Dubrovnik: Oyster, Mussles, and Wine Tasting Tour in Ston

This half-day adventure from Dubrovnik offers a delightful mix of fresh seafood, fine Croatian wines, and scenic coastal views, all wrapped up in a small-group experience. It combines culinary delights with cultural exploration, giving travelers a taste of local life beyond the bustling streets of Dubrovnik.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its authentic approach — oysters pulled straight from the sea right before your eyes, paired with carefully selected wines from the Peljeac peninsula. The relaxed boat ride through Little Ston Bay lets you unwind while soaking in spectacular views of the Peljeac coast.

One potential downside? The tour might be canceled if the minimum number of participants isn’t met, which could be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule. However, reviews suggest the experience is well worth the wait, especially for those who appreciate good food, scenic drives, and historical sights.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Croatia’s coastal charm, with convenient pick-up and drop-off from Dubrovnik ensuring a hassle-free day.

Key Points

• Authentic Seafood Tasting: Fresh oysters and mussels directly from the water, shucked on a boat and served with local wines.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Cruise through Little Ston Bay with vistas of the Peljeac peninsula and traditional Croatian villages.
• Cultural Exploration: Free time in Ston to walk the walls and explore the historic Old Town.
• Genuine Local Experiences: Visits to family-owned farms and wineries, with knowledgeable hosts.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik make logistics simple.
• Value for Money: Combining food, wine, scenic cruising, and cultural sights at $162 per person offers excellent value.

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

The Booking and What You Can Expect

Starting with a seamless booking process on GetYourGuide, this tour costs $162 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into this half-day. You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel in Dubrovnik, avoiding the hassle of navigating public transport or renting a car. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort even during the warmer Croatian summer months.

The tour kicks off early, typically around 9 am, with a smooth drive that offers picturesque views of the countryside and vineyards on the Peljeac peninsula. The small group size, as indicated by multiple reviews, makes for a more intimate and engaging experience — with some trips having just three participants, which allows guides to tailor their explanations and interactions.

The Scenic Drive and Arrival at Ston

Once you arrive in Ston, the oldest part of the tour begins with a brief overview from your guide, who shares insights about the village’s history and its legendary salt pans. These salt fields are still operational and are a fascinating sight, especially if you’re into local food production.

Ston is famous for its impressive walls, which are the second-longest in the world after the Great Wall of China. While some reviewers mention not having time to climb the walls, even just strolling through the alleyways gives a sense of stepping back in time, with red-roofed buildings and a tranquil pace that invites wandering.

The Boat Ride Through Little Ston Bay

The highlight for many is the boat ride across Little Ston Bay. As you board a comfortable vessel, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coast, forests, and traditional villages. The boat is covered, so you stay protected from the sun, which reviewers appreciated, especially in high summer.

Once at the oyster farm, watch as oysters and mussels are harvested right in front of you — an authentic, hands-on experience that many reviews describe as a “fabulous” and “unique” highlight. The oysters are served fresh, shucked on the boat and placed directly on the table, giving you the chance to taste seafood as it is meant to be enjoyed — straight from the water.

Guests consistently rave about the quality of the oysters, with one reviewer describing them as the “freshest oysters I’ve ever had”, and many mention the mussels being equally delicious. The seafood is paired with Croatian white wines, which are carefully selected to complement the flavors.

Wine Tasting in Peljeac

After the boat experience, the journey continues to a family-run winery on the Peljeac peninsula. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of Croatian wines, which the guides often describe as some of the best they’ve had. The wines are local, and the hosts are enthusiastic about sharing their craft and stories behind each bottle.

Reviewers have highlighted the informal yet informative atmosphere of the winery, with some calling it “a perfect end to a wonderful day.” The wine tasting is typically paired with light snacks or cheese, making it a relaxed way to unwind while learning about regional varieties.

Free Time in Ston

Following the wine tasting, you’ll have free time to stroll through Ston’s Old Town. Many guests take this opportunity to walk the walls for panoramic vistas or explore local shops and cafes. Several reviews mention that an hour isn’t enough to see everything, so if you’re a history buff or enjoy leisurely exploration, you might wish for a little more time.

Scenic Return and Final Views

On the way back to Dubrovnik, the itinerary includes a stop at the Gru Port and a bridge over the Ombla River, offering fantastic photo opportunities of Dubrovnik’s coastline and cityscape. The return trip is calm and allows time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Experience From Guest Reviews

What really makes this tour stand out is the genuine warmth and knowledge of the hosts. Reviewers like Azra and Stefan have been praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and attention to detail. The oyster farm owners, described as “great hosts”, bring a family-owned charm that adds depth to the experience.

Guests also appreciated the small-group format, which fostered a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Many noted that the tour exceeded their expectations for authenticity and quality, especially the freshness of the seafood and the excellent wines.

Some shared that the tour took a little longer than advertised, which wasn’t seen as a negative — rather, it reflected the relaxed pace and generous hospitality. The boat ride and seafood tasting are considered the true highlights, with the stunning coastal scenery adding to the appeal.

Transportation, Timing, and Practical Details

The entire experience is well-organized, starting with hotel pickup around 9 am. The transport is in a climate-controlled vehicle, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. The drive from Dubrovnik to Ston takes approximately an hour, and the boat ride, seafood tasting, and wine tasting together take about four to five hours.

Group size varies, but reviews suggest it’s typically a small, intimate experience, which enhances the overall enjoyment. The tour’s price includes all transportation, the boat ride, seafood tasting, and wine tasting — making it a good value considering the depth of experiences.

Note that the tour can be canceled if minimum numbers aren’t met, so it’s wise to book in advance and remain flexible.

Final Thoughts

This Oyster, Mussels, and Wine Tasting Tour in Ston offers a wonderful blend of culinary delight, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to enjoy authentic Croatian food and wine, with the convenience of transportation and the chance to explore a historic coastal village.

The tour’s authenticity, small-group vibe, and knowledgeable hosts create a memorable experience that’s both relaxing and enriching. The seafood and wine pairings are genuinely high quality, and the views are nothing short of spectacular.

If you’re looking for a laid-back day that combines gastronomy with history, this is a great pick. It’s perfect for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a break from sightseeing that still feels packed with meaningful, local experiences.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, the boat ride, oysters and mussels tasting, and wine tasting at a family-run winery.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience generally runs about four to five hours, starting around 9 am with pickup.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and footwear for walking in Ston, plus sun protection like hats or sunscreen, are recommended, especially for the boat ride.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on seafood and wine suggests it’s best for adults or older teens. Check with the provider if traveling with younger children.

What if the tour is canceled?
If the minimum number of participants isn’t met, the tour will be canceled, but you’ll be notified and can reschedule or get a full refund.

In summary, this tour offers a tasty slice of Croatian coastal life, combining the freshness of local seafood with the charm of Ston’s historic walls and beautiful scenery. It’s a memorable, well-rated experience that balances education, relaxation, and authentic cuisine—ideal for anyone wanting to truly taste Croatia.