Cruise the Croatian Coast: Dalmatian & Elafiti Islands - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Split, Cruise to Brač

Welcome to Croatia! Upon arrival at the airport in Split, your private transfer awaits to whisk you to the port. After boarding your ship and meeting your trip manager and fellow travelers, you'll set sail for the town of Pučišća on the island of Brač. Cruise southward down the Dalmatian Coast while enjoying lunch with new friends, before anchoring in a beautiful bay for the first of several swims in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. In the late afternoon, you'll reach Pučišća, docking at port for the night with plenty of time to explore. Return to the ship in time for dinner, where you'll get to know your fellow travelers over an onboard barbecue of local grilled meats and salads and raise a toast as the sun sets on your first day onboard.

Day 2: Brač & Hvar Islands

This morning takes you around the coast of Brač, stopping to have breakfast and swim off the famous Zlatni Rat or "Golden Horn." Enjoy lunch at anchor, before cruising to your port for the night in Jelsa, on the island of Hvar. This bustling town was once a significant center for shipbuilding and trade, and from here the island's best wines, olive oils, and dried fish would make their way around Europe. This evening takes you to a winery and organic farm on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stari Grad Plain. Here you'll enjoy an olive oil and wine tasting to truly appreciate some of Hvar's culinary offerings. Back in town, spend a relaxed evening at one of the many excellent restaurants or bars before returning to the ship for the night. 

Day 3: Hvar Island

Early in the morning, you'll continue to cruise around the north of the island of Hvar, to the next stop in Hvar Town. After breakfast and a long stop for swimming around the Pakleni Islands, a water taxi will pick you up to explore this beautifully maintained Venetian town. In the afternoon a guided tour takes you through some of the town's highlights, including the medieval Španjola Fortress, which has watched over the town since the 13th century and offers postcard panoramas of the town and surrounding islands. Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail with a view at one of Hvar’s many waterfront bars and lounges, and indulge in some of Croatia’s best nightlife outdoors as this buzzing town comes alive. 

Day 4: Korčula Island

Today you continue to cruise south to the island of Korčula, the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on board and plenty of time to swim in one of the beautiful bays near Korčula Town. Famous for its wine, Korčula is the perfect place to acquire knowledge of the famous Croatian grapes over a wine tasting. Afterward, join a private walking tour to hear all about the intricate history and culture of this beautiful little medieval town. Finish the day with a sunset cocktail high above the town’s medieval fortifications, then choose one of the many quaint little taverns or bistros for dinner. 

Day 5: Mljet Island & National Park

In the early morning, you'll continue cruising south to anchor off the island of Mljet, starting with a refreshing early morning dive into its mesmerizing blue waters. After lunch, head to the port of Pomena and continue to the stunning Mljet National Park. Here you can spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the park's two saltwater lakes surrounded by lush pine forests. You have the option to cycle, kayak, or even explore the small island monastery of St. Mary. After a well-earned dinner at one of the local eateries, return to the ship to watch another sensational sunset from the top deck. 

Day 6: Elafiti Islands 

This morning you'll set course for the Elafiti Islands, a small archipelago famous for its pristine scenery and secluded beaches. Today is a day of complete relaxation, with the option to take the dinghy over to Priježba Beach for 360-degree views of the Adriatic Sea. You'll drop anchor at the Elafiti's largest island of Šipan. Tonight, you have the option to join the "Captain's Dinner" for a celebratory onboard meal.

Day 7: Arrive in Dubrovnik

After a short cruise, breakfast, and a morning swim pit-stop in a secluded bay, you'll reach Dubrovnik with plenty of time to explore the myriad sights this amazing city has to offer. The "Pearl of the Adriatic" is not the largest city on the Dalmatian Coast, but it is certainly the most popular—and you will soon see why. Discover the city's impressive history on a walking tour with a local guide in the afternoon, keeping an eye out for the many recognizable locations made famous by Game of Thrones. You can also explore on your own if you wish, starting with the ancient city walls which have stood strong for centuries and protected the inhabitants from numerous hostile attacks. In the evening choose your favorite local dish for dinner at one of the city’s excellent eateries, then celebrate your final night in style at the Club Revelin, located within the 15th-century fortress of the Old Town. 

Day 8: Depart Dubrovnik

This morning you'll enjoy a final breakfast on board before checking out and disembarking, where a private transfer awaits to take you to the Dubrovnik airport for your outbound flight home. Safe travels!

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Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Croatia? Check out these other Croatia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights. 

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