Croatia & Its Islands Small Ship Cruising on the Adriatic Coast

Wander along medieval walls, marvel at enchanting waterfalls, and relax on sunny islands. From Dubrovnik to Zagreb, set out to experience the best of Croatia and the Adriatic Coast.

Welcome to Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” This afternoon you’ll board a private 4-star ship and revel in all of the luxuries of a small cruise ship. Relax onboard before experiencing a Captain’s welcome dinner. Enjoy your meal accompanied by live Klapa music, the traditional Croatian style of singing.

This morning, take in the medieval stone walls, iconic Baroque rooftops, and winding cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik. Embrace the unspeakable feeling that you’ve stepped into another time as you explore the Old City with a local guide. During this walk, be prepared to travel a number of steps and trek carefully across slippery limestone pavements. With free time, perhaps you’ll visit the famous City Walls. In the early afternoon, your journey continues to Slano, a port city just outside of Dubrovnik. Enjoy an evening of leisure or consider an optional excursion to Ston, a nearby fortified city known for its decadent oysters and seafood.

This morning, arrive in Mljet National Park. Stroll around the Large and Small lakes before exploring the Islet of St. Mary, home to a Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century. On this walk, be prepared to step up some stairs and travel by foot on uneven grounds. Don’t miss out on a chance to take a swim in the strikingly blue waters. Then, it’s on to Korcula, debated home to one of the world’s most famous explorers: Marco Polo. Decide for yourself if he was born in Korcula or Venice as you tour his alleged home and take in the fantastic sea views from its tower. Join a local guide and make your way along the narrow stone streets while you wander among the medieval buildings and vibrant houses in the town known as “Little Dubrovnik.” Enjoy the evening at leisure to discover the charms of this age-old city.

Cruise on to Vis, a small island overflowing with Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches. With free time this afternoon, relax onboard the ship enjoy evening at leisure.

Embark on a morning cruise to the island of Biševo. This island is home to the Blue Cave,* a stunning grotto with a luminous blue glow. Return to the ship and cruise to the sunny island of Hvar. Upon arrival in Hvar, get acquainted with the area when a local guide introduces you to the history, culture, and lifestyle of the city. Discover how lavender was traditionally grown in the region and learn about its uses. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner on board.

Start your day in the town of Bol, located on the picturesque island of Brac. With free time this morning, perhaps you’ll choose to swim along the shore of the “Golden Cape,” known to be one of the most popular beaches in Croatia. Return to the ship for lunch, then it’s off to Trogir, a coastal gem renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture. Admire the striking stone houses and towering cathedral as you tour the city with a guide.

Your adventure continues! Discover Split, one of the oldest cities in this historic region. In this bustling port, explore Diocletian’s Palace where you will visit its famous “imperial apartments”. One of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Emperor Diocletian chose the palace to be his retirement home because of the incomparable beauty of Split. A guided tour takes you through the mysterious passageways and into the lower levels of this massive structure. When the city tour ends, it’s your choice! Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Split, located in the former residential complex of the Diocletian’s palace. This captivating museum showcases exhibits on traditional costumes, crafts and culture in Split including surrounding areas from past centuries -OR- explore more of the Diocletian’s palace during a visit to its’ substructures. Set below the imperial apartments, this represents one of the best-preserved ancient complexes of their kind in the world.

Disembark your ship in Split and journey towards Šibenik. Join a local guide on a walking tour through the ancient alleyways and roads of this beautiful town where you’ll see the Cathedral of St. James – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy your free time in town for lunch before you head to Vodice. Tonight, embrace the culture of Croatia when you meet the owner of a family farm to learn about prosciutto production and enjoy traditional Dalmatian dinner at the farm restaurant.

This morning, venture to the breathtaking Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble through dramatic gorges. Meander along the trails that surround the falls before embarking on a boat ride that takes you along the river to Skradin.* Enjoy your free time in Skradin before returning to Vodice.

This morning, travel to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia! Step right into the history and culture of everyday life as you tour the city with a local guide. Become acquainted with the city as you see the main sights of the capital, the Croatian Parliament building, the illustrious Zagreb Cathedral, and the legendary Stone Gate. Tonight, raise a glass and say živjeli (to life) as you toast your Croatian journey over Continental and Istrian cuisine.

Say goodbye to Croatia as your tour of the Adriatic Coast comes to a close today.