing hour of scenic beauty, highlighting the city’s iconic walls, historic forts, and nearby islands—all bathed in the warm glow of sunset. While I haven’t taken this exact cruise myself, I’ve closely examined the details and feedback to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What I love about this experience? First, the spectacular views from the glass-bottom boat make for unique photo opportunities, and it’s a great way to get a broad overview of Dubrovnik’s historic coastline. Second, at just under $30 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to combine sightseeing with a peaceful, scenic moment at the end of the day.

One thing to keep in mind: since this is a short, one-hour tour, it’s best for those who want a quick but beautiful introduction to Dubrovnik’s maritime scenery. If you’re after a deep dive into history or a longer cruise, you might want to consider other options. But for a laid-back, picturesque experience, this cruise should hit the spot—and it’s suitable for most travelers, including families and solo explorers.

Key Points

• Affordable Scenic Experience: At just under $30, it provides great value for a short, scenic cruise.
• Photographer’s Dream: The glass-bottom boat and sunset views create excellent photo opportunities.
• Historic Landmarks: See Dubrovnik’s ancient City Walls, Lovrijenac Fortress, and Lokrum Island from the sea.
• Relaxing & Casual: The hour-long cruise is perfect for a relaxed, no-stress view of the coastline.
• Informative Guide: An English audio guide offers background info, enhancing your understanding.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10 travelers) mean more personal attention and a quieter experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

This cruise begins at the Old City port, a lively hub where friendly staff greet you and help you settle into your boat. From there, the journey takes you along Dubrovnik’s coast, offering a series of memorable sights. The entire route is designed to display the most striking landmarks against the backdrop of a setting sun, making it a perfect way to end your day.

The Old City Walls

Starting close to the Old Town, the massive stone walls form one of the most recognizable features of Dubrovnik. Built between the 12th and 17th centuries, these defenses have protected the city through many eras. Watching them from the water gives a new perspective—how they snake around the city, with towers and battlements standing out against the sky. While you won’t walk the walls on this cruise, the view from the water emphasizes their grandeur and scale, which is impressive even at a distance.

Lovrijenac Fortress

Next, your boat will pass by the Lovrijenac Fortress, perched atop a 37-meter-high cliff. Known as the “Fortress of St. Lawrence,” it’s a striking sight—standing apart from the city walls but equally significant. Its rugged appearance and strategic position tell stories of historic defense and resilience. The views from the sea make the fortress seem even more imposing and give you a chance to appreciate its dramatic placement.

Lokrum Island

A highlight of many Dubrovnik excursions, Lokrum Island appears just 600 meters off the coast. This lush escape features dense pine forests, botanical gardens, and peacocks wandering freely. From the boat, you might catch a glimpse of its serene beauty and learn about its status as a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike.

Sunset Views & Photo Stops

As the cruise progresses, the timing aligns perfectly with the sunset hours. You’ll see the warm glow cast over the ancient walls, the fortress, and the shimmering sea. The boat’s glass bottom allows you to peer beneath the surface for a different perspective, adding a touch of magic to the experience. Several “amazing photo stops” are embedded in the route, so be ready with your camera.

Additional Landmarks

Cruising past St. Jacobs Beach, known for its tranquility and crystal-clear waters, offers a glimpse into Dubrovnik’s coastal leisure spots. The Betina Cave is another highlight—an isolated natural cave accessible only by boat, promising a quiet and unique experience. The boat also passes by Villa Sheherezade and Lazareti, adding to the scenic tapestry, ending at St. John’s Fort before returning to the port.

What to Expect During the Cruise

The tour lasts approximately one hour, which flies by, but it’s a well-paced trip with ample opportunities to take photos and enjoy the views. The boat is equipped with life jackets, and you’ll have an English audio guide explaining the sights, enriching your understanding of Dubrovnik’s maritime history and landmarks.

Since the tour is small—a maximum of 10 travelers—you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience. The crew is generally described as friendly and accommodating, making everyone feel comfortable and well-informed. They do not serve food or drinks, but you’re welcome to bring your own, making it easy to enjoy snacks or beverages during the cruise.

It’s worth noting that the tour’s success depends on good weather; cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if that happens. The meeting point is straightforwardly located at Lokanda Peskarija, in the heart of Dubrovnik’s old port area.

Why Our Readers Will Love This Experience

What really makes this cruise stand out is its combination of affordability and authentic charm. For just under $30, you get a compact yet picturesque journey that complements your sightseeing in Dubrovnik. It’s especially suited for those who want a peaceful, romantic, or family-friendly activity that doesn’t require a full day or strenuous effort.

The stunning sunset views are the true highlight—there’s something magical about seeing the ancient city walls glow as the sun dips behind the horizon. Plus, the small group setting ensures a quiet atmosphere, ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

The informative audio guide adds educational value, helping you appreciate the significance of each landmark from the water. Many reviews mention the knowledgable guides and beautiful vistas as key reasons why this cruise is worth considering.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a short, scenic experience that offers a different perspective of Dubrovnik. It’s great for first-timers wanting a quick overview or seasoned visitors looking to see the city from a peaceful vantage point at sunset. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find value here, especially if they enjoy photography or casual sightseeing.

If you’re on a tight schedule but still want to enjoy the coast, this cruise delivers a memorable snapshot without the commitment of longer tours. However, if you prefer in-depth historical explanations or a longer cruise, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up: A Short but Sweet Dubrovnik Experience

In a city packed with historic sites and scenic viewpoints, this 1-hour sunset cruise offers a refreshing way to unwind and see Dubrovnik from the water. It combines stunning visuals, a relaxed atmosphere, and good value, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a gentle, memorable experience.

The small group size and friendly crew create an inviting environment, while the glass-bottom boat adds a fun, unique twist. The opportunity to capture beautiful sunset photos over the old city and surrounding landmarks makes this cruise more than just transportation—it’s a moment of tranquil beauty amid your busy Dubrovnik itinerary.

While it’s not a comprehensive historical tour, it’s a wonderful complement to a day of exploring the old town and nearby sites. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and affordable way to end your day, this cruise fits the bill perfectly. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and an appreciation for spectacular views.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately one hour, making it ideal for a quick but beautiful sightseeing experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Lokanda Peskarija at the Dubrovnik port, a central and easily accessible location.

What’s included in the tour?
Your ticket includes a sightseeing cruise on a glass-bottom boat, amazing photo stops, an English audio guide, and life jackets for safety.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own, as the tour does not serve food or beverages.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather turns poor, the tour may be canceled, but you will be offered a full refund or a reschedule.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, including children.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

This sunset cruise around Dubrovnik offers a wonderful, no-fuss way to experience the city’s stunning coastline and historic landmarks from a new angle. It’s perfect for those who value authentic moments over long commitments and want to capture the magic of Dubrovnik at dusk.