Adriatic Explorer - 8 days

Saturday. Split - Makarska. Welcome to Croatia! Departure from Split Harbour is at 1 pm, as we begin our cruise along the Dalmatian coast towards the Makarska Riviera. After lunch we arrive at Omis, a picturesque town surrounded by steep rocky mountain cliffs, where the river Cetina flows into the Adriatic Sea. Try river rafting on the streams of the Cetina River and meet the ship again in Makarska. Climb up to the old fortress above the town or take a walk through the old town of Omis and discover its glorious history through the many historical monuments. Makarska is a popular destination for visitors, with many restaurants and bars as well as a beautiful promenade along the famous beach.

Location: Welcome to Croatia

Makarska - Bol (Brac) - Stari Grad. This morning we continue our cruise towards our next destination - the island of Brac. We’ll stop at Bol, a typical Dalmatian fishermen's town. Bol is known for its famous Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn), a natural phenomenon that dominates the other beaches of Bol. A walk along the promenade (approx 2 hours) takes us to the highest peak of all of the Adriatic Islands - Vidova Gora, which towers over the town. After a swim break and lunch, we continue our journey towards Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, the sunniest Adriatic island. This afternoon is free to explore the town and the famous UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Field, the best preserved example of an ancient Greek agricultural landscape in Dalmatia.

Location: Beautiful Brac and Stari Grad

Stari Grad - Hvar. Today we sail around the island of Hvar to the town of the same name. Hvar Island is the longest of all the Adriatic islands and a favourite destination for jet setters from around the world. En route to the town, we stop for a swim at the Pakleni Islands. Take some time to relax and enjoy he refreshment of the clear, crystal blue sea before we arrive into Hvar this afternoon. Hvar’s town offers many cultural and historical sites including the Renaissance Cathedral, the oldest community theatre in Europe and the Franciscan Monastery, as well as the Spanjola Fortress, which towers high above the town. There are also many restaurants and bars that open late into the night.

Location: Hvar and swimming by the Paklina Islands

Hvar - Vis. The ship sets sail early this morning as we cruise towards the little island of Bisevo to visit the Blue Cave (weather dependant). We then continue to the island of Vis which was a strategic harbour for the navy because of its unique geographical position. As such it was closed to the public until recently. Because of its isolation, Vis has a special charm - ‘the Mediterranean as it once was’ which makes it really interesting to see. We spend the night moored by the town of Vis, on the northern side of the island. The settlement was developed near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, opt to visit the remains of the Roman Thermal Baths, City Museum or simply take a walk and enjoy the views of the beautiful Roman styled villas along the coast.

Location: Vis

Vis - Korcula. Before breakfast we depart towards Korcula, the birthplace of the famous explorer and adventurer Marco Polo. Surrounded by medieval walls, Korcula resembles a miniature Dubrovnik when approaching from the sea. It has more legends, tales and monuments than you can find anywhere else. Today, Korcula is the only place in the world where the Spanish medieval knight's game, Moreska is still performed. Upon arrival, enjoy a walk through the streets of the old town built in the shape of a fish bone. Explore the numerous konobas/taverns, restaurants, cocktail bars and night-clubs located within and around the city walls.

Location: Korcula

Korcula - Mljet and Slano/Sipan. We continue our journey towards one of the greenest Adriatic Islands - Mljet. This afternoon we take time to enjoy the beauties of the National Park, two salt lakes connected by a narrow channel to the sea and a boat ride to the St Mary Isle in the Great Lake, where the old church and monastery are situated. You can cycle around, and swim in the lakes. We continue our cruise towards Sipan, part of Elaphite Islands, or towards Slano on the coast, both small fishermen's villages where we will overnight in the port and enjoy the Captain's dinner on board.

Location: Mljet Island

Slano/Sipan - Dubrovnik. In the early morning hours we depart towards our final destination, Dubrovnik. Arriving after lunch, we enjoy a guided tour of this “paradise on Earth”, as the famous writer George Bernard Shaw described. Later, there's an optional cable car ride up to Srd Mountain where you can enjoy spectacular views of the old town. We recommend a stroll along the 1940 metre long city walls which offers magnificent views of the old town of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands.

Location: The pearl of the Adriatic

Saturday. Dubrovnik. After breakfast, say goodbye to the crew and fellow travellers and our holiday comes to an end - Dovidjenja!

Location: Dubrovnik