Southern Pearls

We meet today for the first time in Dubrovnik, embarking our ship in the early afternoon, ready for the adventure that lies ahead. Lunch will be served on board as we set sail for one of the picturesque Elaphiti Islands, either Sipan or Slano (late arrivals can join us here). Both quaint fishing villages, you’ll love exploring the narrow streets and sampling traditional delicacies at the local restaurants. Later on, head back to the ship where we’ll settle for our first night in port.

We’ll depart Korčula early this morning and, weather permitting, will visit the mesmerising Blue Cave on the tiny island of Bisevo. There’s an entrance fee of around €14 each on arrival, then we’ll venture inside to marvel at the magical blue hue that lights up the otherwise dark cave. Lunch is then served on board as we sail across to the idyllic island of Vis, which has only recently opened up to the public. Docking in the town of the same name at the north of the island, you can discover its rich history, visit the remains of its Roman thermal baths and take a walk along the scenic waterfront, taking your pick from any one of the many cafés and bars.

Relax this morning and fuel yourself for the day as we sail across the Adriatic towards the island of Hvar. We’ll stop, first, at the small but scenic island of Scedro, where we’ll take a dip in one of its secluded bays and then eat lunch on board the ship. Next, we arrive into Hvar, one of the longest and sunniest islands in the Adriatic. Here, you’ll discover Gothic palaces, the Renaissance cathedral, Europe’s oldest public theatre and the dominating Spanish Fortress offering unrivalled views across the harbour, the Pakleni Islands and beyond. This evening you can soak up the upmarket vibe of the town, popular with the rich and famous. Watch the world go by from one from one of the harbourfront bars or restaurants, then head back to the ship in dock for the night.

This morning, we’ll set sail for the stunning island of Brac and its endearing fishing village of Bol. We’ll head for a swim at the most photographed beach in Croatia, the picture-perfect Zlatni Rat. Known as the Golden Horn, the beach’s long, pebble bar constantly changes shape and direction as it curves with the wind and tide. After lunch, we leave Bol behind and head towards beautiful Makarska on the mainland, where you’re free to explore this port town, with its charming streets and quaint churches, at leisure. Wander its bustling streets in town or stroll along the peaceful beachfront promenade, picking your favourite spot for dinner and drinks.

We make an early morning departure from Makarska as we head back to the island of Brac, but this time to the town of Pučišća on the north of the island. Known as the Stone Town, Pučišća is home to the world-famous white stone of Brac, used for buildings such as Liverpool Cathedral and the White House, and here you’ll have the chance to visit one of Europe’s few remaining stone masonry workshops. We’ll dock here for the night and enjoy an evening of fun and festivities on board the ship, as it’s our captain’s cocktail dinner.

For the last full day of our cruise, we’ll make our way to historical Split, the second largest city in Croatia. You can join us on a guided tour (Premium/Premium Superior) of the UNESCO-protected Old Town, marvelling at its impressive ancient Roman architecture, such as the astounding Diocletian’s Palace, once home to the Roman emperor himself. Make the most of your last evening, watching the sunset over the harbour and sampling tasty local delicacies and wines in the great selection of restaurants and bars along the vibrant waterfront promenade. We’ll spend our final night docked here.

Today, our incredible cruise together comes to an end. After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to your crew and fellow guests and disembark, ready to continue your onward journey home.

Today, our incredible cruise together comes to an end. After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to your crew and fellow guests and disembark, ready to continue your onward journey home.

Today, our incredible cruise together comes to an end. After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to your crew and fellow guests and disembark, ready to continue your onward journey home.