Dubrovnik Ferry Guide 2026: Routes, Prices & Island Hopping

Dubrovnik Ferry Guide 2026: The Ultimate Resource

Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', is more than just its stunning city walls; it's the primary gateway to the magical islands of Southern Dalmatia. Understanding the ferry network is key to unlocking an unforgettable Croatian adventure. This guide provides all the essential information for 2026, from port logistics and popular routes to booking tickets and insider tips, ensuring your island-hopping experience is seamless.

Understanding Dubrovnik's Two Key Ferry Ports

Dubrovnik operates two distinct ports for passenger ferries, and knowing which one to use is crucial for your travel plans.

Gruž Port: The Main Hub

Gruž Port is Dubrovnik's main commercial and passenger port, located approximately 3 km northwest of the Old Town. This is where all major ferry and catamaran lines depart for other islands and mainland cities.

• Location: Gruž neighbourhood, about a 10-15 minute bus ride (Bus lines 1A, 1B, 3) or a €10-€15 taxi ride from the Pile Gate (Old Town).
• Destinations: Elaphiti Islands, Mljet, Korčula, Lastovo, Hvar, Brač, and Split.
• Operators: Jadrolinija, TP Line, and Kapetan Luka (Krilo) all operate from here.
• Facilities: The terminal area is well-equipped with official ticket offices for all major companies, ATMs, luggage storage services (expect to pay around €5-€7 per bag), cafes, a supermarket, and a tourist information center.
• Insider Tip: Arrive at Gruž Port at least 45 minutes before your departure time in the peak season (June-August), as ticketing and boarding lines can be long.

Old Town Port: Gateway to Lokrum

The historic port nestled right next to the city walls is no longer used for long-distance travel. Its primary function today is serving the high-frequency tourist route to Lokrum Island.

• Location: Eastern side of the Old Town, easily accessible on foot from anywhere within the city walls.
• Destinations: Exclusively for the ferry to Lokrum Island.
• Operators: The service is operated by the Lokrum Reserve.
• Facilities: You'll find a dedicated ticket kiosk directly at the pier. The price of the ferry ticket includes the entrance fee to the Lokrum Island Nature Reserve. Numerous cafes and restaurants surround the port.
• Data Point: The ferry to Lokrum departs every 30 minutes during peak season, with the first departure around 9:00 AM and the last return around 7:00 PM.

Top Ferry Routes & Destinations from Dubrovnik in 2026

Dubrovnik's network connects you to some of Croatia's most stunning destinations. All services mentioned below are passenger-only catamarans unless specified otherwise.

The Elaphiti Islands: A Local's Escape

The Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan) are a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik, perfect for a relaxing day trip. The Jadrolinija line 807 is a local lifeline, making several stops.

• Operator: Jadrolinija (operates both a passenger ship and a car ferry on this route).
• Duration: 30 minutes to Koločep, 1 hour to Lopud, 1 hour 15 minutes to Šipan.
• Estimated 2026 Price: €4 - €6 one-way.
• Why Go: Ideal for swimming, hiking, and enjoying a peaceful lunch away from the city crowds. Lopud is famous for its sandy Šunj beach.

Lokrum Island: The Green Oasis

The closest and most accessible island, Lokrum is a protected nature reserve just a 15-minute boat ride from the Old Town Port.

• Operator: Lokrum Reserve official boat.
• Duration: 15 minutes.
• Estimated 2026 Price: €27 for a return ticket, which includes the island entrance fee. This is a fixed price.
• Why Go: Explore the botanical gardens, visit the medieval Benedictine monastery (a Game of Thrones filming location), see the free-roaming peacocks, and swim in the 'Dead Sea', a small saltwater lake.

Mljet Island: The National Park

Often called Croatia's greenest island, a large part of Mljet is a national park. Ferries connect Dubrovnik to two ports on the island: Pomena (closest to the park) and Sobra.

• Operators: TP Line and Kapetan Luka (Krilo) run fast catamarans to Pomena. Jadrolinija operates a catamaran to Sobra.
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to Pomena; 1 hour to Sobra.
• Estimated 2026 Price: €18 - €22 one-way.
• Why Go: Visit Mljet National Park to see its two saltwater lakes and the picturesque St. Mary's Island monastery. It's a paradise for hiking, cycling, and kayaking.

Korčula Island: The Mini-Dubrovnik

Famous for its fortified medieval town, dense pine forests, and excellent white wines, Korčula is a must-visit destination.

• Operators: TP Line, Kapetan Luka (Krilo), and Jadrolinija all run daily catamaran services.
• Duration: Around 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes.
• Estimated 2026 Price: €20 - €25 one-way.
• Why Go: Get lost in the narrow streets of Korčula Town, rumored to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, and enjoy the local Grk and Pošip wines.

Hvar, Brač, and Split: The Dalmatian Super-Highway

This is the most popular long-distance catamaran route from Dubrovnik, connecting it to other major Dalmatian hotspots. These routes are seasonal, typically running from April to October.

• Operators: Kapetan Luka (Krilo) and TP Line.
• Duration: Dubrovnik to Hvar is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. Dubrovnik to Split is around 4 hours 30 minutes.
• Estimated 2026 Price: Dubrovnik to Hvar: €45 - €55. Dubrovnik to Split: €45 - €55.
• Insider Tip: This route sells out weeks, sometimes months, in advance for July and August departures. Booking online is not just recommended; it's essential.

Guide to Dubrovnik's Ferry Companies

Three main companies handle the vast majority of ferry traffic from Dubrovnik.

Jadrolinija

The state-owned Croatian ferry company. They operate a mixed fleet of large car ferries and older passenger catamarans. They are the exclusive operator for the heavily subsidized Elaphiti Islands route. Their services are reliable but can be slower than private competitors.

• Fleet Rating: 3.8/5.0 ★

TP Line

A private company with a modern fleet of fast, comfortable, passenger-only catamarans. They are a major player on the routes to Mljet, Korčula, and Split. Known for their punctuality.

• Fleet Rating: 4.5/5.0 ★

Kapetan Luka (Krilo)

Another private operator famous for its 'Krilo' branded high-speed catamarans. They offer extensive routes connecting Dubrovnik with the entire Dalmatian coast, including Split, Hvar, and Korčula. Their online booking system is user-friendly.

• Fleet Rating: 4.4/5.0 ★

Booking Your Ferry Tickets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Option 1: Booking Online (Highly Recommended)

For any route other than the local Elaphiti line, booking online is the best method.

1. Identify Your Route & Operator: Decide on your destination and check which companies serve that route. 2. Visit the Official Website: Book directly through the Jadrolinija, TP Line, or Kapetan Luka websites. This avoids third-party fees. 3. Select Date & Time: Choose your preferred departure. 4. Pay Securely: Use a credit card to complete the transaction. 5. Receive E-Ticket: You'll get a ticket with a QR code via email. You can usually board by showing this on your phone.

Option 2: Buying at the Port

This is possible for last-minute travel, but not advised during high season for popular routes.

1. Go to the Correct Port: Gruž Port for all major islands, Old Town Port for Lokrum. 2. Find the Operator's Kiosk: Each company has a branded ticket office in the main terminal building at Gruž. 3. Wait in Line: Queues can be significant in summer mornings. 4. Pay with Card or Cash: Most kiosks accept both, but having some Kuna or Euros is wise.

Pro Tips for Seamless Ferry Travel

• Luggage on Catamarans: Fast catamarans typically include one large piece of luggage (up to 20kg) per person, stored in racks on the main deck. You can bring a small carry-on to your seat.
• Weather Cancellations: High winds, especially the 'Bura' or 'Jugo', can lead to the cancellation of catamaran services. Always check the operator's website for service updates on windy days.
• Food and Drink: Most larger catamarans have a small kiosk selling drinks and snacks, but it's always cheaper to bring your own.
• Car Ferries: Note that there are no direct car ferries from Dubrovnik to Korčula, Hvar, or Split. The only car ferry service from Dubrovnik is a local route to the Elaphiti Islands.
• Day Trips: A day trip to the Elaphiti Islands or Lokrum is very easy. A day trip to Mljet or Korčula is possible but will involve a long day with an early start and late return.