Saturday. Split – Makarska. Hello Croatia and welcome aboard! Located in the heart of Dalmatia, Split became a popular retirement destination in the 4th century for Roman emperors such as Diocletian. Today, it's renowned for its variety of archaeological, historical and cultural monuments, among them the UNESCO listed Diocletian Palace. The first detailed tourist guide published in 1894, bears witness to the long tourist tradition in hospitable Split. Take some time to explore this Roman city - walk the streets where the Diocletian emperor once ruled and soak up the important historical sights.
Don’t miss the boat! Make your own way to the port, our cruise departs from SPLIT HARBOUR ON SATURDAY AT 13:00. From Split Harbour we cruise south to Makarska. If you require pre-tour accommodation we are able to offer suggestions, get in touch with our travel experts for recommendations.
Makarska – Mljet. Cast your 21st century worries adrift and get on with the business of sheer relaxation and soaking up the sun. Every day there are opportunities to swim and snorkel direct from the boat or from the sandy white beaches as our boat moors in sheltered bays and coves.
Today we cruise to the Peljesac Peninsula where we will stop to swim. With lunch onboard, we continue to the verdant green island of Mljet. Half of the island is a national park and is stunningly beautiful, with thick green forests of Aleppo pine encircling the two inland salt water lakes. The lakes, Malo Jezero (big lake) and Veliko Jezero (small lake), are interlinked and connected to the sea by a shallow tidal canal. In the middle of Veliko Jezero is the picturesque island of Saint Mary, home to a small 12th century Benedictine monastery, well worth the visit. The island is easy to navigate and it's possible to hire bicycles, motorized scooters, buggies and open top cars from the harbour. At dinner time try one of the many seafood kavarnas (taverns) along the waterfront.
In port at day’s end, head to a local restaurant or café. The freshness and variety of Croatian food is typical of Mediterranean cuisine. Seafood has a prominent place, as do fresh vegetables, cheeses and breads. Olives and grapes have been cultivated here since pre-Christian times.
Mljet – Dubrovnik. Arriving into Dubrovnik, we enjoy a guided tour and then spend the rest of the day independently exploring this ancient city. An optional cable car ride up to Srd Mountain is available to book locally, well worth the trip to enjoy the spectacular views of the old town. Much of the history of Dubrovnik can be characterised by its intact city walls, which run uninterrupted for 1940 metres encircling the city. This complex structure, one of the most beautiful and strongest fort systems in the Europe, is the main attraction to the city’s visitors. Five towers inbuilt along the city wall offer unforgettable views of the city and out to sea, and were once used to ward off invaders.
The old stone city is a labyrinth of criss-crossed cobbled streets and lanes, with a thousand and one taverns serving up cold beer and Mediterranean food, numerous souvenir and gift shops, many days can be spent exploring inside these city walls.
Dubrovnik – Sipan Island/Trstenik. This afternoon we set off for Sipan Island or Trstenik. Trstenik is a pretty harbour town, located on the north eastern tip of the Peljesac Peninsula. The quaint fishing village boasts beautiful unspoiled coves and beaches, fresh water springs and many restaurants and bars along the harbour side strip.
Sipan Island is historically fascinating. During the 15th century it was a chic summer getaway for the very best Dubrovnik families, many of whom built palaces on the island. Sipan’s beaches are never overcrowded so you’ll have no trouble finding a pleasant place to leap into the clear sea. Later, we enjoy a Captains dinner on board.
Sipan Island/Trstenik – Korcula. Today, we'll delve into the old town of Korcula. A distinctive maze of cobbled streets and limestone buildings, you'll discover a fascinating piece of history on each corner. Here we enjoy a guided tour of Korcula town and free time to explore Renaissance palaces, cathedrals and the tower of Marco Polo in the heart of this bustling island.
Korcula – Pakleni Islands – Hvar. En route to Hvar, we'll cruise the scenic Pakleni Islands. With crystal clear waters and secluded beaches, you'll have the chance to unwind in a true slice of paradise.
After lunch onboard, we'll head to Hvar. Upon arrival, we'll take a guided tour of Hvar Town and then free time is offered to wander the charming harbour town independently and immerse yourself in local life, sampling native wines, spirits and cuisine.
Hvar – Brac – Split. We'll cruise to the island of Brac, where we'll stop at famous Zlatni Rat. Known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the Croatian coastline, you can swim in the brilliant blue waters, stroll along the endless stretch of sand or explore the town.
Explore the nearby town of Bol on your own terms before lunch on board. We return to Split for a free afternoon and evening to explore the city at leisure.
Saturday. After breakfast onboard, our cruising adventure comes to an end in Split.
