Since Game of Thrones hit our screens in 2011 it’s not just it’s leading actors that have been propelled into the spotlight. One rising star in particular has found itself an unexpected contender in the race to become the most famous; cue Dubrovnik.
The set of the now infamous King’s Landing has experienced a 100% increase in tourism since the show’s debut, according to the country’s tourist board. And with MedSailors, the skippered sailing company, young adventurers can make like the Iron Fleet and discover the city’s iconic landmarks and sets from an unparalleled vantage point – on-board their very own yacht.
Daniel Painter, Managing Director of MedSailors, says: “It’s no surprise that Dubrovnik has become such a tourist hotspot, thanks to its stunning landscape, affordable local delicacies and the now iconic Game of Thrones sets.
“A trip with MedSailors gives guests the best of both worlds; travellers can immerse themselves in the bustling heart of the city or appreciate the vistas from the shores on board their skippered yacht.”
With “Winter is Coming” to our screens on 14 April, MedSailors has selected its must-see Croatian destinations, perfect for Game of Thrones lovers and sun-seekers alike.
Fort Lovrijenac / The Red Keep
The first stop on any trip to Dubrovnik is Fort Lovrijenac, also known as the Seven Kingdoms’ Red Keep. As one of the most popular locations from the series, approaching the fort by sea makes for unique views away from the masses of tourists. Long-standing fans can follow in the footsteps of Stannis and Davos, as they relive the Battle of the Blackwater in the neighbouring bay.
West Harbour Pier / Blackwater Bay Pier
Located just across the bay from the Red Keep’s is West Harbour Pier, a reoccurring set in Game of Thrones. Avid viewers will remember Sansa and Shae watching ships from the stone pier in season three, as the sun sets in the distance. Travellers can relive this poignant scene with friends during the day, before setting sail in the evening to chase the sunset.
West Harbour / Blackwater Bay
Many of Dubrovnik’s most photogenic nooks and crannies are nestled into the city’s surrounding mountains and bays. Tucked away into the cliff-side of West Harbour is the secret wooden door to the Red Keep, used by Davos in Blackwater Bay. MedSailors’ guests can discover this iconic spot on their very own paddleboard
Hotel Belvedere / The Mountain and The Viper’s battle
Discovering Dubrovnik by sea opens up a world of beautiful hideaways only accessible by yacht. One such location is the now derelict Hotel Belvedere, used as the location for season four’s finale, ‘The Mountain and The Viper’. Though access to the hotel itself is not permitted, guests travelling with MedSailors can sail directly to the edge of the hotel’s amphitheatre, used to stage the series’ most memorable fight.
Lokrum Island / Qarth
After a day exploring the city’s red stone façades and towering fortresses, the lush green island of Lokrum is a welcome change of scene for an evening sail. The island’s lavish gardens were used as a backdrop for Qarth, where Daenerys charmed the city’s elite in season two. MedSailors guests can live like Qarth’s aristocrats and enjoy a glass of wine while they discover one of Dubrovnik’s hidden treasures, not often explored by day-tourists to Croatia.
MedSailors operates two Croatian routes – the Croatia Voyager, which sails the Adriatic Sea from Dubrovnik to Split (or vice versa) and the Croatia Discovery, which starts and finishes in Split, with an optional day trip to Dubrovnik. Guests have the freedom to explore the cities at their own pace, meaning Game of Thrones fans can follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters, while others can simply sit back, relax and enjoy soaking up the culture in one of Europe’s most beautiful regions.
Offering balanced sailing holidays in the Mediterranean, MedSailors offer seven-day trips for young adventurers in Croatia, Greece, Turkey and Italy. Trips are created to offer authentic, memorable experiences while providing holidaymakers the opportunity to relax and, if they want to, learn new skills.
