Southern Pearls, 8 days Split – Dubrovnik

Departure from the Split harbour at 13:00h (late arrivals can join in Makarska) and cruise along the Dalmatian coast towards Makarska whilst enjoying lunch. Afternoon swim at one of the wonderful beaches. For the adrenaline lovers, there’s an optional zipline ride over the Cetina river canyon. Overnight in Makarska, the famous tourist destination with many restaurants and bars and a beautiful promenade along the famous beach. Enjoy the magic of Makarska Riviera and be sure to take a walk along the city streets – with an abundance of churches and other cultural sites.

In the morning, cruise towards the next destination – the island of Brač, more precisely to the town of Bol, known for its famous Zlatni Rat beach (Golden Horn), a natural phenomenon that dominates the other beaches with its specific form. After swimming break at the horn and lunch, we continue our journey towards Stari Grad on the Hvar island, the sunniest Adriatic island. Free afternoon to explore this unique town. The famous Stari Grad Field is the oldest in Croatia and the best-preserved example of an ancient Greek system of agriculture. Together with the old town, it is a part of world heritage protected by UNESCO. Overnight in one of the ports of Stari Grad, main or ferry port (2 km away) depending on availability in port.

The next destination is the town of Hvar, a favourite destination for jet setters from all around the world. After lunch, we stop for swimming, relaxing and refreshment in the clear, crystal blue sea at nearby Paklinski islands. Arrive at Hvar in the afternoon hours followed by a guided tour of this extraordinary town (included on Premium Superior). Hvar offers many cultural and historical sites (Renaissance cathedral, the oldest communal theatre in Europe founded in 1612, Franciscan monastery, the Benedictine convent famous for their lace listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Spanjola fortress towering high above the town …) and many restaurants and bars open late into the night.

Early in the morning cruise towards the little Biševo island to visit the Blue cave (entrance fee to be paid on the spot, 18EUR), a magnificent natural phenomenon. The cruise continues towards the island of Vis, once a strategic navy harbour due to its unique geographical position and as such 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. Overnight is in the town of Vis, situated on the northern side of the island, developed near the remains of the ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal Place, City museum or simply take a walk enjoying the view of beautiful ”Villae Rusticae” situated along the coast.

During breakfast, we depart towards Korčula, the birthplace of the famous explorer and adventurer Marco Polo. Surrounded by medieval walls, Korčula resembles a miniature Dubrovnik when approaching from the sea. It has more legends, tales, and monuments than you will find anywhere else. Today, Korčula is the only place in the world where the Spanish medieval knight’s game – Moreška is still performed. Upon arrival, you can enjoy a guided walking tour through the streets of the old town built in the shape of a fishbone (included on Premium Superior). Enjoy the numerous konobas / taverns, restaurants, cocktail bars, or nightclubs located within and around the city walls. Overnight in port.

Cruising continues towards one of the greenest Adriatic islands – the island of Mljet, where on the western part, the Mljet National Park is situated (entrance fee to be paid on the spot, 25EUR). Free time to enjoy the beauties of the National Park. Two salt lakes are connected to the sea by a narrow channel, take a boat ride to the St Mary isle in the Great Lake, where the old church and monastery are situated. Enjoy cycling around, canoeing, or swimming in the lakes. The cruise resumes towards Šipan, part of Elaphite islands near Dubrovnik, or towards Slano on the coastline. Both are small fishermen’s villages, in one of which we will stay overnight in the port and have the Captain’s dinner onboard (included on Premium Superior & Premium vessels).

Early in the morning, depart towards the final destination – a true pearl of the Adriatic. After lunch short swim stop. Join a guided tour of Dubrovnik, followed by an optional cable car ride up to Srđ mountain for spectacular views of the old town.  We recommend a stroll along the city walls, 1940 meters in length with magnificent views of the old town of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. Overnight in the harbour Gruž.

Check-out after breakfast and time to say goodbye to the crew and new friends!

* Legend: Legend: B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner, CD – Captain’s dinner