The Most Beautiful 7-Day Nautical Route from Dubrovnik through the Elaphites, Mljet and Korčula
BLOG
Table of Contents
Sailing from Dubrovnik is not just another Adriatic getaway – it’s your ticket to a world where every island and cove tells its own story, and every sunset becomes a lasting memory. This 7-day sailing route from Dubrovnik takes you through the magical Elaphiti Islands, the lush landscapes of Mljet National Park, the wine-rich island of Korčula, and the charming harbors of Pelješac and Šipan. It’s an unforgettable blend of Dalmatian heritage, Mediterranean nature, and authentic sailing experiences in Croatia.
Dubrovnik, with its iconic city walls and UNESCO-listed old town, is the perfect starting point for a yacht charter. Just a few nautical miles into your journey, you’ll find secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and hidden coves where time slows down. Each destination on this Adriatic sailing itinerary offers something special – from sunbathing at Šunj Beach on Lopud, cycling through pine-covered Mljet, exploring the historic streets of Korčula, to enjoying local wines and seafood in Pelješac.
Whether you're an experienced sailor or planning your first sailing holiday in Croatia, this 7-day itinerary from Dubrovnik is crafted to give you a taste of the region's best.
This sailing route offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, ideal for anyone looking to explore the southern Dalmatian coast by sea. Every day is a new experience: waking up to the scent of pines, having lunch with a sea view in a local konoba, anchoring under a sky full of stars, or catching sight of dolphins in calm island waters.
Day 1: Dubrovnik – Lopud (8.5 NM)
After departing from ACI Marina Dubrovnik, your first stop is the island of Lopud – a gem of the Elaphiti archipelago. Lopud is famous for its sandy beach Šunj, a favorite among sailors and families for its shallow waters and soft sand.
Things to do:
- Swim and sunbathe at Šunj Beach, rent sunbeds, or try paddle boating
- Visit the 15th-century Franciscan monastery and Church of St. Mary
- Explore the botanical garden with exotic plants
- Walk to the viewpoint for a panoramic view of the Elaphites
Food & Supplies:
The waterfront is lined with cafés and taverns offering fresh fish, shellfish, and local wine. We recommend Restaurant Obala for lunch or dinner by the sea. A small grocery store provides a selection of basic supplies.
Tip: Lopud is car-free, ensuring total peace and relaxation.
Day 2: Lopud – Saplunara (Mljet) – Okuklje (Mljet) (15 NM)
Sail toward the island of Mljet, first stopping at Saplunara – a bay with a long sandy beach surrounded by pine forests. Perfect for a morning swim, paddleboarding, or a beach picnic.
Things to do:
- Swim and relax on Saplunara Beach
- Walk through pine woods to a scenic viewpoint
- Go cycling or kayaking along the coast
After enjoying Saplunara, continue to Okuklje – a quiet, sheltered bay on the northeast side of Mljet, loved by sailors for its safe anchorage and crystal-clear waters.
Food & Supplies:
Restaurant Maestral is known for its fresh fish, octopus under the bell (peka), and homemade desserts. A small grocery store offers essentials.
Tip: Okuklje is ideal for a peaceful night and stargazing.
Day 3: Okuklje – Pomena (16 NM)
Pomena is the main gateway to Mljet National Park, attracting sailors, nature lovers, and day-trippers alike.
Things to do:
- Rent a bike or kayak and explore the Great and Small Lakes – the island’s most famous attractions
- Visit St. Mary’s Islet with its 12th-century Benedictine monastery
- Swim in the saltwater lakes or hike through dense pine forests
- Birdwatching or dolphin spotting (with a bit of luck!)
Food & Supplies:
Restaurants Barba Ive and Konoba Herc offer seafood and local wine. There’s a small grocery store and a fuel station for boats.
Tip: Entrance to the National Park is ticketed and includes boat transport to St. Mary’s Islet.
Day 4: Pomena – Korčula (14 NM)
Sail on to Korčula, one of the most beautiful towns on the Adriatic.
The old town, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” charms with its stone alleys, historic walls, and rich heritage.
You can moor at ACI Marina Korčula and Marina Lumbarda.
Things to do:
- Explore the old town and visit Marco Polo’s birthplace
- Visit St. Mark’s Cathedral and the town museum
- Relax at Vela Pržina (sandy, family-friendly) or Pupnatska Luka (secluded pebble beach with a beach bar)
- Bike or scooter through the vineyards and wine cellars nearby
Food & Supplies:
Restaurants Filippi and Adio Mare serve top-notch Mediterranean cuisine. There are shops, a fish market, and a farmer’s market in town. ACI Marina offers fuel and berths.
Tip: Don’t miss an evening stroll through the old town and a tasting of local wines Grk and Pošip.
Day 5: Korčula – Orebić – Prožura (27 NM)
Cross the Pelješac Channel to reach Orebić – a town known for its vineyards and maritime history. You can moor in Marina Pelješac.
After Orebić, continue to Prožura on Mljet island – a quiet fishing village ideal for a peaceful night, swimming, and dinner in a family-run tavern.
Things to do:
- Visit the Maritime Museum and learn about Orebić’s famous captains
- Taste the renowned Pelješac wines at local wineries (especially Dingač and Postup)
- Swim at the pebble beaches Trstenica and Mokalo
- Hike to the Franciscan Monastery for panoramic views of Korčula and the archipelago
Food & Supplies:
Restaurants Karaka and Konoba Dardin are known for shellfish and fresh fish. Shops, a market, and a fuel station are available at the harbor.
Day 6: Prožura – Šipanska Luka (10 NM)
Sail to Šipanska Luka on the island of Šipan, known for its authentic Dalmatian architecture and peaceful vibe.
Things to do:
- Stroll along the harbor and admire stone palaces and churches
- Visit the Church of St. Stephen from the 11th century
- Bike through the island’s interior and old olive groves
- Enjoy the sunset on a restaurant terrace by the sea
Food & Supplies:
Restaurant Kod Marka is famous for lobster and homemade pasta. There’s a small shop and a fuel supply option at the harbor.
Day 7: Šipanska Luka – Šunj (Lopud) – Dubrovnik (16 NM)
For your final stop, take a break at Šunj Beach on Lopud – perfect for a morning swim and the last moments of sunshine and sea. Return to Dubrovnik with a scenic cruise past the city walls, and end your journey with a farewell dinner in the old town.
Things to do:
- Swim at Šunj, walk or cycle around the island
- Final dinner in Dubrovnik – we recommend Restaurant Proto or Kopun in the old town
Practical Information for Sailors
-
Provisioning: The best provisioning points are Dubrovnik, Korčula, and Orebić (markets, grocery stores, and fuel stations). Smaller islands have limited shops but offer essential groceries.
-
Restaurants: Every stop features at least one konoba (local tavern) with traditional specialties, fresh seafood, and local wines.
-
Nature: The route includes Mljet National Park and many protected bays, perfect for nature lovers, snorkeling, and cycling.
-
Safety: All bays offer safe anchorage, and the local population is known for its hospitality. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially when the south wind (jugo) is expected.
This sailing route from Dubrovnik takes you through diverse landscapes, authentic island towns, and the most stunning parts of southern Dalmatia. Each stop tells a new story – from historic cities and national parks to hidden beaches and local wine cellars. It’s ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and true Dalmatian spirit – all within reach from one of the most beautiful marinas on the Adriatic.
