Itinerary – Split to Dubrovnik (8 Days)

Southern Pearls Croatia Cruise of the magnificent Adriatic visiting:

Route: Split – Makarska – (Bol) Stari Grad – Hvar – Bisevo (Blue Cave) – Vis – Korčula – (Mljet) Šipan or Slano – Dubrovnik

Route

The perfect way to fully experience Croatian islands and coastline is by sailing on an intimate luxury cruiser. Spend mornings on the spacious decks or swim in crystal clear Adriatic Sea and evenings to explore small historical towns, with a wide range of included guided tours, plus wine and gourmet experiences included in the price

SOUTHERN PEARLS CROATIA CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS:

Diocletian’s Palace Split, Golden Horn beach, island of Vis, Mljet national park, optional rafting on Cetina river or Zip line over Cetina river canyon, Dubrovnik.

Day 1 SATURDAY Arrival: SPLIT – MAKARSKA

Check in from 12:00 hrs. Departure from Split harbour at 13:00 hrs prompt (late arrivals can join in Makarska) and cruise along the Dalmatian coast towards Makarska, whilst enjoying lunch onboard. Afternoon swim at one of the wonderful beaches. From here, those feeling more adventurous can join our optional river rafting on the streams of the Cetina river or adrenaline pumping zipline over Cetina river canyon and meet the ship again in Makarska (book and pay locally). Overnight in Makarska, the famous tourist destination, with many restaurants and bars and a beautiful promenade along the famous beach. Enjoy the magic of Makarska Riviera and be sure to take a walk along the city streets – with an abundance of churches and other cultural sites.

Overnight in port
Meals (L)

Day 2 SUNDAY:  MAKARSKA – BOL (BRAČ) – STARI GRAD

This morning we continue our cruise towards the next destination – the island of Brač, more precisely to the town of Bol, known for its famous Zlatni Rat beach (Golden Horn), a natural phenomenon that dominates the other beaches with its specific form. After a swimming break at the horn and lunch, we continue our journey towards Stari Grad on Hvar island, the sunniest Adriatic island. Free afternoon to explore this unique town. The famous Stari Grad Field is the oldest in Croatia and the best preserved example of ancient Greek system of agriculture. Together with the old town it is a part of world heritage protected by UNESCO.

Overnight in one of the ports of Stari Grad, main or ferry port (2 km away) depending on availability in port
Meals (B, L)

Day 3 MONDAY:  STARI GRAD – HVAR

Departing Stari Grad for our next destination, the town of Hvar, a favourite destination for jet setters from all around the world. After lunch en route, we stop for swimming, relaxing and refreshment in clear, crystal blue sea at nearby Paklinski islands. Arrival to Hvar in the afternoon, followed by a guided tour of this extraordinary town (included on Premium Superior, book and pay locally on Premium). Hvar offers many cultural and historical sites; Renaissance cathedral, the oldest communal theatre in Europe founded in 1612, Franciscan monastery, the Benedictine convent listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and famous for their lace, Spanjola fortress towering high above the town … plus many small restaurants and bars, open late into the night.

Overnight in port
Meals (B, L)

Day 4 TUESDAY:  HVAR – (Blue Cave) VIS

Early in the morning we cruise towards the little Biševo island to visit the Blue cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon. As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the possibility of our visit will depend on those conditions, however you will be notified of this by the crew. Entrance to the Blue Cave is to be paid on the spot (approx. EUR 14 per person). We continue towards the island of Vis, which was a strategic navy harbour due to its unique geographical position and as such closed to the public until recently. Because of its isolation, Vis has a special charm -‘the Mediterranean as it once was’ which makes it really interesting to see. Situated on the northern side of the island, Vis was developed near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal baths, the City museum or simply take a walk enjoying the view of beautiful ”Villae Rusticae” situated along the coast.

Overnight in port (Vis)
Meals (B, L)

Day 5 WEDNESDAY:  VIS – KORČULA

During breakfast, we depart towards Korčula, the birthplace of the famous explorer and adventurer, Marco Polo. Surrounded by medieval walls, Korcula resembles a miniature Dubrovnik when approaching from the sea. It has more legends, tales and monuments than you will find anywhere else. Today, Korčula is the only place in the world where the Spanish medieval knight’s game,  Moreška, is still performed. Upon arrival you can enjoy a guided walking tour through the streets of the old town built in the shape of a fish bone (included on Premium Superior only, book and pay locally on Premium). Enjoy the numerous konobas / taverns, restaurants, cocktail bars or night-clubs located within and around the city walls.

Overnight in port
Meals (B, L)

Day 6 THURSDAY:  KORČULA – MLJET – ŠIPAN or SLANO

We continue cruising towards one of the greenest Adriatic islands – the island of Mljet, where the National Park is situated on the Western part. Free time to enjoy the beauty and activities of the National Park (two salt lakes connected by a narrow channel to the sea, a boat ride to the St Mary isle in the Great Lake, where the old church and monastery are situated. Cycling, canoeing and swimming in the lakes is permitted). We continue our cruise towards Šipan, part of Elaphite islands near Dubrovnik, or towards Slano on the coastline, both are small fishermen’s villages.

Overnight in port and Captain’s dinner on board
Meals (B, L, CD)
Mljet NP entrance fee pay locally in cash

Day 7 FRIDAY:  ŠIPAN or SLANO – DUBROVNIK

Early in the morning we depart towards our final destination – a true pearl of the Adriatic. After lunch, a short swim stop. Join our included guided tour of Dubrovnik, followed by an optional cable car ride up to Srđ mountain for spectacular views of the old town. We recommend a stroll along the city walls, which are 1940 metres in length with magnificent views of the old town of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands.

Overnight in the harbour Gruž
Meals (B, L)

Day 8 SATURDAY:  DUBROVNIK

After an early breakfast, say goodbye to the crew and your new found friends!
Meals (B)

Itinerary – Dubrovnik to Split (8 Days)

Southern Pearls Croatia Cruise of the magnificent Adriatic visiting:

Route : Dubrovnik – Šipan or Slano – (Mljet) Korčula – Biševo (Blue cave) / Vis – Hvar – (Bol) Makarska – Pučišća – Split

See price page for pre- and post-cruise short tours!  

Route

SOUTHERN PEARLS CROATIA CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS:

Dubrovnik, island of Vis, Mljet national park, optional rafting on Cetina river, or Zip line over Cetina river canyon, Diocletian’s Palace in Split

Day 1 SATURDAY:   Arrival DUBROVNIK – ŠIPAN or SLANO

Departure from Dubrovnik harbour Gruz at 13:00h prompt (late arrivals can join in Slano), lunch is served as we cruise along the Dalmatian coast, either on one of the Elaphiti islands – Šipan, or to the small village Slano on the mainland. Both are peaceful fishermen’s villages where there is often a fabulous sunset.

Overnight in the port
Meals (L)

Day 2 SUNDAY:  ŠIPAN or SLANO – MLJET – KORČULA

After breakfast, we continue our journey towards the island and national park of Mljet. Lunch on board, before free time to enjoy the salt lakes in the National Park (entrance not included, pay locally) and enjoy the sun and sea on this tranquil island. The large lake is inside the National park, and in the middle, you can visit an old abbey and church, or just use a canoe to explore the lakes in the National park. Bicycles can also be hired to cycle around the paths surrounding the lakes. We continue to the island of Korčula, where we arrive in late afternoon. Join our guided tour of Korčula (included on Premium Superior, book and pay locally on Premium). Surrounded by ancient walls and fortified bastions, Korčula’s old town is very well preserved with its layout and structure dating back to the 13th century.

Overnight in port
Meals (B, L)
Mljet NP entrance fee pay locally in cash

Day 3 MONDAY:  KORČULA – VIS

Early in the morning, we cruise towards the little island of Biševo and visit the Blue cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon. As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable our visit depends on prevailing conditions, however you will be notified of this by the crew. Entrance to Blue Cave is to be paid on the spot (approx. EUR 14 per person). We continue towards the island of Vis, which has unique geographical position and was once a strategic harbour for the Yugoslav navy – it was closed to the public until recently. Because of this very isolation, Vis retained a special charm of ‘the Mediterranean as it once was’ which makes it really interesting to see. Situated on the northern side of the island and developed near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, you may visit the remains of the Roman thermal baths, City museum or simply take a walk enjoying the views of the beautiful villae rusticae situated along the waterfront. For those wanting to see more – rent a car or scooter and explore this wonderful island independently.

Overnight in port (Vis)
Meals (B, L)

Day 4 TUESDAY:  VIS – HVAR

Our next destination is the tiny island of Šćedro near the island of Hvar where we have time to relax and refresh in the clean, crystal blue sea. Departure for Hvar after lunch followed by a guided tour (included on Premium Superior, book and pay locally on Premium). Hvar is the longest island in the Adriatic. Here you can see the magnificent, Renaissance cathedral with its original tower; also the oldest community theatre in Europe which was founded here in 1612. Hvar Town offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs, open long into the night. Hvar is often referred to as the sunshine and jet-set island.

Overnight in port (Hvar)
Meals (B, L)

Day 5 WEDNESDAY:  HVAR – BOL – MAKARSKA

We leave Hvar behind and continue our cruise towards the island of Brač, heading to the town of Bol, best known for its famous Zlatni rat beach (Golden Horn), a natural phenomenon that with its distinct shape and form dominates other beaches of Croatia. Directional winds and waves cause the shape of the beach to often change. After a swimming break at the horn, we continue towards Makarska with it’s truly Mediterranean feel. During a stroll you will discover numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sites.

Overnight in port
Meals (B, L)

Day 6 THURSDAY:  MAKARSKA – PUČIŠĆA

Early morning departure, as we continue towards Pučišća, a typical Mediterranean location, situated on the northern side of Brač island at the bottom of a deep bay. This place is home to the world famous white stone of Brač and there is the possibility to visit one of the few stone masonry workshops left in Europe.

Overnight in port and Captain’s dinner on board
Meals (B, L, CD)

Day 7 FRIDAY: PUČIŠĆA – SPLIT

Departure today for our final destination, the beautiful town of Split, a city where the old town and Diocletian’s Palace are under UNESCO protection. Diocletian’s palace is 1700 years old and the Emperor chose this spot for his retirement villa (some villa!). On arrival, join our guided tour of Split with an English speaking guide (included on Premium and Premium Superior).

Overnight in Split
Meals (B, L)

Day 8 SATURDAY:  SPLIT

After an early breakfast say goodbye to the crew and your new found friends!

Meals (B)

Premium and Premium Superior Vessels

Premium Superior vessels:
Recently built deluxe vessels featuring similar comfort, but are smaller in size – 38 to 41m in length. Air-conditioned cabins are 8 to 14m2 in size with double or twin beds, hair dryer and safety deposit box.

Seagull

Moonlight

Majestic

Dream

Amalia

Premium vessels:
Steel hulled vessels with modern traditional look offer accommodation in air-conditioned, spacious en-suite cabins with double or twin beds, hair dryer and safety deposit box. Ships are from 29 to 35m in length with cabins 8 to 14m2 in size.

Pape Prvi

Antonela

Vapor

EOS

Jadranska kraljica

Dionis

Price and Departure Dates 2025 – Southern Pearls Croatia Cruise

Departure dates 2025 (Saturdays). Prices in EURO per person in Twin/Double

Port tax & Visitors’ fee €60 per person – pay locally

8 Day Cruise Discounts and Supplements:

• Triple Share Cabin : 3^rd Adult in a triple cabin 30% discount
• Child Discount: Child under 10 years 50% discount
• Single Use Cabin: 50 % supplement for twin for sole use

8 Days Cruise Price Includes:

Buffet Breakfast daily
Meals as per itinerary – B = Breakfast, L = 3 course lunch, D = Dinner
Captain’s dinner
Olive oil and wine tasting on board
Afternoon tea and coffee
Unlimited drinking water (please bring your own water bottle)
English speaking tour manager on board
Three guided tours (Premium superior only)
One guided tour (Premium only)
Daily cabin service
Mid-week fresh set of towels and bed linen
Luggage handling
Free Wi-Fi

Not Included:

Flights
Transfers
Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Entrance to Mljet National Park to be paid locally in cash (approximately 25 EUR per person)
Gratuities for crew
Travel Insurance
Visa Costs (if applicable)
Port tax €60 per person per cruise (pay locally in cash)

Notes

• Check in: from 12.00 hrs
• Sailing at: 13:00 hrs prompt same day
• Check out: 09.00 hrs
• All itineraries and cruise vessels are subject to change without notice.
• The Captain reserves the right to change the route in case of adverse weather conditions
• All cruise departures are guaranteed, however if fewer than 10 participants are booked, The cruise operator reserves the right to cancel the departure and change the ship name if the need arises.
• Guests are obliged to follow the ship’s rules and regulations, found in written form onboard, especially in regard to bringing drinks on board (prohibited).
• In case of inappropriate behaviour the captain reserves the right to ask guests to disembark.
• Due to specific mooring conditions and requirements in some Croatian ports, ships are moored side by side, making it necessary for guests to cross from one ship to another, with gaps in between ships, in order to get to the shore.  In such cases guests need to take special care when crossing and do this at their own risk. Crew assistance will be given to those requesting it.
• The Cruise is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.
• Split Airport (SPU) Information
• Dubrovnik International Airport (DBV) Information
• Cruise Code: STACKL7

How to Book and Pay

• Please complete the booking form adding your credit card details via our secure system.
• We will respond by email with confirmation of your tour.
• Upon confirmation we will collect the non-refundable deposit of EUR 300 per person from the credit card provided.
• The balance payment will be collected 10 weeks prior to departure date.
• If you book within 10 weeks of departure date we will collect the full amount due from the credit card provided.
• If your selected date is not available we will offer you an alternative.
• Your card will not be charged until you accept the alternative offered.
• If you have any special requirements please add details in the notes section.
• After you have paid in full, you will receive a voucher and joining details for the tour.