Dubrovnik to Opatija Deluxe Balcony Cruise

Start your deluxe balcony cruise in Dubrovnik, by taking a transfer from Dubrovnik International Airport or your local Dubrovnik hotel to the harbor. Our departure soon gets underway with a Welcome Lunch hosted as we sail to Korcula Island, known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. You’ll take a tour of the storybook-like Old Town, surrounded by defensive walls, gates, and towers, which have often been compared to a “mini-Dubrovnik.” As you explore, you’ll learn why the streets were laid out in a fishbone pattern and see quite a bit of Venetian influence. This evening, enjoy an authentic dinner on your own in one of the traditional konobas.

• Excursions Included: Guided tour of Korcula
• Meals Included: Welcome Lunch

Our next destination is Hvar, known for its high-end hotels, elegant restaurants, and hopping nightlife where you can rub shoulders with international jet setters and all sorts of VIPs. The island’s interior hides craggy peaks, lavender fields, vineyard-covered hills, olive groves, and ancient hamlets. You’ll enjoy a tour of the island after we arrive at Hvar’s port this afternoon. It includes a visit to a popular family-run vineyard where you’ll enjoy a tasting. We’ll return to Hvar Town in time for you to enjoy dinner at one of the many fine sea-view eateries and perhaps sample some of the nightlife too.

• Excursions Included: Guided tour of Hvar with wine tasting
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Continuing to one of the most vibrant cities in Croatia, Split was birthed when Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build his retirement residence here. Today, wandering through the huge complex is like traveling back in time, with many of the world’s most well-preserved Roman buildings here, dating all the way back to the early 4th century. It’s a maze of cobbled streets and alleyways second to none and you’ll explore them with our local guide. Afterward, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own – you might want to stroll the Riva seaside promenade (ideal for people-watching) before enjoying dinner.

• Excursions Included: Guided tour of Split
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

We’ll cruise on to Sibenik, with a swim stop and lunch served along the way. From Sibenik, join your Cruise Director and a local guide for a tour of Krka National Park. Walk the scenic trails for gorgeous glimpses of the turquoise river and magnificent waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. A short boat ride will bring you to Skradin along the Krka River before we make our return to Sibenik where you can enjoy it at your leisure. Stone steps and meandering alleyways seem to lead nowhere but are suddenly filled with surprises, from atmospheric squares to historic churches and the grand St. James Cathedral.

• Excursions Included: Guided tour of Krka National Park
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Sailing to the main city in North Dalmatia, Zadar is most famous for its Old Town with a 3,000-year history that’s completely pedestrianized and filled with numerous historic sites. It also offers wonderful modern delights. You’ll take a tour with a local guide and your Cruise Director to discover its many attractions, including the internationally renowned art installations along the waterfront. Created by Nikola Basic, they’ve enlivened the area attracting locals and visitors alike who often arrive just before dusk to take in what Alfred Hitchcock called the world’s most beautiful sunset. This evening, the Captain’s Dinner with live entertainment will be hosted onboard.

• Excursions Included: Guided walking tour of Zadar
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Captain's Dinner with live entertainment

Journeying to Rab Island, we’ll visit Rab Town, often called the Adriatic’s best tourist destination. Bounded by ancient city walls and recognized by its four church bell towers, after meeting up with your local guide, you’ll take a walking tour to discover the charming squares and enticing streets. With such magnificent beauty, many artists like to paint various scenes and you can see them at work as well as purchase pieces if you wish. Enjoy a tasting of the town’s famous Rab cake too, a recipe local nuns created for a visiting pope. You’ll have time to explore more and enjoy dinner on your own.

• Excursions Included: Guided tour of Rab Old Town
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Our final leg of the journey takes us to Opatija, a lovely coastal town and renowned 19th-century wellness resort popular among the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy. It’s a striking contrast from the towns you’ve visited thus far with many Habsburg-era villas. You’ll enjoy a locally guided tour here too, exploring its past and marveling at the architecture. A visit to the Chocolate Museum with a tasting will be included and you’ll also enjoy a stroll through picturesque Angiolina Park. Afterward, the remainder of the day is at your leisure. We suggest celebrating your trip in one of the elegant sea-view eateries.

• Excursions Included: Guided tour of Opatija with chocolate tasting
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Goodbyes are rarely easy and this one is certainly no exception. After an enchanting week exploring Croatia, your trip will soon come to an end. Be sure your bags are packed and ready before enjoying one final breakfast on the ship, it’s the perfect time to exchange photos and contact information with new friends made. When it’s time to disembark, say your farewells to the captain and crew, with your driver waiting to provide a private transfer to the airport or your onward Opatija hotel. A bespoke addition can be made to your itinerary if you’d like to explore elsewhere. Otherwise, we wish you safe travels! 

• Excursions Included: N/A
• Meals Included: Breakfast