Boat transfer Dubrovnik to Korčula, private speedboat & yacht.

Dubrovnik to Korčula boat transfer: the sea route.

A Dubrovnik to Korčula boat transfer runs north-west through the Koločep channel, past Lopud and Šipan. It then enters the Mljet channel. This stretch of open water lies between the Pelješac peninsula on your right and the long green outline of Mljet on your left. Near the end, the boat rounds the eastern tip of Korčula and turns into the Pelješac channel. Across the water lie Orebić and the slopes of Sveti Ilija, and then you reach the old town harbour.

Korčula old town sits on a small peninsula, its streets laid out in a herringbone pattern to break the wind, with St Mark’s Cathedral at the top. Local tradition links the town to Marco Polo. Arriving by sea gives you the classic view of the walls before you step ashore. The main entrance to the old town is the Land Gate below the Revelin tower; waterfront hotels are a few minutes’ walk from the quay.

Sea conditions on the way.

The Mljet channel is open to the south-east, so a few days of jugo can build a noticeable swell there. The Pelješac channel is known for the summer maestral, strong enough that nearby Viganj is a windsurfing centre; it usually rises around midday and eases by evening. For that reason morning departures towards Korčula are generally calmer. Bura comes in gusts off the mainland, mostly outside summer. On the return to Dubrovnik the afternoon maestral usually blows from astern, so a later departure is not a problem then.

The skipper reviews the forecast before departure and picks the most comfortable line. If conditions rule the crossing out, the arrangements in the FAQ below apply.

Practical points.

• Speedboat or yacht: the speedboat is quicker, the yacht more comfortable with a family or in a chop, and it has shade.
• Soft bags are easier to stow than large hard cases; tell us about bikes, dive gear or pushchairs.
• The old town is pedestrian and stepped in places, so if you are staying inside the walls, travel light where you can.
• If your accommodation is elsewhere on the island, for example Lumbarda, send the address so we can confirm the best landing.
• A swim stop on the Elaphiti coast or a Pelješac lunch can be added without making the day long.
• If you return the same way, you can add the return crossing when you enquire.
• If you are travelling on, you can continue to Hvar by boat, with Korčula as a stop on the way.

Only visiting for the day?

If you only want to see the town and return the same day, the Korčula private boat tour is set up for that. The Korčula day trip by road goes via Pelješac instead, and our Korčula in a day guide lists what fits into a few hours. Every transfer quote is itemised and sent by email or WhatsApp.