Gastro Cruise | Dinner and Boat ride around Dubrovnik Old Town

A Taste of Dubrovnik by Sea: An Honest Review of the Gastro Cruise Dinner and Boat Ride

When it comes to exploring Dubrovnik, many travelers focus on walking its iconic city walls or wandering its charming streets. But for a different perspective, a dinner cruise around Dubrovnik’s Old Town offers a refreshingly scenic way to end a day. This experience combines the beauty of the coastal skyline, a traditional Croatian meal, and a relaxing boat ride that captures the city’s magic from the water.

What we really love about this cruise is how it manages to be both intimate and immersive—drifting past the city walls as the sun dips below the horizon, all while enjoying local food and drinks. The authentic Croatian dishes, like popara (a traditional bread-based dish rarely found on menus), add a genuine touch that elevates the evening beyond a typical boat tour.

One potential consideration? The price of around $93.52 per person might seem steep for some, especially when reviews have noted both superb moments and a few hiccups. But overall, it offers a valuable glimpse of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline with personalized service. The cruise is best suited for those looking for a romantic or relaxing experience that combines view, flavor, and a little adventure—ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a memorable sunset.

Key Points

• Stunning sunset views over Dubrovnik from the harbor and around Lokrum Island.
• Authentic Croatian cuisine, including dishes like popara, served with local wine and drinks.
• Intimate group size and family-run atmosphere, adding a warm, welcoming vibe.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Well-equipped boat with WiFi, restrooms, and baby seats—comfort matters.
• A perfect way to see Dubrovnik’s coastal skyline from a new perspective.

What to Expect from the Dubrovnik Gastro Cruise

This 2-hour cruise starts at the Porat DubrovnikRibarnica and departs from the Old Town’s port, offering a scenic ride around Dubrovnik’s famed city walls and Lokrum Island. It’s designed to combine the visual spectacle of the city’s nighttime illumination with the pleasures of Croatian cuisine.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Dubrovnik City Walls at Night
The cruise kicks off with a gentle departure from the Old Town’s port. Before the boat leaves, you’ll be greeted with traditional local snacks and appetizers, setting the tone for an authentic experience. The boat then slowly cruises past the city walls, which are especially dramatic at sunset, glowing under the evening sky. As the sun dips, the captain offers commentary on the sights, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a storytelling journey.

The Highlight: Watching the sunset over Dubrovnik’s skyline from the water is truly breathtaking. Reviewers like Christiania_l describe it as “a beautiful romantic event in front of the City Walls,” emphasizing how magical the atmosphere can be.

Stop 2: Lokrum Island and Beyond
The boat then heads towards the nearby Lokrum Island, offering panoramic views of the island’s lush landscape against the fading light. As the boat cruises around Lokrum, you get an unobstructed view of Dubrovnik’s coast with the city lights beginning to twinkle on the water. This part of the journey is noted for its peaceful beauty, with some reviewers mentioning the moonlight reflecting on the water as a particularly memorable moment.

Food and Drinks

The dinner is a three-course affair served onboard, starting with a cold starter and local snacks. The main course often features freshly cooked seafood—like sea bass—that many reviewers found delicious and well-prepared. The dessert is a simple fruit salad or ice cream, balancing the meal with light sweetness.

The beverages are included for most of the experience, with options like local wine, water, soda, or three drinks per person. Reviewers consistently praised the quality of the wine, noting it complemented the meal perfectly. The wine selection, along with the family-run hospitality, adds a homey, authentic touch.

Atmosphere and Service

Guests consistently mention the friendly, attentive staff, often members of the family, who make sure everyone feels comfortable and cared for. The boat is described as well-maintained, with WiFi and restrooms, which improves the overall experience.

Several reviewers highlight the small group size, making it intimate rather than crowded, which is perfect for those wanting a quiet, conversational evening. The family vibe is evident—many departure and review comments mention the warmth and genuine hospitality of boat owners like Slavija and George.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

The reviews reveal a diverse range of experiences—some guests loved the traditional Croatian food, the stunning sunset views, and the family-run atmosphere. Christiania_l appreciated the knowledgeable captain George, who made the trip both fun and educational. Nathalie_C raved about how the sunset and moonlit water created a “memorable” scene, highlighting how the experience feels more personal than a generic tour.

However, not all reviews have been glowing. One guest, Sarah_F, described a disappointing evening with loud banging from the crew and a less-than-stellar meal, which reminds us that as with any tour, experiences can vary. The company’s policy allows free cancellation, so it’s wise to be prepared for potential weather issues or scheduling conflicts.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

Pricing at around $93.52 per person offers a good value for those who enjoy scenic views, good food, and a relaxed vibe. The inclusion of 3 drinks and a three-course meal makes it a solid package, especially when compared to the cost of dining out in Dubrovnik’s more touristy restaurants.

The group size is capped at 40, with many reviews indicating smaller, more intimate groups—enhancing the personal touch. The cruise departs from Porat DubrovnikRibarnica and lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing.

Timing is flexible but typically aligns with sunset hours, so check the schedule for the best sunset views—usually during late summer or early fall. The experience is suitable for most travelers, including families (with baby seats available), solo travelers, and couples.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re looking to combine breathtaking scenery with authentic Croatian flavors in a cozy, family-run setting, this cruise ticks all those boxes. The stunning sunset views, especially around Dubrovnik’s walls and Lokrum Island, provide perfect photo opportunities. The local food and wine, prepared and served with care, give you a taste of regional culture that’s hard to find elsewhere.

For those who enjoy a relaxed, intimate experience on the water with friendly hosts, this cruise offers genuine hospitality and memorable moments. It’s especially well-suited for travelers wanting something more than just sightseeing—a chance to unwind, enjoy good food, and take in Dubrovnik from a unique vantage point.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for romantic couples seeking a special sunset moment and a romantic atmosphere. It’s also perfect for small groups or solo travelers who want an authentic, family-run experience with plenty of opportunities for conversation and relaxation.

If you’re a foodie eager to sample traditional Croatian dishes like popara, or someone wanting to see Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls from the water, this cruise will not disappoint. On the other hand, travelers seeking a fast-paced, action-packed tour or a large group experience might find this too quiet or intimate.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children or babies?
Yes, the boat is equipped with baby seats, making it family-friendly for travelers with young children.

What is included in the price?
You’ll receive a 3-course dinner, including cold starters and dessert, and three drinks per person, which can be wine, water, or soda.

Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Absolutely, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, providing flexibility.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Porat DubrovnikRibarnica, located in Dubrovnik’s Old Town area.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, covering the ride around the city walls and Lokrum Island during sunset.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for an evening boat ride. A light jacket is recommended in case it gets breezy.

In The Sum Up, this dinner cruise around Dubrovnik offers more than just sightseeing; it provides a chance to unwind with authentic local flavors, stunning views, and a warm family atmosphere. While some reviews mention minor issues, the majority highlight the breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and friendly service as making it a worthwhile experience—especially for those wanting a relaxing, scenic, and memorable evening in Croatia. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to wind down after a day exploring, this cruise makes for a charming addition to your Dubrovnik itinerary.