Walking & boat tour – visit Ston Walls and taste shells on farm

Walking & Boat Tour – Visit Ston Walls and Taste Shells on Farm: A Detailed Review

If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenic beauty, history, and authentic local flavors, this walking and boat tour from Dubrovnik might be just what you need. Priced at around $218 and lasting about 12 hours, it takes you from Dubrovnik’s bustling Gru Harbor into the tranquil waters of Mali Ston Bay, through medieval streets, and along the legendary Ston Walls. Led by knowledgeable guides, the trip offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s coastal charm, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, tasting, and exploring.

Two aspects we particularly love: first, the combination of land and sea adventures—you get to experience a speedboat ride, a walk along the longest stone city wall in Europe, and a visit to an active saltworks, all in one day. Second, the culinary stops, especially tasting fresh shellfish straight from the sea and sampling local wines—these are authentic flavors that truly connect you to the place.

A possible consideration is the long day’s duration—it’s packed with activity, and some travelers might find the timing a bit tight, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, bring your swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim, as swimming and snorkeling are included. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and culinary delights, and who are comfortable with a full day of activity.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines sightseeing, culinary tastings, and scenic boat rides.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy fresh oysters, mussels, and local wines cultivated since Roman times.
• Historical Sites: Walk along the longest stone city wall in Europe and visit the saltworks—places full of centuries-old traditions.
• Adventure & Relaxation: Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or just soak in the views.
• Small Group: Max 12 travelers, making it intimate and more engaging.
• Value: All fees, guide, skipper, and most attractions are included, offering a thorough experience for the price.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins early at Gru Market in Dubrovnik, around 9:00 am. From there, a speedboat whisks you away along the coast toward your first stop—Prapratno Beach. This natural sandy beach, surrounded by olive and pine trees, offers a quick, refreshing break with its warm, clear waters. The 30-minute stop is perfect for snapping some photos, wading into the sea, or simply relaxing after the boat ride.

The boat ride itself is a highlight. We loved the way the wind tousled our hair and the panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s ramparts shrinking into the distance. You can expect a lively, fun atmosphere with a small group (just 12 max), which keeps things personal and avoids the feeling of being part of a large crowd.

Mali Ston and Oyster Farm

Next, you arrive at Mali Ston, a tiny town whose history dates back to the fourteenth century. It’s a place that whispers stories of salt and sea. Here, you’re invited to taste some of the best shellfish in the world: oysters, mussels, and clams cultivated in the Mali Ston Bay, a protected marine reserve that has been producing quality shellfish since Roman times.

One of the best parts? Getting aboard a working oyster farm boat to taste oysters directly from the sea, seasoned with just a squeeze of lemon. The guide (if you’re lucky, you’ll have an engaging expert like Bruna, who made the experience lively and informative) explains how these oysters are cultivated—an ancient process that’s remained remarkably unchanged. Pair that with a glass of Peljeac wine and some local olive oil, and you understand why this is such a prized culinary stop.

We read a review that called this “the most that we got during our trip to Dubrovnik,” emphasizing the quality and authenticity of the experience. Sampling oysters fresh from the source, combined with local wines, offered a taste of Croatian maritime tradition that’s hard to beat.

Ston: Medieval Charm

The heart of the tour is Ston, a small, well-preserved medieval town with a fascinating history. The narrow streets, old noble houses, and traces of ancient culture create a palpable sense of stepping back in time. You’ll have about five hours here—enough to wander at your own pace, explore local sights, and learn about the town’s significance.

A highlight is the Ston Saltworks, the oldest active salt production facility in the world. Going through the saltworks, with an expert guide, you’ll see how salt has been produced using natural, unchanged methods since ancient times—an interesting contrast to modern industrial processes.

Climbing the Walls and Exploring

One of the most iconic parts of the tour is walking along the Ston Walls, which stretch 5.5 km and are the longest stone city walls in Europe. Built for defense, they protected salt basins and the town from Turkish invasions centuries ago. Though the climb is optional, it’s well worth it for the stunning views over the bay and the sense of standing in a piece of living history. It takes about an hour and fifteen minutes.

The walls are more than just a fortress; they’re a symbol of the region’s resilience. Visitors often comment on how well-preserved and impressive these walls are, offering an architectural and cultural window into Croatia’s past.

Lopud Island Finale

As the day winds down, the boat takes you to Lopud Island for a relaxing hour. Here, you can enjoy a coffee or a cold drink while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere—perfect for reflecting on the day. This is a well-chosen spot to cap off a busy itinerary.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is priced at $218, which covers almost everything: guide services, skipper, fuel, tickets to the walls and saltworks, snorkeling gear, and a delicious brunch. It’s a good value considering the range of experiences packed into one day.

Keep in mind, you’ll want to bring towels, wind jackets for the boat ride, and swimsuits if you plan to swim or snorkel. The tour involves some walking and climbing, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

The group is small, capped at 12 travelers, which makes it easier to ask questions and stay engaged. The tour starts promptly at 9 AM from Dubrovnik’s Gru Market and returns to the same point.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour depends on good weather; if canceled, a full refund or alternative date is offered. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds a layer of flexibility for travel plans.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want a balanced day of history, nature, and culinary delights without feeling rushed. It’s an especially good choice for those interested in authentic local flavors, like oysters and regional wines, or for anyone fascinated by medieval architecture and coastal defenses.

It’s also great for those who enjoy small group settings, personalized guides, and a blend of active and relaxed moments. If you’re curious about salt production or seafood, this tour offers insights and tastes that are rarely available in a typical sightseeing day.

The Sum Up

This walking and boat tour from Dubrovnik offers a multi-layered experience—from the thrill of a speedboat ride, the taste of fresh shellfish, to wandering through medieval streets and climbing ancient walls. It provides a genuine glimpse into Croatia’s maritime and cultural heritage with plenty of opportunities to relax and sample local flavors.

The small group size and all-inclusive pricing mean you get a personal, value-packed day that’s balanced between adventure and education. It’s a memorable excursion that leaves many visitors saying it was “the most that we got during our trip”—a testament to its well-curated mix of activities.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a well-organized way to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s walls, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 12 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Dubrovnik.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Prapratno Beach, Mali Ston (oyster farm and tastings), Ston town, the city walls, saltworks, and Lopud Island.

Is food included?
Yes, a brunch is included, along with tastings of local oysters, mussels, wine, and olive oil.

Are swimming and snorkeling available?
Yes, the tour includes swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Mali Ston Bay.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, wind jackets for the boat ride, swimsuits, and sunscreen.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 12, making it a small, intimate group.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical activity, including walking and some climbing, so it’s best for travelers with good mobility.

How do I book?
You can book through the provider’s website or Viator, with confirmation sent immediately after booking.

This tour offers a fantastic mix of history, nature, and culinary pleasures—an authentic way to see Croatia beyond the usual sights. If you’re after a full day of unique experiences with a personal touch, this might be your perfect trip.