Croatia and its
Islands

Inclusions:

• 11 Day guided holiday
• 3 Nights carefully selected hotel accommodation, plus 7 nights aboard a luxury motor yacht
• 19 Meals included: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners
• Tour Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.
• Visit Korcula Island, the debated birthplace of Marco Polo.
• Relax on the “Golden Cape” of Bol, one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.
• Dine on Continental and Istrian cuisine at a favourite local restaurant in Zagreb.
• Enjoy traditional Dalmatian delicacies prepared according to ancient recipes.
• Experience a Captain’s welcome dinner upon arrival in Split.
• Stand before the breathtaking waterfalls in Krka National Park.
• Partake in traditional Croatian entertainment.
• Explore the Old City of Dubrovnik with a local expert.
• Your Choice: Visit Split’s Archaeological Museum and marvel at a diverse range of artifacts -OR- visit the Meštrovic Gallery and admire works by the 20th-century sculptor Ivan Meštrovic.

Itinerary:

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 oldest museum institution in Croatia, Split’s Archaeological Museum, founded in 1820; marvel at a diverse range of artifacts from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age -OR- admire the works of 20th-century sculptor Ivan Meštrovic during a guided tour. The Meštrovic Gallery features an array of the artist’s creations including sculptures, drawings and architecture. The museum itself is considered an art monument. 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.