Vela Luka Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Vela Luka is well-connected to mainland Croatia through regular ferry services from Split (approximately 2.5 hours) and seasonal connections from Lastovo and Hvar. If arriving from Dubrovnik, you can take a bus to Orebić and then a short ferry to Korčula Town, followed by a local bus to Vela Luka (total journey around 3-4 hours). The ferry terminal is conveniently located near the town center, with taxis and seasonal shuttle services available upon arrival. For those driving, parking is available near the port area, though spaces can be limited during peak summer months, so arriving early is recommended.

Nestled in a deep bay on the western edge of Korčula island, Vela Luka offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean charm and authentic Croatian coastal life. This sheltered port town, whose name aptly translates to 'Big Harbor,' welcomes visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and stunning seaside setting. As one of the main ferry entry points to Korčula, Vela Luka serves as both a delightful destination in its own right and a gateway to exploring the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Vela Luka enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The peak tourist season runs from June through August, when temperatures average 25-30°C (77-86°F) and the town buzzes with visitors and cultural events. May and September offer particularly pleasant conditions with warm weather, fewer crowds, and slightly lower prices. Ferry services operate year-round but increase in frequency during summer months. Winter visitors (November to March) will find a quieter, more authentic experience with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C (41°F), though some restaurants and attractions may have limited hours.

From Vela Luka's ferry port, travelers can easily hop to Split on the mainland (2.5 hours), perfect for exploring Diocletian's Palace and vibrant urban life. The picturesque island of Hvar is accessible via seasonal catamarans (approximately 1 hour), offering lavender fields, historic towns, and buzzing nightlife. Adventurous travelers shouldn't miss Lastovo island (1.5 hours by ferry), a nature park with pristine forests and crystal-clear waters. The ferry journey itself is a highlight, cutting through the stunning blue waters of the Adriatic and passing numerous uninhabited islets that dot the Korčula archipelago.

Vela Luka offers numerous attractions within easy reach of the harbor. Don't miss Vela Spila (Big Cave), an archaeological site with findings dating back 20,000 years, offering spectacular views of the bay. The waterfront promenade comes alive in evenings with locals enjoying the traditional 'klapsko pjevanje' (a cappella singing). Food enthusiasts should sample local specialties like 'žrnovski makaruni' (hand-rolled pasta) and fresh seafood at konobas (traditional restaurants) like Bata or Ribar. The nearby Proizd island, accessible by local boat, features stunning white stone beaches and turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Vela Luka harbors fascinating secrets beneath its relaxed exterior. The town was home to one of Yugoslavia's most famous artists, Izvor Oreb, whose abstract sculptures can be spotted throughout the area. Locals claim that the bay of Vela Luka has healing properties, with its combination of fresh and salt water creating unique swimming conditions. The distinctive red soil surrounding Vela Luka gives the local wine its characteristic mineral notes. Despite being a small town, Vela Luka produced several Olympic medallists in rowing, thanks to its protected bay which provides ideal training conditions.