Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro Cruise Tour (Northbound)
Trip Length
12 Nights
Tour Type
Land & Cruise Package
From: 4950 USD
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Overview
This captivating journey starts in the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, venturing into the awe-inspiring Montenegrin hinterland with visits to Njeguši, Cetinje, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and Kotor. After exploring the picturesque region, set sail on the Always Croatia Dubrovnik to Split luxury cruise.
Traversing the Croatian southern isles, explore amazing places like Slano, Hvar, Korčula, and the stunning Blue Cave on the Island of Vis. This luxurious cruise encompasses refreshing swims in the crystal-clear sea, immersing yourself in the secrets of traditional oyster farming, culminating in an unforgettable feast featuring fresh oysters paired with local wine. Additionally, savor the essence of Croatian cuisine with traditional dinners set amidst scenic olive groves and fragrant lavender fields.
Enjoy daily excursions, free nights in local bars and cobblestone streets, evening entertainment, and a stunning blend of history and nature!
The transition from the Adriatic to the inland wonders as you bid farewell to the ship crew, encountering the natural splendor of Plitvice Lakes National Park before delving into the historical and cultural tapestry of Zagreb.
Conclude this enriching adventure with a side trip to Ljubljana and the scenic Lake Bled in Slovenia!
Inclusions/Exclusions
Included:
- All PRIVATE transfers/experiences in modern, air-conditioned vehicles
- Professional English-speaking guides and drivers
- 24-hour concierge assistance
- Private transfer to Kotor
- 2 nights in Kotor, Montenegro, 4* hotel
- Private Highlights of Montenegro tour
- Private transfer to Dubrovnik with a stop at a local winery
- 7-night cruise from Dubrovnik to Split, cabin with ensuite bathroom
- Welcome reception & cocktail
- Daily buffet breakfast and 3-course lunch (half board)
- Complimentary water
- Captain’s dinner with welcome cocktail
- Complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day
- Fresh fruit available daily
- Professional English speaking Cruise Manager
- Cabin linen change mid week
- Luggage handling
- Daily cabin service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Group transfer to Dubrovnik Old Town
- Guided walking tours of towns: Dubrovnik, Korčula, and Split
- Spectacular cruise along the old town city walls of Dubrovnik
- Half-day excursion of Ston with Oyster farm visit and tasting
- Entrance fees to Krka National Park
- Home hosted dinner with drinks
- Beach towels
- Private transfer from Split to Zagreb with a stop in Plitvice Lakes. Entrance fees are included
- 3 nights in Zagreb, 4* hotel
- Private Zagreb historical walking tour with light lunch (štrukli)
- Small group tour to Ljubljana and Lake Bled
- Private transfer to Zagreb airport
Not included:
- Additional drinks not mentioned here
- Gratuities (recommended: roughly $350 for the week *per cabin*)
- International airfare
- Tickets to Blue Cave: €18 per person
- Visitor Port Taxes/Fees €60 per person
- Coffee outside of breakfast time
- Optional wine tasting: €35 per person
Itinerary
After a warm welcome from our driver at Dubrovnik airport, enjoy a scenic drive along the Bay of Kotor. Admire the otherworldly scenery and have the feeling that you’ve just stepped back in time.
You’ll enjoy a day trip to the Montenegrin inland, as we set out on a journey through places like Njeguši, Cetinje, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and Kotor! The area is celebrated for its profound historical importance and awe-inspiring natural scenery, acting as both the cultural spot of Montenegro and a significant religious center. Upon soaking in the wondrous Montenegrin hinterland, you’ll return to the hotel for a peaceful night’s rest!
Full day Highlights of Montenegro Private Tour
After early breakfast and checking out of the hotel, we’ll head back to Dubrovnik, taking a refreshing stop at a charming family-owned winery for an hour-long wine tasting bonanza with a view of the picturesque Savina monastery in the town of Herceg Novi.
Welcome to the “Pearl of Adriatic” – Dubrovnik, where you’ll board one of our luxury cruise ships as we embark on the Always Croatia Dubrovnik to Split luxury cruise. Settle in and meet your cruise manager over a welcome snack. Transfer to the city gates for a guided tour of the Old Town, exploring the narrow, car-free limestone streets with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
After the tour, return to the vessel for a welcome briefing where you’ll meet the rest of the crew, enjoy cocktails, and have dinner on board.
Over the next 8 days you’ll cruise the Croatian southern isles, visiting the most breathtaking places of Slano, Hvar, Korčula, and a beautiful natural Blue Cave on the Island of Vis — a cruise that offers a blend of Croatia’s rich history and mesmerizing nature!
Overnight in Dubrovnik
Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik
After breakfast, we’ll sail to the charming town of Slano. Along the way, enjoy a your first swim stop of the trip and
lunch onboard.
In Slano, be prepared to sample the local delicacy: oysters! We’ll visit the town of Ston, known for its Medieval walls
and oyster farming tradition that spans over two thousand years. We’ll take a short boat ride to the oyster farm in
the middle of the bay to taste these delicacies straight from the sea. Accompanied by a glass of Croatian wine, of
course. Return to Slano for our Captain’s Dinner with live entertainment on board.
Overnight in Slano
Oyster harvesting and tasting with drinks; Captain’s Dinner
In the morning, we will continue our sail to the island of Korčula with a swimming stop in the gorgeous turquoise water and lunch onboard. Upon arrival in Korčula, enjoy a guided walking tour and explore the narrow cobblestone streets of this well-preserved medieval town that is thought to be the birthplace of the world-famous explorer,
Marco Polo.
Afterwards, you can continue discovering all the little nooks and crannies of Korčula, or join us for an optional wine tasting in the gorgeous village of Lumbarda. Here, you will be delighted with snacks and a local varietal only grown
on the island, but the best part of this optional excursion are the breathtaking views of the village and Pelješac Peninsula during magic hour. It’s nothing short of spectacular!
Overnight in Korčula
Walking tour of Korčula
In the morning, we set sail towards the island of Vis. With lunch on board and a swim stop along the way, we arrive in Vis in the early afternoon.
Vis was once an important Yugoslav naval base and was closed to the public for years. Due to this isolation, Vis has a unique charm that feels like you’re stepping into a faraway time, making it one of our favorite stops.
In town, feel free to explore Vis at your leisure. We recommend visiting the Archaeological Museum located in the old Austrian fort Gospina Batarija (Batteria della Madonna). In the evening, enjoy one of Vis Town’s charming restaurants.
Overnight in Vis
Our sail begins early in the morning toward the Blue Cave*. This natural phenomenon is one of the highlights of the entire week and you’ll find out for yourself why! (entrances to be paid on the spot – approx. €18)
Hvar is known as a “yachter’s paradise” and as Croatia’s sunniest island. Explore the town’s historical center which includes the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe founded in the 17th century. Hike up to the Spanish Fortress which overlooks the harbor for lovely scenic views of the yacht-filled marina and the Pakleni islands. In the evening, Hvar offers many great restaurants, cafes, and bars with many open late into the night.
Overnight in Hvar Town
*Please note that the Blue Cave is only accessible with small boats through an entrance just 1.5m high so it is unfortunately easily made inaccessible by bad weather and high waves.
We’ll head back to the mainland now and arrive to Trogir after lunch, where we will board a bus to take us to the National Park Krka. Krka is one of Croatia’s most famous and picturesque national parks. The waterfalls and crystal clear waters are most impressive making this stop a client favorite.
After, we’ll head to a small village to the home of a local prosciutto maker. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner in his family home and get to know what the Croatian culture is all about.
Overnight in Trogir
Tickets to Krka National Park; Traditional Home-hosted meal and village party
We’ll begin our last day with free time in UNESCO-protected Trogir. This town is like a museum because it’s literally packed with palaces, churches, monasteries and towers.
We’ll then continue to Split. Upon arrival, join a walking tour with a local guide through Split’s old town to get acquainted with Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace and learn about Split’s rich history. After the walking tour, enjoy one of Split’s many restaurants or eateries, among the 4th century walls of the Palace.
Overnight in Split
Guided walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace
After this amazing seafaring adventure, you’ll say goodbye to the amazing ship crew and head inland to visit and explore Plitvice Lakes National Park (entrance tickets included)! After marveling at beautiful cascading lakes located in this enchanting forest region, you’ll venture further north to the city of Zagreb.
Tickets to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Step into an immersive journey in Zagreb, where ancient architecture and vibrant culture seamlessly blend. With a history spanning nearly a millennium, its streets and squares echo the tapestry of diverse cultures, inviting you to uncover its captivating depths. Take a historical walking tour around Zagreb – a real treat for history aficionados and legend seekers!
The walk ends with a delightful snack of Zagreb’s specialty dish, the famous štrukli.
Hotel Capital, Zagreb
Private Zagreb historical walking tour with light lunch
Today, you’ll head on an adventure to uncover the treasures of neighboring Slovenia. Your day begins in the enchanting capital, Ljubljana. Then, escape to nature and soak in the breathtaking vistas of Lake Bled and its castle. An expert guide will lead the way, sharing intriguing stories and revealing hidden gems.
Small group tour to Ljubljana and Lake Bled
This amazing and rich tour ends with an early hotel check-out, followed by a private transfer to Zagreb airport!
Your Cruise Ships
MS Premier
Premier has joined our fleet as the newest deluxe balcony ship for 2021. The ship has top-quality amenities, luxurious design and well-appointed cabins.
MS Ban
Constructed in 2017, the MS Ban is a lush way to explore the coastline and islands of Dalmatia.
MS Desire
Built in 2017, the MS Desire continues to be one of our favorite ships in Croatia because of the opulent design and top notch service on board.