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, board a private 4-star ship and revel in all the comforts of a small cruise ship, your home for the next seven nights. As arrival times may vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. 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 feeling that you’ve stepped into another time as you explore the Old City with a local guide. During this walk, be prepared to navigate stairs and trek carefully across slippery limestone pavement. With free time, perhaps you’ll visit the famous City Walls. In the early afternoon, your journey continues to Slano, a port town just outside of Dubrovnik. Enjoy your afternoon on a scenic bus excursion discovering the unspoiled beauty of the stunning Pelješac – the largest Dalmatian peninsula. Learn about the traditions of viticulture and winemaking and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant before returning to your ship docked in Slano.

This morning, arrive in Mljet National Park. Stroll beside its two saltwater lakes, Big Lake and Small Lake, before exploring the Islet of St. Mary, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. Here, be prepared for some stairs and walking on uneven ground. Then, it’s on to Korcula, the debated home of 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 purported home and take in the fantastic sea views. 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 island town.

Cruise on to Vis, * a small island overflowing with architecture that reflects its long history and beautiful beaches. With free time this afternoon, relax onboard and enjoy a leisurely evening, or consider an optional excursion to experience more of this breathtaking island.

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 Stari Grad, the oldest port town on Hvar, join a scenic bus tour to Hvar Town, enjoying spectacular views of the island and the Adriatic Sea. Top off your afternoon with a guided walking tour of Hvar Town, followed by time on your own to stroll its hidden corners or dine in one of Hvar’s many local, family-owned restaurants before returning to the ship.

Start your day in the town of Bol, located on the picturesque island of Brac. With some 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 Split, one of the oldest cities in this historic region. In this bustling port, explore Diocletian’s Palace, one of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. A guided tour takes you through the mysterious passageways and into the lower levels of this massive structure. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Split, located in the former residential complex of Diocletian’s Palace, showcasing the traditional costumes, crafts and culture of Split -OR- explore more of the Diocletian’s Palace during a visit to its substructure. Set below the imperial apartments, this represents one of the best-preserved ancient complexes of its kind in the world. The evening is yours to enjoy this vibrant city.

Your adventure continues! After an overnight in Split, enjoy a morning at leisure and a swim stop. Discover 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 local guide. This evening, enjoy the views during your dinner on board.

This morning, journey towards Šibenik and disembark your ship. 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 as you learn about prosciutto production and enjoy a traditional Dalmatian dinner at a family-run, farm-to-table 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.** Make the most of your free evening to enjoy the beautiful coastal town of 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, and the legendary Stone Gate. Tonight, raise a glass and say živjeli (to life) as you toast your Croatian journey over dinner featuring traditional continental cuisine.

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