Dubrovnik & Mljet

Why go there?

Dubrovnik: better known as the ‘The Pearl of the Adriatic’ is a vibrant harbor that serves as a gateway to the southern Adriatic, inviting exploration of the nearby island of Mjlet and numerous hidden coastal treasures. Before you set sail don’t miss the walk around the iconic city walls of Dubrovnik, the Rector's Palace, and losing yourself in the labyrinthine streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you desire the luxury of a crewed yacht or the independence of a bareboat charter, Dubrovnik is an enchanting starting point for an unforgettable sailing experience.

Mljet: An emerald island sanctuary, where nature reigns supreme. Discover the lush greenery of Mljet National Park, cycle around the Great and Small Lakes, and find tranquillity in its unspoiled landscapes. Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in Mljet's serene beauty and natural wonders.

Here are some of the top spots to go to from Dubrovnik:

• Pomena : This is a popular entry point to Mljet National Park about 2 and half hours sailing time from Dubrovnik. While it has a small harbor, there are also nearby anchorages. You'll be close to the famous saltwater lakes (Veliko and Malo Jezero). Keep in mind that it can get busy in peak season.
• Polače: About 3hrs from Dubrovnik, this harbor offers good shelter and has Roman ruins nearby. It's a convenient base for exploring the northern part of the island. There are several anchoring possibilities in the wider bay.
• Saplunara: Located on the southeastern coast about 2hours from Dubrovnik, Saplunara is known for its sandy beaches. There are several well-protected bays in the area that offer good anchoring possibilities.
• Okuklje: On the north side of the island, Okuklje is a picturesque, well-protected bay that almost looks like a lake. It's a very popular spot for yachts. Count about 2 and half hours to get there by boat from Dubrovnik Important Considerations for Anchoring:

National Park Regulations: A significant portion of Mljet is a national park, so be sure to familiarize yourself with any specific anchoring regulations or fees that may apply.

Weather: As always in the Adriatic, pay close attention to the weather forecast. Some anchorages may be more exposed to certain winds.

Sea Bottom: Check your charts for information on the sea bottom composition to ensure a good hold for your anchor.

Crowds: In the peak summer months, popular spots can get crowded. Arriving early can help you secure a good spot.

Marina facilities around Dubrovnik:

The Dubrovnik area provides several well-equipped marina facilities:

ACI Marina Dubrovnik: Located in Komolac, up the River Ombla, it is one of the safest marinas in the Adriatic. It offers 425 berths for yachts up to 60 meters, with comprehensive facilities, including water and electricity, a fuel station, a restaurant, and repair services.

Orsan Yachting Club Marina: Situated closer to the Old Town, it provides a mix of berths for both smaller and larger vessels. It offers essential amenities and is conveniently located for exploring Dubrovnik's attractions.

Teuta Marina: Found in Cavtat, near Dubrovnik, it's a smaller marina that provides a peaceful alternative. It offers good facilities and a charming coastal town atmosphere.

How to get there?

For those planning to explore the southern Dalmatian coast and visit Mljet Island, Dubrovnik serves as a primary starting or return point. Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is well-connected with domestic and international flights, and ground transportation options are readily available. Taxis, app-based rides, and bus services offer convenient transfers from the airport to Dubrovnik and nearby marinas. The transfer time to Dubrovnik city center is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Major European Airlines serving Dubrovnik Airport commonly include:

• Croatia Airlines: The national carrier, providing domestic connections within Croatia and some international routes.
• easyJet: A very prominent low-cost carrier with numerous connections to various European cities (especially from the UK).
• Ryanair: Another major low-cost carrier with a significant presence.
• Eurowings: A German low-cost carrier with connections to German cities.
• British Airways: Connecting Dubrovnik with London.
• Lufthansa: Often with connections through major German hubs.
• KLM: Flights from Amsterdam.
• Air France: Flights from French cities like Paris.
• Vueling: Spanish low-cost airline.
• Turkish Airlines: Connecting Dubrovnik with Istanbul.
• Austrian Airlines: Flights from Vienna.
• Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS): Flights from Zurich.
• Scandinavian Airlines (SAS): Flights from Scandinavian countries.

Intercontinental Airlines:

• United Airlines: Offers direct flights between Dubrovnik and New York/Newark (this is a very important connection during the peak season).