Croatia & Its Islands Small Ship Cruising on the Adriatic Coast

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

Welcome to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia! Settle into your hotel not far from the city center’s vibrant cafés and cobblestone streets before meeting your fellow travelers over dinner featuring traditional continental cuisine.

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 pass the main sights of the capital, including the Croatian Parliament building, the illustrious Zagreb Cathedral, and the legendary Stone Gate. Then, it’s off 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.

Travel to Šibenik to set off on a walking tour through the ancient alleyways and streets 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 to enjoy the beautiful coastal town of Vodice.

Your adventure continues! Discover 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, 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 of Split, located in the former residential complex of Diocletian’s Palace and showcasing the traditional costumes, crafts, and culture of Split and surrounding areas from past centuries -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. 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 music.

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.

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. Arrive in Stari Grad, a port town on Hvar, and 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.

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 overflowing with Renaissance architecture 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.

This morning, 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 afternoon at leisure to discover the charms of this age-old island town.

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, your journey continues to Trstenik, a port town on the stunning Pelješac peninsula. Enjoy the afternoon on a scenic bus excursion discovering the unspoiled beauty of the largest Dalmatian peninsula. Learn about the traditions of viticulture and winemaking and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the ship docked in Slano.

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 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 for lunch and to explore on your own, perhaps you’ll ride a cable car to the top of Mount Srd for awe-inspiring views of Dubrovnik or simply enjoy the day on the Stradun (main street) by treating yourself to a glass of Malvasija wine in one of the many local bars. This evening, enjoy views of the city during your farewell dinner onboard.

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