Gastro Cruise | Cruise around Dubrovnik Old Town with Lunch

Imagine a relaxing boat ride around Dubrovnik’s iconic City Walls and the serene Lokrum Island, topped with a delicious three-course lunch filled with local flavors. That’s exactly what the Gastro Cruise offers—an experience that blends sightseeing with a taste of Croatian culinary tradition. It’s a short, sweet adventure perfect for those who want to enjoy Dubrovnik from the water without committing to a full-day tour.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the authentic local snacks and a hearty fish lunch on board create a genuine Croatian dining experience. And the scenic views of Dubrovnik’s walls and Lokrum Island are genuinely breathtaking. Plus, it’s a relatively quick trip—about two hours—which means you can fit it into a busy sightseeing schedule or enjoy it as a relaxing afternoon break.

However, if you’re expecting a big adventure or a lengthy cruise, this tour might feel a bit light. It’s quite intimate and focused, so travelers seeking extensive sightseeing or multiple stops might want to consider longer options. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic, and scenic experience, this gastro cruise could be just the ticket. It’s especially well-suited for food lovers, first-time visitors wanting a quick overview, or anyone who prefers a relaxed pace with plenty of local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic Croatian cuisine served on a boat with stunning views
• Short, manageable duration perfect for a half-day activity
• Scenic sightseeing of Dubrovnik’s famous city walls and Lokrum Island
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks add to the value
• Friendly operators and a cozy group size ensure a personal touch
• Ideal for foodies and first-time visitors wanting a quick taste of Dubrovnik

A Closer Look at the Dubrovnik Gastro Cruise Experience

The Beginning: Departure from Dubrovnik Old Town

The adventure kicks off at the Porat Dubrovnik Ribarnička ul. 1, right in the heart of the Old Town. This location is easily accessible, close to public transport, and perfect for travelers already exploring Dubrovnik’s historic core. The tour departs at 1:30 pm, giving you a leisurely afternoon start. From here, your first sight isn’t just the boat but the promise of a scenic voyage along Dubrovnik’s coast.

The Scenic Boat Ride & View of City Walls

As you set sail, you’ll immediately notice the spectacular views of Dubrovnik’s famous walls. The cruise provides a different perspective—seeing the fortified city from the sea, with the wind gently ruffling the water. The boat glides past Lokrum Island, offering a panoramic perspective that’s both relaxing and photo-worthy.

The boat ride itself lasts about an hour, and it’s free of charge, since the focus is on sightseeing and the culinary experience. We loved the way the boat’s calm pace allowed us to fully take in the sights without feeling rushed.

Dining with a View: The Three-Course Fish Lunch

The highlight of this tour is the lunch service. Before dipping into the crystal-clear waters or lounging on the beaches, you’ll indulge in a three-course meal served right on the boat, with the Old Town providing a stunning backdrop. The menu features grilled seabass or gilthead seabream, accompanied by side dishes—simple, fresh, and authentically Croatian.

The reviews praise the delicious food as “fantastic,” and it’s easy to see why. The fish is fresh, well-prepared, and served with local flair. The meal is complemented by three drinks included in the price, which can be beer, soft drinks, or even a bottle of wine per couple. As one reviewer put it, the experience allows you to avoid crowds and enjoy the pleasure of traditional cuisine in a quiet, scenic setting.

Lokrum Island: The Final Stop

After lunch, the boat continues its circular tour around Lokrum Island, a famous spot across from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The island is known for its lush greenery and serene beaches, and from the water, you’ll get a beautiful panoramic view. The one-hour stop here is more about appreciating the scenery rather than detailed exploration, but you’ll leave with plenty of memorable photos.

The Return and Afterglow

The cruise ends back at the same port, making it an easy, no-fuss experience. The overall length—around two hours—is ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a light adventure without overcommitting.

What We Loved About the Tour

The authentic Croatian food on board stands out as a real highlight. The focus on local dishes like grilled fish and the inclusive drinks made the meal feel special without being overly formal or expensive. The scenic views of Dubrovnik’s walls and Lokrum Island truly enhance the experience, providing a unique vantage point that’s hard to beat.

The friendly attitude of the crew also received praise. Guests comment on the “kind and friendly” operators who made the trip feel welcoming and personalized. The WiFi on board is a small touch that many will appreciate, especially during a busy travel day.

Authenticity and Value

This cruise excels in offering genuine local flavors and scenery in just a couple of hours—making it an excellent value for those wanting to combine sightseeing and gastronomy without breaking the bank. With a cost of around $87, including lunch and drinks, it’s comparable to many half-day tours but with a more intimate and authentic feel.

Possible Drawbacks

One thing to keep in mind is the short duration. If you’re eager to explore multiple islands, do extensive sightseeing, or enjoy a full leisurely day, this might feel too lightweight. Also, since the tour operates in good weather, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or alterations. The tour does require a minimum number of travelers, so check availability in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for food lovers wanting authentic Croatian cuisine paired with scenic views. It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a quick, rundown of Dubrovnik’s coastline and city walls from the water. If you prefer short, relaxed activities that combine sightseeing with good eats, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers with limited time but still eager to experience the local flavor and stunning scenery.

The Sum Up

The Gastro Cruise around Dubrovnik offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and authentic cuisine in a compact, manageable package. The short duration makes it an ideal addition to a busy Dubrovnik itinerary, adding a touch of leisure and local flavor without overwhelming your schedule. The delicious seafood lunch, paired with stunning views of the Old Town walls and Lokrum Island, makes it a memorable experience—an excellent choice for foodies, first-timers, or anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic escape.

While it may not satisfy those looking for an extended tour or extensive island hopping, it delivers on the essentials: good food, friendly service, and beautiful scenery. It’s a smart pick for travelers wanting a taste of Dubrovnik’s seaside charm, with a focus on authentic local flavors and stunning vistas.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including families, as long as they enjoy boat rides and seafood.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, making it a quick and light activity.

What’s included in the price?
A three-course lunch featuring grilled fish, three drinks (including wine or beer), snacks, bottled water, and WiFi onboard.

Are drinks and snacks available throughout the cruise?
Yes, drinks are included with the meal, and snacks are provided.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Porat Dubrovnik Ribarnička ul. 1, in the Old Town, easily accessible and near public transportation.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

How many people typically join this tour?
A maximum of 40 travelers, which keeps the group intimate and friendly.

Is there an option to customize or extend the experience?
This particular tour is fixed in duration and itinerary, but similar options are available at other providers.

Always check current availability and weather conditions before booking. This gastro cruise offers a charming, practical way to enjoy Dubrovnik’s stunning coast and authentic flavors—highly recommended if you’re looking for a quick, cozy, and delicious experience on your trip.