12-Night Croatia, Bosnia & Montenegro Cruise-Tour

Zagreb exudes the classic elegance of a central European city and is reminiscent of Vienna and Budapest. Our knowledgeable guide will show you the city where you will stroll amongst the city’s classicist and secessionist facades, green parks and ornate promenades. Satisfy your inner culture-vulture with a trip to one of the many museums, galleries and theaters or simply soak up the atmosphere of the vibrant street life. Take a funicular to Gornji Grad, the medieval part of the city containing grand museums, galleries and St Mark’s church, with its stunning tile roof. Explore lively Tkalciceva Street and sample some of the refreshing local brews.

Head on towards Plitvice Lakes National Park, considered one of the most beautiful National Parks in the world, with a wonderful blend of oak forests, meadows, rocks and lakes. Explore the trails and wonderful waterfalls and hop on a scenic electric boat or train for a different perspective of the park. If you’d like to try the local gastronomic delights of the area, the Plitvice region is known for game, so visit a traditional local restaurant and try their rabbit, venison or boar.

Head towards Split, stopping for lunch at an authentic local restaurant, serving delicious delicacies. Upon arrival in Split, explore Diocletian’s Palace, an eclectic combination of Roman temples, Gothic palaces and modern Mediterranean-style stone houses. You’ll love exploring the Palace and the underground cellars, which feature in the ‘Game of Thrones’ show. Walk the cobbled streets of the Old Town, infused with history, full of bustling cafes and restaurants and unusual specialist shops. Don’t miss Riva, Split’s palm tree-lined promenade, perfect for a refreshing drink in the sunshine. Why not take a climb up Marjan hill for a stunning panoramic view?

Visit Croatia’s charming neighbor, Bosnia & Herzegovina. Having been under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, Bosnia’s architectural and culture differs immensely to the rest of Europe. Experience the village of Počitelj, a UNESCO-listed village on the banks of the Neretva river. Visit Medjugorje, a pilgrimage site, known for a reported apparition of Virgin Mary in 1981. You will also explore charming Mostar where you can sip a kahva (Turkish-style coffee) and try rahat lokum (Turkish delight) in the old bazaar. Sample street food on čaršija, called ćevapi and climb to the top of the winding minaret of the mosque for the best panoramic views.

You will take a private transfer to Split harbor with check in from 2pm. You can relax in your luxury cabin or join a guided tour of the beautiful historical town of Split. After the tour, return to the ship for a Welcome meet and greet cocktail reception and superb dinner on board. You will be introduced to the captain, crew and fellow Croatia island-hopping passengers.

Sail on to the charming island of Brač with a cooling swim at the famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) beach. Visit the quaint fishermen’s village of Bol with its lovely seafront promenade. After lunch at the Pakleni Islands, continue your cruise towards the glamorous island of Hvar, renowned for its stunning and fragrant fields of lavender. Watch an entertaining presentation of lavender products and go for a captivating tour of the stunning old town. Visit the Renaissance cathedral, the oldest community theater in Europe, harbour and town fort, offering stunning scenic views of the Pakleni islands. Experience the lively restaurants, bars and vibrant café culture.

Cruise on to the beautiful island of Biševo and (weather-pending) the magnificent Blue Cave. Continue to a hidden gem: the island of Vis, which was once a strategic Yugoslav naval base. Due to the island’s seclusion and isolation, Vis has a unique charm that typifies ‘the Mediterranean as it once was’. A visit to this magical island would not be complete without sampling some of the local wines from traditional wineries. You can also visit the city’s museum and enjoy a leisurely stroll whilst admiring the views of the beautiful Villae Rusticae, situated along the waterfront.

Sail on towards the island of Korčula, which is best known as the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Relax and admire the stunning secluded bays en route. Take a guided walking tour of this delightful and authentic Old Town with many fabulous photo opportunities. Korčula has an abundance of excellent restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Dalmatian gourmet cuisine and the city comes to life after dusk. An optional excursion to experience a typical Dalmatian dinner, and to discover the history and traditional way of life in Croatia, is also available.

We continue the cruise further south towards the endearing island of Mljet. Join us for a stroll to the famous salt lakes, situated in the heart of the stunning Mljet National Park. A boat ride to St Mary Island, to visit the ancient Benedictine monastery dating back to the 12th century, is also highly recommended. Alternatively, there are kayaks, bicycles and scooters for hire if you wish to explore the wider area of outstanding natural beauty that surrounds the National Park.

The enchanting village of Slano on the mainland, is the ship’s next destination. Slano is a pin-drop peaceful traditional fishermen’s village and the entrance point to Ston, a famous gastronomic area and another fortified small village that is famous for its oysters and salt as well as its olive-growing and fruit-growing. After exploring the town’s historical medieval ramparts, a short coastal walk will take you to a unique oyster farm, where you can sample fresh oysters and learn more about this delicacy.

Your ship will make an early morning departure towards the enchanting city of Dubrovnik. The ancient city boasts many historical buildings that date back to the time of the old Dubrovnik Republic. Before reaching Gruž harbour you’ll cruise alongside the walls of the old Dubrovnik city walls, as lunch is served on deck. After docking, you can join a fascinating guided walking tour of this magnificent city or take the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ to enjoy panoramic views of the coast and the Elaphiti Islands. The evening is reserved for the Captain’s lavish farewell dinner with live music and entertainment.

After disembarking, you will have the opportunity to explore Croatia’s up-and-coming neighbour – Montenegro. You will learn about the city of Kotor and Kotor Bay. This UNESCO listed World Heritage site was built between the 12th and 14th century by the Romans and early Christians. The city of Kotor is protected by medieval city walls which extend over 3 miles up to the fortress of Saint Ivan. Take a relaxing boat ride from the medieval baroque shore town of Perast to one of the two islets in the bay to visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks. Overnight in your Dubrovnik hotel.

Take your private taxi to the airport for your flight home after a memorable trip.