Zagreb to Dubrovnik Cruise-Tour

Arrive into Zagreb and private transfer will bring you to your hotel. Get settled in, relax and then join an expert guide for a tour of this 3,000-year-old city in the afternoon. You’ll be able to walk the cobbled streets, filled with history and an impressive mix of classical Viennese secessionist architecture and Austro-Hungarian heritage. In the center of the ancient Upper Town is the iconic 13^th-century St. Mark’s Church with its colorfully tiled roof and the gothic, twin-spired Zagreb Cathedral. In the Lower Town, there are parks, museums, shops, cafes and the main square.

Take private transfer this morning to one of the most popular attractions in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park. This remarkable natural wonder and UNESCO-protected site spread over 73,000 acres. It’s filled with forested landscapes, caves, 16 interconnected lakes and nearly 100 waterfalls. You’ll hop on a boat where you can stroll the wooden walkways for a closeup look at the surreal turquoise and emerald waters in this park that truly looks as if it’s a fantasy come to life, before ending with a train ride that provides a panoramic vista.

In the morning, be ready for a private transfer to glorious Split with its 4^th-century Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace that covers nearly half of its historic center. You’ll be amazed at the well-preserved buildings from the Roman era that can be discovered along the cobbled streets. But first, you make a stop in Zadar to marvel at the world-famous art installation known as the Sea Organ. Created by artist Nikola Bašić, it’s made up of about three dozen pipes, fitted into the pavement, and makes music by using the power of the waves.

You will have the morning to explore the beautiful town of Split. If you arrive early, you can drop off your bags and go exploring, returning to enjoy your cabin any time after 1 p.m. with embarkation possible throughout the day. Enjoy a welcome meeting and 3 course cocktail reception dinner at 7 p.m. which will give you a chance to meet your captain, crew and fellow guests.

After breakfast, join our local English-speaking guide for a tour of Old Town Split, stepping back in time to stroll through the 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace built more than 1700 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with Gothic and Renaissance architecture along with many wonders from the Roman era. We’ll begin our cruise at noon, heading to the medieval town of Trogir for an inspiring city tour through its enticing streets, viewing the magnificently preserved Kamerlengo Castle and one of the finest examples of sacral architecture in the country, the Cathedral of St. Lawrence.

As we depart from the charming town of Trogir we cruise to Bol, home of one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, Zlati Rat, you can wander through town or enjoy a refreshing swim before returning to the ship for lunch. As we journey to Hvar, soak up the sun and the sights that include secluded coves and glistening bays. On arrival, enjoy a wine tasting tour at a very sought after family winery in Jelsa, a small and charming town on the island. Visit the Spanjola Fortress on our way back to Hvar and enjoy spectacular views over Hvar and its neighboring islands. Overnight in the port.

With an early departure from Hvar we set sail to the island of Vis. First we’ll stop to experience the magical Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, famous for its remarkable natural phenomenon that when conditions are right, illuminate the sea grotto with an almost other-worldly aquamarine glow, thanks to sunlight that reflects from the white sandy bottom. (Weather permitting). After lunch we continue to sail to Vis to experience the ‘Mediterranean as it once was,’ having been virtually cut off from civilization for four decades as an important Yugoslav military base. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to meander through its tranquil streets.

We head on to the striking island of Korčula, which is best known as the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Relax and admire the stunning secluded bays on route. The afternoon arrival in Korčula is followed by a guided walking tour of this charming Old Town. The small fortified town, ruled by Venetians in the past, has an ingenious layout in the shape of a fishbone, both to prevent the strong winds from chilling the houses in winter, and to increase the air circulation in the summer. Tonight we have an optional traditional Croatian village party arranged with authentic local entertainment.

We set sail for the tranquil and stunning Mljet National Park. On arrival, enjoy free time at leisure to stroll to the famous salt lakes, situated in the heart of the park. After lunch, we sail on to the charming village of Slano, situated on the mainland. It is a peaceful traditional fishermen’s village and the entrance point to Ston, another small fortified village that is famous for its oysters. After exploring the town’s medieval ramparts and famous Ston Walls, we will take you to an oyster farm, where you will have the opportunity to sample delicious fresh oysters and mussels. The evening is reserved for the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board, with live music and entertainment.

On the last day of our deluxe Croatian cruise we make an early departure to Dubrovnik. The ancient city boasts many historical buildings that date back to the time of the old Dubrovnik Republic. We take a cruise alongside the walls of the old Dubrovnik city centre. Join our guided walking tour of this magnificent city and we have also arranged for entrance to walk the famous City Walls, to enjoy panoramic scenic views of the ancient city walls and beautiful Elaphiti Islands. Enjoy a delicious meal in the Old Town in a roof top restaurant whilst admiring one last sunset over the Adriatic.

After breakfast it is time to say goodbye to the crew and to all of your new friends. A private transfer will bring you to the airport or to your hotel for an optional extended break in Dubrovnik. If you’re not ready for this exciting trip to end but don’t already have plans in place, be sure to contact our travel experts to find out how they can help. Let them know what you’re searching for and they may be able to make it happen.