Croatia & Its Islands Small Ship Cruising on the Adriatic Coast

Day 1 – Zagreb, Croatia – Tour Begins

Welcome to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia! Settle into your hotel amidst the vibrant cafes and cobblestone streets before meeting your fellow travelers over dinner featuring Continental and Istrian cuisine.

Day 2 – Zagreb – Šibenik

Step right into the history and culture of everyday life in Zagreb as you tour the city with a local guide. Become acquainted with the city as you see the main sights of the capital, including the Croatian National Theater and Mimara Museum, the Croatian Parliament building the illustrious Zagreb Cathedral, and the legendary Stone Gate. Then, it’s off to Šibenik! Tonight, embrace the culture of Croatia and become captivated by traditional entertainment with dinner.

Day 3 – Šibenik – Krka National Park – Šibenik

Set off on a walking tour through the ancient alleyways and roads of Šibenik, where you’ll get a chance to see the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, 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 and get to know this Dalmatian town’s historic architecture and striking coastline.

Day 4 – Šibenik – Split – Board Ship

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 cellars. 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. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the Ethnographic Museum in 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 the past centuries -OR- explore more of 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. This afternoon you’ll board a private 4-star ship, your new home for the next seven nights. Later, relax onboard before experiencing a Captain’s welcome dinner. Enjoy your meal accompanied by live Klapa music, the traditional Croatian style of singing.

Day 5 – Split – Trogir

After an overnight in Split enjoy a morning at leisure to discover this city on your own. Then it’s off to Trogir, a coastal gem renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture. Stop for a quick swim along the way before arriving in this charming town. Admire the striking stone houses and towering cathedral as you tour the city with a guide.

Day 6 – Trogir – Bol – Hvar

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 cruise to the sunny island of Hvar. Along the way, you’ll coast by quaint coves and bays tucked along the Adriatic Sea. 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 for centuries and learn about some of its uses. Enjoy an evening at leisure. Perhaps you will choose to dine in one of the many local, family-owned restaurants that Hvar is known for.

Day 7 – Hvar – Biševo – Vis

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. Cruise on to Vis, a small island practically untouched by tourism and overflowing with Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches. With free time this afternoon, relax onboard the ship or choose to go on an optional tour of the island ending with a traditional dinner.

Day 8 – Vis – Korcula

This morning, 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 afternoon and evening at leisure to discover the charms of this age-old city.

Day 9 – Korcula – Mljet National Park – Slano

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. Don’t miss out on a chance to take a swim in the strikingly blue waters. Then, your journey continues to Slano, a port city just outside of Dubrovnik. Your afternoon and evening are at leisure… consider an optional excursion to Ston, a nearby fortified city known for its decadent oysters and seafood.

Day 10 – Slano – Dubrovnik

This morning, cruise past the Elafiti Islands and be welcomed into Dubrovnik. You’ll see why the city is called the “Pearl of the Adriatic” when you take in the medieval stone walls, iconic Baroque rooftops, and winding cobblestone streets. Embrace the unspeakable feeling that you’ve stepped into another time as you explore the Old City with a local guide. Enjoy outstanding views of the city during your farewell lunch onboard. With free time in the evening, perhaps you’ll ride a cable car to the top of Mount Srd for awe-inspiring views of Dubrovnik or simply enjoy the evening on the Stradun (main street) by treating yourself with a glass of Malvasija wine in one of many local bars.

Day 11 – Dubrovnik – Disembark Ship – Tour Ends

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