Ferries to and from Dubrovnik

Use this guide to find Dubrovnik ferry routes and timetables fast - whether you’re heading to the Elaphiti Islands for a day trip, island-hopping to Mljet or Korčula, travelling up the coast to Split, or crossing to Bari (Italy).

Ferry schedules in Croatia change by season and can be adjusted at short notice, so always confirm final departure times before you travel.

Dubrovnik ferry route finder

Choose your destination to jump to the right timetable page and planning tips.

• Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, Šipan)
• Mljet, Korčula, Lastovo (fast catamarans)
• Split (passenger catamarans)
• Bari, Italy (international ferry)
• Car ferries near Dubrovnik (drivers)

Dubrovnik ferry routes quick overview

Most ferries and catamarans depart from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž (Port Gruž), about 3 km from the Old Town. If you want a quick overview of ticket offices, buses, facilities, and what to expect on arrival, use our port guide:

Dubrovnik Ferry Port (Gruž): location, tickets, buses & facilities

Here are the most popular Dubrovnik ferry connections and how they’re typically used:

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Local ferries from Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands

The easiest ferry day trip from Dubrovnik is the Elaphiti Islands: Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. These islands are close to the city, departures are straightforward from Gruž, and services run throughout the year (with more convenient times in peak season).

To plan quickly, check our timetable page first, then confirm the final departure time on the official operator site before you travel (seasonal adjustments and short-notice changes can happen).

Dubrovnik to Koločep, Lopud and Šipan

This is the main local island ferry line from Dubrovnik (Gruž), typically running as Dubrovnik - Koločep - Lopud - Suđurađ (Šipan). Travel times vary by stop, but you can expect roughly 1 hour to Lopud and around 1 hour 20 minutes to Suđurađ on Šipan (depending on the specific sailing).

• Best for: quick island escapes, beach days, and relaxed overnight stays close to Dubrovnik
• Good to know: Sundays and holidays often have fewer departures, so always double-check the schedule for your date
• Where it leaves from: Dubrovnik Ferry Port (Gruž)

Dubrovnik to Koločep, Lopud & Šipan ferry timetable

Island-hopping catamarans from Dubrovnik

Fast catamarans are the easiest way to island-hop from Dubrovnik without a car. They’re ideal if you’re travelling one-way along the coast or planning a multi-stop itinerary to Mljet, Korčula, and Lastovo (Ubli). If Mljet is your main goal, most visitors come for Mljet National Park, so it helps to align your sailing time with the park’s entry and transport options.

Departures are from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž. Start by checking our timetable page below to see the route options clearly in one place, then confirm the final departure time on the official operator website, as fast-boat schedules are seasonal and can change at short notice.

Where to buy tickets if you are already in Dubrovnik

If you’re already in Dubrovnik, the easiest option is to buy tickets at the ticket offices and agencies by the passenger terminal in Gruž. Look for signs for your operator (Jadrolinija, TP Line, Krilo) and plan extra time in summer when morning and late-afternoon queues are common. For Jadrolinija services, you can also buy tickets at their Dubrovnik agency on Obala Stjepana Radića 40 (near the port area), or book online to skip the line.

Dubrovnik to Mljet, Korčula and Lastovo

A key Dubrovnik island-hopping service is TP Line’s state fast passenger line connecting Dubrovnik - Sobra (Mljet) - Korčula - Ubli (Lastovo). It typically operates year-round, but with different departure patterns in winter/shoulder season versus peak summer, so always check the timetable for your exact travel date.

• Best for: one-way island itineraries, avoiding car travel, and reaching Korčula/Mljet/Lastovo directly from Dubrovnik
• Good to know: seasonal schedules and occasional non-operating dates can apply, so verify the current timetable before departure
• Where it leaves from: Dubrovnik Ferry Port (Gruž)

Dubrovnik to Mljet, Korčula & Lastovo timetable

Dubrovnik to Split by catamaran

Travelling between Dubrovnik and Split by catamaran is one of the fastest ways to move along the coast without a car. These services are passenger-only (no vehicles) and are especially popular in peak season, so booking ahead is smart on busy travel days.

Start with our route page to see your best options at a glance, then confirm the final departure time on the official operator site before you travel:

Dubrovnik to Split catamaran timetable

How the route works

Most Dubrovnik to Split catamarans run with intermediate stops, and the exact stop pattern depends on the operator and the season. Common stops on published schedules include islands such as Brač (Milna), Hvar, Korčula and sometimes Mljet (Pomena) before continuing to Dubrovnik.

How long does the catamaran take?

Journey times vary by route and stops, but a typical Dubrovnik to Split catamaran takes around 4.5 to 6 hours. Faster services usually make fewer stops, while slower ones may call at more islands along the way.

Arriving in Split

Catamarans arrive at the main harbour in central Split, next to the bus and train stations and within easy walking distance of the Old Town. If you want practical details about ticket offices, boarding areas and facilities, see our guide to Split Ferry Port.

Seasonality and schedule changes

This route is strongly seasonal across operators. For example, Krilo publishes a Split - Brač (Milna) - Hvar - Korčula - Mljet (Pomena) - Dubrovnik schedule, while TP Line lists a Split - Milna - Hvar - Korčula - Dubrovnik service and shows it as terminated for 2025 on their timetable page. Always check your travel date carefully, especially outside the main summer months.

International ferry: Dubrovnik to Bari (Italy)

The main international ferry connection from Dubrovnik is the route to Bari in Italy, operated by Jadrolinija. It’s a popular option if you want to travel overnight, connect onward through Apulia, or continue your trip through southern Italy.

This is a seasonal service (usually running in the main travel season), so always check the timetable for your exact dates. Start with our route page for a quick overview, then confirm the final schedule on Jadrolinija’s official site before you travel:

Dubrovnik to Bari ferry timetable

Tickets and booking tips

• Book ahead in peak season: sailings can fill up, especially on popular travel days and if you want a cabin. Compare routes, prices, and departure options in one place: Dubrovnik ferry tickets: See availability and prices
• Choose your onboard comfort: options usually include deck/seat-style travel and cabin accommodation (when available on the sailing).
• Vehicle travel: if you plan to bring a car, book early and double-check check-in instructions and arrival times.

Check-in and documents

• Arrive early: for international sailings, allow extra time for check-in and border procedures. Jadrolinija notes that check-in opens 2 hours before departure.
• Bring valid travel ID: this is an international route, so carry the required ID/passport documents for your nationality, plus any booking details requested by the operator.
• Final confirmation: Jadrolinija guarantees timetable accuracy only on its official website and schedules can change, so re-check close to departure.

Car ferries near Dubrovnik

If you are travelling with a car, the most useful “Dubrovnik area” car ferries usually do not depart from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž. Instead, you drive to nearby ports on the Pelješac peninsula (or further north) and take a Jadrolinija car ferry from there - a practical option if your itinerary includes Mljet or Korčula.

To plan quickly, check our timetable pages first for the route you need, then confirm the final departure time on the official operator website before you travel.

Prapratno to Sobra (Mljet) car ferry

This is the main car-ferry connection for drivers heading to Mljet. The crossing between Pelješac and Mljet takes about 45 minutes on Jadrolinija’s car ferry line.

• Best for: reaching Mljet by car via Sobra port
• Good to know: in summer, aim to arrive early for vehicle queues
• Route: Prapratno (Pelješac) - Sobra (Mljet)

Prapratno to Sobra (Mljet) car ferry timetable

Ploče to Trpanj (Pelješac) car ferry

If you are approaching the Dubrovnik region from the north, Ploče - Trpanj is a useful car-ferry shortcut to the Pelješac peninsula. This crossing as a 1-hour journey.

• Best for: drivers connecting into Pelješac (and onward routes toward Dubrovnik, Korčula or Mljet)
• Good to know: this is a year-round line with seasonal timetable variations
• Route: Ploče - Trpanj (Pelješac)

Ploče to Trpanj (Pelješac) car ferry timetable

Orebić to Korčula car ferry

The Orebić - Dominče line is the classic car-ferry connection from the Pelješac peninsula to Korčula island. It’s popular for both day trips and vehicle itineraries, and tickets are typically valid for any departure on the date printed (handy if you don’t want to lock in a single sailing time).

• Best for: reaching Korčula by car via Dominče port (near Korčula Town)
• Good to know: sailings are frequent, but vehicle queues can build in peak season
• Route: Orebić (Pelješac) - Dominče (Korčula)

Orebić to Korčula car ferry timetable

How to buy Dubrovnik ferry tickets

For the best prices and the most reliable timetables, book directly with the ferry operator whenever possible. In Dubrovnik, the main operators you will see are Jadrolinija (state operator, including international Bari route) plus fast catamaran companies such as TP Line and Krilo (Kapetan Luka).

Best way to buy tickets

• Online (recommended in summer): Most Dubrovnik routes can be booked on the operator’s official website and you usually receive an e-ticket or booking confirmation on your phone. If you’d rather compare routes, prices, and departure options in one place first, use: Dubrovnik ferry tickets: See availability and prices.
• Mobile app: Jadrolinija sells tickets via its official app (handy if you are booking close to departure).
• Ticket office at Gruž Ferry Port: Useful if you prefer in-person purchase, need help choosing a departure, or want to pay locally.
• On board (limited): Some fast catamarans may sell tickets on board only if seats remain available, so do not rely on this in July and August.

When to book in advance

• Peak season (especially July and August): Book ahead for fast catamarans and popular travel days to avoid sell-outs.
• International travel (Dubrovnik to Bari): Book ahead and bring valid travel documents for border control.
• If you are travelling with a car (near-Dubrovnik car ferries): Prioritise routes that support reservations where available, as vehicle space is the first thing to fill up.

How early to arrive at the port

• Jadrolinija guidance: Aim to be at the port at least 45 minutes before departure, especially in peak season or if you are travelling with a vehicle.
• Fast catamarans (TP Line / Krilo): Arrive 15 to 30 minutes before departure so you can find the correct boarding point and board without stress.

What to have ready

• Your e-ticket/booking confirmation on your phone (or a printed copy if you prefer)
• Photo ID for international routes and whenever requested by the operator
• If applicable: vehicle details (registration) and passenger details used for booking

Next, use the route sections below to open the correct timetable page for your destination. If you are unsure where to go once you arrive, start with our Dubrovnik Ferry Port (Gruž) guide.

Practical tips for Dubrovnik ferry travel

• Use our route pages first, then confirm with the operator: start with the timetable pages on this site to find the right route quickly, then re-check the final departure time on the official operator website before you travel (schedules can change).
• Arrive early in peak season: in July and August, queues at Gruž are common around popular departure windows. If you’re travelling on a fast catamaran or with lots of luggage, give yourself extra buffer time.
• Know your departure port: almost all services leave from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž, not the Old Town. Plan your transfer and allow time for finding the correct boarding area.
• Watch the weather (especially for catamarans): strong winds and rough seas can delay or cancel sailings, and fast boats are usually affected first. If the forecast looks unstable, check the Dubrovnik weather forecast and look for operator updates close to departure.
• Where to check last-minute updates: look for operator notices (for example, Jadrolinija publishes a traffic situation page and passenger notifications), and confirm details at the ticket office if you are already at the port.
• If your sailing is cancelled: check the operator’s next available departure, consider switching operators on the same route where possible, or use an overland backup (bus/transfer) if you must travel the same day.

Where ferries depart in Dubrovnik

Almost all ferries and catamarans in Dubrovnik depart from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž (Port Gruž), around 3 km from the Old Town. This is also where you will find the main passenger terminal and the nearby Dubrovnik Main Bus Station.

Getting to the port is simple: local buses run frequently between Gruž and the Old Town (Pile), and the ride typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. If you are using public transport, our Dubrovnik city bus map makes it easy to choose the right line. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available if you are travelling with luggage or arriving late.

If you need help with exact boarding areas, ticket offices, facilities, and local arrival tips, use our dedicated guide:

Dubrovnik Ferry Port (Gruž): location, tickets, buses & facilities

Luggage, bikes and pets on ferries from Dubrovnik

Luggage and special-item rules vary by operator and vessel type (ferry vs fast catamaran). Use our route pages first to choose your connection, then confirm the final rules and any fees on the operator’s official site before you travel.

Luggage allowance

• Jadrolinija: hand baggage is included in the passenger fare, with a stated maximum of 20 kg on local routes and 30 kg on international routes. Fast routes may have additional limits due to space and load capacity.
• TP Line: allows 20 kg of luggage per passenger; extra weight is generally not sold as an add-on because cargo space is limited, although crew may allow extra if there is room.
• Krilo (Kapetan Luka): luggage policies can vary by sailing and capacity, so check your ticket terms and arrive early if you have bulky bags.

Bikes and oversized items

• Jadrolinija: bicycles are allowed according to the current price list (fees and availability depend on the line).
• Krilo (Kapetan Luka): bicycles can be transported on their ships, but capacity is limited; the bicycle ticket price is stated as the same as a passenger ticket.
• TP Line: their vessels are not designed to transport bicycles or cargo, and bicycles are treated as cargo in their rules; in practice, the captain may allow a bicycle as personal luggage only if there is enough space, so do not rely on this without checking ahead.

Travelling with pets

• Jadrolinija: pets (dogs, cats, birds and other small animals) are allowed, provided they do not disturb other passengers; dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle (except assistance dogs). On fast routes, small pets may be allowed in lounges only in a carrier bag (max 45 x 35 x 25 cm, waterproof bottom, total weight with pet up to 8 kg), kept under the seat or on your lap, with one bag per passenger.
• TP Line: small pets are allowed in salons only in a carrier bag (max 45 x 35 x 25 cm, waterproof bottom, total weight with pet up to 8 kg), kept under the seat or on your lap, with one bag per passenger.
• Krilo (Kapetan Luka): small pets are transported in a carrier bag (max 45 x 35 x 25 cm) kept under the seat or on your lap; large pets are only possible if technical conditions on board are met (special boxes).

Tip: bring water, a light blanket/towel, and any pet documentation you may need, and avoid peak boarding moments if your pet is anxious.

When Dubrovnik ferry timetables change

Dubrovnik ferry schedules are highly seasonal. Local island services usually run year-round, while many fast catamaran routes add departures in peak season and may stop completely outside the main travel months.

Start by checking the relevant timetable page on this site (we link directly to each route below) to quickly see your best options and plan your day. Then, before you travel, confirm the final departure time on the official operator website, as schedules can change at short notice.

As a practical rule, treat spring to autumn as the main catamaran season. For example, Krilo’s Split–Dubrovnik catamaran schedule is shown as operating daily from 01 April to 31 October, and other operators publish similar seasonal windows or end-of-season notices.

What changes between winter and summer

• More departures in summer: additional sailings and more convenient times, especially for day trips and one-way island-hopping.
• Fewer (or no) fast boats in winter: some catamarans stop running and you may need to switch to year-round local lines or alternative transport.
• Different stopping patterns: in peak season, some lines add extra stops (or skip stops) depending on demand.

How to avoid surprises

• Use our route pages first to pick the right connection quickly (local islands, Split, Mljet/Korčula/Lastovo, Bari, and nearby car ferries).
• Confirm with the operator right before travel, especially in shoulder season (April, May, October) when timetables can shift.
• Check the weather forecast: in high winds and rough seas, passenger catamarans and fast boats are usually the first services to be delayed or cancelled.

Ferry operators from Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik ferry and catamaran services are run by a few main operators. Knowing who operates your route helps you find the most accurate timetable, ticket rules, and disruption updates (especially in shoulder season and winter).

Most departures use Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž - see our Dubrovnik Ferry Port (Gruž) guide if you need help on arrival.

Jadrolinija

Jadrolinija is Croatia’s main ferry operator and the key provider for Dubrovnik’s local island connections, including the year-round passenger service to the Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud and Šipan).

TP Line

TP Line is a fast catamaran operator that covers popular coastal and island-hopping routes. From Dubrovnik, they publish timetables for services linking Dubrovnik with islands such as Mljet (Sobra), Korčula and Lastovo (Ubli) on specific lines.

Krilo (Kapetan Luka)

Krilo (Kapetan Luka) operates high-speed catamarans that are popular for one-way coastal itineraries. Their Dubrovnik-included route commonly runs seasonally (for example, Split - Brač (Milna) - Hvar - Korčula - Mljet (Pomena) - Dubrovnik shown as 01.04 to 31.10 on their schedule page).

Alternative options: organised tours and private boats

If ferry times don’t fit your plan (or you want more swimming stops and flexibility), a boat tour can be the easiest way to explore the islands around Dubrovnik in a single day. Tours are especially popular for the Elaphiti Islands and often include multiple swim spots, time on at least one island, and a relaxed “see more without watching the clock” pace.

Popular tour styles from Dubrovnik

• Half-day boat tours (3 to 4 hours): a great choice if you want a shorter outing with swimming and snorkelling, often combined with stops on islands like Koločep and Lopud, plus a beach break at Šunj Beach - one of the most popular sandy beaches near Dubrovnik.
• Full-day island cruises (8 to 9 hours): the classic Elaphiti day trip, typically covering Koločep, Lopud and Šipan with several swimming breaks and free time on the islands.
• Private speedboat or yacht tours: best if you want a custom route, fewer crowds, and flexibility. Many private tours include equipment like snorkelling gear and sometimes stand-up paddleboarding, and you can tailor stops to quiet coves as well as the main villages.

Why some travellers choose a private boat tour

• If you want multiple islands in one day without planning separate ferry departures
• If you’re travelling in shoulder season and fast-boat schedules are limited
• If you want a swim-focused day in bays and coves that public ferries don’t access
• If you’re short on time and prefer a set itinerary with a skipper/crew

Beyond the Elaphiti Islands: private trips to Mljet

Mljet is another favourite for boat excursions from Dubrovnik. Many visitors choose a private boat tour rather than the regular ferry because it can be faster, more flexible for swim stops, and easier to plan as a one-day experience (especially if you want to maximise time in Mljet’s bays and around the national park area).

Private transfers (water taxi)

If you’re staying on an island (or travelling with luggage) and don’t want to plan around public ferry departures, consider a private speedboat transfer. These services are marketed as a direct, fast option to reach islands like Lopud, Koločep or Šipan on your own schedule.

FAQ: Dubrovnik ferries

Where do ferries leave from in Dubrovnik?

Almost all ferries and fast catamarans depart from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž (about 3 km from the Old Town). Some small excursion boats use the Old Town harbour instead, so always check the departure point shown on your ticket and the operator’s notice for your route.

Do I need to book Dubrovnik ferry tickets in advance?

In July and August, it’s smart to book ahead for popular routes and fast catamarans (and for the Bari ferry if you want specific sailings or cabin options). Outside peak season, you can often buy tickets closer to departure, but still check availability for your exact date and time.

Are there ferries from Dubrovnik in winter?

Yes, but the timetable mix changes. Local island services (like the Elaphiti Islands) run year-round, while many fast catamaran routes are seasonal and may have reduced departures or stop entirely in winter. Use our route pages first to see what’s typical, then confirm the final schedule on the operator’s official site.

Can I take a car from Dubrovnik to the islands?

From Dubrovnik city, most island connections are passenger ferries/catamarans. If you’re travelling with a car, you’ll usually use nearby car-ferry ports outside Dubrovnik (for example Pelješac connections for Mljet and Korčula). See the Car ferries near Dubrovnik section above for the best options.

Which ferry companies operate from Dubrovnik?

The main operators you’ll see are Jadrolinija (including local lines and the international Bari route) plus fast catamaran companies such as TP Line and Krilo (Kapetan Luka). Always confirm your final departure time on the operator’s official site, especially in shoulder season.

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