SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK FERRY: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING

Ferries are an extremely popular means of transportation in Croatia, so if a Split to Dubrovnik ferry is in your itinerary, keep reading to learn more about it!

Croatia is known for incredible coastal destinations, and even more magical islands. The easiest and sometimes the only way to reach all of them is by ferry. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to ferries in Croatia.

As a local Croatian, I travel by ferry all the time during summer, so in this guide I’ll share everything you need to know about taking ferries and how to turn this route into a fun little island-hopping adventure!

FERRY OPERATORS AND SCHEDULE

The first thing you need to know is that several operators run services across the Adriatic Sea in Croatia. The major ferry operators are Jadrolinija, Krilo (Kapetan Luka), and TP Line. These three can take you almost anywhere along the coast, but they don’t always serve the same destinations or follow the same routes. If one of them doesn’t have your preferred route, check the other two. For example, all three operators have a route between Split and Dubrovnik, but they don’t all serve the same other destinations.

Ferries in Croatia typically operate from April to October, with peak service in summer. If you’re travelling off-season, check if there even is a ferry than can take you to your destination. There are fewer frequent ferries all throughout the year to the more populated islands and towns, while the islands that are mainly visited in summer are usually cut off in winter. For example, there aren’t any ferries which connect Split and Dubrovnik in the winter. If that’s when you’re visiting, you’ll have to go by car or bus.

To go from Split to Dubrovnik by ferry, it will take you between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the operator.

TYPES OF FERRIES IN CROATIA

There are two different types of ferries, so choose the one that’s best for you.

First, there are catamarans (or fast ferries). They are passenger-only ferries, and they get you to your destination faster but are also more expensive. From Split, you only have passenger ferries to Dubrovnik.

Second, there are car ferries which you can use if you want to have your own car at the destination you’re visiting. There are no direct car ferries between Split and Dubrovnik. If you want a car with you, you’d need to drive via the Pelješac Bridge to Dubrovnik.

SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK: STOPS AND ROUTES

The ferry routes of all operators are similar, and they usually include some of the other Croatian islands like Brac, Hvar, Korcula, and Mljet. That means that your ferry most likely won’t go directly from Split to Dubrovnik, but stop at some of the most visited islands along the way.

For example, TP Line catamaran goes from Split to Hvar, Korcula, and then Dubrovnik. If you book with Krilo, your ferry goes from Split to Brac, then Hvar, Korcula, Mljet, and finally Dubrovnik. If you choose Jadrolinija, your trip will start in Split, then go to Brac, Hvar, Korcula, and Dubrovnik. In short, for the least number of stops, the TP Line would be your best option.

SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK: MINI ISLAND-HOPPING ITINERARY

If you have the time, I’d absolutely use this opportunity to explore the Croatian islands. Pick one of the ferry routes above and stop at each island along the way, or just choose the ones that interest you most. It’s such an easy way to turn a simple transfer into a mini island-hopping adventure.

This is exactly how I’d do it!

DAY 1: Choose Jadrolinija and leave from Split to Brac

From Split, you’ll be on Bol (Brac island) in less than an hour. Use your afternoon to swim at the most famous beach in Croatia, Zlatni Rat. Enjoy a lovely dinner in the evening and maybe go out. Here’s a Split to Brac day trip itinerary to help you out!

DAY 2: Go from Brac to Hvar

Use the morning for some more swimming and explore Brac island. In the afternoon, grab a ferry from Bol to Hvar Town. The boat ride will last around 45 minutes. Use the remaining afternoon to explore Hvar Town, and go see the sunset from the amazing Fortica Fortress.

DAY 3: Enjoy Hvar and leave for Korcula

Use day three to rent a scooter and explore Hvar Island. This island has many cute villages/towns aside Hvar Town, which are worthy of a visit. Explore Jelsa and Stari Grad, swim at many stunning beaches, or visit the gorgeous lavender fields. Here’s a Split to Hvar day trip itinerary that can help you out! In the evening, grab a ferry to Korcula. The ferry ride is around 2 hours.

DAY 4: Explore Korcula and finish in Dubrovnik

On day four, wake up bright and early and start exploring Korcula Island. Start with the stunning Korcula Old Town which will sweep you off your feet. Later, enjoy the beaches around the island or visit Vela Luka. In the evening, grab a ferry to Dubrovnik – it’s about a 2-hour ride.

SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK FERRY: BOOKING AND TICKETS

I’ve already mentioned that ferries are an extremely important and popular mode of transportation, so make sure you book your tickets on time. If you’re coming during off or shoulder seasons, you don’t have to book your tickets in advance, just check if the ferries are operating during that time.

If you’re coming in summer, I would highly recommend booking in advance. Ferry tickets to popular destinations sell out quickly, so make sure you buy them as soon as possible if you’re visiting destinations such asDubrovnik, Split, Korcula, Hvar, or Brac.

You can easily book tickets online on the ferry company websites or through third-party platforms. Here are the websites for Jadrolinija, Krilo, and TP Line.

Prices from Split to Dubrovnik range from €40–€60 per person, depending on the season and ferry type. Faster catamarans are usually more expensive than the car ferries.

SPLIT AND DUBROVNIK FERRY PORTS

When it comes to Split and Dubrovnik, they both have very busy and popular ports. In Split, the ferries depart from Split Ferry Port, which is near the Old Town and both bus and train main stations. You can reach it easily, from Old Town by walking, and from other parts of Split by bus or taxi.

Once you’re in Dubrovnik, you’ll arrive at Gruz Port, which is about 3 km from Old Town. If you’re staying in the Old Town, you can reach it easily by bus no. 1 for Pile Gate, or by taxi.

SHOULD YOU TAKE A FERRY FROM SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK? PROS AND CONS

If you enjoy long boat rides, this could be an excellent option for you. If you don’t, it could be tiresome. A ferry ride from Split to Dubrovnik lasts quite long, around 5.5 hours, and while the catamarans are quite comfortable, you’re still spending over 5 hours packed with hundreds of other people. If you cannot imagine yourself doing that, maybe check out other options such as bus (much cheaper and actually quicker) or a private transfer (which will probably end up around the same price as the ferry tickets if there’s more of you).

You should absolutely choose to go by ferry if you have time to exit at certain stops and essentially island hop all the way to Dubrovnik. I can’t imagine anything more magical than visiting Hvar, Brac, and Korcula on your way to Dubrovnik. You’ll break your travel time into more short trips, and you’ll get to enjoy additional places in Croatia.

SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK FERRY: FAQ

How much luggage can I bring on my Split to Dubrovnik ferry?

Most catamarans allow one carry-on (up to 20 kg) free of charge. Extra luggage or bikes may have additional fees.

How long is the ferry from Split to Dubrovnik?

The ferry is usually between 4 and 6 hours long, depending in the time of day, amount of people, and season. Most of the time it’s just over 5 hours long.

Is it worth taking the ferry from Split to Dubrovnik?

As I already mentioned in my pros and cons part of the blog, I think it’s worth it if you plan on stopping along the way to enjoy the islands. If you’re going straight to Dubrovnik, you can do it quicker by bus or private transfer.

Split to Dubrovnik ferry price – is it expensive?

The ferry from Split to Dubrovnik is quite expensive. There’s a significant distance between the two cities and the ride lasts over 5 hours, so it’s logical that the price of the ticket won’t be cheap. They’re usually around 50 euros.

Are the catamarans going from Split to Dubrovnik modern and comfortable?

The catamarans are quite comfortable, they have air-conditioning, comfy leather seats, toilets, and vending machines with food and drinks. Some of them even have cafes on board so you can grab a coffee. Your ride definitely won’t be uncomfortable, if that’s what you’re worried about!

MY PERSONAL TAKE ON SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK FERRY

I’m not a fan of long rides, whether it’s on a ferry or in a car. I always prefer breaking up the journey with great stops along the way. That’s why I’d choose this ferry option only if I could hop off and explore some of the islands. If you can turn the trip into a mini island-hopping adventure it will be so much more enjoyable.

If stopping along the way wasn’t possible, I’d probably rent a car and drive to Dubrovnik instead, and I’d make sure to stop at least two spots between Split and Dubrovnik. Finally, if I needed the most budget-friendly option, I’d just take the bus.

CONCLUSION: SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK FERRY

The Split to Dubrovnik ferry is perfect for those who don’t mind sitting back for a few hours, enjoying the incredible coastal views. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to travel. However, if you get bored easily, I’d definitely recommend renting a car and driving yourself. It’s much more dynamic and, in my opinion, more fun.

But again, if you can turn your Split to Dubrovnik ferry ride into a little island-hopping adventure, then I’d absolutely go for the ferry!