Venice to Dubrovnik Cruise Tour (Southbound)
Trip Length
11 Nights
Tour Type
Land & Cruise Tour
From: 4450 USD
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Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the treasures of Croatia, beginning in Venice (Italy), and then the enchanting coastal town of Opatija. Explore the diverse regions, from the historic town of Porec with its UNESCO-listed Basilica to the truffle-rich landscapes of Motovun and the artistic charm of Grožnjan.
Traverse south to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park before immersing yourself in the rich history of Split and embarking on an 8-day cruise through the Croatian southern isles. Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Trogir, Hvar, Vis, and Korčula. This opulent cruise offers invigorating swims in the crystal-clear sea, an exploration of traditional oyster farming secrets, and a memorable feast featuring fresh oysters paired with local wine. Delight in the essence of Croatian cuisine with traditional dinners set amidst scenic olive groves and fragrant lavender fields.
The adventure concludes with leisurely exploration in the stunning city of Dubrovnik, offering a perfect blend of romance, architecture, and history!
Inclusions/Exclusions
Included:
- All PRIVATE transfers/experiences in modern, air-conditioned vehicles
- Professional English-speaking guides and drivers
- 24-hour concierge assistance
- Transfer from Marco Polo airport or Piazzale Roma to Opatija
- 2 nights in Opatija, 4* hotel
- Private day trip to Pula and Rovinj with entrance fees and tastings included
- Private transfer to Plitvice
- Entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Transfer to Plitvice Lakes National Park
- 1 night in Plitvice Lakes, 4* hotel
- Transfer to the ship to embark your cruise
- 7-night cruise from Split to Dubrovnik, cabin with en-suite bathroom
- Welcome reception & cocktail
- Daily buffet breakfast and 3-course lunch (half board)
- Complimentary water
- Captain’s Dinner with welcome drink
- Complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day
- Fresh fruit available daily
- Professional English speaking cruise manager
- Cabin linen change midweek
- Luggage handling
- Daily cabin service
- Beach towels
- Free Wi-Fi
- Guided walking tours in Split, Korčula, and Dubrovnik
- Entrance fees to Krka National Park
- Home-hosted meal with drinks
- Half-day excursion of Ston with Oyster farm visit and tasting
- One-way bus transfer from Dubrovnik port to Old town Dubrovnik for sightseeing
- Spectacular cruise along the old town city walls of Dubrovnik
- 1 night in Dubrovnik, 4* hotel
- Transfer to Dubrovnik 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 you arrive in Venice, you’ll enjoy a private transfer to Opatija for your hotel check-in. Opatija is famous for its sea-side walks (Lungo Mare) and was a favorite summer destination for the Royal family of the Habsburg dynasty at the turn of the 20th century.
Begin your odyssey in Pula, a historic Istrian gem with a heritage spanning 2000 years. Uncover the secrets of the 6th largest amphitheater globally, once the epicenter of thrilling gladiator contests.
Traverse the western coast of the Istrian peninsula to Vodnjan, renowned for its olive and wine cultivation. A delightful tasting experience awaits you, featuring four wines and olive oil, perfectly paired with delectable homemade delights.
Conclude your adventure in Rovinj, a picturesque Istrian haven nestled on an island with vibrant Venetian-era houses huddled together at the water’s edge. Return to Opatija in the evening.
Private day trip to Istrian Hinterland with lunch and tastings included
From Opatija, we head down south to the Plitvice Lakes, where you’ll get to enjoy the splendor of the Plitvice Lakes National Park (tickets included) — sixteen cascading lakes embellished with natural caves and connected with numerous waterfalls!
Private transfer to Plitvice Lakes , Tickets to National Park Plitvice Lakes
Welcome to Split — this city is home to the monumental Diocletian Palace and rich history.
A transfer is ready to take you to the harbor for embarkation on your Split to Dubrovnik Cruise. After some leisure time in town, you’ll return to the ship to meet the captain and the crew, followed by a welcome dinner.
This amazing 8-day cruise will take you to enchanting vistas of Croatian southern isles and places like Trogir, Hvar, Vis, and Korčula — an awe-inspiring mix of Croatia’s rich history and breathtaking nature!
Overnight in Split
Guided walking tour in Split
Welcome Dinner Onboard
Enjoy breakfast as we sail to UNESCO-protected Trogir. This museum-town is literally packed with palaces,
churches, monasteries and towers, the main attraction being the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, probably the finest
example of sacral architecture in Croatia. Along the way there will be time for a swim stop in a secluded cove. Late
morning arrival to Trogir and time on your own. Lunch will be served on board while in port.
After lunch, 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.
We will exit Krka by taking a lovely boat ride down the river. Then, 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
Entrance fees to National Park Krka
Home-hosted dinner with drinks
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. Here, you will have an optional visit a unique winery with an interesting story and location. Their wines are top quality and some of
the best in Croatia.
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). Dinner on your own in one of Vis Town’s charming
restaurants.
Optional Wine Tasting
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)
After the Blue Cave, breakfast will be served on board. We’ll have a swim stop and continue to Croatia’s sunniest island. Hvar is known as a “yachter’s paradise”. Arrive in the afternoon and 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
Optional trip to Blue Cave
*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.
This morning, we continue to Korcula, stopping for a swim in the gorgeous turquoise water and lunch along the
way.
Upon arrival in Korcula, 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, continue discovering all the little nooks and crannies of Korcula, and enjoy dinner in one of the town’s charming local restaurants.
Overnight in Korčula
Guided walking tour in Korcula
In the morning, we set sail early for Slano. Along the way, enjoy a swim stop and lunch onboard.
In Slano, be prepared to sample the local delicacy: oysters! We’ll visit Ston, known for its Medieval walls and oyster farming tradition that spans over two thousand years. From there, 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 onboard.
Overnight in Slano
Half-day excursion of Ston with Oyster farm visit and tasting
Captain’s dinner
Our final day together brings us to Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. You’ll know why as you join our walking tour through the UNESCO protected old town and get a chance to see the city’s famous medieval walls.
After the guided walking tour of the Old Town, you have the rest of the day to experience Dubrovnik for yourself. When you’ve soaked up all of Dubrovnik’s warm and welcoming atmosphere that you can handle, our ship will be docked at Gruż Harbour. There are plenty of taxis, buses, and Ubers to bring you back.
Overnight in Dubrovnik
Guided walking tour in Dubrovnik
After one final breakfast on the ship, you’ll say goodbye to its wonderful crew and go for a check-in at your hotel. Enjoy a full leisure day of meandering through the amazing town of Dubrovnik, free to explore the town’s romantic streets and marvel at its rich architecture and history.
After the unforgettable twelve days of exploring the Croatian coast head to toe, you’ll check out from the hotel followed by a private transfer to Dubrovnik 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 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.
MS Lastavica
MS Lastavica is a modern mini luxury cruiser. It’s a blend of elegance and comfort, able to hold 36 passengers in 18 twin or double cabins!