The first day on Croatian soil is always special. Dubrovnik is known as the Pearl of the Adriatic—imagine its beauty. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into the Middle Ages, with cobblestone lanes and white-stone walls that blend into the sea. It is well worth a visit if you have time today; if not, save it for the return. Check-in takes place at five in the afternoon, so it is best to be in the area a few hours earlier. Between handling the paperwork at the marina, completing check-in, doing the shopping, and settling the crew on board, you will not have much time before nightfall for a long passage; therefore, we suggest either staying overnight in the marina or setting a course for the nearby island of Koločep, about four miles away.

Today, set course for Šipan (one of the islands in the Elafiti archipelago), but do not rush—there are a few stops along the way that are well worth it. First, visit Šunj Beach on the south side of Lopud, one of the few sandy beaches in Croatia. It gets quite busy, so we recommend going early in the morning. That is what we did: once more people started to arrive, we left. On the southern side of the neighboring island of Šipan, there is a lovely spot, Suđurađ, where there is a small beach on the south side of the bay. Very close to the harbor, about a ten-minute walk, you can find vineyards offering wine and olive-oil tastings. To spend the night, a well-sheltered place is Šipanska Luka Bay. Pure peace and relaxation.

The island of Mljet is a must-see stop on your route. Sail to Polače on the western side, a large bay where you will be well sheltered. This is a good spot to restock provisions if needed, or to sample delicious Dalmatian cuisine at local restaurants (konoba). There is also an ancient Roman palace that you can see from the sea. From here, you can rent a vehicle and visit Mljet National Park and its famous saltwater lakes. But if you would rather not, no problem—there are plenty of coves in this area to visit and explore.

Head towards Korčula. If you arrive early, you can moor right in the marina. Climb up to St. Mark’s Cathedral and you will enjoy magnificent views. Its old town is well worth seeing, and in July and August you will likely be able to enjoy some of the performances scheduled during the Festival of Chivalric Games. According to legend, Marco Polo was born in this city, although there is no proof. Just opposite the town lies the small island of Badija, where you can visit ancient Roman stone quarries. It is a good place to anchor and spend a quiet night, weather permitting and if you have not found a berth in the marina.

From Korčula, sail back to Mljet, but this time to the eastern side. Stop for lunch in the port of Prožura and enjoy a good swim or a hiking route in the area. To spend the night, we recommend heading to Okuklje, a small fishing village in a beautiful and quiet, almost enclosed bay. You need to pay attention because it can go unnoticed from the sea. It is a magnificent place to anchor and spend a peaceful night.

Tonight’s destination is the island of Olipa, but along the way there are a couple of stops that are well worth it. First, Marčuleti Beach, isolated and hard to access from land, sandy and with crystal-clear waters. The second stop, very close by, is Spilice, a lovely spot for snorkeling and spending some time enjoying the coastline. If you still have time, we suggest one more stop: head to Kobas, about three miles toward Ston. A little secret: the local taverna Ribarska Kuca Niko serves fresh fish and, if available, offers berths to its customers. You can anchor and spend the night here, or return and anchor at Olipa, in the cove that suits you best according to the weather report.

And now there is nothing left but to set a course back to Dubrovnik. The end of the holidays is near! But do not worry, there are still a few stops to make. When planning your day, keep in mind that you must be at the marina at 5 p.m., and that it is about 26 miles from Olipa to the base. If you have time, we suggest these stops: Jakljan, Lopud, and the three caves on Koločep.
On Saturday morning you must disembark at 9 a.m. If your flight allows it, and even if you have already visited the city, return to Dubrovnik; there is surely a corner you missed or another you will want to see again.