My First Mate

ACI Marina Dubrovnik – Pre-Arrival Document for Yacht Charter Clients

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About Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of Croatia's most magnificent coastal cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. This historic maritime republic, formerly known as Ragusa, reached its peak as a major Mediterranean sea power between the 13th and 17th centuries, rivaling Venice and Genoa in wealth and influence.

Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik evolved from a small settlement on a rocky island into one of Europe's most sophisticated city-states. The Republic of Ragusa maintained its independence for centuries through shrewd diplomacy and maritime prowess, establishing trade routes extending from England to the Ottoman Empire. By the 16th century, the Republic commanded one of the largest merchant fleets in the Mediterranean, with over 120 ships sailing as far as England, Antwerp, and Hamburg. The city's merchants were so renowned that the English word "argosy" (meaning a large merchant vessel) derives from Ragusa itself.

The catastrophic earthquake of April 6, 1667, destroyed much of medieval Dubrovnik, killing thousands and devastating the city's Gothic and Renaissance architecture. However, the resilient citizens rebuilt their beloved city in magnificent Baroque style, which has been meticulously preserved to this day. Only the Sponza Palace and portions of the Rector's Palace survived the earthquake intact, making them invaluable architectural treasures.

Dubrovnik's most iconic feature is its perfectly preserved medieval city walls, stretching nearly 2 kilometers around the Old Town with heights reaching 25 meters. These formidable fortifications, built between the 12th and 17th centuries, were never breached by invaders and stand as a testament to the Republic's engineering prowess. Walking atop these walls offers breathtaking panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops, the shimmering Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding Dalmatian coastline.

The city's historic core is a living museum filled with architectural masterpieces. Stradun (officially Placa), the 300-meter limestone-paved main street, runs from Pile Gate to the Old Port, dividing the Old Town into northern and southern sections. This pedestrian thoroughfare was once a channel separating the original island settlement from the mainland before being filled in during the 12th century.

Notable landmarks include the Rector's Palace, which served as the government seat and housed the elected rector who governed the Republic for one-month terms; the Franciscan Monastery with Europe's third-oldest working pharmacy, founded in 1317 and still operating today; St. Blaise Church, a stunning Baroque structure dedicated to the city's patron saint who legendarily saved Dubrovnik from Venetian attack in the 10th century; Sponza Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece housing the State Archives with documents dating to the 12th century; and Fort Lovrijenac (St. Lawrence Fortress), perched 37 meters above the sea outside the western walls, bearing the inscription "Freedom is not to be sold for all the world's gold."

Beyond its medieval splendor, Dubrovnik has gained modern fame as the primary filming location for King's Landing in HBO's "Game of Thrones" series. The Old Town's walls, gates, fortresses, and streets appeared extensively throughout the series, attracting millions of additional visitors to this already beloved destination.

Today, Dubrovnik seamlessly blends its illustrious past with vibrant modern tourism, offering world-class restaurants, cultural festivals, pristine beaches, and exceptional sailing opportunities. The city remains true to its motto of freedom and independence, welcoming visitors from around the globe to experience its timeless beauty and rich maritime heritage.

Marina Overview

ACI Marina Dubrovnik is a premium full-service marina strategically located in Komolac along the picturesque Rijeka Dubrovačka (Dubrovnik River), approximately 6 km from Dubrovnik's historic Old Town walls. Situated in a protected bay that once served as a retreat for Dubrovnik's aristocracy, the marina offers excellent shelter and operates year-round, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning southern Dalmatian coast.

The marina has earned recognition as one of Croatia's finest, receiving the prestigious "Tourist Flower – Quality for Croatia" award as the best marina on the Adriatic in its category (250-450 berths). It also holds the European Blue Flag environmental award, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining high ecological standards and sustainable marina management.

ACI Marina Dubrovnik provides 380 well-equipped sea berths for vessels up to 60 meters in length (daily berths up to 45 meters) with maximum draft of 5-6 meters, plus 140 dry berths on land. All berths feature water and electricity connections with 24-hour availability. The marina is equipped with a powerful 130-ton travel lift, comprehensive maintenance and repair facilities, yacht wash-up waste water treatment plant, and modern boatyard services.

The facility offers extensive amenities including reception desk with exchange office, separate modern toilet and shower facilities (including accessible facilities for disabled guests), restaurant, café, cocktail bar, snack bar, pub, swimming pool, tennis courts, football pitch with artificial grass, children's themed playground ("Pirate Ship"), bowling alley, massage parlor, hairdresser, internet café, small shopping mall, laundry service, supermarket, nautical equipment shop, and charter agency services. Ample parking is available both close to the pontoons and in more economical lots further from the berths.

Located just 2 nautical miles from the entrance to Gruž Port and with easy road access from Dubrovnik Airport (approximately 21 km away), ACI Marina Dubrovnik serves as an excellent starting point for sailing adventures to nearby islands, bays, and the entire southern Dalmatian archipelago.

Quick Reference

Detail Information
Official Name ACI Marina Dubrovnik
Location Komolac, Rijeka Dubrovačka
Address Na skali 2, Mokošica, HR-20001 Dubrovnik, Croatia
GPS Coordinates 42°40'13.6'' N, 18°07'28.6'' E
Google Maps ACI Marina Dubrovnik Location
Phone +385 20 455 020 / +385 20 451 922
Mobile +385 98 398 813
Email m.dubrovnik@aci-club.hr
Website https://www.aci-marinas.com
VHF Channel 17
Berths Available 380 sea berths + 140 dry berths
Maximum Vessel Length 60 meters (45m daily berths, 40m annual berths)
Maximum Draft 5-6 meters
Depth Range 2-6 meters
Distance from Dubrovnik Airport 21 km (~30 minutes)
Distance from Dubrovnik Old Town 6 km (~10 minutes by car)
Distance from Gruž Port 2 NM by sea, ~4 km by road

Getting to the Marina

By Air:

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), located in Čilipi village, is approximately 21 km from ACI Marina Dubrovnik, roughly 30 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions. During peak summer season, allow up to one hour due to increased traffic. The airport offers regular international and domestic connections.

Airport Transfer Options:

Taxi Services: Pre-booked taxis cost approximately €45-55 EUR for standard vehicles (1-4 passengers) from airport to marina. Available 24/7.

Airport Shuttle: Shuttle buses run from the airport to Dubrovnik (stopping at main bus station in Gruž), costing around €8-12 EUR per person, with journey time of 30-40 minutes. From the bus station, take a taxi to the marina (approximately €15-20 EUR).

Pre-arranged Private Transfer: Many charter companies and hotels can arrange private transfers; contact marina office for recommendations.

By Road:
From Dubrovnik city center or Gruž Port, follow signs toward Komolac and Rijeka Dubrovačka. The marina is clearly signposted along the scenic coastal road. From the airport, follow the main road toward Dubrovnik, then signs to Komolac. GPS coordinates: 42°40'13.6'' N, 18°07'28.6'' E.

By Sea: Marina entrance coordinates: 42°40'13.6'' N, 18°07'28.6'' E. The marina lies in Rijeka Dubrovačka, approximately 2 nautical miles from Gruž Port entrance. Approach from the northwest; the entrance is clearly marked. Contact the marina on VHF Channel 17 when within 2 nautical miles for berthing instructions and assistance. The marina offers excellent all-weather protection in the sheltered bay.

By Ferry:
Dubrovnik Ferry Terminal (Gruž Port) is located approximately 4 km from the marina, handling ferries and catamarans from Croatian islands, Italy (Bari, Ancona), and other Adriatic destinations. From the ferry terminal, taxis to the marina cost approximately €15-20 EUR, or arrange pickup through your charter company.

Parking

ACI Marina Dubrovnik offers multiple parking options:

Parking Close to Pontoons: Daily rate €55 EUR, weekly rate €160 EUR. Most convenient for loading/unloading and immediate marina access. No reservation required.

Standard Marina Parking: Daily rate €25 EUR, weekly rate €80 EUR. Short walking distance to berths. No reservation required; first-come, first-served basis.

Alternative Rate Information: Some sources indicate approximately €11 EUR per day for standard parking lots within marina premises.

Additional Parking Information:

Free 30-minute parking available for luggage loading/unloading near reception area

Secure, monitored parking within marina grounds

Ample spaces typically available even during peak season

For extended stays or special requirements, contact marina office in advance: +385 20 455 020

Vessel Services

  • Shore Power: 220V/380V available at all berths with 24-hour supply

  • Fresh Water: Available at all berths with 24-hour supply

  • Fuel Dock: Diesel and petrol available on-site; full-service fuel dock during operating hours

  • Pump-out Facilities: Yacht wash-up and waste water treatment plant available

  • Technical Services: 130-ton travel lift, comprehensive boat repair and maintenance workshop

  • Boatyard: Dry berth storage for 140 vessels; technical services and repairs available year-round

  • Chandlery: Nautical equipment and supplies shop on-site

Crew Amenities

  • Restrooms & Showers: Modern, clean facilities available 24/7; separate facilities for men and women; accessible facilities for disabled guests

  • Laundry: Professional laundry service available on-site

  • Luggage Storage: Secure storage available; inquire at marina reception desk

  • Restaurant & Dining: Full-service restaurant, café, cocktail bar, snack bar, and pub within marina complex

  • Swimming Pool: Outdoor pool available for marina guests (note: some nearby restaurants charge for sunbed use)

  • Shopping: Small shopping mall with supermarket, nautical gear store, and various amenities

  • Recreation: Tennis courts, football pitch with artificial grass, children's themed playground ("Pirate Ship"), bowling alley

  • Personal Services: Massage parlor, hairdresser/barber, internet café

  • Wi-Fi: Wireless internet available in marina area

  • Charter Services: Charter agencies and yacht charter companies operate from the marina

  • Exchange Office: Currency exchange services available at reception

Yacht Club Zephyrus

Location: ACI Marina Dubrovnik, Na Skali 2, Komolac
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Seafood, Croatian, Italian
Highlights: Directly within the marina, stunning waterfront views overlooking berths, infinity pool available to diners (sunbed use approximately €20 EUR), excellent fresh fish grilled to perfection, professional and attentive service, extensive drink selection including local Croatian beers, open until midnight
Note: Highly recommended by visiting sailors; reservations suggested during peak season

Restaurant Azzurro

Location: ACI Marina Dubrovnik, Komolac
Cuisine: Local Croatian cuisine, Mediterranean, fresh Adriatic seafood
Highlights: Perfect for food and wine lovers, emphasis on fresh local ingredients and traditional recipes, welcoming atmosphere, popular with both locals and visitors
Specialties: Fresh Adriatic fish, Croatian meat from eco-friendly farms, local prosciutto and cheeses, organically-grown vegetables, homemade desserts

Restaurant Vimbula

Location: Hotel Vimbula, Rijeka Dubrovačka, Komolac
Cuisine: Croatian, Mediterranean
Highlights: Picturesque location along the protected Ombla River bay, hotel restaurant with quality dining, peaceful setting popular with hotel guests and marina visitors
Distance: Very close to ACI Marina Dubrovnik, easy walking distance

Additional Dining Options:

The marina complex includes several casual dining venues including a café, cocktail bar, snack bar, and pub offering lighter meals, drinks, and snacks throughout the day. For more extensive dining options, Dubrovnik Old Town (6 km away) offers hundreds of restaurants ranging from traditional konobas to fine dining establishments.

Taxi Services

Dubrovnik Taxi & Transfer Services

Phone: +385 91 422 3879
Available: 24/7
Notes: English and French-speaking drivers; Mercedes E-Class and Mercedes V-Class van fleet

Dubrovnik Airport Taxi

Phone: +385 91 332 2022
Available: 24/7

Taxi Tortuga Dubrovnik

Phone: +385 91 591 7014

Mateo Taxi Dubrovnik & Tourist Guide

Phone: +385 99 212 6440

General Taxi Service

Phone: +385 98 725 769

Typical Fares from ACI Marina Dubrovnik:

  • Marina to Dubrovnik Airport: €45-55 EUR (standard car, 1-4 passengers)
  • Marina to Dubrovnik Old Town: €15-20 EUR
  • Marina to Gruž Port/Ferry Terminal: €15-20 EUR

Booking Recommendations:
Pre-booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak summer season and for airport transfers. Contact marina reception for assistance arranging reliable taxi services, or book directly using numbers above.

Emergency Contacts

Service Number
General Emergency (All Services) 112
Police 192
Fire Department 193
Ambulance 194
Coast Guard (Search & Rescue) 9155
Maritime Emergency VHF Channel 16
Dubrovnik Police +385 20 443 333
Traffic Police +385 20 443 666
Coast Guard +385 20 443 555
Dubrovnik General Hospital +385 20 431 777
Hospital Emergency (194 line) +385 20 431 777
Health Centre +385 20 416 866
Marin Med Clinic (Private) +385 20 400 500
Port Authority Dubrovnik +385 20 418 988 / +385 20 418 987 (VHF: 10, 16)
Harbour Master's Office +385 20 418 988
ACI Marina Dubrovnik Office +385 20 455 020
Dubrovnik Airport +385 20 773 377
Roadside Assistance 1987
Dubrovnik Tourist Board +385 20 312 015

Important Notes:

112 is the universal emergency number accessible from any phone (mobile or landline), connecting you to ambulance, fire, police, and rescue services

9155 is the Croatian sea rescue and lifesaving number for maritime emergencies

VHF Channel 16 is the international maritime distress frequency; monitor continuously while at sea

For minor medical issues, Marin Med Clinic (near main bus station) provides faster private service than hospital emergency room

Always carry marina office contact information when away from your vessel

Welcome to ACI Marina Dubrovnik – Your Gateway to the Pearl of the Adriatic!

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