Southern Explorer (Split - Split)

Our adventure begins in Croatia’s second biggest city, Split, where we’ll be met by our ship and friendly crew. We’ll embark on our journey together, enjoying lunch on board as we sail along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, stopping for a refreshing swim break in a secluded bay. Thrill-seekers might prefer to join today’s optional excursion, river rafting down – or zip-lining over – the emerald Cetina River, rejoining the ship in Makarska. This picture-perfect port town boasts a charming waterfront on a backdrop of breathtaking mountaintops. You can visit the lighthouse, discover the bustling civic square and explore the town’s many restaurants and bars during our night in port.

Fuel yourself for the day with breakfast on board as we sail to the Pelješac Peninsula for a tranquil swim stop. Next, we continue on our way to the island of Mljet, home to the national park of the same name. An entrance fee of around €17 is payable locally, then we’re free to explore our magnificent surroundings. Head across the lake to the tiny St. Mary’s Island to visit its Benedictine monastery. Alternatively, you can hire a bike or go for a walk, exploring the lush pine forests and dazzling lakes for yourself. Weather dependent, we’ll dock in either Polaca or Pomena for the night.

Today is the day that we get to explore the enchanting city of Dubrovnik, the jewel in Croatia’s crown. When we arrive, you have the choice to join us on an included guided city tour (Premium/Premium Superior) or discover the city at your own pace. Take the cable car up Mount Srd for the most incredible views out over the sparkling sea, the stunning coastline, the Old Town’s terracotta rooftops and the Elaphiti Islands. In the Old Town itself, soak up the atmosphere from the shops, cafés and bars of bustling Stradun and be sure to take a walk along the ancient city walls. We’ll remain in port overnight.

We’ll depart Dubrovnik later this morning and will make a swim stop to invigorate ourselves after a busy day in the city. Then, based on harbour availability, we’ll sail to either the island of Sipan or the coastal village of Trstenik. Both fishing villages have a great selection of bars and superb restaurants for you to grab a bite to eat in – why not sample the catch of the day? Tonight, it’s a cause for celebration on board our ship with our Captain’s Dinner, including a fabulous three-course meal, followed by an evening of music and entertainment.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning, before continuing our journey to the beautiful island of Korčula, stopping for lunch in a secluded bay en route. Refuted as being the birthplace of legendary merchant, Marco Polo, this is a town bursting with history and culture within its fortified walls. Join us on a guided tour (Premium Superior only) of the highlights and indulge in the age-old ceremonies, folk music shows and traditional dance performances that still regularly take place today. We’ll remain in port overnight, so you’ve plenty of time to discover its abundance of restaurants and bars. Be sure to try some tasty local delicacies, such as octopus and black risotto.

This morning, we’ll enjoy breakfast at leisure whilst we gently sail across the Adriatic, past idyllic islands, towards the luxurious island of Hvar. But, before we get there, we’ll tuck into lunch on board and will embrace a quick swim stop at the nearby Pakleni Islands. Hvar is one of the longest and sunniest islands in the Adriatic, known for its staggering beauty and upmarket vibe – making it a popular hangout for the rich and famous. Visit the oldest public theatre in Europe, admire the magnificent Renaissance cathedral or climb the hill up to the island’s dominating Spanish Fortress for unrivalled views over the harbour, with our ship and the Pakleni Islands in the picture. The town boasts classy restaurants and vibrant bars open late into the night, so make the most of them during our overnight stay in port.

Our final full day together is guaranteed to be super exciting and action-packed. Leaving Hvar behind, we’ll sail across to the nearby stunning island of Brac, home to the most famous and most photographed beach in Croatia, Zlatni Rat. Otherwise known as the Golden Horn, the beach’s long, shingle bar changes shape according to the wind and the current, curving from one side to the other. Just down from Zlatni Rat is the picturesque fishing village of Bol, which still maintains its authentic charm, despite being such a popular place to visit. Following lunch, we’ll sail back to Split and will dock for the final time. Join us on a optional guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, with its impressive Roman architecture and the extraordinary Diocletian’s Palace, or choose to explore it all at your leisure. Take advantage of the city’s trendy bistros, excellent restaurants and bustling bars, making the last night of your cruise one to remember.

Today, we bid farewell to our fellow guests, crew and ship and begin our onward journey home. Enjoy breakfast at leisure, before disembarking at 9am.