Dubrovnik is one of the best-preserved medieval walled towns in Europe, an ancient place on the shores of the Adriatic Sea that's flanked by mountains.

Its architectural and natural beauty was not lost on the makers of the global television mega-hit Game of Thrones who made it their location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

Below is everything you need to know about boat cruises, one of the most popular outdoor activities in Dubrovnik.

What are the best places to visit on a boat tour from Dubrovnik?

Elafiti Islands

The Elaphites is a small archipelago of islands located just off the northwest coast of Dubrovnik. The collective name comes from elafo, the Greek word for deer and in ancient times there were large deer populations on the islands.

Today, they are known for their pristine beaches and lush evergreen Mediterranean vegetation. Only the three main islands are permanently inhabited.

Mljet

Mljet Island is the southernmost of the larger Elaphiti islands and approximately two-thirds of its 100 square kilometres is covered by forest.

Among its touristic sights are the national park in its western half, the lakes Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (Big Lake and Small Lake) and an abandoned 12th-century Benedictine monastery.

Kolocep

Kolocep is one of the three permanently inhabited Elaphiti Islands and the closest to the city. Fewer than 200 inhabitants live here and much of the small island is covered by forests that are interrupted by olive groves and vineyards. Popular spots are the sandy beaches that are lapped by clear waters.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Several boat tour combos include visits to shooting locations of Game of Thrones in the old town such as the Rector's Palace and Sponza Palace. They also provide sea views of the city skyline that will be familiar to many TV viewers as it doubled up as the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

Bay of Kotor

Kotor has a stunningly beautiful bay in southwestern Montenegro. Among its must-see attractions are the walled Old Town, the San Giovanni Fortress that sits behind it, the town of Perast and the mountainous scenery.

What kind of boat tours are available in Dubrovnik?

There are several different types of exciting Dubrovnik boat tours to choose from.

Those with romance on their mind will thrill to beautiful sunset dinner cruises. Meanwhile, nature lovers are catered for with full-day cruises onboard a galleon to the green-covered Elaphiti Islands that include trips ashore to explore seaside scenery and picturesque villages.

If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, you may want to immerse yourself in the world of the Seven Kingdoms with a combo cruise that includes a walking tour to shooting locations.

Dubrovnik boat tours also travel to Kotor Bay in the neighboring country of Montenegro. You'll enjoy magnificent views of the coastline and be able to stroll around the old towns in Kotor and Perast.

Some boat trips from Dubrovnik include drinks and refreshments while others do not.

What are the best boat tours in Dubrovnik?

Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik

Duration: 4 hours
Price: From €80 per person
Visits: Blue Cave
Includes: Transportation, snorkeling equipment, non-alcoholic drinks

Dubrovnik Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Price: From €80 per person
Visits: Dubrovnik's Old Town, Lokrum Island
Includes: Transportation, guide, snack, drinks

Montenegro Boat Tour from Perast to Kotor

Duration: 11 hours
Price: From €58 per person
Visits: Kotor Bay
Includes: Transportation, guide

Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise

Duration: 8 hours
Price: From €60 per person
Visits: Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep Islands
Includes: Guide, lunch, drinks

How much will I pay?

Prices start at around €60 per person for a galleon cruise of the Elaphiti Islands and go all the way up to €700 for a luxury private boat tour.

How long does a boat trip take?

Dubrovnik boat trips can range from 2 hours to a full day, depending on the places visited and experiences included.

Where are the usual departure points?

Your boat trip can depart from any of four ports. They are the dock in front of Obala Stjepana Radića 16 and the old town port. Boats that are heading to the Elaphiti Islands depart from Port Gruž. If you book a Montenegro boat trip, your departure will be just over the border crossing with Montenegro.

When is a good time to take a boat trip in Dubrovnik?

The best time to visit Dubrovnik for a boat tour is during the shoulder months of May and September – this is when the weather is warm enough and the crowds aren't too big.

June, July and August is when the weather is at its hottest, making these months ideal for a summer swim in the Adriatic sea.

Which other water activities are available?

Travel Tips

If you are prone to being seasick, take a pill to help keep the motion sickness at bay.
Wear shoes with rubber soles to make walking onboard more comfortable and to avoid slipping.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for any combo tour that includes a walk through the old town.
Bring protection against the sun such as a hat, sun lotion with a high SPF factor and sunglasses.
It is also a good idea to bring a light jacket with you in case you find the sea breeze a little chilly.

Boat Tours in Dubrovnik