Polace Ferries

The port of Polace plays a key role in the ferry network of Croatia, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 4 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Polace serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Polace, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Polace with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as TP Line run regular services from Polace, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Polace offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Polace is accessible primarily via ferry connections from Dubrovnik, Korčula, and the Pelješac Peninsula, with journey times ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on your departure point. If traveling from mainland Croatia, you'll first need to reach either Dubrovnik or Pelješac before catching a connecting ferry. Public buses connect Dubrovnik's main bus station to the ferry terminals, making transfers straightforward. For those arriving by car, secure parking is available near the ferry terminals in Dubrovnik and Prapratno on Pelješac, though space can be limited during peak summer months.

Tucked into a sheltered bay on the northern coast of Mljet Island, Polace charms visitors with its serene blue waters and lush surroundings. This small fishing village serves as an important ferry gateway to Mljet National Park, offering a peaceful alternative to Croatia's busier ports. Visitors stepping off the ferry are greeted by crystal-clear waters, ancient Roman ruins, and the verdant landscapes that have earned Mljet its reputation as one of the Adriatic's most unspoiled islands.

The ideal time to visit Polace falls between May and October when warm temperatures and calm seas create perfect conditions for exploring Mljet's natural wonders. July and August bring the warmest waters and liveliest atmosphere, though the village becomes considerably busier. Spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer a sweet spot of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and full ferry schedules. Winter sees significantly reduced ferry services and many local businesses close, though the mild Mediterranean climate means daytime temperatures rarely drop below 10°C. The annual Mljet Summer Festival in July brings traditional music and local gastronomy events to the island.

Polace serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Adriatic's enchanting islands. Regular ferry connections link Polace with historic Korčula town, just a 45-minute journey across the channel, where medieval architecture and Marco Polo heritage await. The vibrant city of Dubrovnik lies approximately 2 hours away by ferry, offering its famous walled old town and rich cultural experiences. Adventurous travelers can also reach the Elafiti Islands via connecting services, where car-free Lopud and Koločep provide tranquil beaches and pine-scented walking trails. The journey between Polace and these destinations offers spectacular views of the Dalmatian coastline and its scattered archipelago.

Mljet National Park, just steps from the ferry dock, showcases two interconnected saltwater lakes with the stunning 12th-century Benedictine monastery on St. Mary's Island at their center. Rent bicycles near the harbor to explore the park's well-maintained paths winding through pine forests and alongside the lakes. The remains of a 3rd-century Roman palace (which gave Polace its name) lie within the village itself, offering a glimpse into the island's ancient past. Seafood enthusiasts shouldn't miss trying the freshly-caught fish and lobster at waterfront konobas, where local specialties are prepared using traditional Dalmatian recipes. The sheltered waters around Polace are perfect for kayaking, with equipment rentals available near the harbor for exploring hidden coves and beaches.

Polace takes its name from the Roman palace ruins found in the village, with sections of the original 3rd-century walls still standing today after 1,800 years. According to local legend, Odysseus was shipwrecked and enchanted by the nymph Calypso on Mljet, causing him to remain on the island for seven years, a claim that has earned Mljet the nickname 'Odysseus's Isle.' The saltwater lakes near Polace are a rare natural phenomenon, connected to the sea by a narrow channel that creates a unique ecosystem supporting distinctive marine life. The village once served as an important Venetian Republic naval outpost, with its protected bay offering shelter to ships navigating the sometimes treacherous Adriatic waters.