Nature and Culture Croatian Cruise

Our journey together begins in Croatia’s second largest city, Split, where we’ll board our ship and set sail in the early afternoon. We’ll enjoy lunch at sea while our captain takes us to a secret bay for a refreshing afternoon swim. After our dip, we’ll continue on our way to the picturesque resort of Rogoznica, popular with the yachting community and holidaymakers in search of a peaceful getaway. Stroll along pretty pebble beaches, explore historic cobbled streets and sample some locally-made Babich Wine at one of the excellent restaurants on offer. Late arrivals can join the ship here and we’ll spend the night in port.

This morning, enjoy breakfast on board as we sail towards Skradin, home to the spectacular Krka National Park. After paying an entrance fee of approximately €27 each, we’ll get to explore the breathtaking beauty of the park, with its lush green scenery and its enchanting waterfalls, including the famous Skradinski Buk falls. Take a boat trip through the lakes or bring your swimwear for an invigorating swim in the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy lunch back on board our ship as we sail through the scenic Krka canyon, en route to Sibenik, where you can spend the afternoon exploring this historical town at your leisure. There are some magnificent architectural feats here, from the Gothic-Renaissance cathedral and the Foscolo Palace, to the impressive fortresses of St. Nicholas and St. Michael. Our final, overnight port of call is Vodice, where you’ll find plenty of lively restaurants and bars, as well as great beaches to stroll along.

Today, we leave Vodice behind and head for the dramatic scenery of the Kornati National Park (entrance included). Made up of over a hundred tall island peaks, islets and reefs, this staggering landscape is home to rich marine biodiversity, as well as Roman ruins. Ilyrian fortresses and ancient churches. After exploring Kornati, we’ll sail to Sali on Long Island, where we’ll dock for the night.

Enjoy a full morning of relaxation, swimming in the azure waters of the Adriatic or soaking up the Croatian sun on deck, whilst getting lost in a good book. After lunch, we head to the popular city of Zadar, famous for its beautiful Old Town peninsula. Join us on an included guided excursion (Premium/Premium Superior), discovering the rich history of the city, from the 1st century Roman Forum and the unique 9th century Church of St. Donatus, to the splendid medieval Cathedral of St. Anastasia and the mighty city walls. We’ll spend the night in port, so be sure to head to the waterfront and see the famous Sea Organ and the magical ‘Greeting to the Sun’ light show while we’re here.

Zadar marked the turnaround point of our journey, so this morning we leave it behind and head back down south, stopping for a swim at a secluded bay along the Dalmatian Coast. We’ll then come to anchor in charming Zlarin, renowned for its coral farming that dates back to the 15th century. Enjoy a wander around this small and idyllic island, picking up your own coral souvenir from one of the local artisans. Tonight, on board our ship is the Captain’s dinner, so expect an excellent evening of fun and entertainment as we remain in port for the night.

After breakfast, we depart Zlarin and cruise towards the striking town of Trogir. En route, we’ll stop at another secluded bay for a swim, in an area often remarked as having exceptionally clear waters. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, we’ll enjoy lunch on board before arriving into Trogir, the floating museum town, boasting a rich history and endless charm and beauty. There’s an included guided excursion (Premium Superior only) which will show us all the town’s highlights, from its ancient walls and Venetian palaces, to its impressive Greek relief, dating back to the 4th century BC. The evening is yours to further discover the wonders of this town and experience its many restaurants and bars. We’ll stay overnight in port.

This morning marks the start of our last full day together, so we’ll begin the day with a rejuvenating swim or snorkel among the reefs at neighbouring Ciovo Island, while breakfast is served on board. In the afternoon, we make our way to our final port of call, returning to Split while admiring its surrounding coastline and islands. A UNESCO protected city, brimming with fabulous monuments and outstanding architecture, a particular highlight is the must-see Diocletian’s Palace. We remain docked here for the night, so make the most of your last evening at leisure, discovering the city’s excellent bars and restaurants and its vibrant waterfront.

Today, our wonderful cruise together comes to an end. We’ll enjoy breakfast at leisure, then it’s time for you to bid farewell to the ship, captain and crew, and begin your onward journey home.