Dubrovnik's imposing city walls around the Old Town
Caption: Dubrovnik's imposing city walls around the Old Town
Caption: Trogir harbourside
Caption: Hvar port viewed from above
Caption: The famous waterfalls of Krka National Park, Croatia
Caption: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Hvar at night
Caption: Historic Split, home of Diocletian's Palace
Caption: Plitvice Lakes, the unique national park which features on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Caption: The historic town of Stari Grad on Hvar Island
Caption: Mljet National Park is one of Croatia's natural wonders
Caption: Medieval Korcula sitting beside the Mediterranean

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Journey Snapshot

Activity level: Level 2 Requires moderate physical activity. You need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing steps and be comfortable with some periods of standing. Not suitable if you have limited mobility or require a wheelchair/mobility scooter.
Destination: Captivating Croatia Cruise & Stay
Duration: 14 days / 13 nights
Flight information: Economy flights from London Heathrow [LHR] to Dubrovnik Airport [DBV] and departing from Zagreb Airport [ZAG]to London Heathrow Airport [LHR]
Pickup location: Dubrovnik Airport [DBV]

Overview

Choose your own departure date for your group

Cruise azure waters, explore ancient palaces, discover vibrant cities and relax in nature - the coastal nation of Croatia has it all. Be captivated as we explore the country by land and sea on this unique holiday.

Join us as we become captivated by the fascinating country of Croatia! Starting in ancient city of Dubrovnik, whilst it has gained fame in recent years due to its link with Game of Thrones, the fortified town walls tell tales of many more eras of history.

From here, we make our way up the coast, stopping along the way at a mix of historic cities, idyllic coves, stunning national parks and beautiful scenery. Cruising we really get to appreciate the lovely blue waters and quaint islands for which Croatia is so famous. We discover the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia's jewels, the historic city of Split amongst others and our final destination, the vibrant capital, Zagreb. You will discover more and see why Croatia really is one of the most captivating countries there is!

Itinerary

Itinerary summary: DAY 1 - Arrive in Dubrovnik
DAY 2 - Discovering Dubrovnik
DAY 3 - Heritage, Traditions and Tastes of the Croatian Countryside & Boarding our cruise
DAY 4 - The Dubrovnik Coast
DAY 5 - Majestic Mljet National Park
DAY 6 - Korcula & Beautiful Biševo
DAY 7 - Exploring Hvar & Vis Islands
DAY 8 - Historic Trogir & Stari Grad
DAY 9 - Splendid Split
DAY 10 - Disembark & Krka National Park
DAY 11 - The Beautiful Plitvice Lakes & Optatija
DAY 12 - Exploring the Pula Peninsula
DAY 13 - Discovering Zagreb
DAY 14 - Goodbye Croatia
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Full Itinerary

DAY 1 - Arrive in Dubrovnik

Welcome to to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s most famous city. Upon arrival Dubrovnik Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, this evening enjoy a welcome dinner with the group.

Included meals: Dinner 
Accommodation: Valmar Hotel, Dubrovnik (or similar) 

DAY 2 - Discovering Dubrovnik

Today, we head off to explore Dubrovnik, the so called “Pearl of Adriatic".

Join a guided tour with panoramic ride followed by the stroll through the historical center of Dubrovnik, Stradun – both a street and a square, the most famous place inside the city walls and visit the Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy.


After our city tour, you will be on own to explore the city, walk City Walls, the Rector's Palace, and the Cathedral, take a boat ride to Lokrum island or take the cable car to the top of the Mount Srd. for amazing views over Dubrovnik and the coast. The evening is at leisure in the city

Included meals: Breakfast 
Accommodation: Valmar Hotel, Dubrovnik (or similar) 

DAY 3 - Heritage, Traditions and Tastes of the Croatian Countryside & Boarding our cruise

After breakfast, we head out of the area to discover a little more of the south of Croatia.

The county of Konvale lies south of Dubrovnik, approaching the modern day border with Montenegro. Between rolling countryside, we can get a glimpse of what life used to be like in the Croatian countryside. This afternoon we head out on our final, leisurely excursion to discover some of the history, heritage and crafts of this region.

The first stop is Cilipi to visit the Konavle County Museum, which present the women and men’s national dress of Konavle from various periods, textile handcrafts such as jewellery, musical instruments, artistic paintings, photographs and various items. Besides the ethnographic collection, the Konavle Heritage Museum also exhibits artefacts of the Cavtat Embroidery Association, whose collection has exceptional value with embroidery specimens from Croatia and neighbouring countries, something for which the area is famous.

We then head to our boat where we will join our cruise and enjoy a captain’s welcome dinner.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 4 - The Dubrovnik Coast

After breakfast, there’s a little time at leisure before we set sail from Dubrovnik, making our way up the coast towards the are known as the Dubrovnik riviera, with a chance of a swimming stop on one of the secluded bay. We enjoy dinner aboard this evening.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 5 - Majestic Mljet National Park

This morning we depart for the small village of Slano back on the Croatian mainland, a peaceful fishermen’s village, and the starting point for our afternoon excursion to Ston and the Pelješac peninsula. The peninsula is known as one of the best wine-producing regions in Croatia and famous for its oysters. After exploring the charming town of Ston, a once fortified small village, we leave to enjoy the authentic local oyster tasting.

Our cruise through the Croatian archipelago heads further north whilst we enjoy lunch onbaord towards the Island of Mljet.

Upon arrival, join the Cruise Manager for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park. Alternatively, you can rent bicycles, scooters, or kayaks to explore the National Park or island on your own. The park features five types of forest, many species of birds, and two deep lakes: Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). This spectacular island was supposedly a favorite holiday spot for the Greek hero Ulysses!

We overnight in Korcula, where you will have the evening at leisure. Korcula has an abundant choice of restaurants to enjoy your gourmet experience and there are numerous bars and clubs for those looking for evening entertainment as we overnight in Korcula.

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 6 - Korcula & Beautiful Biševo

Today we explore Korcula town in the morning. The island's main settlement is located on the eastern side of the island and is known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, one of the world’s most famous explorers of all times. We will stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays on the route before an afternoon arrival in Korcula. HEre will enjoy a guided walking tour of one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean

In the afternoon, we will cruise from Vis towards Biševo Island to visit the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon on the Biševo islet, just in front of the town of Komiža.*
This evening we dock in Vis, where you will be able to head out for dinner at leisure.

*The visit to the Blue Cave is weather permitting on the day.

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 7 - Exploring Hvar & Vis Islands

The town of Vis is on the northern side of the island of the same name was developed near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban center in Croatia, formed by the Greeks in the 4th century B.C. Here you can spend your morning at leisure - perhaps visit the remains of the Roman Baths, Church of Our Lady and City Museum or take a walk to enjoy the view of the beautiful Villae Rusticae situated along the coast.

In the afternoon, we sail through the archipelago to the nearby island of Hvar. A sightseeing city tour of Hvar town shows us the first public theatre in Europe and many more historical sites. Enjoy your evening in the island’s main city.

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 8 - Historic Trogir & Stari Grad

Stari Grad on the Island of Hvar is one of the oldest towns in Europe. The Stari Grad Plain and the old town center of Stari Grad have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 2008. This morning, enjoy time at leisure to explore Stari Grad on your own.

We rejoin the boat and lunch as we sail towards the old Dalmatian town of Trogir. Famed for its Ventian architecture, the city is packed with history. Founded by the Greeks, it was developed into a major port by the Romans before coming under rule from Venice. Trogir is sometimes referred to as “miniature Venice”, a “mini-Dubrovnik” because of its ancient walls, or a “floating museum town”, as it has a masterful architecture including some stunning palaces.
This evening, we dine onboard as we enjoy the Captain’s Dinner, with live entertainment onboard and a glass of wine.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 9 - Splendid Split

We continue on to Split, the final port of our cruise. On a walking tour of the historic inner city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will visit the imposing Palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian and will also see the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle, and the Cathedral.
Enjoy the final night of the cruise in Split.

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation: MS Summer (or similar) 

DAY 10 - Disembark & Krka National Park

After breakfast onboard, it is time to disembark our ship and board our coach as we being to explore the country overland.

We head inland to discover the pristine nature and waterfalls of the Krka National Park, rich with flora and fauna. After time for lunch at leisure, we continue to the historic coastal port of Zadar where we will overnight and enjoy dinner together.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 
Accommodation: Hotel Kolovare, Zadar (or similar) 

DAY 11 - The Beautiful Plitvice Lakes & Optatija

This morning we make our way inland to visit one of Croatia’s most famous sites - the magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

During walking tour of the National Park, we enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder with its 16 terraced lakes surrounded by forested mountains and lush vegetation. The tour takes us around several of the lower lakes. After discovering this natural wonder, we stop for lunch at leisure before continuing to the beautiful bay of Kvarner and its popular resort, Opatija, our base for the next two nights. On arrival, we enjoy an orientation bus tour of Opatija, showing the highlights of this former Imperial resort city before checking into our hotel where we will enjoy dinner together.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 
Accommodation: Hotel Amadria Park, Opatija (or similar) 

DAY 12 - Exploring the Pula Peninsula

Today we head out to explore the historic Pula peninsula. After breakfast, we drive along the coast to visit the city of Pula. A guided tour will tell us about the city’s history and, walking in the footsteps of the Romans, we visit the city's famous amphitheatre.

We continue to Rovinj, possibly the most romantic town in Croatia, which boasts a charmingly picturesque old town. We walk around the Old Town’s winding streets to the foot of the Church of St. Euphemia, a favorite gathering place of artists from around the world.

Lunch is at leisure in Rovinj, before we return to Opatija and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Included meals: Breakfast 
Accommodation: Hotel Amadria Park (or similar) 

DAY 13 - Discovering Zagreb

We depart the coast for the final destination of our tour of Croatia, the capital city, Zagreb., Upon arrival, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Zagreb, taking us through the historic Upper Town. We will pass both St Mark’s Church and St Catherine’s Church, as well as the Cathedral and the Government Palace, before entering the Croatian Parliament building.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the city before we rejoin for one final group dinner to round off our Croatian adventure.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 
Accommodation: Hotel Westin, Zagreb (or similar) 

DAY 14 - Goodbye Croatia

After breakfast, its time to bid farewell to Croatia. You will be transferred to Zagreb Airport for your flight home. 

Included meals: Breakfast 
Accommodation: none 

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More information

What's includedWhat's not includedImportant information

What's included

  • ATOL Protection
  • Return economy flights from London Heathrow [LHR] to Dubrovnik Airport [DBV] and departing from Zagreb Airport [ZAG]to London Heathrow Airport [LHR]
    • Regional departures available on request at a supplement
  • Meet & Greet at Dubrovnik Airport on arrival
  • Transport as detailed in the itinerary
  • Hotel Accommodation as detailed in the itinerary
  • Meals as detailed in the itinerary
  • 7 nights/ 8 days one-way cruise from Dubrovnik to Split
    • Room service every day, changing of the towels and bed linen midweek
    • Welcome Reception & Captain's Farewell Dinner
    • English speaking cruise manager
    • Complimentary onboard WIFI
    • Mandatory Port Taxes
    • Unlimited filter coffee, tea, water onboard
  • All activities, visits and excursions as detailed in the itinerary
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Tour Director from The Big Journey Company as well as the local tour guide (subject to minimum group size being reached)

What's not included

  • Airport transfers outside of tour dates
  • Drinks
  • Gratuities
  • All entrance fees to non-stipulated attractions
  • Visas, travel insurance
  • Any personal items and anything not mentioned under included in price above
  • Any meals not mentioned in itinerary
  • Any optional activities offered
  • Any COVID tests or related entry & exit requirements

Important information

  • Please let The Big Journey Company know prior to travelling if you have any medical needs or take any medication that we need to be made aware of to ensure that you have a safe and pleasant tour.
  • Check in is after 2 - 3pm and check out is before 10am unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
  • Cancellation 90-0 days prior to departure cancellation fee is 100%. It is your responsibility to ensure the correct travel insurance in place to protect you against the need to cancel your holiday. Deposits are non-refundable. Balance payments are due 14 weeks prior to departure.
  • Further terms and conditions apply and will be provided upon request or at the time of booking. The Big Journey Company reserves the right to withdraw any offer prior to accepting a reservation request. This does not affect your statutory rights. This offer is subject to availability and space is limited.
  • Please consult your doctor for advice on vaccinations and innoculations before travel.
  • A valid passport, with an expiration date longer than 6 months after the date of return, is required of all passengers.
  • The boat may moor side-to-side with others in port and it may be necessary to cross ships to get to the shore, therefore, the cruise is not recommended for passengers in wheelchairs or with limited mobility. 
  • In the event of adverse weather conditions, the captain can choose to alter the itinerary for the comfort and safety of the passengers.

The big journey promise

The big journey company was set up with one goal in mind, to share our passion for inspirational cultures, destinations and experiences. Over the last 10 years we have had the privilege to escort thousands of travellers on awe inspiring and sometimes life changing journeys. Our promise to every guest who joins us is that we will do everything possible to make sure your journey not only exceeds expectations but delivers at least one moment of true amazement.

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Holiday tours are operated by The Big Journey Company Limited. Registered in England. Registered office: Marron Bank, Branthwaite, Cumbria, CA14 4SZ. Registered number: 6532140. The Big Journey Company Limited is a member of The Travel Trust Association member number U5675 and holds an Air Travel Organiser’s License number T7282.

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