Dubrovnik: Sunset Dinner Cruise around the Old Town

Exploring Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline and historic city walls by boat as the sun dips below the horizon sounds like a dream—this is exactly what this sunset dinner cruise offers. While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a memorable experience that’s worth considering.

What stands out most? The breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO World Heritage site and the authentic, homemade-style Croatian cuisine. On the flip side, some travelers note that the weather can be choppy, and the trip might be less suited for those seeking a large, bustling tour. Still, if you’re after a romantic, relaxing evening with good food and spectacular scenery, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip.

This experience appears perfect for couples, small groups, or families looking for an intimate glimpse of Dubrovnik from the water, combined with a hearty local meal. Just keep in mind it’s not wheelchair friendly and requires comfortable clothes and a sense of adventure.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 6 Best Dining Experiences In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls and Lokrum Island during sunset, ideal for photography lovers.
• Authentic Croatian cuisine served onboard, with many guests praising the quality and generous portions.
• Family-run business providing warm, attentive service with a personal touch.
• Excellent value for money, especially considering the included drinks, multiple courses, and scenic ride.
• Limited accessibility for wheelchair users and no large luggage allowed.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Dubrovnik Sunset Dinner Cruise

This cruise is a wonderful way to combine sightseeing with dining, all while enjoying the natural beauty of Dubrovnik’s coastline at sunset. Starting from the Old Port, you’ll hop aboard a small, family-operated vessel, the ‘Slavija’, which adds to the intimate atmosphere.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Can You Expect?

Boarding in the Old Port
The journey begins at Dubrovnik’s historic port, where the boat, usually a cozy family-run operation, awaits. It’s a straightforward start—look for the white boat called ‘Slavija’—and most reviews mention friendly, welcoming hosts who are clearly passionate about sharing their piece of Dubrovnik.

Traditional Snacks and Appetizers
Soon after setting sail, you’ll be served traditional local snacks. Guests rave about the delicious, fresh appetizers like tuna pate, anchovies, and prawns, which set the tone for an authentic Croatian experience. One review highlights that the entree was better than many 5-star restaurants, emphasizing the genuine care put into the food.

Enjoying the Sunset and Scenic Views
As the boat gently moves along the coast, the highlight is often the sunset. Travelers describe the spectacular views of the city walls illuminated at dusk and the amazing photo opportunities. Some mention that the boat drops anchor in Sunset Bay to enjoy the sunset and the calm waters—perfect for soaking in the scenery.

Main Course – Fresh Fish and Hearty Sides
The main meal, often seafood-based, is cooked on board. You might find sea bass, potatoes, and homemade dishes like popara. Multiple reviews praise the generous portions and high quality of the food, with some saying it rivals upscale restaurants. Guests often comment on the freshness of the fish and the well-prepared sides.

Dessert and Drinks
Finish with a refreshing sorbet or fruit dessert, accompanied by local wines and drinks included in the price. Reviewers mention the variety of wines offered—with many appreciating the good quality and friendly service. Several guests note that drinks flow freely, making the experience relaxed and convivial.

Return and Reflection
The cruise concludes back at the Old Port, with many saying it was a perfect way to end their Dubrovnik visit or celebrate a special occasion. The personal touch of the family hosts, who often serve and explain the dishes, adds a memorable element.

What Makes This Cruise Special?

Authentic Family Business
Many reviews highlight the warm, genuine hospitality of the hosts. Their passion for sharing Croatian culture and cuisine really shows. One guest mentioned that the hosts are a family doing their best to make you feel comfortable, which enhances the experience.

Unbeatable Views
The combination of sunset lighting and the city walls creates a magical setting. Several reviewers mention that the views are better than expected, with some describing the scenery as unreal. The boat’s slow pace allows plenty of time for photos and quiet admiration.

High-Quality, Generous Food
Guests consistently praise the delicious, freshly prepared dishes. The menu revolves around seafood, but for those who prefer other options, it’s worth noting that the focus is mainly on fish, so vegetarians or those with special dietary needs might want to inquire beforehand.

Good Value for Money
At $83 per person, including a three-course meal, local wine, and scenic cruising, many reviews agree this is excellent value. They emphasize that the portions are plentiful, and the experience feels intimate rather than commercialized.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing and Duration
The cruise lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity—just enough time to relax without feeling rushed. Departure from the Old Port typically coincides with sunset, so check the schedule for the specific time of year.

What to Bring and Wear
Comfortable clothes are best—think layers, especially if the evening gets breezy. As some reviews mention, the boat can get a little chilly after sunset, so bringing a fleece or jacket is wise. Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

Accessibility
It’s important to note that this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the boat and boarding facilities may not be accessible.

Reservations and Cancellations
Booking is flexible; you can reserve now and pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. This flexibility is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.

Additional Conveniences
WiFi is available onboard, allowing guests to share their experience or look up information during the cruise.

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Authentic Reviews: What Travelers Are Saying

Guests consistently describe this cruise as a highlight of their Dubrovnik trip. Many mention the friendly hosts, delicious food, and incredible sunset views. Comments like “It was simply authentic and lovely,” and “The food was so delicious and fresh,” reflect genuine satisfaction.

One reviewer described it as a “magical” evening and loved that the crew was attentive without being intrusive. Several comments highlight how well the experience is organized, with excellent service and a warm atmosphere.

A few mention the boat being a little bumpy, and that it’s best to bring an extra layer. Still, they agree that the overall experience is worth the minor discomforts.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This Dubrovnik sunset dinner cruise offers an authentic, scenic, and delicious way to spend an evening. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy stunning views of the Old Town walls, authentic Croatian cuisine, and a family-run atmosphere. The quality of food and wine, combined with personalized service, makes it a value-packed experience.

If you’re celebrating something special or simply want a romantic way to see Dubrovnik’s coastline, this cruise delivers. It’s a fantastic choice for small groups, couples, or families looking for an intimate, memorable evening on the water. Just be prepared for the possibility of choppy seas and remember to dress comfortably.

This cruise stands out for its genuine hospitality, beautiful scenery, and tasty food—a memorable way to close out your Dubrovnik adventure.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an ideal evening activity without feeling overly long.

What time does the cruise depart?
It departs around sunset, with exact times varying depending on the season. Check your booking details for the precise schedule.

Is the meal seafood-based?
Yes, the menu revolves around seafood, including options like sea bass, prawns, anchovies, and fish pate.

Can I bring large luggage?
No, large bags are not allowed onboard, so pack light and leave unnecessary luggage behind.

Is there WiFi on the boat?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard, so you can share photos or look up information during your cruise.

Is this activity suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s generally suitable for families with children, but not wheelchair accessible due to the boat’s setup.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In summary, this sunset dinner cruise around Dubrovnik’s Old Town offers a perfect mix of breathtaking scenery, authentic food, and warm family hospitality. It’s a wonderful way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, create lasting memories, and see Dubrovnik from a fresh perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: