Our first encounter with Karaka was some 8 years ago when we documented the birthday of the one millionaire’s wife including kidnapping by the pirates and fight to release her. We know how this sounds, but Karaka was a key element in what was a whole day of different birthday events. On that day, many actors were participating in a fight aboard the Karaka and everything was so crazy in a positive way. We have been aboard Karaka Dubrovnik a few more times since then and now we bring you everything you need to know about this replica of an old ship that was used in the times of Dubrovnik Republic.
Sailing on the Dubrovnik Karaka is one of the best ways to experience the history of Dubrovnik. It looks exactly as the old ship from the 16th century looked like, with its wooden deck, high masts, and authentic design. Today, Karaka is used for different kinds of tours in Dubrovnik and you can hop aboard and sail to the Elaphiti Islands or enjoy the sunset and the night tour. Sailing on the Karaka in Dubrovnik is great for many visitors to Dubrovnik – families with children, groups, couples, history enthusiasts, and Game of Thrones series fans. Here’s all to know about the Karaka Dubrovnik sailing ship.
What Is the Karaka? The Karaka is a faithful replica of the traditional Dubrovnik merchant ship (Carrack) that sailed the Mediterranean centuries ago, during the golden days of the Dubrovnik Republic. The original ships that Karaka is based on were famous for their advanced design and seaworthiness. Modern Karaka has become one of the symbols of Dubrovnik in the past years and you’ll surely see it at least once when exploring Dubrovnik. Here are some of the characteristics of this ship:
Length: 26 metersDecks: 4 outdoor decks, enough space for 200 personsFacilities: Bar, restrooms, lounge seatingAtmosphere: A blend of authenticity and relaxed cruising comfortUsage : Cruise tours, private events
Types of Karaka Tours in Dubrovnik Karaka Dubrovnik starts its day early in the morning and ends it late at night. The first morning to ur is the tour to the Elaphiti Islands near Dubrovnik, while there are 2 more tours in the afternoon hours – sunset and night Karaka tour. Here is a bit more about them.
1. Sunset Cruise In the sunset Karaka tour, you can enjoy sailing into the sunset and observe as the sun sets behind the Elaphiti Islands and its glow falls on Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This Karaka cruise in Dubrovnik is the perfect option for couples, families, and photographers.
Expect a welcome drink, music, and magnificent views
This tour lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours
Departure is from Dubrovnik’s Old Port in the early evening
2. Game of Thrones Cruise Did you watch Game of Thrones? Did you know that Karaka was featured in that series? If you’re a fan of the show, you can now relive your favorite scenes through a Karaka experience.
3. Elaphiti Islands Day Tour This is one of the most famous Karaka cruises in Dubrovnik. Elaphiti Islands are a perfect getaway near Dubrovnik where you can enjoy stunning nature and famous places like Blue Cave and Šunj Beach. Through this tour, you’ll spend the day sailing to Lopud , Šipan , and Koločep and enjoy far away from Dubrovnik’s crowds.
Full-day excursion with swimming stops, sightseeing, and onboard meals
Perfect tour for anyone who wants to explore beyond the city or take a break from the vibrant atmosphere of Dubrovnik Old Town
4. Private Events and Weddings Karaka Dubrovnik is also available for all kinds of private events. As wedding photographers who work a lot in Dubrovnik, we have shot a few weddings in Karaka so far. Also, the unique birthday celebration from the introduction of this article was also partly shot on Karaka.
Custom itineraries
Onboard catering and decoration options
Karaka offers a unique setting for special occasions like weddings, elopements, and birthdays in Dubrovnik
Why Choose the Karaka? There are 2 old ship replicas in Dubrovnik – Karaka and Tirena. Both of them look amazing and have somewhat similar tours. They also add a unique charm to the whole medieval vibe of Dubrovnik. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding a Karaka cruise as an activity of your vacation in Dubrovnik:
Unique Historical Experience – Feel like a noble merchant of the old Dubrovnik RepublicStunning Views – Any such tour from the sea lets you observe the city walls and Adriatic coastline from a different perspectiveFamily-Friendly and RomanticPhotography Opportunities – These tours are like an Instagram dream come true and you’ll be able to snap some great photos, especially during the sunset tour with Karaka Dubrovnik
What to Bring What to bring on the Karaka tour depends on the type of tour you choose. Here are some of the things to consider:
Camera or phone for capturing amazing momentsLight jacket (evenings can get cooler on the sea, so bring a light jacket for sunset and evening Karaka cruises)Comfortable shoes for walking around the deckSwimsuit and towel (if you choose full-day island trips)Sun protection: Protect from the strong sun if you choose the daily tours to Elaphiti with Karaka
Before You Venture on a Karaka Cruise in Dubrovnik And that was the story of Karaka in Dubrovnik . What once was a mighty ship of the Dubrovnik Republic, came back to life and you can experience what was like to live in those ancient times, at least for a day or few hours. Of course, they didn’t have the kind of toilets you’ll find in Karaka, but regulations are regulations. Still, if you have a vivid imagination, you can fill the gaps easily. Any of the galleon tours in Dubrovnik is a good option if you want to add a bit of sightseeing and history to your vacation in Dubrovnik.
Enjoy the Karaka experience.
