Eight Million & One Dalmatians: Venice to Dubrovnik Cruise

The true magic of Venice is that no matter how many times you visit, it remains a surreal experience. It’s almost impossible to believe that people live and go about their daily lives in this ‘movie-set’ city. Founded in the 5th century as a refuge from barbarian invasions, Venice rose to become a powerful maritime republic and a major center of trade and culture during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. At the height of its wealth and influence, Venice expanded its empire, leaving an indelible mark across the Mediterranean, evident in the architecture, art and culture from the Dalmatian coast to the Ionian Islands.

Unlike many great cities, Venice lacks grand boulevards, world-class entertainment facilities and bright neon signage. Its true allure lies in the city’s ability to transport visitors to another world. It is the Venetians who reveal Venice’s true character. In winter, they wear real fur and don sunglasses day and night as they emerge from hidden trattorias, skillfully avoiding the tourist menus. They navigate the city using vaporetto’s, not gondolas, purchase Murano glass directly from the island of Murano, and shrug off remarks regarding the canals’ odors with disdain.

Today, your Venetian guides lead you through their city as honored guests. Spend time in Saint Mark’s Square, marvel at the eclectic Saint Mark’s Basilica, sigh at the Bridge of Sighs and navigate the maze of alleys leading to the Rialto Bridge. No visit to Venice is complete without an exploration of the city’s canals by gondola. Your gondolier will navigate through a series of waterways, offering a unique insight into the other side of Venice—a view from the city’s many canals. Choose to return to the hotel with your guide or make your way to your coach transfer point later in the day. Venice is yours to explore.

This evening you meet your host and fellow travelers to celebrate your journey with a welcome event.

A mere 15 miles (24km) west of Venice sits the Venetian city of Padova, where you’ll enjoy a short, locally guided tour and time to explore independently. Famous as Shakespeare’s Padua, this university city is a hub of history, culture and academic prestige. Home to one of the oldest universities globally, founded in 1222, Padova buzzes with intellectual energy from its students and scholars. Explore Padova’s medieval and Renaissance heritage, centered around the Basilica of Saint Anthony, a pilgrimage site housing relic of the saint. The city’s historical center features elegant palaces, lively piazzas and charming cafes lining narrow alleys. Beyond its cultural landmarks, Padova offers culinary delights such as traditional risotto and Venetian-style cicchetti, served in local osterias, promising a blend of history, art and Italian charm that is distinct from its famous neighbor.

Mid-afternoon, leave Padova and drive to the port of Fusina on the Veneto lagoon, where you’ll board the ship and sail east towards Slovenia. This evening, enjoy a welcome aboard dinner, where you’ll meet your crew and guide team.

Delightfully medieval at its core, the coastal town of Koper acts as your gateway to Slovenia today. Nestled at the crossroads of Central and Southeastern Europe, Slovenia’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its history. Influenced by the Roman Empire, a millennium under the Holy Roman Empire, and over five centuries of Habsburg domination, Slovenia’s people are historically Slavic, yet their heritage is heavily influenced by Austria and their previous rulers, especially where food, beverages and styles are concerned.

After World War I, Slovenia joined the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia), gaining independence in 1991 following a brief conflict with Yugoslav forces. Slovenia swiftly integrated with its Western neighbors, becoming an EU member in 2004.

Head inland to the scenic gem of Lake Bled, tour the haunting cliffside Predjama Castle, or remain on the coast for a morning in the picturesque seaside village of Piran, as you experience the delights of your first slice of Slavic life.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning Piran with Wine Tasting tour, discover Slovenia’s oldest town on a walking tour, followed by a visit to a local winery for a tour and tasting with snacks. Also in the morning, visit Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle for two of Slovenia’s most popular sites, with a train ride and walking tour in the caves, and a visit to Predjama Castle for Renaissance architecture, intriguing history and breathtaking views. Or opt for the full-day Lake Bled tour, to visit the Julian Alps on a 30-minute wooden boat cruise, and enjoy a traditional meal and free time at Lake Bled’s lakeshore resort.

Sailing south, say farewell to Slovenia and enter Croatia at the famed Istrian Peninsula.

Meet the people living in the ‘borderlands’ today. The Istrian Peninsula, situated at Croatia’s entrance, is steeped in a profound Roman heritage. Ancient ruins like well-preserved amphitheaters and temples dot its terrain, bearing witness to centuries of Roman influence. Istria’s prized olive oil tradition underscores its Mediterranean charm, with groves dating back through the ages. The wealth brought by this ‘liquid gold’ to the former Roman colony still resonates today, making Istria a favored holiday destination for Italians, Slovenians and Croatians alike. Among its gems, romantic Rovinj shines as Istria’s star attraction—a picturesque Mediterranean fishing port with morning markets, scenic cliffside views, renowned restaurants, beautiful beaches and a year-round calendar of cultural events. Climbing the bell tower offers vistas of Rovinj’s historic center and the Adriatic Sea beyond.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Roaming Rovinj & Pula tour, walk the Old Town section of one of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque towns, then visit Pula for its Roman heritage, including one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Opt for the Medieval Enclave of Motovun tour for a walking tour of the walled medieval enclave including one of the last preserved lowland Mediterranean forests, with free time in town. Or the Istria’s Liquid Gold locally guided walking tour explores Rovinj and then heads to the countryside for an olive oil property tour and tasting, complete with smoked ham, cheese, bread and wine.

Located in the Kvarner region of the northern Croatian Adriatic Sea, Rab is among the “greenest” Croatian islands, thanks to its mild climate. The island’s historical heart is the town of the same name, where medieval charm pervades its narrow streets. Many buildings date back to the 13th century, reflecting Rab’s years spent under Venetian rule. Climbing the Rab Bell Tower rewards visitors with views of the town and sea, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past. Unique among Croatian islands, Rab is famous for its sandy beaches, particularly around the Lopar Peninsula. These golden shores, combined with the island’s historical allure, make Rab a captivating destination.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Walking Rab & Crossbowmen Visit, experience the town’s iconic sites, and meet a member of the town’s legendary crossbowmen association for a view of traditional weapons and stories of their role in Rab’s defense during the Middle Ages. The Rab Peninsula Scenic Cruise & Beach Stop for a short cruise to a monastery for a walking tour followed by another short cruise for beach time.

This afternoon, immerse in a Croatian tradition, with a concert by a klapa group. Inscribed in 2012 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, klapa is uniquely Croatian.

This multipart a cappella tradition from southern Croatia’s Dalmatia region features groups of singers, including first tenors, tenori, baritoni and basi. Performers stand in a semicircle, with the first tenor initiating the song, to create a harmonious blend of voices. Often dealing with themes of love and local life, klapa songs are performed using open guttural, nasal and falsetto techniques without notation. The tradition, passed down orally, includes ‘traditional klapa’ for its adherence to custom, ‘festival klapa’ for formal performances, and ‘modern klapa’, where younger singers learn through experiences and recordings. Klapa singing remains a vital marker of musical identity in local communities in Croatia, with several groups calling Rab home.

Situated adjacent to the mainland on the Croatian Adriatic Coast, Zadar derives its name from its ancient roots as Iadera, evolving through Roman, Byzantine and Venetian influences. Its strategic coastal position made it a pivotal hub for trade and cultural exchange. Zadar is celebrated for blending ancient history with modern innovation. The city’s Sea Organ, a creation by architect Nikola Bašić, is particularly unique. It features a system of pipes and whistles integrated into perforated stone steps descending into the sea, producing haunting sounds as waves move air through them. Nearby, Bašić also designed a pavement with 300 glass plates, which illuminate in an enchanting light show after dusk. Sail after sunset this evening, so that you may enjoy this technological marvel, which is only a short stroll from your berth at Zadar’s port.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, Walk Zadar’s Old Town with a local guide for the Cathedral of St Anastasia, museum of gold and silver, and a cake and maraschino liqueur tasting. Also in the moring, the Unique Story of Maskovica Han & Karaba Winery tour for the lavish historical property of Maškovića Han, a snack and a tour and tasting at one of the region’s famed wineries. The full-day Nin, the Story of Salt & Škaulj Winery tour explores the lagoon-protected town of Nin and its historical significance to the Roman Empire and the first Croatian kings, on foot. Then visit Nin Salt Works, where the product is naturally produced. End with a traditional lunch, followed by a tasting at the award-winning Škaulj Winery.

Your port city of Šibenik boasts a rich culture waiting to be discovered. Founded in the 11th century, it is one of the oldest Croatian towns. Šibenik’s most iconic landmark is the UNESCO-listed St James Cathedral, an architectural marvel constructed entirely of stone in the 15th and 16th centuries. The city’s fortresses, like St Michael’s and St Nicholas, offer stunning views and a glimpse into its strategic importance through the ages. During the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s, Šibenik faced significant conflict but emerged resilient, rebuilding and preserving its historical heritage. The people of Šibenik are known for their warm hospitality, celebrated through traditional festivals, music and culinary delights. This blend of history and lively local culture makes Šibenik a captivating destination for travelers.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning Scenic Cruise & UNESCO Sights of Šibenik tour, take a short cruise through St Anthony’s Channel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed St Nicholas Fortress for a locally guided exploration; continue to other local monuments and points of interest. Another morning tour is Croatia’s Liquid Gold, head to St John to learn about olive oil production and sample some, then on to Baraka Winery for a tour and tasting of their traditionally produced varietals. The full-day option is A Taste of Croatia-Lunch with Wine Tasting, with a vineyard/winery tour and tasting paired with a seven-course lunch of traditional dishes in prepared by the Sladić Family in the picturesque village of Plastovo.

Split’s blend of ancient sites and modern delights promises a rich experience at every turn. This 1,700-year-old living museum is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ports on the Adriatic Coast. Split’s heart beats within Diocletian’s Palace, commissioned in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor himself, seamlessly blending ancient grandeur with modern-day markets, cafés and shops. The city’s Roman legacy echoes through its street layout and the remnants of ancient walls and columns are scattered everywhere.

Don’t miss exploring historical sites like the Cathedral and Bell Tower of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian’s mausoleum, or browsing the souvenir stalls in Diocletian’s Cellars, once used as the palace’s storage rooms. While you are here, be sure to rub the big toe of the Grgur Ninski statue. Sculpted by Ivan Meštrović, this massive statue is one of the defining images of Split. The 10th-century Croatian bishop, Gregory of Nin fought for the right to use old Croatian in liturgical services instead of Latin. His left big toe has been polished to a shine–it’s said that rubbing the toe brings good luck and guarantees that you will return to Split.

Your experiences today offer a selection of morning and full-day options. For those wishing to return to Split this afternoon, the town is around a half-mile (1km) from the ship dependent on our final berth allocation.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning Split & Salona tour, join a local guide to the ruins of Salona, a former capital whose remains are considered Croatia’s most important archeological site; then visit Split’s Old Town on a walking tour, followed by free time before returning to the ship for lunch. On the morning Fortress of Klis & Stella Croatica Ethno Village tour, visit a medieval fortress which appears in “Game of Thrones,” followed by an orchard and olive grove walk at the living museum of Stella Croatica Ethno Village for a look into traditional ways of life.

The morning Pirate Town of Omiš & Cruise on the Cetina River excursion features a scenic drive and river cruise to an old mill for snacks and refreshments, followed by lunch back on board or on your own in Split. And the full-day UNESCO Feast—Split & Trogir visits the UNESCO-listed Trogir with a local guide for Renaissance-era architecture and free time before returning to Split for lunch on board, followed by a locally guided walking tour of Split’s UNESCO treasures, including the possibly the oldest cathedral in the world.

This morning, disembark the ship for your overnight stay in the coastal gem of Dubrovnik. There is a selection of experiences to enjoy prior to arriving at your hotel. This evening, look back on your journey when you gather for a “very Dalmatian” farewell event.

This stunning walled city boasts a history spanning over a millennium. Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik thrived as the Republic of Ragusa, a prominent maritime power. Its strategic location encouraged trade across the Mediterranean, with the associated wealth shaping its unique blend of architecture and culture. Throughout its history, Dubrovnik faced periods of prosperity and challenges, including conflicts with rival states and invasions. The city’s formidable defensive walls, begun in the 9th century and expanded in the 14th and 15th centuries, symbolize its strategic significance.

In modern times, Dubrovnik gained global recognition as a filming location for motion pictures such as “Game of Thrones,” where its ancient walls and historic streets provided the backdrop for King’s Landing. Today, Dubrovnik’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including churches, monasteries and palaces, continues to attract visitors seeking to explore its rich heritage and cinematic allure along the scenic Adriatic coast.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). The Locally Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik & its City Walls experience historical buildings and landmarks, shops, cafes, and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below. Choose the Walking Dubrovnik & St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery Herbal Gardens tour for highlights of the Old Town before a trip out to the lush valley of Zupa Dubrovacka, to discover the St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery and taste its unique products. Or opt for the Cultural Visit to Konavle Valley & Gruda Village for the rural Konavle County Museum with its national costumes, textile crafts, jewelry, musical instruments and more, then continue to Gruda Village to learn about its famous silk production and take in a local dance performance.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Dubrovnik and the enchanting stories of Dalmatia.  An airport transfer with your fellow travelers is included for your onward journey.