Karaka Elaphiti Cruises

In the days of the Republic, Dubrovnik's wealth was carried across the Mediterranean in large merchant sailing ships known as karakas. Karaka offers the chance to sail on a replica of one of these 16th-century vessels, and its cruises are among the most distinctive ways to see the coast around the city. The company is operated by Klik Holidays and has its office at Masarykov put 1 in Lapad.

The signature trip is Elaphite Island Hopping, a day cruise to the islands north-west of Dubrovnik, with an option to add lunch on board. The Elaphiti Islands, including Koločep, Lopud and Šipan, have small villages, churches and beaches, and a day on the water lets you see several of them without worrying about ferry timetables. Shorter options include a panoramic sunset cruise and a panoramic night cruise along the coast past the city walls, as well as combinations of a Dubrovnik walking tour with a cruise, and a Game of Thrones cruise and walking tour. The ship can also be chartered privately for celebrations, including weddings and corporate events.

The ship itself is half the attraction. Sailing past Lovrijenac and the walls on a vessel modelled on the ships that made the Republic rich gives a real sense of the city's maritime history, and children usually enjoy the pirate-ship feel. Deck space gives good views, but on hot days bring a hat and sun cream.

Tours depart from Dubrovnik; confirm the exact pier and boarding time when you book, as departure points can differ between products. The website does not publish a season, and cruise programmes along the coast are typically reduced outside the summer, so check availability if you are travelling between November and March. In July and August, book in advance.

Allow a full day for island hopping, or two to three hours for a sunset or night cruise. Booking and information are available by phone and email, with a separate contact for events and weddings. For a first visit to Dubrovnik, the sunset cruise is an easy way to see the walls and Lokrum from the sea in a short time, while the full-day island hopping is better if you have a spare day and want to swim and explore.