Gastro Cruise | Cruise around Dubrovnik Old Town with Lunch

Discover Dubrovnik from a Different Angle with the Gastro Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing with authentic local cuisine, a Gastro Cruise around Dubrovnik’s Old Town might be just what you need. This tour offers a quick but immersive way to see the city’s iconic walls and nearby Lokrum Island, all while savoring Croatian flavors on board a boat. As someone who’s seen many tours, I appreciate how this one manages to pack a lot into just around two hours — perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a memorable experience.

What really caught my eye about this cruise is how it balances beautiful scenery and tasty food. I also like that it includes drinks, which makes the experience feel relaxed and celebratory. That said, it’s a short trip, so if you’re craving a more in-depth tour or extensive sightseeing, you might find this a bit surface-level. Still, for those who want a quick taste of Dubrovnik’s charm paired with a delicious meal, this is a solid pick, especially if you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want a relaxing afternoon on the water.

One thing to consider is that this experience is weather-dependent — if the skies turn grey or rain hits, the cruise might be canceled or rescheduled. Also, given its limited duration, it’s best for those who want a concise, enjoyable outing without too much fuss. It’s ideal for travelers who love good food, scenic boat rides, and a glimpse of Dubrovnik’s coastal beauty without committing to a full-day excursion.

If your trip involves savoring local cuisine, admiring stunning views, and enjoying a laid-back boat trip, this gastro cruise could be a highlight. It’s especially suited for visitors who want efficiency with a splash of flavor and a view.

Key Points

• Authentic Croatian cuisine served on a boat with scenic views
• Short duration makes it perfect for busy schedules
• Includes drinks, with options for wine or other beverages
• Sightseeing of Dubrovnik walls and Lokrum Island from the sea
• Comfortable group size (up to 40 travelers)
• Weather-sensitive — good weather is a must for the best experience

An Honest Breakdown of the Dubrovnik Gastro Cruise Experience

When it comes to ensuring you get your money’s worth, this tour hits some strong points. For just over $87 per person, you’re paying primarily for a delicious 3-course meal, drinks, and a scenic boat ride. Considering Dubrovnik’s reputation as a top tourist spot, this combination of food, scenery, and cultural flavor makes for a worthwhile outing, especially if you’re not keen on long tours or busy sightseeing days.

The Itinerary

The tour kicks off from the Port of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a prime location that’s easy to reach if you’re already wandering around the historic core. The first stop is the Dubrovnik City Walls, where you get a chance to admire one of the most famous sights in the city, but from the water. Instead of spending hours walking along the walls, you’ll enjoy the views from the deck of your boat, which offers a completely different perspective.

As you set out, you’re welcomed with local snacks and appetizers, giving you a taste of Croatian flavors right from the start. The boat then meanders along the coast, offering stunning views of the walls, Old Town, and surrounding seascape. During this cruise, you’ll get to see the Island of Lokrum, which is across from the Old Town, from a unique vantage point. The boat leisurely circles the island, giving you excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate this lush, historical spot.

Lunch and Drinks

The centerpiece is the onboard lunch, which is more than just a snack. You’ll be served a fish menu, featuring grilled Seabass or Gilthead Seabream with sides. The reviews highlight the deliciousness of the food, with guests particularly appreciating the authentic flavors. The meal includes cold starters and a dessert, rounding out the culinary experience.

The drinks are an added bonus — three drinks per person are included, which could be local wine, water, or soda, depending on your choice. Several reviews praise the excellent wine selection, adding a touch of sophistication and relaxation to the cruise. It’s clear that the organizers aim to make this a laid-back, pleasurable outing, not just a sightseeing trip.

The Scenic Views

One of the main reasons people love this tour is the visual feast. Seeing Dubrovnik’s walls from the water is a treat, especially as the boat glides along with the breeze. The views of Lokrum Island, with its lush greenery and historical ruins, add to the charm. The cruise provides a panoramic perspective you can’t get just walking around the city, offering a fresh way to appreciate Dubrovnik’s beauty.

The Experience and Atmosphere

From reviews, it’s apparent that the operator’s friendliness and professionalism stand out. Debbie mentions, “The cruise was fun, the food was delicious, and the operators were kind and friendly,” which encapsulates the warm, welcoming vibe of the trip. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with good company and excellent food, makes for a memorable afternoon.

Since the tour is limited to a maximum of 40 travelers, it feels intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and chat comfortably. The inclusion of WiFi on board is a nice touch, allowing you to share your experience in real-time or catch up on social media.

Practical Details and Value

The duration of roughly two hours makes this an excellent filler activity if you’re tight on time but still want to indulge in something special. The price tag, at just over $87, reflects the quality of the food, drinks, and scenery. It’s not the cheapest tour in Dubrovnik, but considering the inclusion of a 3-course meal and drinks, it offers decent value.

The cancellation policy is flexible — free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the start, which is helpful if weather or plans change. The tour operates in good weather, emphasizing the importance of clear skies for the best experience.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 40 travelers, the group size feels manageable. The meeting point is centrally located, making it easy to access. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it reasonably accessible as well.

Who’s It Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for food lovers, especially those interested in tasting authentic Croatian cuisine in a relaxed, scenic setting. It suits travelers who want a quick but meaningful glimpse of Dubrovnik’s coastline without a full-day commitment. It’s also great for couples or friends who enjoy good wine, beautiful sights, and a leisurely cruise. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good food and views but prefers to keep sightseeing casual, this trip hits the right notes.

If you’re seeking an immersive cultural tour or extensive exploration of Dubrovnik’s history, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you value a mix of light sightseeing, culinary delights, and scenic boat time, this cruise offers a genuinely enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

The Gastro Cruise around Dubrovnik’s Old Town offers a wonderful way to combine delicious local cuisine with stunning seaside views. The balance of sightseeing and relaxation makes it especially attractive for travelers looking to maximize their time without sacrificing quality. The included drinks, friendly service, and the chance to see Dubrovnik from the water are definite highlights.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who want a taste of Croatia’s culinary and coastal charm in a short, enjoyable outing. It’s perfect if you’re after a laid-back experience, good food, and memorable scenery, all wrapped into a compact two-hour adventure.

While it’s weather-dependent and relatively brief, the positive reviews and thoughtful setup suggest it delivers on its promises. Just remember, it’s best on a clear day, so keep that in mind when planning your Dubrovnik trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a short but sweet experience.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a 3-course lunch, including cold starters and dessert, along with three drinks per person (or a bottle of wine per couple), water, soda, and snacks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Porat DubrovnikRibarnica ul. 1 in Dubrovnik’s Old Town port and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a relaxed cruise, so families with children who enjoy boat rides and seafood should find it suitable.

What is the best weather condition for this cruise?
Good weather is essential — the experience is canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, so check the forecast.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility if plans change.

How many people are on each cruise?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

Is there WiFi on the boat?
Yes, WiFi is available on board, so you can share your photos or stay connected.

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, scenic escape from Dubrovnik’s bustling streets, this gastro cruise might just be the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the city from the water.