Sightseeing Boat Cruise in Old Town of Dubrovnik

If you’re looking to see Dubrovnik from a different angle, a boat cruise around the Old Town’s city walls might just be your perfect choice. This 45-minute panoramic trip offers a refreshing break from walking cobblestone streets and gives you a chance to appreciate the city’s impressive fortifications, nearby islands, and coastal scenery from the water.

What really draws us to this tour are two standout features: first, the spectacular views of Dubrovnik’s famous walls from the seaside, and second, the opportunity to see Lovrijenac Fortress, known to many Game of Thrones fans as the Red Keep. A potential downside? Since the cruise is only 45 minutes long, it’s brief, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit light. Still, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a quick, visually rich experience that complements a day of sightseeing. This tour suits those with a sense of adventure who enjoy scenic views and don’t mind a quick trip — perfect for cruise ship passengers or anyone short on time but eager for a memorable perspective on Dubrovnik.

Contents hide

1 A Closer Look at the Dubrovnik Boat Cruise

2 What’s Included and What’s Not

3 The Experience in Action

4 Final Thoughts

5 Who Will Love This Tour?

6 FAQ

Key Points

Stunning panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s city walls from the sea
Close-up sights of Lovrijenac Fortress and Lokrum Island
Brief but scenic, lasting approximately 45 minutes
Affordable price point of around $31 per person
Flexible booking options with the ability to reserve now and pay later
Limited commentary on the boat, which may matter to those seeking detailed narration

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Dubrovnik Boat Cruise

When considering a sightseeing cruise in Dubrovnik, it’s important to understand what makes this experience special, as well as its limitations.

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Dubrovnik

The Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise departs from the big pier in the Old Town port, a convenient starting point if you’re already exploring Dubrovnik’s historic center. Upon boarding, you’ll quickly be treated to incredible views of the city walls, which are iconic for their medieval and renaissance architecture. From the water, these walls look even more imposing and impressive, wrapping around the Old Town in a protective embrace.

Next, you’ll sail past Lovrijenac Fortress, perched on a rocky outcrop just outside the city walls. Known for its role in Game of Thrones, this fortress is a striking sight from the water — a great photo opportunity and an interesting visual of Dubrovnik’s defensive structures.

One of the tour’s main attractions is the view of Lokrum Island, a lush, green escape just a short boat ride from the city. From the sea, its coves, beaches, and botanical gardens are visible, making for some wonderful photos. The tour also highlights Banje Beach, a popular spot right in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, best appreciated from the water rather than on foot.

What We Loved About This Tour

The views are truly a highlight. Seeing the city walls from the seaside gives a sense of their scale and strategic placement. The proximity to Lokrum Island and the fortress adds context that photos from land might not capture so well. The boat’s relatively small size — just a handful of passengers — means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience, which many travelers find refreshing.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

One reviewer pointed out that the boat captain remained silent during the trip, providing no commentary about what you were seeing. If you’re hoping for an informative narrative, this might be disappointing. However, others appreciated the peace and quiet for photography and reflection.

Plus, the choppy waters on the day of one review remind travelers to consider weather conditions. A quick anti-sickness pill might be wise if you’re prone to seasickness, especially since the Adriatic can be a bit lively at times.

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Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a quick scenic overview of Dubrovnik’s coastline, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer a relaxed, picturesque experience. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to capture stunning photographs from a unique vantage point.

Here's some more things to do in Dubrovnik

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket price of around $31 per person is quite reasonable for the views and experience offered. The tour includes the boat ride itself, but does not include food or drinks, so plan to eat beforehand or bring your own snacks if you want some refreshment on the water.

The meeting point is straightforward, at the main pier in the Old Town, with the boat operator’s desk clearly marked. Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance — a plus for flexible travelers.

The Experience in Action

Imagine yourself sitting comfortably on the boat, feeling the sea breeze, and gliding past Dubrovnik’s towering city walls. The sunlight reflecting off the water illuminates the fortress and the lively coastline. From this vantage point, you’ll see how the city’s fortifications have protected it for centuries, and how the surrounding landscape frames this historic jewel.

Many reviews mention how photo-worthy the trip is. The views of Lokrum Island’s lush greenery and Lovrijenac Fortress’s dramatic cliffs are especially striking. Some travelers noted that the tour was quite quiet, making it perfect for reflection or just enjoying the sounds of the sea.

The Authentic Touch

While some found the lack of commentary a drawback, others appreciated the peaceful ambiance. If you’re someone who prefers to explore at your own pace, this cruise offers an excellent opportunity to soak in the scenery with minimal distraction.

Final Thoughts

This sightseeing boat cruise in Dubrovnik offers a compact, visually stunning way to appreciate the city from the water. Its affordability, ease of booking, and breathtaking views make it a worthwhile addition to any Dubrovnik itinerary — especially for those who love photography, scenic landscapes, and a bit of maritime adventure.

However, keep in mind its short duration and lack of guided narration. If you’re after a more detailed or lengthy on-water experience, you might want to explore other options, perhaps combining this cruise with a guided land tour or sunset cruise.

This tour provides a value-packed snapshot of Dubrovnik’s coast and fortifications, perfect for travelers who want a quick yet memorable perspective of this stunning city.

Who Will Love This Tour?

First-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Dubrovnik’s key sights from the water
Photographers eager to capture iconic views of the city walls, fortress, and Lokrum Island
Couples or small groups seeking an intimate, peaceful experience
Cruise ship passengers with limited time but a desire to see the city from the sea
Anyone interested in affordable scenic outings that don’t sacrifice visual impact

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but scenic highlight of your day.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at the big pier in the Old Town port, specifically near the boat booking desk marked “Rosie’s (Ruza).”

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relatively short duration and relaxed pace suggest it can work for families, especially those comfortable with boat rides.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so bring your own if desired.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is commentary provided during the cruise?
No, the boat captain does not provide narration, so you might want to bring your own camera or simply enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket in case of wind or chill.

Will the water be choppy?
The Adriatic can be a little lively, so if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small boat size and scenic route make it an enjoyable experience for individuals.

What other experiences are similar?
Check out other Dubrovnik sunset and island cruises listed on GetYourGuide for a variety of scenic options, some including wine or sunset views.

In the end, this boat cruise offers a straightforward, budget-friendly glance at Dubrovnik’s stunning coastlines and historic fortifications. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful break, perfect photo opportunities, or a quick orientation of the city from the water, it’s an experience that’s well worth considering.