Europe Mediterranean Cruise

The Best of Croatia Cruises

Discover the beauty of the Adriatic on this exceptional 8-day luxury Croatia cruise, operating between Venice, Italy and Dubrovnik, Croatia. Aboard a French luxury ship, fall under the spell of the hidden treasures of the Croatian coast and its turquoise waters. The voyage begins in Italy (or reverse) with an embarkation in Venice. Savor the opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the sublime city of the Doges, with its many canals, its vaporetti and its mythical gondolas.

On the Natural Wonders & Cultural Jewels of Dalmatia itinerary, sail south from Venice, Italy to Dubrovnik, Croatia. explore the Croatian coastline with visits to Rovinj, Zadar, Primosten, Split and Hvar. Go on to visit Korčula, full of olive groves, vineyards and ancient buildings. This is an island marked by history as the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. Sail to Montenegro for an unforgettable cruise in the Bay of Kotor. This impressive gash between two mountain ranges is home to a veritable inland lake with a magical atmosphere; the medieval city of Kotor and its many historical monuments are its jewels. Finally, plunge into the heart of Croatian history with a visit to the aptly named Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, its terracotta-tiled roofs, palaces, cloisters and fountains are bound to impress.

On the Cities & Splendors of the Adriatic itinerary, sail north from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Venice, Italy. Start by savoring local cuisine on a family farm in Dubrovnik, then discover Hvar in a Volkswagen Beetle and revel in the captivating atmosphere of Piran. Experience Croatia’s oldest city, Stari Grad, now listed with UNESCO for having retained its original agricultural landscape of vineyards and olive groves. Island hop from Bol to Brac, the proud home of the most beautiful beach in the Adriatic, Zlatni Rat, before calling at Rab with its emblematic bell towers and medieval walls. Brijuni National Park is a highlight with incredibly beautiful landscapes, ancient remains and surprising wildlife. Pula shows off tits dazzling Roman amphitheater while Slovenia’s medieval Piran offers Venetian architecture, ahead of a visit to Venice itself.

Passage is aboard 264-guest L’Austral or 184-guest Le Bougainville, both luxury expedition ships cruising the Mediterranean. Enjoy their elegant decor that reflects the seas in which they sail. Explore breathtaking medieval walled cities, romantic canals and magical bays off ship, then return on board your luxury ship for 5-star hotel service and a plethora of activities such as performances, culinary tastings and enriching lectures.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other small ship Croatia cruises, small ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean trips.