Gastro Cruise | Dinner and Boat ride around Dubrovnik Old Town

Explore Dubrovnik from the Water with an Authentic Dinner Cruise

The Gastro Cruise in Dubrovnik, Croatia, offers a scenic 2-hour boat ride combined with a delicious three-course dinner. Priced at $93.52 per person, this cruise departs from the Porat Dubrovnik meeting point and receives a solid 4.5-star rating based on 46 reviews. It’s a popular choice, frequently booked over 5 times a week, and recommended by 91% of past participants. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to see Dubrovnik’s coastal skyline and city walls from the water, complemented by authentic Croatian cuisine and sunset views.

While some reviews mention the experience can be impacted by weather or minor operational issues, the overall feedback highlights a memorable evening with warm hospitality, stunning scenery, and tasty food. The tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic dinner on the water, especially after a day of exploring the city. It’s a family-friendly activity with included amenities like WiFi, restroom facilities, and baby seats.

Key Points

• 2-hour boat cruise around Dubrovnik Old Town and Lokrum Island
• Includes a three-course traditional Croatian dinner with snacks and desserts
• Sunset views over the city walls and coastal skyline
• Alcoholic beverages including 3 drinks per person or a bottle of wine and water per couple
• Complimentary WiFi and restroom onboard
• Operates in good weather, with options for full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions
• Small group setting with a maximum of 40 travelers

Scenic Views of Dubrovnik’s Coastal Skyline and City Walls

This cruise offers a chance to view Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls from the water, a perspective that reveals their impressive scale and architecture. The cruise departs from the Old Town’s port, but due to turbulent waters, some trips may leave from Lapadaska—so it’s worth confirming your departure point. During the ride, you’ll pass Lokrum Island, a lush island just across from the Old Town, offering breathtaking sunset vistas that create a romantic backdrop.

The boat ride is designed to showcase beautiful scenery and coastal views, providing ample opportunities for photos of the city’s skyline illuminated at dusk. The panoramic ride is smooth, with reviews praising the relaxing atmosphere and stunning sunset that transforms the water into a glowing canvas.

Traditional Croatian Cuisine on Board

The highlight for many is the dinner experience, featuring a three-course meal served onboard in front of the Old Town. The menu includes authentic Croatian dishes like popara, a traditional dish seldom found on typical restaurant menus. The meal begins with cold starters and snacks, continues with a main course of sea bass cooked onboard, and concludes with dessert options like ice cream and fruit salad.

Alcoholic drinks are included—up to 3 drinks per person—with options like local wine, soda, or water. Several reviews note the freshness and quality of the food, as well as the friendly service. The home-cooked feel of the meal and the beautiful setting make this cruise a culinary highlight.

The Experience of Watching the Sunset from the Harbor

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the spectacular sunset view, often described as unforgettable. The boat gently moors near Lokrum Island or close to the city walls, allowing passengers to enjoy the romantic horizon as the sun dips below the water, casting a warm glow over Dubrovnik’s silhouette.

Many reviews mention the moonlit cruise after sunset, with some noting the full moon enhancing the experience. The calm waters and soft lighting create a peaceful, almost magical ambiance that appeals especially to couples and those seeking a tranquil evening.

The Stops: Dubrovnik Walls and Lokrum Island Panorama

The cruise features two main stops or viewpoints. First, the boat circles around the Dubrovnik City Walls at sunset, providing a unique perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage site by night. This close-up view of the walls’ grandeur is a favorite among travelers.

Next, the journey continues to Lokrum Island, offering panoramic views of this lush island opposite the Old Town. The cruise allows you to see the island’s coastline and enjoy breathtaking sunsets as the boat glides past. The stops are primarily viewing points, with no lengthy excursions ashore, making the experience seamless and relaxing.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Amenities

The tour begins at Porat DubrovnikRibarnica ul. 1, where the boat is ready for boarding. The maximum number of participants is 40, ensuring an intimate setting that facilitates friendly interactions. The cruise is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options available.

Included amenities enhance the comfort of the experience: onboard WiFi, restroom facilities, and baby seats for families. The boat itself, named Slavija, is a well-maintained vessel built in Slovenia in 1895, adding a touch of historic charm.

Flexible Cancellation and Weather Considerations

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, providing peace of mind. Since the experience relies on good weather, cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable or may be rescheduled. Travelers are advised to check weather forecasts to avoid disappointment.

Some reviews indicate that weather can impact the experience; for example, turbulence may lead to departures from alternative locations like Lapadaska. It’s advisable to confirm the departure point and weather forecast before booking.

Potential Limitations and Tips for a Great Experience

While many reviews praise the delicious food and stunning scenery, a few mention minor inconveniences. For example, some guests report limited variety of starters or bones in the fish, so careful eating is advised. Others note that the cruise primarily goes back and forth along the same stretch of water, which might feel repetitive for those expecting extensive sightseeing.

Booking early and arriving on time help ensure a smooth experience, and it’s wise to confirm the departure point, especially if leaving from Lapadaska due to weather. Bringing a camera and dress appropriately for the evening chill enhances the trip.

Family-Friendly and Romantic Night Out

This cruise suits families with children, as baby seats are available, and the relaxed pace appeals to all ages. It also makes a romantic outing, especially at sunset, with many reviews emphasizing the beautiful views and intimate atmosphere. The onboard local Croatian dishes and local wines add to the cultural experience.

Final Thoughts on the Dubrovnik Gastro Cruise

The Gastro Cruise offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Dubrovnik from the water, combining spectacular sunset views, authentic cuisine, and scenic stops. Its small group size and warm hospitality create a friendly environment for memorable moments. The quality of food and drinks, along with the stunning scenery, make it worth considering for anyone seeking a charming evening experience.

While weather can affect the experience, the overall positive feedback and beautiful vistas suggest this cruise remains a popular choice for those who value relaxing, scenic dinners with a touch of local charm. It’s especially suited for couples, families, or anyone wanting to unwind after exploring the historic city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the cruise?
The three-course dinner, 3 alcoholic drinks, bottled water, WiFi, and restroom facilities are included.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Porat DubrovnikRibarnica ul. 1, with some trips possibly leaving from Lapadaska due to weather.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, baby seats are available, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for an evening boat ride is recommended; bringing a light jacket can be helpful.

Is the experience affected by weather?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations or departures from alternative locations. The tour is dependent on good weather conditions.

Are there any notable negatives?
Some reviews mention limited variety of starters, bones in fish, or that the cruise mainly goes back and forth along the same water stretch.

Who should consider this tour?
This cruise is ideal for romantic couples, families, or anyone wanting a relaxing way to see Dubrovnik’s coastal scenery and city walls while enjoying authentic Croatian cuisine.