Blue-green Aegean Sea touches Dubrovnik Croatia's cove with kayakers & sun seekers below terracotta roofs.
National Geographic Orion small ship with dark blue hull, yellow accents & white upper decks sits in turquoise sea in the sun.
Large palm tree sends green fronds in all directions beside beige castle walls with a red, white & blue Croatia flag flying.
Wide waterfalls cascade into blue-green water among dense forest at Krka National Park, seen on a Lindblad Croatia cruise.
Man in black t-shirt leans over castle wall to photograph small boats in harbor with turquoise sea on a Lindblad Croatia cruise.
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Europe Mediterranean Cruise

Treasures of the Adriatic: Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro

Encounter the wonders of Croatia and Montenegro, where aquamarine waters, lush isles and Venetian towns converge on one of Europe’s most enchanting rivieras. Explore the winding lanes of the medieval walled cities from Kotor to Dubrovnik, and travel inland to witness pristine nature reserves, including the waterfall-laced Plitvice Lakes National Park. Engage with the region’s rich cultural heritage through customs such as oyster farming, sword dancing and silk embroidery, learning about their importance from the people dedicated to preserving these timeless traditions. 

This exploratory cruise spotlights various landscapes and experiences that the Adriatic Sea region is known for. Experience Croatia’s stunning shades of blue and green on the forested isle of Mljet and amid the picturesque waterfalls and gem-like pools of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dubrovnik while strolling atop the ancient walls, trying your hand at oystering, or participating in a cooking or silk embroidery class.

Marvel at the medieval charms of fortified Montenegro, with options for wine tasting, hiking, or learning about olive oil production. Discover the captivating island of Vis—blending historical and natural allure—and experience the vibrancy of Hvar during kayaking excursions, island tours and scenic hikes. And explore the waterfall-laced landscapes around Krka National Park while hiking or birdwatching, or delve into a centuries-old jewelry tradition on the island of Zlarin.

The 102-guest Nat Geo Orion acts as floating basecamp. This small expedition ship comes equipped with enough kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and Zodiacs for all guests to enjoy at the same time. Additionally, select cabins offer private balconies for special moments taking in classic Aegean sunsets. Add a nearly 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio and you’re ensured attentive service. Food & Wine magazine sets sail with National Geographic Orion, curating an unforgettable culinary adventure at sea. Food & Wine magazine’s wine experts have curated an extensive wine list featuring over 40 regional varietals, perfectly complementing the journey with nightly onboard tastings. Plus receive exclusive guidance from both a National Geographic Photography Expert and Destination Expert on each departure.

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



Itinerary

Treasures of the Adriatic: Croatia's Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro Itinerary

This Treasures of the Adriatic cruise operates round-trip from Split, Croatia, with visits along the coastline and outer lying islands, plus Montengro’s Kotor.

Route map of Treasures of the Adriatic cruise round-trip from Split, Croatia, with visits along the Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro's Kotor.
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Day 1
Embark Split, Croatia

Arrive in Split and transfer to the ship. Embark your ship and settle into your cabin, enjoying your first Dalmatian sunset as you set sail.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Mljet National Park & Korčula

With one-third of its land designated a national park, the island of Mljet is one of the most heavily forested isles in the Adriatic—and the perfect place to experience Croatia’s rich shades of blue and green. This morning, go for a swim in the Great Lake, stretch your legs on a hike, or take a boat trip to the monastery on St. Marija Island. After lunch, experience all that the nearby island of Korčula has to offer, from wine tasting and cooking classes to a walking tour or hike. For those seeking a more heart-pounding experience, there is also the option for an off-road buggy excursion. Later, take in a Moreska sword dance performance, a celebrated Korčula tradition that dates to the 15th century.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Dubrovnik

Wake up at the ancient walls of Dubrovnik’s Old City—a UNESCO World Heritage site that is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world. Choose from several experiences to customize your day. Participate in a guided walk of the fortified walls, go oystering and enjoy a seafood lunch in the neighboring town of Ston, take part in an interactive cooking class in a quaint rural home, or learn about traditional silk embroidery at a local workshop.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Kotor, Montenegro

Tucked into a bay in the shadow of craggy mountains lies the Montenegrin city of Kotor. Wrapped in medieval walls and dotted with Venetian palaces, churches and red-tiled roofs, Kotor is widely considered one of the most beautiful ports in the Adriatic. Spend the afternoon wine tasting, learning about the production of olive oil, or hiking along the old city walls in search of the perfect photo op.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Komiža & Hvar, Croatia

One of the outermost Croatian islands, Vis was ruled successively by the ancient Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Austrians and Italians. It became a central Yugoslav military base during World War II, and only opened to tourists in the 1990s, making it less developed and less populated than many of its neighbors. On arrival in Komiža, a beautiful coastal town that weaves history and natural wonders, embark on your choice of several optional experiences, including a hike to the headquarters of Yugoslav resistance leader Josip Broz Tito, where he hid troops and weapons in extensive underground tunnels at the end of World War II and into the Cold War. Venture to hillside barracks and hidden bunkers, or spend the morning enjoying the charming downtown.

This afternoon, visit the vibrant town of Hvar—the region’s most prosperous port at the height of Venetian rule. See the area as you wish: kayak through the Pakleni Islands, enjoy an island tour, or choose from several incredible hiking options.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Šibenik & Krka National Park

This morning, the ship tucks into a narrow cut of St. Anthony’s Channel and sails past the UNESCO World Heritage site of St. Nicolas Fortress en route to Šibenik, a labyrinth of steep backstreets and alleys waiting to be explored. Join your local guides on an excursion to Krka National Park and walk along the boardwalk trail to visit Skradinski Buk falls, which cascade through the countryside. Go birding at Vransko Lake, hike along St. Anthony’s Channel, or visit Zlarin—the island of corals—with a jewelry tradition dating back to the 14th century. Tour the coral center to learn about Zlarin’s rich history.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Zadar & Plitvice Lakes National Park

The old town center of Zadar is the perfect jumping off spot to explore what this region has to offer. Enjoy a full-day excursion to the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park or visit the village of Pag for a walking tour and stop at the lace workshop and museum that showcases some remarkably intricate designs. Alternatively, join a mountain guide and hit the trails of Paklenica National Park. Or simply soak in Zadar’s many charms. After a day of exploring, enjoy the captain’s farewell dinner.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Disembark Split, Croatia

Arrive in Split this morning. Enjoy a farewell breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport for your flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, historian, naturalist staff and expert guides; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Treasures of the Adriatic cruise begins and ends in Split, Croatia (SPU). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Embarkation is in Split on the afternoon of Day 1. Disembarkation is after breakfast on the final day of the outlined itinerary. Your Adventure Specialist can provide flight arrival and departure guidance during the booking process. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page. 

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include oystering, an off-road buggy excursion, a monastery visit, cooking classes, a tasting, a dance performance, Zodiac and small craft cruises, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, yoga and stretching, hiking, birding, historical site visits, city tours, a museum visit and guided walks.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Aug 16 - Aug 23, 2025
National Geographic Orion • 8 days
From $9243USD
Per Person
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Aug 23 - Aug 30, 2025
National Geographic Orion • 8 days
From $9243USD
Per Person
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Aug 11 - Aug 18, 2026
National Geographic Orion • 8 days
From $9523USD
Per Person
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Aug 18 - Aug 25, 2026
National Geographic Orion • 8 days
From $9523USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Orion

102-guest National Geographic Orion is one of the most sophisticated vessel in its class. Small ship cruises aboard the Orion offer a luxurious exploration of Antarctica, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, Indonesia, the Mediterranean and beyond.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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