croatian islands cruise

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ADRIATIC ADVENTURES

Croatia cruises.

With shimmering waters and Roman ruins, Croatia is calling you to its shores.

Croatia has steadily grown in popularity over the past couple of decades, but many people have yet to discover its wealth of treasures, both natural and man-made. Of course, destinations like the walled city of Dubrovnik or Korcula Island attract many admiring visitors to the Dalmatian Coast, not to mention the cascading waterfalls and epic mountains of Plitvice Lakes National Park. From the intricate medieval churches in the capital city Zagreb, to the country's unsung but undeniably delicious food and wine scene, Croatia cruises can make you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden paradise.

Paradise Spotted On The Dalmatian Coast

Shimmering waters and beautiful ruins are calling you to its shores

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WALLS OF FAME

From ancient amphitheaters to preserved palaces, Croatia proves that Roman relics aren't only found in Italy. Step into the past as you visit expansive ruins and stroll through the walled city of Dubrovnik to the ancient ruins of Istria.

LIVE YOUR FANTASY

If Dubrovnik looks like a film set to you, that's because it is — you might recognize it from the popular TV series "Game of Thrones". The sheer magnificence of structures like Fort Bokar and the Pile Gate will make you feel like you're living in an epic fantasy story.  

RISE TO NEW HEIGHTS

In Dubrovnik, walk up to the city walls and gain some perspective on this increasingly famous travel destination. In Split, the climb up the rickety stairs of the Cathedral of Dominus can be harrowing, but the view will make you feel immortal.

EMPIRE STATE OF MIND

In Istria, traipse through the palace built by Diocletian, who split the Roman Empire into East and West two centuries after Caesar. Or head up to the Istrian city of Pula, whose own Roman amphitheater dates back to 27 B.C.E.

DOGGED ADVENTURE

Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Croatia's Dalmatian Coast is one of the most picturesque corners of the Mediterranean. From relaxing beaches to coastal cities and bracing inland adventures and attractions, time spent by the water in Croatia during your vacation is time you won't forget

POSTCARD PERFECT

The only thing better than arriving on the island of Korcula and being stunned by the perfectly clear waters of its harbor is arriving hours later at Hvar or Mljet, two offshore islands that prove there's no such thing as too much time on the beach.  

STEPS FROM SUN-SOAKED

Some of Croatia's best beaches are conveniently located right near its urban centers. Check out Banje Beach in Dubrovnik and soak in the sun and sand with the city's medieval Old Town backdropping your dip in the ocean.

LUSCIOUS LAKES AND ZESTY ZAGREB

Hike through Krka and Plitvice National Parks, where you'll find countless waterfalls and abundant forests. When you're itching to reenter city life, try some hearty Croatian cuisine in the underrated city of Zagreb, which blends Eastern and Western European cooking styles, with Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil and rosemary as well as root veggies and dumplings.

DROP ANCHOR ON THE DALMATIAN COAST

Croatia remains shrouded in mystique, even though it's more popular than ever. Dock at the walled cities of the Dalmatian Coast, then explore the surrounding islands that offer a unique version of paradise.

ADRIFT IN THE ADRIATIC

Savor Croatia's coastal jewels with an Adriatic cruise from  Venice (Ravenna) . The water off the coasts of  Dubrovnik ,  Split  and islands like Hvar and Korcula is as crystal clear as the bottled variety.

SPLIT YOUR TIME

Pair your Croatia cruise with an adventure in one of its Mediterranean cousins. Explore Croatian ports like Dubrovnik and Split, then head to Italy and see the Colosseum in  Rome  and the Duomo in  Florence . Or pair Croatia with Greece: Hike to the Acropolis in  Athens  or the volcano and hot springs in  Santorini .

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Europe's Best-Kept Secret

The best part about Croatia is its versatility. Although the country is more popular than ever, its crowds are tolerable even in peak summer months. The most popular times to visit are in April, May, September or October, when temperatures are warm and the sun is bright, but most European tourists are stuck at home.

While it rarely gets cold along the Dalmatian Coast, Zagreb and other inland destinations have four distinct seasons. If you cruise to Croatia during the shoulder seasons — April and October — make sure to pack accordingly.

With around 1,200 islands along the coast of Croatia, there are many public ferry options to get around and island hop. Always be sure to check schedules beforehand, as some ferry companies don't run frequently during the day or throughout the week.

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Many Croatians speak English. However, saying zdravo ("hello") and hvala ("thank you") in the local language will make the locals smile.

Take care when diving into water, as its clearness can make it appear deeper than it is. Also make sure water is not too deep for children.

Some local businesses accept the euro, but the official currency is the Croatian kuna. Change some of your dollars or euros to kuna when you arrive.

FOR FOODIE'S BASK IN BALKAN CUISINE

Croatia sits at the intersection of the Latin and Slavic parts of Europe, and its cuisine reflects this. From Italian-inflected rice dishes, to meat-stuffed peppers that evoke lands farther east, to a local take on flan, Croatia is as delicious as it is beautiful.

TANTALIZING TENTACLES

Squid ink has become a global food coloring sensation, but the trend started in Croatia. The black color of crni rizot (black risotto) is only the beginning of its appeal, thanks to the tender, juicy octopus tentacles that rest atop its bed of arborio rice.

STUFF YOURSELF

While the food in many Croatian restaurants can seem like an alternative version of Italian, especially on the coast, punjena paprika (baked peppers stuffed with savory ground meat) evokes the flavors of the former Yugoslavia — and the centuries before it.

FLORAL FLAN

It might seem strange to eat a dessert like flan in a country where Spanish isn't the official language, but Croatia's rozata egg custard has a wild card: Its signature aroma (and name) comes from rozalin rose liqueur.

Related Ports

The more you know, the more fun your cruise will be. Read up on destinations around the Adriatic Sea, from the ports of Greece in both the Cyclades islands and the mainland, to Italian destinations like Rome, Venice and everywhere in between.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Zadar, Croatia

Split, Croatia

Related Destinations

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Croatia Cruises

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Award-Winning Cruises to Croatia

Sail to fortified towns and villages along the beautiful Dalmatian Coast on a cruise to Croatia with Celebrity. Croatia offers visitors forested shorelines and pristine beaches, magnificent architecture, and centuries of history and culture to uncover.  Sip coffee beside Venetian-era palaces, and learn about the heritage of the islands scattered along Croatia’s coastline as you uncover the food, culture, and Mediterranean lifestyle on a luxurious cruise.

Croatia cruises take you to the picturesque city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive architecture and fascinating history. Explore the city's medieval ramparts before an evening stroll along the Stradun, Dubrovnik's elegant main boulevard. Discover the port of Split, dominated by the 4th century Diocletian Palace, and Zadar, a smaller port known for its Old Town and carefully preserved Roman and Venetian ruins. Embark on an adventure to remember on a luxury Mediterranean cruise with Celebrity Cruises

Croatia Cruise Highlights

Wine & vineyards.

The up-and-coming wine regions of Croatia produce full-bodied reds and dry, citrusy whites. Don’t miss trying the Plavac Mali while in Croatia, which is usually poured if you join a wine tasting at a local winery. Croatian wine is best enjoyed in a sunlit square, accompanied by a platter of air-dried meat and local cheese, a local culinary tradition.

Architecture

Waves of invasions and settlers have shaped Croatia’s impressive architecture, which bears influences from Roman, Venetian and Ottoman eras. In Dubrovnik, stroll the 16th-century ramparts, visit the gothic Rector’s Palace, and climb to the top of the chunky Fort Lovrijenac. Split is famed for the 4th century Diocletian Palace, essentially a walled town. In Zadar, soak up the Venetian buildings and Roman ruins of the enchanting Old Town.

Croatia is one of the most popular beach destinations in Europe. One of its most beautiful areas of coastline is the Dubrovnik Riviera, where you’ll find smooth pebbled beaches and sparkling teal water against the backdrop of lush green hills. The mainly stony beaches mean the sea is crystal-clear, perfect for snorkeling. The coast is also dotted with islands, reachable by ferry as a day trip; from Dubrovnik, the forested Elephati Islands are the perfect place to cool off. 

Croatia Cruise Ports

Zadar, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Split, Croatia

Croatia Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to Croatia embark in either Ravenna, Rome (Civitavecchia), Athens (Piraeus), or Barcelona, and sail for either 7 to 12 nights. You’ll journey across the Adriatic and Mediterranean with stops at majestic old towns and pine-fringed beaches as you explore the island-specked coastline of the Adriatic.

Itineraries

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On a cruise to Croatia with Celebrity, you'll enjoy luxury amenities and exciting activities each day and night at sea. Treat yourself to gourmet dining at any of the exceptional restaurants on board, enjoy a restful night's sleep in your stylish stateroom or suite, and take advantage of Celebrity's award-winning service. For the ultimate in refined luxury and comfort, choose The Retreat, featuring all-suite accommodations, an exclusive lounge, fine dining, and more. 

See the historic Adriatic port of Dubrovnik, where you can explore the city's medieval walls and stroll along the grand Stradun boulevard. Wander the intricate Old Town of Zadar, join a wine-tasting tour, or admire the cascades in Krka National Park. From soaking up the sun on a gorgeous secluded beach to walking through living history, discover all the beauty, history, and culture that Croatia has to offer on any of these Croatian cruises. 

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Croatia & Its Islands

About this tour.

From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the best of Croatia. Enjoy a memorable 7-night cruise on the Adriatic Sea along Croatia’s coast aboard a privately chartered ship. Tour the Old City of Dubrovnik and walk along the picturesque cobblestone streets. Visit the island of Biševo, home to the mystical Blue Cave. On Brac Island, take in the “Golden Cape” of Bol. Discover the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. Stand in awe before the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park. Get to know Zagreb, the illustrious capital of Croatia. See the country’s immaculate beauty as you cruise its vibrant waters and step into its rich history.

Your Tour Includes

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• 7-Night Adriatic Cruise
• Mljet National Park

Your Tour at a Glance

10 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $90.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel croatia & its islands small ship cruising on the adriatic coast.

While just about any month is great to visit Croatia, there are a few prime times of the year for the Croatia and Its Islands tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: March to June is one of the best times to visit Croatia. Enjoy many sunny days, ideal for walks, excursions, and even swimming by late spring. April is especially wonderful – perfect for those looking to explore places like Dubrovnik without the crowds.

Summer: If you opt to visit Croatia from June to September, you can expect plentiful sunshine, warm temperatures, and summer crowds. July and August are the most exciting times to visit as the weather is fantastic and the festival season is in full swing.

Fall: The absolute best time to visit Croatia is in autumn; when the crowds are smaller, the weather is ideal, and the sea is still a bit warm. October is perfect for outdoor activities and getting to know the locals who are more relaxed after the busy summer months. Fall is also the best time to visit Dubrovnik with smaller crowds.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

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.

Cultural Experiences:

Stand before the breathtaking waterfalls in Krka National Park.

Explore the Old City of Dubrovnik with a local expert.

Meet the owner of a family farm and learn about prosciutto production.

Culinary Inclusions:

Experience a captain’s welcome dinner upon arrival in Dubrovnik.

Dine on Continental cuisine at a favorite local restaurant in Zagreb.

Enjoy Dalmatian delicacies prepared according to traditional recipes.

• Biševo Blue Cave
• Choice On Tour
• Cathedral of St. James
• Krka National Park

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Cruise Upgrade

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

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On your cruise along the Croatian coast, you may choose to upgrade your room to a cabin on the main deck. This room included larger windows with the ability to open up, allowing you to take in the fresh air of the Adriatic as you coast through the sparkling waters.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Disembark your ship in Split where it’s your choice Visit the Ethnographic Museum in Split, located in the former residential complex of the Diocletian’s palace. This captivating museum showcases exhibits on traditional costumes, crafts and culture in Split including surrounding areas from the past centuries – OR – explore more of the Diocletian’s palace during a visit to its’ substructures. Set below the imperial apartments, this represents one of the best-preserved ancient complexes of their kind in the world. Enjoy free time in the city for lunch before you journey to Šibenik. Tonight, embrace the culture of Croatia and become captivated by traditional entertainment with dinner. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Extend your trip with a 2-night stay in Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” With a full day to explore the city, perhaps you’ll venture to the medieval stone walls, an iconic winding fortress that serves as the backdrop for endless filming locations. Or consider relaxing on the beach, exploring the harbor, or wandering through the town – the time is yours. Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Overnight Flight
• Your tour begins with an overnight flight to Dubrovnik.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia - Tour Begins
• Say hello to Dubrovnik, a medieval city perched against a seaside mountain. Discover a coastal fairytale where immoveable stone buildings meet bright blue waters. With your Tour Manager, join the locals and take advantage of the public transportation on your way to the Old Town. Hidden amongst dazzling town alleys, enjoy Croatian cuisine at a small family restaurant while soaking in its relaxed atmosphere.
• Dubrovnik - Cavtat
• This morning, discover Dubrovnik's timeless beauty by exploring the city with the help of your Tour Manager. Perhaps you’ll discover Dubrovnik's timeless secrets, like the medieval stone walls, and iconic winding fortress that serves as the backdrop for endless filming locations. Feel the ancient stone beneath your hands and marvel at the sparkling Adriatic Sea in the distance. With the city laid out before you, follow the twisting cobblestone streets that cut through the red rooftops. In the afternoon, join your Tour Manager and head towards Cavtat. Witness breathtaking views, rich architectural history, and vibrant culture. Walk along the enchanting waterfront and venture to the Racic Family Mausoleum. This octagonal white-stone tomb is the handiwork of preeminent Croatian sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic. In the wooded area near the peak of the peninsula is where you’ll find the most spectacular views. Cap off your afternoon with free time for dinner on your own. Wander into one of many charming restaurants on the Cavtat’s iconic waterfront.
• Spend your morning in Dubrovnik before your adventure continues when you board your ship for a 7-night cruise along the Adriatic coast.

Consider an optional excursion to Ston, a nearby fortified city known for its decadent oysters and seafood. Enjoy a scenic bus ride along the Adriatic coast and explore the town of Ston, well-known for it's medieval walls and salt production for centuries. Learn about mussels and oysters growing in Ston channel and enjoy a fish dinner by the sea.

Choose to go on an optional tour of the island to get a glimpse of what this island has to offer. Enjoy a scenic ride from the town of Vis across the island to the fishermen's town Komiža with your Tour Manager. End your trip with a farm-to-table dinner in the heart of the island.

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Croatia Cruises & Tours

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• Dubrovnik Old Town: Walk through UNESCO-listed cobblestone streets, adorned with medieval architecture and red-roofed buildings, taking you back in time.
• City Walls: Ascend the ancient walls to witness panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the stunning cityscape from a unique vantage point.
• Rector's Palace: Immerse yourself in history by exploring the elegant palace that once housed Dubrovnik's Rector, a symbol of the city's past grandeur.
• Sponza Palace: Discover the Gothic-Renaissance architecture and visit the State Archives, home to precious manuscripts and historical documents.
• Franciscan Monastery: Admire the delicate architecture of the monastery and its 14th-century pharmacy, one of the oldest in Europe.
• Lokrum Island: Embark on a short boat ride to this lush island, where botanical gardens, a medieval monastery, and peacocks await.
• Game of Thrones Locations: Visit iconic filming spots that bring the fantasy world to life, including the stunning Fort Lovrijenac and Dubrovnik's Minčeta Tower.
• Local Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at local restaurants and cafes, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties, such as Pasticada, a slow-cooked beef dish, and Rozata, a delectable caramel custard dessert.
• Dubrovnik Cable Car: Ride the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding landscape.
• Elaphiti Islands: Explore this serene archipelago off the coast of Dubrovnik, offering unspoiled nature and picturesque landscapes.
• War Photo Limited: Gain insight into the city's recent history through thought-provoking photography exhibitions focused on conflicts and human rights.
• Dubrovnik Summer Festival: If timing aligns, immerse yourself in cultural performances, including theater, music, and dance, during this renowned annual event.

The Best Times to Visit Croatia

• Croatia Culture Unveiled: Embark on a cultural odyssey as you explore Croatia's heritage, from medieval towns to ancient ruins. Uncover the stories behind its historic sites and experience the warmth of its people.
• Croatia's Charming Ports: Set foot in Croatia's bustling ports, including the iconic Croatia Port, each offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and local flavors. Discover the essence of coastal life that has shaped the nation's identity.
• Cultural Treasures of Croatia: Wander through the vibrant streets of Croatia, where traditional festivals, art galleries, and live performances showcase the country's rich artistic heritage. Engage with local artisans and witness their craftsmanship firsthand.
• Croatian Gastronomy: Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Croatia, where Mediterranean and Balkan influences merge in an exquisite culinary journey. Savor fresh seafood, olive oil, and local wines that reflect the country's diverse regions.
• Istrian Peninsula: Explore hilltop towns like Rovinj, Grožnjan, and Motovun, renowned for their medieval architecture, artistic vibes, and truffle-infused cuisine.
• Zadar Archipelago : Discover the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, public art installations created by Nikola Bašić. Then sail to Dugi Otok and other secluded islands with pristine beaches.
• Dubrovnik Riviera: Cavtat and Ston offer historical sites and exquisite seafood, while the Elaphiti Islands promise untouched beauty and tranquility.
• Kornati Islands: Experience the stunning archipelago with over 140 islands and reefs, known for their distinctive shapes and unique landscapes.
• Kvarner Bay: Uncover the scenic beauty of Opatija, explore the historical charm of Rijeka, or bask in the relaxed ambiance of Rab Island.
• Split and Diocletian's Palace: Discover the vibrant city of Split, centered around the remarkable Diocletian's Palace, a living testament to the Roman era. Split is also known for having some of the best beaches for swimming nearby, including the famed beach town of Bol on the island of Brač
• Hvar and Vis Islands: Experience Hvar's nightlife and historic sites, or discover the more remote Vis and its stunning Blue Cave.
• Korčula Island: Delve into the legend of Marco Polo in Korčula's Old Town, filled with medieval architecture.
• Ship Size:  The size of the cruise ship can significantly impact your experience. Larger vessels offer a range of amenities, entertainment options, and expansive facilities. On the other hand, smaller ships provide a more intimate setting, often allowing access to smaller ports and coves that larger ships can't reach. Consider your personal preference – do you value the excitement of a bustling cruise or the tranquility of a more secluded voyage?
• Delve into the Itinerary:  Carefully examine the cruise itinerary to ensure it aligns with your interests. Different routes showcase different aspects of Croatia's beauty – from charming towns and historic sites to pristine beaches and cultural hubs. Choose an itinerary that captures the essence of what you wish to experience, whether it's Croatia's history, natural wonders, or vibrant local culture.
• Amenities and Comfort:  Cruise ships offer a range of amenities, from luxurious spas and fitness centers to entertainment venues and specialty restaurants. Consider the amenities that matter most to you and your fellow travelers. Are you looking for a wellness-focused journey, a culinary adventure, or a balance of relaxation and exploration?
• Immersive Experiences:  Immersive experiences can elevate your cruise to a truly unforgettable adventure. Some cruises offer unique shore excursions that allow you to engage with local communities, visit historical sites, and participate in cultural activities. Look for cruises that offer opportunities to connect with Croatia beyond its coastlines.
• Duration and Departure Points:  Consider the duration of the cruise and the departure point. Some cruises are shorter and focus on specific regions, while others offer more extensive journeys that encompass multiple destinations. Additionally, consider the convenience of the departure point – is it easily accessible for you, and does it align with your travel plans?
• Best Croatia Cruises: The finest Croatia cruises are meticulously designed to encapsulate the essence of its coastlines and culture. They promise breathtaking views and captivating experiences in historic towns.
• Greece and Croatia Cruise: A dual-country voyage merges the allure of Greece and Croatia. Marvel at Greece's ancient ruins and Croatia's captivating coastal cities. Itineraries ensure in-depth exploration of historical sites, picturesque islands, the azure Adriatic waters, and the enchanting Dalmatian coast.
• Small Boat Cruises Croatia: Embrace the allure of Croatia from the intimate setting of a small boat. These cruises offer a personalized journey, inviting you to uncover hidden coves and lesser-known gems that larger vessels can't reach.
• Combine with Italy: Extend your horizons by opting for an extended cruise itinerary that seamlessly blends Italy's most alluring coastal port towns. Delight in rich Italian cuisine as you explore the Mediterranean's marvels.
• Planning Your Croatia Cruise: Tailor your cruise to Croatia and Greece, selecting from a variety of itineraries that cater to your interests, whether it's cultural immersion, scenic beauty, wine-tasting, or a careful mix of all.
• Cruising Croatia's Islands: Cruise Croatia's archipelagos, hopping from island to island to experience the unique cultures, landscapes, and traditions that make each stop a captivating adventure.
• Choosing the Right Cruise: With numerous options available, discover the factors that will help you choose the best Croatia cruise for you. Consider ship size, route, amenities, and the immersive experiences offered.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park : Wander along wooden pathways to witness the cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes of this UNESCO-listed wonder.
• Istrian Hilltop Towns: Meander through Grožnjan, Motovun, and Buje, absorbing their medieval charm, artsy atmosphere, and gastronomic delights.
• Zagreb , the Capital: Embrace the blend of Austro-Hungarian and modern influences in Croatia's capital city, where galleries, museums, and parks abound.
• Pula's Roman Heritage: Explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus in Pula, a testament to the city's ancient past.
• Plitvice Lakes Wine Road: Delight in the wine culture of the region, with vineyard-dotted landscapes and opportunities to taste local varieties.
• Krka National Park : Admire stunning waterfalls and explore lush landscapes, providing a different perspective on Croatia's natural beauty.
• Zadar's Unique Attractions: Experience the Sea Organ, Greeting to the Sun, and the historic beauty of Zadar's Old Town.
• Makarska Riviera: Relax on beautiful beaches, hike the Biokovo Mountain, and explore the charming town of Makarska.
• Trakošćan Castle: Visit this fairy-tale-like castle surrounded by a picturesque park and lake, offering insight into Croatia's medieval history.
• Medvednica Mountain: Escape to nature by hiking or taking the cable car up this mountain, enjoying panoramic views and fresh air.
• Adriatic Sea
• Mediterranean
• Plavac Mali: Known as the "king of Croatian red wines," Plavac Mali thrives along the Dalmatian coast. It's the offspring of Zinfandel and Dobričić grapes, offering robust flavors, often reminiscent of dark fruits and Mediterranean herbs.
• Malvazija Istriana: Hailing from the Istrian Peninsula, Malvazija Istriana is a white grape variety with a fresh, mineral-driven profile. Its notes of citrus, green apple, and a touch of salinity reflect its coastal origins.
• Graševina: This white grape, widely cultivated in Croatia's continental regions, produces a range of styles – from light and crisp to rich and full-bodied. It's known for its versatility and ability to reflect its terroir.
• Red Wines: Beyond Plavac Mali, Croatia cultivates other red varieties like Teran and Frankovka (Blaufränkisch), which showcase a range of aromas from berries to spices.
• White Wines: Malvazija Istriana shines as a flagship white, while Pošip, Grk, and Debit are other intriguing white varieties offering aromatic complexity and freshness.
• Rosé Wines: Known locally as "Ružica," Croatia's rosés are crafted from red grape varieties and offer a harmonious blend of fruitiness and acidity.
• Sparkling Wines: Look for "Pjenušac" to enjoy Croatia's sparkling wines, produced using both traditional and modern methods.

Croatia Travel Experiences

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• Danube River
• Mljet Island

Croatia Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Croatia trips (88)
• 2025 Croatia trips (39)
• May 2024 (46)
• June 2024 (51)
• July 2024 (48)
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• October 2024 (32)
• May 2025 (26)
• June 2025 (28)
• August 2025 (29)

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• Croatia River Cruises (11)
• Croatia Land Tours (7)
• Croatia Most Popular (4)

Croatia Trips by Duration

• 8 day trips (55)
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• 10 day trips (5)
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• 15 day trips (3)
• 22 day trips (3)

Croatia Trips by Activity

• Croatia small ship cruises (70)
• Croatia village visits (52)
• Croatia archaeological site visits (44)
• Croatia urban exploration (22)
• Croatia wine tasting (19)
• Croatia small ship sailing (16)
• Croatia hiking (8)
• Croatia snorkeling (6)
• Croatia local market visits (5)
• Croatia biking (4)
• Croatia land & sea exploration (4)
• Croatia kayaking (3)

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Croatia Small Ship Cruises

Our curated selection of Croatia small ship cruises and Dalmatian Coast cruises offer you an exclusive experience of the country’s iconic shoreline. Find the best in expedition cruising and luxury yachting with lesser-known, smaller yachts that all explore in an active, immersive and sustainable way.

Dive into the turquoise Adriatic Sea and roam the picturesque towns of Split, Korčula, Mljet, Dubrovnik, Hvar and Bol. Onboard expedition leaders and expert local guides reveal thousands of years of history as you immerse yourself in the culture and landscapes of Croatia.

Below, we detail the experience as well as popular ports and places, or head straight to the trips to look at departure dates, rates and specific itinerary information. Our experts are standing by to help you narrow it down and find the best Croatia cruise or Mediterranean small ship cruise .

ON THIS PAGE – Croatia & Dalmatian Coast Cruises : The Experience Luxury & Charter Options Ports & Places View All Croatia Small Ship Cruises

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The Small Ship Croatia Cruise Experience

Traveling by small ship in Croatia really gives you the feeling that you are cruising back in time, and it’s a much more efficient, less crowded way to travel here. A few highlights of the small ship experience here:

• island-hopping style itineraries
• small groups of passengers ranging from approximately 30 to 250 guests
• organized programs with included group tours and meals
• free time at port to explore and dine on your own on many routes
• dock & anchor where larger ships cannot
• swim stops away from crowded beaches and rocky shorelines
• ease of unpacking once, with your transportation handled

Unlike many of our other expedition cruising programs worldwide, Croatia small ship cruises spend most of their nights at port. This allows you the freedom to explore and enjoy the local cuisine, wine and culture of each distinctive stop. Some small ship Croatia cruises include all daily meals, but others on smaller yachts can be half-board. This allows you to eat out lunch or dinner on various days where you choose. The flexibility of getting on and off the vessel at your leisure while in port on these options is a great benefit to exploring on your own schedule in these charming and vibrant towns.

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See the full list Dalmatian Coast cruises

Luxury Croatia Cruises & Charters

The small ship experience provides the ultimate platform for luxury Croatia cruises. Smaller passenger counts offer exclusive experiences, more time with expedition leaders and guides and even special programming from the likes of National Geographic and Smithsonian Journeys.

For luxury Croatia cruises, see our options aboard the 58-guest historic tall ship Sea Cloud , or French-flagged 244-guest Le Lyrial or 184-guest Le Jacques Cartier . These ships are the top choices for travelers seeking a high-end experience due to their fine dining, added amenities (like butler service and spas) and luxe cabins.

But for the luxury of designing your own private experience, see our Mediterranean yacht charters to view options by ship. Many of our Croatia small ship cruises can be customized with advance booking.

Ports & Stops on Small Ship Croatia Cruises

Croatia boasts 3,600 miles of coastline on the Adriatic Sea. Here’s a look at some of the popular places names you might find on your Croatia island hopping cruise itinerary.

The Dalmatian Coast

The southernmost stretch of coastline of Croatia is called the Dalmatian Coast. It is the most famous region for Croatia cruising and tourism, and encompasses a narrow belt stretching from the island of Rab in the north to the Bay of Kotor in the south. On Dalmatian Coast cruises, you’ll see dramatic limestone cliffs rise from the deep, and islands like Havar and Korčula are scattered just offshore. Croatia’s top tourist town, Dubrovnik, and Split also reside on this coastline, as do several national parks including Krka, Mljet, Paklenica and Kornati. Many of the Croatia small ship cruise ports and places listed below are contained within this greater region.

Dubrovnik is a remarkable town, and a common embarkation/disembarkation port for Croatia small ship cruises, including this popular Dubrovnik to Split cruise . Our experts who’ve been here count it among their favorite stops, and have spent the day trying to take in as many of the sights as they could fit in while enjoying limitless espresso and gelato.

The streets are lined with tons of great dining options, with great seafood and buzz as the nightlife of the Old City comes alive after sunset. You can work off your indulgences by walking the town’s steep streets. Be sure to ride (or walk to the top of) the cable car to be rewarded with the most expansive views of the Old City and the scattered islands across the coastline. There is even a bar and restaurant up top if you decide to enjoy a meal up above the city. Also don’t miss walking the city’s fortification walls for the gorgeous views of Dubrovnik’s medieval architecture.

An AdventureSmith expert tip if you have time: jump on the quick ferry boat ride over to the island of Lokrum to walk around the forested island and swim in the Adriatic Sea. Other day trips from this popular embarkation port are going to Kotor, Montenegro, or the Pelješac Peninsula for wine tasting.

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia yet has a very charming and romantic old town by the seaside. Here you can step inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian’s Palace to immediately be impressed by the Roman architecture. Get “happily lost” in the city maze of ruins, narrow cobblestone streets, restaurants, bars and musicians. If you overnight here, we recommend staying in one of the quaint hotels within the palace walls. This allows plenty of time to explore the many highlights of the palace and the seaside area along the promenade outside of the Old Town walls. This historic area of Split gives you the full experience.

Many Croatia small ship cruises begin or end here, like this popular Split to Dubrovnik cruise , and some may even sail round-trip out of Split.

The town of Korcula is another charming port town often visited on Croatian island cruises. Korcula is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Marco Polo. Korcula’s Old Town design is impressive: the medieval walled city’s fish bone shape was designed to reduce effects of wind and sun. All streets on the western side run straight while Eastern streets were designed with a small curve to protect the town from the unpleasant and cold north/eastern winds. This is a lovely, quaint town with abundant choices of seaside promenade restaurants and evening entertainment at local clubs and bars.

Legend says that the Greek hero Odysseus spent years on Mljet when he was captured by the nymph Calypso. See the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park here or take a boat ride to the St Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and a church dating back to the 12th century. This is a fun place rent kayaks, bicycles, scooters or convertible cars.

A few highlights in Hvar include hiking up to the fortress overlooking old town Hvar and the Pakleni Islands at sunset and enjoying their famous lavender ice cream! This town is known as the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic Sea. Hvar is full of historical landmarks including the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower and the oldest community theater in Europe (founded in 1612). In the evening Hvar offers an abundance of entertainment, restaurants, bars and cafes that are open long into the night.

Pelješac Peninsula

The 40-mile long, mountainous Pelješac Peninsula is a region known for its excellent wine. Stops here explore rural villages with wineries, farms, churches and monasteries. Lively ports like Trpanj offer swimming, a lively ocean promenade and family-friendly vacation vibes.

Zlatni Rat Beach (the Golden Cape) & Bol

The famous Zlatni Rat Beach (the Golden Cape or Golden Horn) is located about a mile west from the town of Bol on the island of Brač. This popular swim stop has been regularly listed as one of the top beaches in Europe and is found on many a Dalmatian Coast cruise itinerary. Its distinctive shape shifts depending on the changing tides, currents and winds. The waters surrounding this gorgeous stretch of sand are often cool and clear due to the current in the Hvar Channel. Bol is a typical fishing town but also a very popular tourist destination and has a great promenade.

Zadar, the oldest university town in Croatia, is famous for its rich historical heritage of world importance. See the Roman Forum from the 1st century and from the 9th century St Donat church, the most famous medieval basilica and the symbol of the city. The mighty city walls encase the old town and there is a representative city gate from the 16th century. Among many museums, the museum of ancient glass stands out, as do more than 30 churches, palaces and villas. On the waterfront, the award-winning Sea Organ and “Greeting to the Sun” light installations show the funky side of this Dalmatian Coast cruise highlight.

Cruise towards Rab, known as the “island of love,” with an old town of the same name. This is the northernmost point of the Dalmatian Coast, and in fact, many Dalmatian Coast cruises don’t even sail this far north, instead embarking on disembarking in Split. So this is a special bonus if it’s on your Croatia small ship cruise itinerary. Here find medieval walls, the famous four towers (and maybe climb one) together with palaces, churches and squares. There’s a slight Montmartre feel with many artists painting and exhibiting out on the streets. Legend has it that local nuns created a special secret-recipe Rab cake for a visiting Pope so be sure to taste it if you stop here.

The farthest north of these Croatia island hopping cruise stops is Opatija. The famous Opatija Riviera is often compared to the French Riviera. Royal families, celebrities and musicians have all stayed here, and there’s a real café-society ambiance. Walk the famous Franz Joseph promenade; visit the fishermen’s village of Volosko, home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia; or stop into Kraš Choco bar to try exclusive chocolate cocktails, cakes or ice cream.

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Discover the beauty of the Adriatic on this exceptional 8-day luxury Croatia cruise, operating via Venice, Italy, aboard a selection of luxury French ships.

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Croatia Cruise Reviews from Our Travelers

Overall a really fun trip & beautiful country. Was a good balance of relaxing/swimming and trips/hikes. We had one of the best groups of people aboard. Everyone meshed really well. And our guides were one of our favorite things about the cruise.

A top location - great ship - wonderful communication... Enjoy a trip of a lifetime! We had so much fun - dancing, dining, swimming, discovering, cocktail hours!

My wife and I have always been cruise-wary, preferring to travel on our own. This was a delightful cruise on a vessel of a perfect size. I would do such a cruise again and will certainly recommend this trip to any seeking my opinion.

The food, cleanliness of the ship, and friendliness of the staff on the Futura made for a wonderful and relaxing week.

It was one of the best vacations I have ever had and I travel fairly frequently.

The ship was just perfect, great size for an experience on a small ship. The swim spots were one of the highlights. AdventureSmith was so knowledgeable and knew about the specific trip I was looking at.

This was such a great trip. It was so well planned, right down to the  airport transfers at 2:45 AM. I would surely recommend AdventureSmith and this particular trip to others. I would like to go on more small boat trips like this one.

Croatia was a beautiful country. Overall a really fun trip. Was a good balance of relaxing/swimming and trips/hikes. Very hot this time of year which might not suit everyone. The Croatian people were very nice and you felt safe wherever we went.

Accommodations Review

Rooms were nice. Shower was decently big and water was hot.

Meals Review

Food was overall very good. Lunch portions could be smaller.  Don’t necessarily need 3 courses (including dessert) for lunch.

Itinerary Review

Safari boat ride in Opuzen to restaurant was a pleasant and fun surprise. Mostar bridge was awesome to see. Trpanj and Matusko wine tasting was fun. Didn’t really have any places I didn’t like. Some people complained about the end of the trip having basically 2 days in Split but wasn’t a huge deal to me.

Transportation Review

Transport to and from the airport was on time and safe.

Crew & Guides Review

Ziggi our main guide was excellent. Very personable and informative. He had a great sense of humor and kept the trip fun. Andro the second guide was also very good. He had a lot of knowledge on the areas we visited and was very active with us in all the excursions. He made a point to make sure no one felt left out. Together they were a very strong guide team and one of our favorite things about the cruise. The local guide in Korcula was especially funny and informative too.

Fellow Passengers Review

This was one of the best groups of people. Everyone meshed really well. At least half of the passengers were repeat Intrepid travelers. I think that speaks well for their business model. 

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Kevin Marshall did a great job keeping us informed and answering any and all questions promptly.

Traveler Advice

Pack plenty of active clothes and prepare for hot humid conditions if they go in August.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Croatian Coastal Cruising
• Kevin Marshall

A top location - great ship - wonderful communication with our rep, Taylor. We enjoyed all the spots the boat docked - and the swim spots were wonderful. 

I've already recommended the company, sent links to friends and will be sharing this with a local travel agent we've used in the past. 

The vessel was new and apparent they still had work to do - but with the owner on board he was apologizing for any unfinished work. There was nothing that hindered our trip.

Food was delicious and menus were varied. A suggestion would be to post a menu so you knew what you were eating!

The captain of M/S Riva did a wonderful job making everyone feel comfortable and he was always working to please the clients. A beach stop was no problem for our captain to bring us all wine/beer on the beach! It's those little things that stay with you.

Rokko was always available and ready to assist if you needed anything. One suggestion is that he speak a bit slower!

Appreciated the airport transfers waiting for us and bringing us to and from the airport to our hotels! Very good drivers.

Taylor was available if I had any questions. We had hotel stays before and after our cruise and Taylor made the suggestion to have our included transfers from and to the airport bring us to our hotels rather than from hotel to ship as they were not far and we could walk. Reading material was sufficient.

Enjoy a trip of a lifetime! We enjoyed the crew and had so much fun with all our other passengers - dancing, dining, swimming, discovering, cocktail hours! A great, relaxing vacation! Do it now - don't put it off!

Itinerary did change due to weather and that was clear in the written documents. It was stated that snorkel gear would be available but they did not have any flippers onboard. 

We would recommend this trip to anyone looking to experience the country of Croatia and find new friends!

We were delighted with our AdventureSmith vacation. Our experience with the Katarina Cruise Line was extremely positive. The crew were ALL welcoming, friendly, attentive and always eager to provide any needs which happened to arise. My only criticism might be that there was too much food, dessert at lunch is not at all our standard fare. I obviously did not have to partake of the offerings available; however, will power is not at all my strongest suit. The food was consistently excellent and the ready availability of coffee kept me from caffeine withdrawal.

[Re: fellow passengers] Ours was a very broad mixture of nationalities considering that there were fewer than thirty of us aboard. We had S. Africans, Bolivians, French, Canadians, Austro-Hungarians, Americans and Irish aboard. We all mixed and got along well. My wife and I have always been cruise-wary, preferring to travel on our own. This was a delightful cruise on a vessel of a perfect size. I would do such a cruise again and will certainly recommend this trip to any seeking my opinion. We had never before visited the Balkans and were interested to see the area and learn more about it and its people. We owe a huge thanks to our friend who found the trip and permitted us to append ourselves to his sedulous travel plans.

The Futura was hands down the most spotless vessel upon which I have ever had the pleasure of journeying. Fantastic crew and very comfortable accommodations. Perfect size vessel and to our delight only less than thirty passengers aboard which permitted the crew to spoil us rotten.

The food was consistently excellent. I ate too much: my fault entirely, certainly not a complaint.

Our principal leader, Minja, was very good.

Dubrovnik was wonderful as were Hvar and Bol. We stopped our last night for the captain’s dinner at the small community of Mila which was extremely charming. We would have been happy to have had a bit more time there. The visit to the family winery at Prizdrina was very worthwhile. The visit to the lakes and monastery at Mljet were my least favorite if you insist upon my selection of a least wonderful day.

Everything about this trip was exceptional, and we will definitely recommend AdventureSmith to friends.

Bring aqua socks or Tevas.

The food, cleanliness of the ship, and friendliness of the staff on the Futura made for a wonderful and relaxing week. I loved lounging on the top deck, reading and watching the beautiful scenery. Also getting to swim off the boat. The visit to the restaurant (I can't remember the name) at one of the stops that involved a long bus ride with hairpin turns, a look at some donkeys, a tour of an old monastery, and eating under a bunch of cured meat was not to my liking at all.

The low price of this trip was very appealing! I had never been on a small boat like this and found I loved it, and would travel this way again.

I loved our cabin and was very glad we upgraded. There was a musty or dank smell in the bathroom occassionally. Also the noise level in the dining room made conversation with anyone very difficult and frustrating.

I thought the food was great - fresh and varied- and was very appreciative of the staff's kind accomodation to my vegetarian preference.

Anna was the least satisfactory part of my time on the Futura. Although she did seem to respond to individual requests, I didn't need anything specific. But she did not "lead" our trip in the sense of giving us a sense of time and place - she left that to the local guides, some of whom were good, others not. Schedules were not posted until the morning. She seemed a bit ditzy and almost ephemeral - sweet and young that is not what I look for in a trip leader.

The only suggestion I have is that I didn't know that British pounds are rarely used in Croatia - better to bring kuna only.

It was one of the best vacations I have ever had and I travel fairly frequently.  I went as a group experience and Adventure Smith organized the whole thing. We had 15 of us in total and it was just a blast! The boat and the crew exceeded our expectations.  The rooms were beautiful and large and very comfortable. The places were went were well thought out and we docked in amazing ports and anchored in beautiful areas to swim.  We just had a blast. Only complaint would be the complimentary wine with dinner, it was really horrible. I would recommend they provide that one complimentary glass as a good wine and then we would all have bought additional bottles. Also, it would have been great to have a printed form that showed the full itinerary for each day. It is nice to know what to prepare for in regards to dress and timing etc., but we had to guess somewhat and it was hard to understand the trip organizer at times. 

The boat was gorgous and new and comfortable and the perfect size. Couldn't have asked for more! Loved it! It felt like we were living large. We definitely had one of the nicer boats out there and the boat and crew just made the trip even more enjoyable.

Most of the meals were adequate. The chef seemed like he was limited in what he was allowed to do. I think if he was given more free reign he could have done better. Every breakfast was basically the same, but very good and at lunch our favorite was the salads and one day we actually had a variety of salads for lunch and we loved it. And, the dinners got better as the week went on, so that was nice.

The leader got more friendly and interesting as the week went on. He really left us alone to just enjoy the trip and the boat, but I think if he would have socialized more wiht us upfront we would have gottent to know him better sooner than later and that would have been helpful. and, the flashing light of the intinerary was annoying. But, when he did help us it was terrific and he knew tons. Nice man and truly very helpful and he was fun, once he relaxed a bit with all of us.

Guides were terrific! Not one of them was not absolutely fantastic! Some of the best local guides i have ever experienced on any trip! Would highly recommend they use all the same guides they did for our trip as well as the place for wine tasting and mussel tasting.

I have already recommended Adventure Smith and we posted tons of pictures on FB.

Just relax and enjoy and wear and bring comfortable shoes (lots of cobblestone streets). 

The ship was just perfect, great size for an experience on a small ship. The swim spots were one of the highlights. The captain found the perfect spot one day when it was a rough day at sea and cool but we wanted to swim. He found the most perfect spot away from the wind and just the most perfect anchorage. Loved all the islands, especially Korcula.

The trip leader, Matia, was just perfect. A great personality and able to make sure everyone's needs were met.  Not a small task for 35 people for 1 week.

Tiffany assisted in the trip planning from start to finish and was so helpful in making sure we were on the right kind of cruise. I did online searching but what made my decision to use Adventure Smith travel after speaking to her on the phone.  She was so knowledgeable and knew about the specific trip I was looking at.

This was such a great trip. It was so well planned, right down to the  airport transfers at 2:45 AM. I would surely recommend AdventureSmith and this particular trip to others. I would like to go on more small boat trips like this one. Along with the group that made arrangements through Adventure Smith, all of the travelers were congenial and easy to get along with. We had no conflict. I would like to travel with this group again. And I will surely encourage others to do so.

The beds on the ship were very hard. So sleep was an experience that was lacking. If possible, I would like  the same sort of ship but  with some sort of foam topper on the bed. The cabin was lovely, big and clean. The beds were just too hard. Everyone on the ship complained about it. I liked the balcony. The snorkeling equipment was in poor shape. That would have been an easy problem to fix.

I liked the breakfasts. There was only one option for each dinner. It was served nicely. It was not always my favorite food. But there was always the salad bar. An option of vegetarian or chicken breast might have been good.

Ivan was wonderful. He tried to meet all of our expectations. His English was so good and easy to understand. Even when weather kept us from visiting Kis, he did his best to give us a good alternative experience.

I enjoyed the  port visits, expecially to Korcula. I liked having tour guides in every town. Some were better than others. The guide in Split gave us a 45 minute tour instead of the expected 75 minutes. The round tables made meals a time to get to know other passengers. As for the add-on, we had a full day in Split and no time in Zagreb. I would have preferred  a more structured alternative in Split or more time in Zagreb with an additional tour there.

The transfers were smooth and the buses were easy to find. We felt very secure in arrangements..

Andrew kept us up to date with every aspect of the trip. He was so attentive.

Get a room with a balcony, central ship. Take fewer clothes than you think you will need. Always. Be prepared to swim in lovely blue water. Watch Mama Mia movie before you go....It is just like that.

• Andrew Browning

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Learn More About Croatia Small Ship Cruises

Read Croatia cruise reviews from our experts who’ve taken Croatia small ship cruises, or dive into details on our expertise around chartering a yacht on the Dalmatian Coast. Our team has traveled on numerous small ship cruises here and sends thousands of passengers each year. Let our insight be your guide to booking the best Croatia cruise or Dalmatian Coast cruise.

An AdventureSmith expert details her Dubrovnik to Split cruise aboard a 36-guest yacht. Learn all about the journey and tips for booking your cabin that can also apply to our other Croatia small ship cruises.

Learn from an AdventureSmith luxury cruise expert what it’s like to travel aboard L’Austral and her identical fleet of sister ships Le Boreal, Le Lyrial and Le Soleal.

Find a Mediterranean yacht charter. Our options span from the ever-popular Greece and Croatia to Italy, Montenegro and Albania.

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Small Ship Cruises in Croatia

Croatia's coastline is scattered with idyllic islands to explore from a luxury cruise. Historical sites and towns along with Mediterranean weather, make for a perfect trip.

For travelers in the know, the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia has become a popular alternative to the pricier and more crowded Mediterranean Coast, and a Croatian cruise aboard a small luxury yacht is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful and exciting region. To sail Croatia is to cruise from one UNESCO World Heritage site to another, stopping along the way to swim at secluded beaches, explore uninhabited islands and wander streets lined with charming cafés and Venetian architecture.

Deluxe cruises of the Croatian coastline will make clear why the region has become the newest European tourism hot spot. Croatia sailing cruises include city tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites, visits to tiny island fishing villages, and plenty of time spent relaxing on the beach and swimming in crystalline waters. Most Adriatic cruises will feature some or all of the highlights listed below.

On January 1, 2023, Croatia became part of the Schengen visa-free travel area. This means that border and customs checks were abolished at the borders between Croatia and other Schengen member states for people crossing the borders by road, rail, or water. From March 26, 2023, there will be no airport border checks when flying into Croatia from other Schengen member states - this includes most European Union countries. Also, Croatia has officially adopted the Euro as its currency, replacing the Croatian Kuna.

Best Croatia cruises and areas to visit

Split , a common departure point for island-hopping cruises of the Dalmatian Coast, hides a wealth of artistic and historical treasures within its walls. A UNESCO World Heritage site and working port city, Split blends the ancient and the modern, making it one of the most fascinating and atmospheric cities in Europe. Dripping with Roman relics, Split’s claim to fame is Diocletian’s Palace. Though dating back to the year 305, this is no musty museum. The Palace is a living part of the city, with laundry hanging from balconies and music drifting out from bustling restaurants.

The Makarska Coast , also known as the “Makarska Riviera” is Croatia’s most popular mainland resort. Featuring excellent beaches and a spectacular mountain backdrop, Makarska also offers some of the region’s best wines. Wandering the town of Makarska offers the opportunity to visit numerous churches and cathedrals, as well as two ancient monasteries. Visitors seeking adventure activities can head for nearby Cetina for white water rafting and ziplining.

Korčula Island , covered in thick forest and stippled with mountains, is the location of Korčula Town, known as both the birthplace of Marco Polo and as one of the prettiest towns in the region. The walled town has terracotta roofs that seem to burn in the sun, contrasted with the blue of the surrounding Adriatic. Sun worshipers will find a series of small beaches east of town, while culture buffs can remain within the town walls to visit its many churches, art shops and the Marco Polo House.

Mljet Island is a nature lover's paradise. Covered in dense woods and punctuated with limestone mountains, a third of Mljet’s surface consists of the Mljet National Park. Visitors can hike or cycle through the park or take a boat ride on one of its two salt-water lakes. The island is also rich with wildlife, including wild boar, hare, and deer, while underwater is grouper and the protected monk seal. Mljet’s coast is dotted with beautiful beaches, including Saplunara, at its southeastern tip, considered one of the best beaches in the region.

Hvar Island is a favourite holiday getaway for Croatians, and it’s not difficult to see why. In addition to sparkling coves and sweet-smelling lavender fields, Hvar Island features Hvar Town, the perfect spot to wander the Old Town, admire Venetian architecture, and hike to the hilltop Fortica to enjoy the views. After a gourmet meal at one of the town’s restaurants, set out to explore the pristine beaches of the nearby Pakleni Islands, before heading back at sundown to enjoy dancing and cocktails at an after hours beach bar.

Stari Grad , on Hvar Island, lies at the end of a long bay and serves as a quieter, more leisurely alternative to Hvar Town. Founded by the Greeks in 384 BC, Stari Grad is the oldest town in the region and, in fact, its name means “Old Town”. Outside this stately and charming town lay fields still divided the ancient Greek method of parcelling.

Vis was off limits to tourism until 1989, due to its status as a military installation. Now, visitors can enjoy this largely untouched island, with its superb beaches and an impressive inland mountain chain. The town of Vis features Venetian-Gothic architecture and the white-walled Our Lady of Spilica. The island is also home to the remains of Issa, an ancient Greek settlement and the oldest urban centre in Croatia.

Bol is a small town on the island of Brač and, though a simple fishing village, it has become a popular tourist stop due to its proximity to Zlatni Rat, one of the most iconic beaches in the Adriatic. Like a blade plunging into the sea, this golden sand beach changes shape with the tide. In addition to swimming, the waters and conditions here are perfect for windsurfing.

Dubrovnik typically serves as the starting or end point of Dalmatian Coast cruises, but it is worth spending an extra day or two to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dubrovnik is known both for its massive Old City Walls and as a stand in for King’s Landing, the fictional city on the Game of Thrones television series. City tours will take visitors along the walls or to Game of Thrones-related sites. Visitors seeking a spot to enjoy a coffee or glass of local wine can head to the pedestrianized Stradun or ride the city cable car for majestic views of the city and surrounding sea.

Best time to sail Croatia

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast has a well-defined peak season and off season. Croatia in June to August is the peak season when the sun is bright but crowds are bigger and prices are generally higher. Croatia in October to April is the off season, when many shops, restaurants and hotels are closed and options for island hopping are limited.

The best time to visit Croatia’s coast and islands is May and September, the shoulder months when prices are sometimes lower, crowds are thinner and facilities are still open.

How to get to Croatia

Croatia’s coast is serviced by three international airports, in Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik. All three airports can be reached by direct flight from any one of over a dozen European countries. Flights arriving from outside Europe will need to connect in Zagreb or another European airport before continuing on to the coast.

Where do Croatia cruises depart from?

Sailing cruises of the Dalmatian coast typically depart from Split or Dubrovnik. If your cruise leaves from Split, you will fly into the Split International Airport, while Dubrovnik is serviced by its own international airport.

Croatia Cruise Tips

• Plan ahead as Croatia has a definite peak season and off season, which may affect the availability of deluxe cruises of the Adriatic. Luxury cruises during the peak season should be booked far in advance. During the off season certain cruise options may not be available.
• Choose the right trip for you. If you’re looking for adventure activities, make sure Mljet Island and a trip to Cetina, near Makarska, are included on your itinerary. Art lovers will want to spend a little extra time in Split, while those hoping to party until the sun comes need to ensure a stop on Hvar Island.
• It is recommended to arrive a day or two before your small ship cruise of Croatia to avoid unforeseen delays.
• The Dalmatian Coast in the summer can be hot and bright, so sunscreen, sunglasses and a good hat are musts.
• The local currency in Croatia is the Kuna. ATMs are easy to find and larger hotels, restaurants and shops will accept credit cards, while small shops and accommodations will accept only cash.
• Citizens of the European Union can enter Croatia using their ID cards, while all other visitors will need a passport valid for three months past the date of departure. Visas are generally not required for most visitors staying for ninety days or less, though travellers from China, India, South Africa, Russia and Turkey will need a visa.

Take a look at the itineraries on offer in Croatia on board a small ship cruise and contact our reservations team to discuss your next trip.

Croatia Reviews

• 68 Verified Reviews

I don't think Croatia is a place to do more than a little bit of snorkeling. But the waters are fantastic for swimming and just enjoying the islands

Cruising Croatia in June on the Diamond

• 8.4 Very good

A truly wonderful experience. The beauty, history and culture are apparent everywhere.

Cruising Croatia in July on the My Way

• 10.0 Exceptional

The cruise was the best way to see these islands without moving luggage from place to place. With the boat staying at the port, you were always close to everything with easy access to and from the boat.

Cruising Croatia in August on the Diamond

• 8.0 Very good
• Elizabeth C

Fantastic. We have not cruised before and the whole family really enjoyed it. The islands are beautiful and the history of the country is very rich and varied.

It was my best experience cruising so far. Last two years I cruised in the large ships (4,000+ passengers) and found this to be 100 times better.

• 9.6 Exceptional

Absolutely loved our daily swim stops.

Cruising Croatia in August on the My Way

• Henriette H

We did not dive, but did a lot of snorkeling. It was OK, but regretfully we did not see many fish or other animals.

Cruising Croatia in July on the Katarina Line Premium Class

Cruising Croatia in August on the Antaris

• 8.8 Fabulous

Perfect! The best way to see Croatia!

Cruising Croatia in August on the Katarina Line Premium Class

Fantastiskt

Cruising Croatia in August on the Desire

Just swimming. Clear water but nothing to see underneath.

I did not get the opportunity to Dive but I loved the snorkelling. The sea was so blue and so clear

Cruising Croatia in October on the Katarina Line Premium Class

The total experience of cruising in a small ship in Croatia was superb!

Cruising Croatia in May on the Princess Aloha

Beautiful and unforgettable

Cruising Croatia in May on the My Way

Beautiful coast, spectacular scenery, warm people and great wine and food. We loved it!

Cruising Croatia in May on the Antaris

Our swim stops were all beautiful. Not much to look at while snorkeling. Nice to have the towels, SUP and goggles etc provided.

Cruising Croatia in June on the Antaris

A sightseeing tour. Lots of swimming, no diving.

Cruising Croatia in June on the My Way

It was absolutely amazing! It was an unforgettable experience and made me want to come back. The water is unbelievably blue and there were gorgeous sunsets each night. All the people were incredibly friendly.

Cruising Croatia in July on the Princess Aloha

• 6.8 Review score

Water was cool and good visibility, but virtually no fish.

Loved the people, the beauty of it, the history. It was a great way to see the islands as well as the port towns. We’ve grown quite fond of Croatia

Had a wonderful time and would recommend to family and friends.

A fantastic country with friendly people. The boat was comfortable and the crew excellent!

Its a great way to discover croatia, and see the islands, I think the Itineray needs to be altered a little bit as to the nights in port there should be more restaurants & night life available

It was a great trip and a brilliant way to experience many of the main islands between Dubrovnik and Split and has given us ideas for going back to our favourite spots and spending maybe more time on Vis and also we would suggest that Bol on Brac is worth a visit and is close to a stunning beach

Cruising Croatia in September on the My Way

a little bit of paradise each way you looked

Cruising Croatia in September on the Katarina Line Premium Class

Absolutley stunning!

Cruising Croatia in September on the Stella Maris

Can not say enough about the cruise and beauty of Croatia. Would highly recommend. We’re hoping to do more islands and cruise on our next visit. Wonderful way to see the beautiful islands of Croatia 🇭🇷

Beautiful stops for swimming

We only swam once because of the weather.

We really enjoyed the cruise. It would have been great to have included a land tour including Trogir and KrKa National Park.

Cruising Croatia in October on the Antaris

The road condition is very good. Before the cruise, we rented a car for ten days and covered a good portion of Croatia between Zagreb and Dubrovnik. All went very well.

Cruising Croatia in October on the My Way

Cruising in Croatia is amazing. The islands and the water is so amazing. I would love to come back and check out the northern islands!

Cruising Croatia in May on the Adriatic King

Did not dive but the swimming and water are great

Cruising Croatia in June on the Desire

Only snorkelled while the sea was beautiful and clear a very little marine life around the island swim stops so only bothered to get the snorkel out once - wouldn’t bother taking the kit again save the weight in the suitcase! preferred paddle boarding

Cruising Croatia in June on the Equator

Great swim stops. A lot of fun, clear water, plenty of time

There is not much fish to see which is a pity

We went by our own didn’t do much excursions only Dubrovnik

Cruising Croatia in July on the Suzana

Beautiful coastline. Loved the short swim stops.

Cruising Croatia in July on the Desire

We did not do any diving.

Cruising Croatia in July on the Splendid

We did not dove as it was not an option but the snorkelling was disappointing because there are no fish to see although the water is stunning crystal clear

Cruising Croatia in July on the Antaris

Croatia is neautiful, this is my third cruise, definitely prefer Split to Dubrovnik itinerary. We also had sevea.changes to our itinerary, we did not go to Vis or Blu cave, apparentlt due to wind predication. Cruise was sold as 7 day cruise, in fact it is 5 days..we selpt in Split in Day 1, them slept in Split on day 6 and had to disembark morning of Day 7. Definitely not 7 day cruise, nor worth 200 dollars per day.

Cruising Croatia in July on the Prestige

Beautiful clear seas and lakes

I only snorkeled..but the temp and clarity is wonderful

Croatia is such a beautiful country with stunning views, good food, and crystal clear waters.

Had a fantastic week. Waters calm, crew good, stops wonderful.

Cruising Croatia in August on the Arca

Snorkeling - didn't do any serious diving. Warm, clear water, comfy. Lots of underwater life in some places.

Cruising Croatia in August on the Stella Maris

We did not do any diving however the swimming was fabulous.

No diving but many swim-stops to snorkel in crystal clear waters.

Wonderful coastline & cities. Great people - very welcoming, beautiful sea to swim in, very clean & clear

The water a little chilly for swimming for me but out of your control👍

Incredible. Better than we could have imagine! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Cruising Croatia in September on the Mama Marija II

It was even better than we had thought we met some lovely people and the accommodation, staff , food , cleanliness was outstanding..The beaches where amazing and we loved the tours along the way

I love Croatia! Ston was beautiful and I wish we had more time to visit the villages and see the wall. It just means I have to go back! The place for the oyster tasting was great and very interesting; who knew it takes at least two years for them to grow and is so labour intensive. Am planning my trip for next year!

Cruising Croatia in September on the Equator

Every excursion was excellent, informative and fun. Good shopping too.

Spectacular amazing. We will definately be back

Absolutely amazing! I loved it!

Cruising Croatia in October on the Stella Maris

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Our ships were the result of the cooperation of high-quality team of experts and Croatian shipbuilders based on the captain’s ideas and his experience over many years of sailing. We are very proud that our business, based on 18 years of tradition, is family-run and we are proud of our crew who will do their very best to accommodate your wishes and make your Croatian cruise highly enjoyable.

WHAT WE OFFER

Our ships are the result of the cooperation between Croatian shipbuilders and the captain’s ideas combined with his sailing experience.

In our offer there are three Cruise region packages which will enable you to get the taste of region’s natural and cultural heritage, lifestyle and traditional cuisine.

During your cruising experience, our dedicated and highly experienced staff will take care of your every need with exquisite service and attention to every detail.

Top quality wine and home-made numerous traditional Dalmatian food served in Mediterranean surroundings will surely please even the most demanding gourmets.

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Modern non-smoking double or twin cabins are fully equipped! The absolute comfort for a maximum of 36 passengers is organized in 18 cabins located in three levels.

Newest navigation, safety systems, fully equipped cabins with AC, restaurant and bar, VIP saloon, sun deck, Jacuzzi, swimming platform etc, guarantee a perfect cruise.

KATARINA CRUISE AT ITS BEST

The sophisticated MV Katarina has become one of the most desirable small vessels for cruising along Croatia’s spectacular coastline when launched in 2019. This newly built yachtlike cruiser offers outstanding maneuverability, large enough to provide ample space for up to 36 guests, yet small enough to reach smaller islets, ports and harbours that bigger vessels cannot. Passengers enjoy an uncrowded environment, attentive service and luxurious perks at a budget-friendly price. MV Katarina guarantees an unforgettable experience in Croatia.

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Croatia Island Hopping: 1-Week Sail Croatia Adriatic Sea Cruise

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In a picture-perfect scene, hundreds of idyllic islands dot the Adriatic Sea off the long, mountainous coastline of Croatia. Rugged and breathtaking, the aqueous landscape is punctuated by the magnificent cerulean sea, rocky island shores, vine-covered hills and awe-inspiring ancient Croatian towns. Witnessing the undeniable beauty of the Dalmatian Islands is an essential experience on any tour of Croatia – and a Croatia Island Hopping Cruise is the ultimate route to discovery.  

Adriatic Sea Cruise: Croatia Island Hopping Vacation

On our initial trip to Croatia –  when we first fell in love with the country in 2011 – we planned our own Croatia Island Tour. We used the local Croatia ferries that usher passengers between the mainland and islands – checking in and out of hotels (and unpacking and packing) at each destination.

While the ferry boats provided an efficient way to get from Point A to Point B, the no-frills service was simply a mode of public transportation. Traveling via ferries required us to sort all of the details – from accommodations to buying tickets to understanding timetables and directions once we arrived.

During our many return trips to the coastline, Croatian Island Cruises piqued our interest. Yet, we remained hesitant to book an Adriatic Sea Cruise. Our preliminary research revealed two main options for Dalmatian Coast Cruises: Luxury Cruise or Party Boat. Despite our love of travel, the sea, islands and Croatia, neither a Luxury or Party Croatia Boat Cruise appealed to us. We tabled the idea of Adriatic cruising…until we discovered the week-long Explorer Croatian Islands Cruise offered by Sail Croatia. 

Why Choose Sail Croatia for an Adriatic Sea Cruise?

Sail Croatia offers a range of Croatia Island Hopping Adriatic Cruises – including luxury cruises and party boats. But they offer something in between, too. Specifically, they have the Explorer Cruise – which fit our travel style to a T.

Attracting travelers who are intrigued by the discovery of new places, but also enjoy a few creature comforts – the Explorer Cruise is an ideal mid-point between the basic party boat and a luxury cruise in Croatia. Guests stay in air-conditioned rooms with ensuite bathrooms and are spoiled with lovely hot breakfasts and amazing 3-course lunches. In port, passengers can join onshore excursions or go out and do exactly as the cruise name suggests: Explore.

1-Week Explorer Sail Croatia Boat Cruise

In this review, we detail our experience on a 1-Week Explorer Cruise with Sail Croatia. We outline what to expect on board (from rooms to food to activities) and include a full description of our itinerary with our top recommendations for each port.

Pin, Save or Bookmark our Sail Croatia Review to plan your cruise to Croatia!

What To Expect on your Sail Croatia Cruise

Once we had our spot reserved to cruise the Croatia Coast and Dalmatian Islands, my mind went wild with wonder. As independent travelers, we are not used to giving up the reigns so easily. Despite the descriptive Sail Croatia website, questions crept into my mind. Are the rooms exactly like the photos? What time will we dock in port each day? And, importantly, What will the food be like? We are divulging all the details of our trip to help curious, potential Sail Croatia passengers with what to expect. 

What Size is the Croatia Cruise Small Ship? 

Despite the name – Sail Croatia – the company has a fleet of vessels, not just sail boats. Small boat cruise ships – accommodating no more than 40 passengers – are the Sail Croatia vessels used on the Explorer routes. Our small-ship Adriatic cruise was aboard the absolutely beautiful Almissa.

The Almissa

The 131-foot-long Almissa is designed with the look of a sailboat – three tall masts rising from the upper deck – but is actually powered by an engine. Newly built by two Croatian brothers from Omis , the boat features both community space and private rooms.

The two upper decks on our Sail Croatia ship are the common areas. The open-air top deck is lined with sun loungers and provides uninterrupted 360-degree views of the stunning Croatian seascapes. Guests are free to use the upper deck 24 hours a day for everything from sunbathing to stargazing. The dining area, bar and shaded lounge are located one deck below the top deck.

Rooms: Features and Amenities

The Almissa has 19 rooms spread over two levels; guests can choose rooms either above deck or below deck. There are pros and cons to each. Below deck rooms are private and quieter, but only have small portholes. While above deck rooms can be noisier, they have windows and doors that open to the scenery and fresh sea air.

There are several room configurations on the Almissa (and the Sail Croatia online photos and virtual tour do accurately convey room styles and size). We were in an above deck cabin that had two separate beds, a small desk with chair and a closet that easily fit all of our belongings. We even had plenty of room to stow our backpacks beneath our beds. The private ensuite bathroom was a decent size with a shower that was bigger than expected.

On the Explorer Cruise, bath and hand towels are provided in the rooms. There is no daily room cleaning service. However, halfway through our Croatia Island Hopping Cruise, our linens were changed and we each received a fresh set of clean towels. 

Top Tip : Only hand soap and toilet paper are provided. Be sure to bring your own toiletries, including bar soap, shampoo bars , body lotion, sunscreen – and a hair dryer, if you use one!

IN PORT: The ports are small – and there are numerous Dalmatian Cruises that need to dock at night. Rather than ships vying for a single spot, they tie up to the ships already in port. At times, it can be eight boats deep. This means that the passengers from the last boat will need to walk across seven other boats to get to shore…and the first boat will have the foot traffic of an additional seven ships. Therefore, above deck rooms can experience more noise – and not just from the passengers on their boat.

Fellow Passengers on Sail Croatia Explorer Cruise

The make up of passengers on each cruise will obviously vary. We had an absolutely stellar group on our week-long cruise. There were singles, couples and a mother-daughter duo – and ages probably ranged from mid-20s to upper 50s.

Our fellow guests were all native English-speaking – and came from Australia, Canada, the UK or the United States. Because the Sail Croatia Explorer Cruise often appeals to travelers with similar interests, conversations easily flowed and friendships were made soon after stepping on board the Almissa.

Activities and Excursions on Sail Croatia

While the price of a Sail Croatia Explorer Cruise does not include daily excursions, our on-board representative gave a detailed explanation of the optional excursions available in each port. Unlike some cruise companies that promote over-priced onshore tours, we found the Sail Croatia recommended excursions to cost the same (or less) than booking the tour directly.

Furthermore, Vedran – our on-board Sail Croatia representative – was helpful in leading informal tours at each spot, pointing out top sights and guiding guests to the main attractions. There was no pressure to join the optional excursions or representative-led tours – and guests could freely choose to go with the group or explore on their own. Being that we are very familiar with Croatia , we often went off on our own in search of different sights or new restaurants (our recommendations are detailed throughout our Croatian Island Hopping Itinerary).

Sail Croatia Food: Chef-Prepared Croatian Specialties

Honestly, before we set sail, we had serious angst over what the on-board food would be like. On Explorer Sail Croatia Cruises, breakfast and lunch are provided daily – as well as one evening meal during the week (the Captain’s Dinner).

There are strict rules against bringing food and drinks on the boat, leaving us only the chef-prepared meals. We wondered if the breakfasts would be filling enough and hoped we wouldn’t endure a week’s worth of fried food lunches.

Let us put any concerns to rest: The Sail Croatia on-board food was incredible !

In fact, the 3-course lunches (starter, main dish and dessert) featured fabulous local cuisine – including some of our favorite Croatian dishes like Black Risotto, Dalmatinsa Pasticada and grilled fish steaks. We were in awe of what the two-person team could create in the small cruise ship kitchen.

The buffet breakfasts included much more food than we had anticipated. Eggs – cooked in varying styles – were always on the buffet table, as well as warm croissants, fresh fruit, granola, yogurt, deli cheeses and meats. A few mornings, they also prepared delicious sausages. Additionally, self-serve coffee, juice and tea – with numerous flavor options – were available at the bar each morning.

The bar was open from breakfast until 11:00pm, allowing passengers to order specialty coffees, bottled drinks and alcoholic beverages for a fee. We never indulged in coffee drinks, but had a few on-board beers and a bottle of wine at the Captain’s dinner. The draft beer, locally produced Pan Lager, was not our favorite, but it was ice cold and fairly priced.

However, we weren’t thrilled by the wine options and prices. Croatia is well-known for its wine – being both delectable and affordable – but, unfortunately, the on-board offerings were neither. A bottle of the least expensive Plavac Mali red wine was about $30, and in our opinion, below average.

TOP TIP: Selections and palettes vary, so try a glass first…or perhaps save your wine tasting for when ashore (more on that later!).

MORE INFO: Sail Croatia guests have access to a water cooler with filtered drinking water 24/7, so having a refillable water bottle is key. Breakfast was served daily from 8:00am until 9:30am. Lunch was typically served at 12:30, with a post-meal talk by Vedran giving us information about Croatia and sharing details of our next destination. There is no assigned seating for the meals – and we recommend sitting with different passengers so that you can really get to know everyone on the ship!

Sail Croatia Crew: The Absolute Best!

On any of the cruises in the Adriatic Sea, one thing that can make or break the trip is the crew…and the Almissa Crew was exceptional. The six-person crew consists of Captain Jure, two deckhands – Hrvoje and Jakov, Chef Ivan and his assistant Dina and Ante, the waiter-bartender-server-extraordinaire, who was always available for a casual chat or to answer any questions. Although we are certain there are many excellent Sail Croatia crews, we would not want to cruise the Adriatic with any other team!

The captain, Jure, is quite possibly the most endearing, personable and fun-spirited captain in Croatia. He welcomed guest interactions, worked side-by-side with his team and went above and beyond to ensure his passengers were treated to the Best Croatia Cruise possible.

Complementing the crew was the Sail Croatia On-Board Representative, Vedran. With a personality as big as the ship itself, he proved to be both a source of information and entertainment. His position with the company requires that he work on different ships throughout the season, so even if you book your Croatia Island Hopping Cruise on the Almissa, we can’t guarantee that Vedran will be the on-board Sail Croatia rep.

TIPS : At the end of the week, guests can choose to leave tips for the Crew and the On-Board Rep. The crew splits theirs, while the rep is tipped separately. On the last day, envelopes are provided in each room for guests to leave tips anonymously. Gratuities are accepted in cash using the local currency of Croatia since 2023, the Euro.

Croatia Island Hopping Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Split Cruise

Our Croatia Island Hopping Route was from south to north, stopping at the best Croatian Islands. Our detailed day-by-day Dubrovnik to Split Itinerary will provide an idea of what other passengers can expect. However, it is important to keep an open mind and be ready for changes. Foul weather (more on that later) can cause last-minute changes to any Croatia Sailing Itinerary.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

We arrived in Dubrovnik two days before the departure of our Sail Croatia Cruising Tour, which allowed us one full day to explore. We stayed in an Airbnb apartment near the Dubrovnik Cruise Port in Gruz, which is located a short bus ride (or 40-minute walk) from the Dubrovnik Old Town, and a very close to where the Almissa was moored.

DUBROVNIK SIGHTSEEING: One day in Dubrovnik is just enough to see the highlights! Spend the morning exploring the Old Town (use our Self-Guided Dubrovnik Walking Tour ), then go to the top of Mount Srd for spectacular Dubrovnik Views . In the afternoon, go swimming at one of the best Dubrovnik Beaches . For dinner, dine at one of the top Old Town Dubrovnik restaurants, then get a taste of locally produced craft beer at Glam (Old Town) or Dubrovnik Beer Company (Gruz). If you have more time, consider going on an amazing Dubrovnik Day Trip !

DAY 1: Sail from Dubrovnik to Pomena, Mljet Island

Mid-morning, we met Vedran at the Port of Dubrovnik, checked in and received our room keys from Ante at the bar. After quickly unpacking our backpacks, we headed for the top deck to bask in the Croatian sunshine and meet fellow passengers already on board.  

Just before lunch, we set sail from the mainland with the wind in our hair and the sun on our faces. Our first destination was the island of Mljet and it would take a leisurely 4.5 hours to arrive at the Pomena Port on the western end. Once we were underway, we met in the dining room to get a brief synopsis of what to expect on our week of sailing in Croatia.

Our first lunch set the tone for all future on board meals. After a healthy vegetable soup starter, we feasted on savory rump steak topped with a creamy mushroom sauce and indulged in cheesecake for dessert.

We did not make a swim stop on our first day, but Captain Jure routed the Almissa past several small Croatian Islands along the north side of Mljet. As we slowly sailed past the idyllic islands, we were treated to an up-close view of the picturesque shoreline – even spotting a few goats – before docking in Pomena.

Mljet, Croatia

We were docked in Pomena by 5:30pm, which gave us just about 3 hours of sunlight left in the day for exploring. With threatening storms forecasted for the following morning, we made the most of the daylight and headed straight for Mljet NP.

MLJET NATIONAL PARK: The highlight of Mljet Island is the Mljet National Park…and the top sights are the two saltwater lakes: Malo Jezero (Small Lake) and Veliko Jezero (Great Lake). On the south side of Veliko Jezero is the Island of St. Mary, which is home to a 12th century monastery. Trails encircle both lakes – which are connected by a small bridge in the middle – and visitors can walk or bike around the lakes. Tickets are required for entry into Mljet National Park.

While most of our group opted to rent bikes to pedal around the lakes, we decided to go on foot – which didn’t get us nearly as far as we thought it would! After a fast-paced 1-hour walk, we had only made it to the southern bank of the Great Lake for views of St. Mary Island. Rather than continuing around the lake and getting stuck on the trail in the dark, we opted to turn around and head back to town. Unless you’re looking to go jogging, the bikes are the better way to get around Mljet!

Top Tip : On the way out of the park, I inquired if our tickets were good for 24 hours or just the date of purchase – and the representative ‘extended’ our tickets to the next day for free. We are uncertain if we were lucky or if this is standard practice…but it never hurts to ask!

Where to Eat in Mljet

Passengers on Explorer Sail Croatia cruises are on their own for dinner – which we absolutely loved, as it gave us the opportunity to try a variety of local Croatian restaurants. In Pomena, there are only a handful of restaurants – most of which line the water’s edge.

However, we had heard about a traditional (and affordable) family-run establishment, Agriturismo Dalmatino, that is located on a side lane near the national park ticket office. The elevated patio has seats overlooking the port – and the menu features classic Dalmatian dishes (we recommend the Octopus Salad and Grilled Chicken) and local Croatian wine. 

DAY 2: Cruise to Korcula, Croatia

Our grand plans of a morning hike in Mljet NP were dashed the moment we woke up. It was raining and we were already underway. Captain Jure wisely decided to depart early – at 7:00am, rather than the originally planned 1:00pm – to get ahead of the stormy weather. We made the crossing from Mljet to the Island of Korcula in just two hours…on already rocky seas.

During the crossing, we somehow ate breakfast – holding on to our plates and cups to keep them from sliding with the swells. Even with the ship swaying, the crew was able to prepare a full morning spread and expertly assisted passengers who had yet to get their sea legs.

As we approached the eastern end of Korcula Island, the wind died down and the rain reduced to misty sprinkles. Due to our earlier-than-scheduled departure, we were able to add an unexpected destination to our Croatia Island agenda and stopped in the port of the famous wine town, Lumbarda.

Lumbarda, Croatia

We had three hours to explore the seaside village of Lumbarda. Under cloudy skies, we strolled through town, up to the main church, then wandered through the vineyards and along the coastline path to the north. Before going back to the Almissa we stopped at the waterfront Maestral Café for a glass of the town’s acclaimed white wine, Grk.

As we sailed onward to Korcula Town – sticking close to the shore for calmer seas – we were treated to my favorite lunch of the week: Black Risotto with Cuttlefish. The signature Dalmatian dish is a must-try in Croatia – and we were so impressed that the chef prepared it for our cruise.

Korcula Town

By the time we docked in Korcula Town, the rain had become a torrential downpour. Both of the optional daytime excursions – Kayaking and Dune Buggies – were cancelled. Not deterred, Vedran led a group of brave (and soon to be completely drenched) passengers to the town’s top sights: Korcula Town Gate, St. Mark’s Church and the House of Marco Polo. The rest of the afternoon was spent drying out, reading books and chatting with fellow passengers in Almissa’s covered lounge.

Dinner in Korcula

In the evening, an optional dinner excursion was planned to the nearby village of Zrnovo for the region’s famed Zrnovski Makaruni pasta. Although the excursion was offered at an excellent value (it included transportation, dinner and drinks), we were set on trying the locally produced beers at Pinjac Pub – the only brewery on Korcula – which is also located in Zrnovo.

The family welcomed us into the open-air Pinjac Pub where we tried their fresh-made beers, a stout and an ale. For dinner, they served their own homemade rendition of Zrnovski Makaruni – and we were delighted to try the local Croatian specialty. (Originally, we had grand plans of hiking from the Old Town to Zrnovo. However, the rain put a damper on those plans. Instead, we got a taxi from the Korcula Town Port to the pub, which cost about $15 one way.)

Bokar Wine Bar

Back in Korcula, we walked through the historic Old Town lanes at night and found our way to Bokar Wine Bar. The small wine bar has limited indoor seating, but we were able to squeeze into a table alongside passengers from numerous other ships and sailboats in Korcula for the evening. The knowledgeable staff directed us to a local Postup red wine that was absolutely incredible. We all huddled together and toasted to better weather for the next day of Sailing Croatia!

Not to be deterred, later that evening, Vedran led a group from our ship to a nearby nightclub…but after a full day of experiences, we were content to retire early and drift to sleep with the gently rocking waves.

{Read our complete guide of Things To Do on Korcula Island !}

DAY 3: Sailing to Vela Luka, Korcula Island   

We slept well, but I woke early and noticed a sliver of sunshine peeking through our window. Elated that the rain had passed, I scampered up to the top deck of the Almissa to take a look around. With a bright blue sky and puffy clouds overhead, I decided to disembark and retraced my steps through the Korcula Old Town. Not only was it no longer raining, but at the early hour I nearly had the town to myself (and a few cats)!

Back on the boat in time for our 8:00am departure, we only had a short distance to cover as we made our way to the town of Vela Luka on the west end of Korcula Island. Clouds again blanketed the sky, but the northern shoreline of the island was too stunning to miss. From the top deck, we savored the passing scenery of hillside vineyards and old stone houses.

Vela Luka, Croatia

We arrived in Vela Luka just after noon, but stayed aboard for our mid-day meal. After a lunch of pasticada and tiramisu, Vedran talked to us about the Croatian Homeland War, providing local insight to something we have only witnessed on videos and learned about in museums.

VELA SPILA CAVE: The main Vela Luka sight is a large cave, Vela Spila, that contains evidence of prehistoric civilizations. There is a small entrance fee. Inside, a few signs in English explain what artifacts have been discovered, including painted ceramics that date to 4,500 BC.

Vedran led a group of passengers to the cave – but it is easy to find by following the baby-blue cave markers up the hill (it’s about a 20 minute walk). We spent about 15 minutes inside the cave, before setting off on other trails. The hill is covered with walking and biking routes – and we eventually wound our way back into Vela Luka. From the center of town, coastline paths wrap around to both the north and the south of the harbor.

Initially, we had wanted to also climb Hum Hill, so we followed the shoreline to the south, but our ambitions waned as we detoured around a mostly abandoned shipyard. Instead, we circled back through town and followed the coastline path to the north. Much prettier than the southern route, we walked past picturesque beaches and secluded coves along the way.

Captain’s Dinner on Sail Croatia

Rather than a stuffy and formal affair, the Captain’s Dinner on Almissa was a relaxed occasion marked with good food and a great Captain’s speech. The appetizer platter featured local prsut ham, cheese and grilled sardines – and the main course was a traditional baked fish with vegetables and a dessert.

After Captain Jure gave his exceptionally humorous speech, he joined our table for a round of drinks…and a lot of laughs. The night slipped away – and it was after midnight when we adjourned to our rooms.

DAY 4: Sail to Vis Island, Croatia

As we crossed the channel from Vela Luka to Vis Island, the sun broke through the clouds and small patches of blue sky emerged. We spent the entire three-hour ride on the top deck, surveying the scene with many of our fellow Sail Croatia Explorer Cruise passengers.

Vis Island, which is the furthest inhabited island from the Croatia mainland, has a long history as a military base. Strategic forts and a network of tunnels cover the island, which has just two main towns: Vis Town and Komiza. Some passengers from our boat joined a Military Tour, while others rented scooters to explore on their own. As we have visited Vis Town previously, we only had one destination in mind on this Sail Croatia stop: Komiza.

As soon as we docked in Vis Town at 12:30pm – and before lunch was served – we scurried off the boat to check the bus schedule from the Vis Port to Komiza. As luck would have it, a bus was departing shortly, so we skipped the on-board meal and hopped on board for the ride to the west end of Vis Island.

In Komiza, we walked through the gorgeous historic town – an old Croatian fishing village. Highlights of Komiza include the stoic Fort Komiza and Clocktower, the hillside Church of Saint Nicholas, the Church of Our Lady of Pirates and the Pebble Beach. We stopped at a café – with a harbor view – for a glass of wine and Croatian Craft Beer before catching the afternoon bus back to Vis Town.

The Best Pizza on Vis Island

We had heard that Pizzeria Karijola has the best pizza on Vis…and possibly the best in Croatia. A claim that bold is too enticing to pass up – so we, along with several Almissa passengers – decided to go try it for ourselves. The small restaurant was just big enough to accommodate us all – and the views from the patio were amazing.

Kris and I each ordered a pizza – Pancetta for me and Picante for him. The wood-fired pizzas were thin and crispy with just the right amount of toppings. To accompany our meal, we opted for the recommended bottle of Croatian red wine, which was a bit expensive…but marvelous.

Movie Night: Mamma Mia 2

In 2017, several of the scenes from Mamma Mia 2 were filmed on Vis Island – with recognizable locations and even locals appearing in the movie. After dinner, we gathered in the lounge to watch the movie – and Vedran pointed out the Vis Island scenes.

{Read our complete Vis Island Guide for more advice!}

DAY 5: Cruise from Vis to Hvar Town

We woke to a beautiful day, so I took advantage of the later 9:00am departure time and set off on the coastline trail to the north of Vis Town before breakfast. The short walk along the water was magnificent and I was getting excited about our next destination: Hvar Town.

Hvar Town is perhaps the most popular destination on any of the Dalmatian Islands, and even though we have been to Hvar Town several times before, we were excited to return. However, Captain Jure had a few surprises for us before we sailed across the channel to Hvar Island.

Blue Cave Croatia Tour

BLUE CAVE: On Bisevo Island – just southwest of Vis Island – is the famed Croatia Blue Cave. A small cave opening allows tiny boats to navigate inside, where the cave floor is illuminated in natural neon blue. A highly-rated day trip from Split , voyaging inside the Blue Cave has long been on our list of places to see in Croatia.

On our departure from Vis Town, rather than sailing for Hvar, Captain Jure circled the island of Vis and took us to Bisevo Island for a tour of the Blue Cave. Usually a chaotic mess of day trippers from Split, we were the only visitors on the island and we quickly bought tickets, transferred into smaller boats and bobbed our way into the cave. Visits inside last no more than 10 minutes, but it was definitely stunning and worth the detour!

Stiniva Beach Cove

Back on the Almissa, we sailed along the southern shore of Vis Island, which is punctuated by deep coves. The most intriguing bay is Stiniva Beach Cove, which has a very narrow opening to a sandy beach.

Although our Sail Croatia ship was too big to fit through to the beach, Captain Jure took us deep into the bay so that we could see the unique rock formations. Not a typical stop on Croatia Island Hopping Cruises, even the crew – who were as excited as we were – came out to the bow of the ship to take pictures!

Hvar Town, Croatia

We arrived to Hvar at 3:30pm, which was too early to dock in the busy harbor. Instead, we boarded a taxi boat that took us ashore. Vedran pointed out the sights on the main square and led interested passengers to Spanjola Fort that sits above the town.

We decided to set off on the coastal trail to the west of Hvar Town, bypassing the infamous (and overpriced) Hula Hula Bar in favor of the more relaxing scene at Falko Bar. Much to our disappointment, the bar was not yet open for the season.

Instead we found a spot along the cove where we could simply soak in the glorious springtime Croatian sunshine. On the way back to Hvar Town, we stopped for a locally produced craft beer at Vunetovo, where we were soon joined by fellow passengers and other travelers.

Dinner in Hvar Town

Restaurant choices are plentiful in Hvar! Vedran provided a few recommendations (and even helpfully made reservations for some passengers), but we had long been wanting to eat at Konoba Menego, one of the most popular restaurants in Hvar Town.

The highly-touted traditional restaurant is in the heart of Hvar Old Town. The menu features regional Croatian cuisine and we indulged in a plate of Goat’s Cheese with herbs and the Chef’s Special (a wonderfully prepared chicken dish with sauce and stuffed bread).

As we made our way through the historic town toward the Almissa (which was now second in a line of eight docked boats!), we ran into fellow passengers who convinced us to join them – along with Vedran – at a local club, Nautica Bar. The music was thumping, the drinks were flammable, and the place was packed. When in Hvar!

{Read our guide to all the Best Things To Do in Hvar Town !}

DAY 6: Sail to Stari Grad, Hvar Island

Due to port restrictions, ships must depart Hvar Town early – so we were on our way by 7:00am. It was a spectacular, sunny day and we were not traveling far (just to the north side of Hvar Island to the town of Stari Grad), so just after breakfast we pulled into a deep, secluded cove for our first Sail Croatia swim stop. We launched ourselves from the top deck into the still very chilly Adriatic Sea…and it was absolutely invigorating!

We stayed in the water until our fingers wrinkled and our toes were numb, then retreated to the loungers to warm ourselves in the sun. A fellow passenger spun a playlist of beach music through his portable speaker and – along with the soft sway of the boat – we entered a complete state of relaxation.

Stari Grad, Croatia

Shortly after dining on tuna steaks and a decadent semifreddo dessert, we set sail for Stari Grad – one of our favorite Croatian Island towns ! We docked just steps from the historic Stari Grad village that features a jumble of narrow lanes and tall stone houses.

The town itself only has a few ‘sights’ – a couple of museums, churches and the Petra Hektorovica Villa – but the Old Town in its entirety is what travelers come to see. We strolled the pleasant lanes, popped into a few churches and walked along the northern shoreline of the deep Stari Grad Bay (which provides stunning views of the Stari Grad Hvar Old Town).

Croatian Wine Tasting on Hvar

In the late afternoon, we joined the recommended Croatian Wine Tasting excursion to Hora Winery in the middle of the ancient Stari Grad Plain. After a welcome shot of fig liquor, we sampled the establishment’s range of olive oils – including an incredible herb-infused oil – which we sopped up with their homemade bread.

The friendly and informative staff served pours of four different wines, along with a small plate of regional delicacies. The excursion was an ideal way to sample Croatian wine, homemade cuisine and enjoy the magnificence of the UNESCO listed Stari Grad Plain.

Eating in Stari Grad

For that evening’s meal, we were given the option to decide as a group if we wanted to dine aboard the ship on a classic Balkan meal of grilled meats (for a fee), or go it on our own for dinner in Stari Grad. Despite the amazing meals we’d been served on board the Almissa, due to the lovely weather and many fantastic restaurant choices, it was determined to forego the on-board meal and enjoy an evening out in charming Stari Grad.

Konoba Batana

Located deep in the alleyways of Stari Grad, Konoba Batana came highly recommended by a friend (and local resident)….and it did not disappoint! We sat on the atmospheric patio and delighted in an exquisite meal – starting with cucumber salad and sharing two dishes: Istrian Fuzi Pasta with Truffles and Beef Filet Risotto in Wine Sauce. It was truly the perfect ending to a perfect day.

{Read our complete list of Things To Do in Stari Grad for more tips!}

DAY 7: Set Sail to Split, Croatia

For the second day in a row, we departed at 7:00am and navigated to a private cove for a morning swim. Rather than jumping from the top deck, most passengers jumped from the back of the boat into the unbelievably clear and refreshing Adriatic waters.

The leisurely morning faded into afternoon. We were finishing our lunch of ratatouille and bacon-wrapped chicken skewers just as we were sailing into the exciting city of Split . We all rushed to the top deck for the captivating view of our approach into the Split Harbor. Once we docked (at about 2:00pm), passengers went their different ways, either on a zip line excursion or a Split Walking Tour .

We strolled through the timeworn streets of Diocletian’s Palace , promenaded down the Split Riva and made our way to Matejuska, the Fisherman’s Port, where locals and visitors socialize and imbibe. We ambled up Marjan Hill for the best views and casually strolled on a few of our Favorite Beaches in Split .

Unlike the island towns, Split is home to numerous Croatian Craft Beer Bars – and Sanctuary is a favorite Old Town drinking haunt. After a few pints on the outdoor patio, we capped off our night at one of the Best Places To Eat in Split for a simple meal: Cevapi from Kantun Paulina.

Back onboard, I joined fellow passengers – now friends – for one last evening of conversation at the on-board bar. Our 1 Week Cruise with Sail Croatia aboard the Almissa had nearly come to an end.

DAY 8: Checkout in Split and Goodbyes

At breakfast, we exchanged information with fellow passengers and prepared to disembark. We were in awe with what we had seen and experienced during our week-long Croatian cruise. Our last few moments were spent at our favorite location on the Almissa, the top deck. As we hesitantly departed, the Sail Croatia crew wished us well and waved goodbye. Until next time, doviđenja Almissa !

{Read our guide of Things To Do in Split for more sightseeing tips!}

Explorer Sail Croatia Cruises

There are three Sail Croatia Explorer Routes – Split to Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik to Split and Split to Split – that visit the most beautiful Croatian Islands. Booking an Adriatic Sea Cruise alleviates all the hassles of planning your own Croatia Island Itinerary. All the routes visit most of the same ports, with a few exceptions (so make sure the route you pick stops at your desired Croatia Island destinations!). 

The Sail Croatia Split to Dubrovnik cruise departs Split and travels south to Makarska , then Stari Grad, Hvar Town, Vis, Korcula, Mljet and ends in Dubrovnik. (The Split to Dubrovnik Itinerary does not stop in Vela Luka.)

All cruises from Dubrovnik to Split depart Dubrovnik with a first stop in Mljet, then Korcula, Vela Luka, Vis, Hvar Town, Stari Grad and finishes in Split. (Ships that sail from Dubrovnik to Split stop in Vela Luka but not Makarska.)

On the Split to Split Cruise, the journey takes you to Makarska first, then Korcula, Dubrovnik, Mljet, Hvar Town, Stari Grad and back to Split. (The Split to Split Croatian Island Hopping Itinerary does not stop on Vis Island or in Vela Luka.)

Croatia Island Hopping Tips

After spending a week sailing around Croatia Islands, we have a few travel tips and packing hacks for fellow travelers going on Adriatic Sea Cruises.

Weather On Your Adriatic Sea Cruise

Most cruises around the Dalmatian Islands set sail from May through September, when the weather is ideal for being on the water. Based on previous trips to Croatia, we booked our Sail Croatia Dubrovnik to Split Cruise for mid-May expecting ideal weather conditions. Unfortunately, the weather along the coast was wetter than usual, but we really only had one completely foul weather day (in Korcula Town).

It is, of course, impossible to predict what the weather will be like when planning a Croatia Island Holiday. It’s best to pack for all types of weather – so make sure to bring a rain jacket , travel umbrella , as well as plenty of sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat …and a good attitude if the weather goes awry. And if you are fortunate enough to be on a Croatia Cruise with an excellent crew – like we were – then they will do their best to make the most of it regardless of the weather conditions!

What To Pack For Adriatic Cruises in Croatia

Packing for sailing holidays in Croatia is pretty self-explanatory ( Sunscreen , check ! Swimsuit , check !), but there are a few things you won’t want to forget.

As much as I love being on boats, I’m susceptible to sea sickness. Rather than taking pills to combat the rolling motion, I use non-medicinal Sea Bands . The wrist bands use a pressure point that is proven to be effective is aiding in motion sickness. Other products that I have not used personally (but did see other passengers using) are motion sickness patches and the Reliefband .   Tip : If you start to feel motion sickness on the boat, keep your eye on the horizon; it helps your brain to know which way is up!

Travel Camera 

The Croatian scenery we witnessed from aboard the Almissa was spectacular! In order to capture the true beauty of the Dalmatian Islands from a boat, you really need a proper travel camera rather than using your phone …and speaking of phones, be sure to keep it dry with a Sea to Summit waterproof bag!

We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens, which provides a nice zoom, without being too heavy. And, the range allows us to only carry one lens, which cuts down on the overall weight of our travel gear . However, for travelers who want something even lighter, with decent zoom capabilities and a slim design, we recommend the Canon Powershot Elph (which is a great budget camera to use when navigating crowded places).

Books for your Croatian Cruise

Although we had a difficult time pulling ourselves from the stunning Croatian scenery, many passengers enjoyed their time reading books on board. I was glad to have a book with me on the one day that was too rainy to be on the top deck – and Kris picked up a book from the small on-board library (which was a collection of books left behind by previous passengers).

While on cruises, it can be fun to read books about other sea voyages (or set on a boat). A couple of books that I found entertaining are Love with a Chance of Drowning and Dangerous Crossing .  But there are thousands of books about sea travel to choose from; search for the perfect book for your Sail Croatia trip on Amazon .

Day Pack for Croatia Trips

Whether you travel with backpack or a suitcase , we highly recommended also having a great day bag to organize all of your essential everyday travel items!

Wi-Fi Device to Stay Connected in Croatia

Sail Croatia Explorer Cruise boats are equipped with free wifi, however it can be spotty while underway or when all passengers are on board trying to use it at the same time. If having speedy Wi-Fi is essential to you, consider purchasing a Mobile Wifi Hotspot for your Croatia trip.

Croatia Travel Insurance

Trip Insurance may cover unexpected occurrences like lost luggage , cancelled flights or illness aboard . Check rates and coverage for your upcoming trip to Croatia with World Nomads !

Pro Tip:  Get (and stay) organized for your Vacation to Croatia by using our Trip Planning Printables !

Other Sail Croatia Boat Tours

While we think the small-cruise Croatia Explorer tour is one of the best Croatia cruises, it is because it was the one that fit our style of travel. If you are looking for a different kind of Adriatic Sea cruise, check out the following themed Sail Croatia Cruise Tours.

Under-35 Croatia Yachts

Croatia party sailing tours are aimed at the 35-and-under crowd. Designed as a Croatia party cruise, the trip features a lot of alcohol, boozy flotillas and all night clubbing. Croatia Island-hopping party boats can be an affordable and fun way to see the islands. Find out more about these infamous Navigator Sail Croatia trips.

Croatia Sailboat Charter

Sailing around Croatia – with actual sails full of wind – is a fantastic way to see the islands! We have taken a one-day Hvar Island sailboat trip with a skipper and can definitely see the allure of sailing the open seas. Sail Croatia organizes both Chartered Yachts and Private Croatia Yacht Tours.

Active Croatia Island Hopping Tours

Want a little more activity on your vacation? There are two Sail Croatia adventures cruises – Hike and Cycle – that allow passengers to experience hiking and biking through the Dalmatian Coast Islands.

Luxury Dalmatian Coast Cruises

Looking for a luxury cruise of Croatia? The Sail Croatia Elegance Cruise is one of the top luxury small ship cruises where guests are spoiled aboard top-class yachts.

Find more Sail Croatia Reviews and Information on all their cruises on their official website .

We Want To Know: Have you taken a Croatia Island Hopping Cruise? Have you ever gone on an Adriatic Sea Cruise with Sail Croatia? We want to hear about it! 

Start planning your trip to Croatia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

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