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. As arrival times may vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Tonight, meet your fellow travelers over dinner at one of Zagreb’s premier restaurants, where classic Croatian flavors meet contemporary artistry.

Dive into the heart of Zagreb on a guided tour, passing the historic Stone Gate and the Croatian Parliament. After free time for lunch in the capital, journey towards the Adriatic coast. Your introduction to this region starts with a visit to a family-run farm for a Dalmatian dinner, where you’ll learn the secrets of prosciutto production — a taste of authentic, rural Croatia.

This morning, venture to the breathtaking Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble through dramatic gorges, and enjoy its natural splendor. Follow wooden walkways over turquoise waters to the base of the magnificent Skradinski Buk waterfalls. A scenic boat along the Krka River to the town of Skradin* offers a different perspective of this lush paradise. This afternoon is yours to enjoy the beautiful coastal town of Vodice.

Today, your seafaring journey begins! Travel to Šibenik to set off on a walking tour through the city’s ancient alleyways and streets, where you’ll get a chance to see the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After free time for lunch, travel to the island-town of Trogir, an open-air museum of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Settle in aboard your private premium small ship, your home for the next seven nights. Later this afternoon, admire the striking stone houses and towering cathedral as you tour the city with a guide. Celebrate your first night at sea with a Captain’s Welcome Dinner.

After an overnight in Trogir, enjoy a morning at leisure and a swim stop along the way before arriving in Split. Here, history is woven into the fabric of the city. Your guided tour takes you through the incredible Diocletian’s Palace, one of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, now buzzing with shops and cafés. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Split, located in the former residential complex of Diocletian’s Palace, showcasing the traditional costumes, crafts, and culture of Split -OR- explore more of Diocletian’s Palace during a visit to its substructure. Set below the imperial apartments, this is one of the best-preserved ancient complexes of its kind in the world. The evening is yours to enjoy the town.

Today is a celebration of island life. Start with sailing towards Brac Island, enjoying the sun, breeze, and the stunning Dalmatian coastline along the way. Enjoy your lunch on board the ship and continue cruising 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, the oldest port town on Hvar, and join a scenic bus tour to Hvar Town, enjoying spectacular views of the island and the Adriatic Sea. Explore Hvar’s historic marble streets and squares on a guided tour. Enjoy free time to discover its chic harbor, hidden alleys, or a family-owned restaurant for dinner on own 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 architecture that reflects its long history 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. With a local guide, wind through its herringbone-patterned streets, admiring the medieval buildings and vibrant houses in this town known as “Little Dubrovnik.” The afternoon is yours to enjoy the charms of this age-old island town and perhaps find a quiet spot to savor a glass of local Pošip wine.

This morning, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of 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 to climb stairs and walk on uneven ground. After your visit, sail toward Slano, taking in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic coastline. Upon arrival, board a coach for a scenic drive into the countryside toward the charming village of Ljubac. Here, enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring traditional Dalmatian folk entertainment, local music, and a warm, rustic atmosphere. A traditional Dalmatian dinner will be served, showcasing regional dishes prepared according to long-standing culinary traditions.

This morning, cruise past the Elafiti Islands and be welcomed into the legendary city of Dubrovnik. You’ll see why it’s 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. The rest of the day is yours to create your own perfect Dubrovnik moment — walk the walls, take 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). This evening, toast to an incredible journey at your farewell dinner on board, with a stunning view of the illuminated harbor.

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