Navigate the gorgeous coastline of Croatia in both style and comfort on this small-ship-based Split to Dubrovnik, or Dubrovnik to Split cruise. A unique detour in Bosnia and Herzegovina, navigating the spectacular Neretva River and visiting either the waterfalls of Krka National Park (northbound) or the colorful island of Brac (southbound) highlight this adventure cruise route that offers a bit of everything, including nights at port to dine out on your own. Get an authentic taste of what the Dalmatian Coast has to offer on this exciting and varied cruise adventure.

Passage is aboard the 36-guest M/S Aurora, a motor yacht with a purpose-built swimming platform for dips in the Adriatic Sea. Weather permitting, the captain will be stopping the ship for regular swim breaks during the trip. Soak up the sun, sea and salty breeze as you sail through the azure waters of the Adriatic, experiencing impressive islands, meandering rivers, stunning beaches and historic towns. Combine a healthy dose of cuisine and culture with a beautifully designed ship, and you have the perfect way to explore the Croatian coast.

While large cruise liners have to moor out at sea and commute into shore via tender, the Aurora can drop anchor in the middle of port towns like Hvar or Korcula, where you can hop on or off the boat as you please. There are no long days at sea since the distance between islands is short. There are plenty of excursions, short walks and port stops. Opt for visiting the Brac, the longest island in central Dalmatia, on the southbound route, or Krka National Park, where you’ll get to see stunning waterfalls and secluded pools, on the northbound route. Another highlight is a special detour to Mostar, in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s not a stop featured on many Croatia cruises. You’ll see the town’s iconic bridge and have the chance to watch a coffee demonstration followed by a sample of this well-loved brew. Drop an anchor in Hvar and indulge in the glitz and glamour of this chic island. And venture up the River Neretva. Wander through the romantic old town of Korcula and enjoy tastings at a local winery, and dock in the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik.

Departures cruise southbound from Split to Dubrovnik, or northbound from the same ports. Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Croatia small ship cruises and small ship Mediterranean cruises.

Southbound Split to Dubrovnik Cruise Itinerary

Split, Croatia, Transfer to Omis & EmbarkDubrovnik, Croatia

Enjoy 8 days of coastline and island hopping on this southbound Split to Dubrovnik cruise itinerary. The southbound itinerary uniquely includes the island of Brac and a tour of Dubrovnik with a local guide. An extra lunch is also included in the half-board meals.

A red line showing the southbound route of Croatian Coastal Cruising from Split (via Omis) to Dubrovnik.

Dobro dosli! Welcome to Croatia. There is so much to see and do in the port city of Split, where your journey begins, so it’s recommended you arrive a couple of days early. Your adventure begins at 4:00pm, when you’ll board a private bus for a short drive to the town of Omis. When you arrive, you’ll board the boat for a welcome meeting and safety briefing with your fellow travellers. This evening, sit down for your first group dinner on board and get to know each other.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Dinner

This morning sail to the colorful island of Brac. Along the way, stop for a swim in the glittering ocean and enjoy lunch aboard the boat. When you arrive in Brac, the longest island in central Dalmatia, head to the Skrip Museum. As the oldest settlement on the island, this regional museum is full of fascinating history. After, visit the Olive Oil Museum to explore the history of this cooking staple on the island. Here, you’ll also have the opportunity to taste some local olive oil along with some local produce (and pick up a souvenir, if you fancy). Tonight, enjoy some free time exploring Brac or lounging on the boat.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Set sail for the island of Hvar, enjoying breakfast on board. Stop to swim in the waters of the Adriatic at a secluded beach close to Stari Grad, Hvar’s old town. Arrive in Stari Grad around midday and look across one of Europe’s oldest towns while lunching on board the Aurora. Next, take a bus to explore the island known as the “Queen of the Dalmatian Islands.” Visit a nearby farm and try local produce. Afterwards, drive to Hvar town for an orientation walk, then enjoy free time to explore. Return to Stari Grad and dine at a local restaurant of your choosing. Overnight in Hvar (Stari Grad).

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Set sail early towards Opuzen, breakfasting on board and then stopping to swim. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail up the Neretva river towards Opuzen. On arrival, jump into small wooden boats for a leisurely cruise through the surrounding wetlands (with local snacks and music on board). End up at a beautiful local restaurant overlooking the water for Peka veal and other local dishes then board the boats and return to Opuzen. This evening, you may like to venture out to a couple of the bars around the town square to meet the locals and soak up the atmosphere.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

It’s an early start this morning as you make your way to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina by minibus. When you arrive, take a tour with a local guide, learn about the history of the iconic bridge and visit a local coffee shop where you’ll see how Bosnian coffee is made. Then, taste it for yourself! You’ll then have some free time to explore the town and have lunch at your own pace. Return to the boat the early afternoon and set sail for Trpanj, where you’ll visit the Matusko winery for a tasting and to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the vineyards. Return to the boat to enjoy a four-course dinner with the captain. Overnight in Trpanj.

Note that Mostar’s position in a river gorge can make it extremely hot. The streets of the old quarter are paved with river rock which can be a bit slippery and tricky to walk on. On this day, please ensure you have good walking shoes, a hat and drink plenty of water.

Optional, added cost activities this day may include visits to the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque, War Photo Exhibition, Old Bridge Museum and Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque & Minaret.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

After breakfast on board, enjoy a mid-morning swim stop in beautiful clear turquoise waters of Loviste in the Peljesac peninsula. Return to the ship and set sail for Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo, with lunch on the way. This afternoon, join your leader for an orientation of the town followed by a local guide-led tour. This evening you’ll be spoiled for choice with many restaurants overlooking the waterfront; ask your leader for their recommendations. Spend the night at port, with the boat rocking gently with the water.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Leave early this morning and cruise to Dubrovnik, stopping mid-morning for a swim near the island of Jakljan. Take your lunch on board before arriving in Dubrovnik in the early afternoon where you’ll join a local guide to explore this beautiful walled city. This evening enjoy a farewell four-course dinner with the captain and your travelling companions on board.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Your adventure along the Dalmatian Coast ends after breakfast this morning. With no activities planned, you are free to leave at any time.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Accommodation as listed in itinerary; complimentary airport arrival transfer; 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 4 dinners; excursions & transportation as listed in itinerary; complimentary WiFi onboard (coverage intermittent); use of beach towels and snorkeling equipment; services of a group leader.

Exclusions

Airfare; visa and passport fees if needed; meals other than those specified; optional activities; all personal expenses including alcoholic beverages and gratuities; travel insurance (required). Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your international trip concludes.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a non-refundable deposit of $400 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 30% of total trip cost
59 to 30 days – 60% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

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 southbound Split to Dubrovnik cruise begins in Split (SPU) and ends in Dubrovnik (DBV). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. A complimentary arrival transfer is included from Split Airport to Omis for embarkation on Day 1 of this trip, or from the airport to the hotel if you have booked pre-tour accommodation with the ship’s operator. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 8. Transfers from Dubrovnik Port to the airport are not included, but can be arranged upon request. Taxis or Uber is readily available as well for the approximate 25-minute drive from Dubrovnik Port to the airport. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit ourBooking Flights resource page.

Activities

Activities may include guided city tours, swimming, snorkeling, wine tasting and cultural visits.

Room Configuration

Single travelers will share a twin a room with another traveler of the same gender. If you’d prefer not to share, a single cabin supplement is available at an additional charge. A single passenger cannot be booked or confirmed in a double cabin unless a single supplement is paid. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

The minimum age for this cruise is 15 at the time of travel. All travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian, or in lieu of a legal guardian, by an escort over the age of 18, appointed by their legal guardian. The legal guardian or their designee will be responsible for the traveler under the age of 18’s day to day care. If a legal guardian elects to designate an escort in their lieu, they will be required to complete and sign a relevant document, to delegate their authority.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for this cruise, with the exception of travelers whose home country is within the European Union, Switzerland or the U.S.A. (see below). At a minimum the policy should cover personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24-hour emergency contact number on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without these details. If you are traveling within your home country or reside within the European Union, United States of America or Switzerland, then travel insurance is highly recommended, otherwise a waiver must be signed.

We strongly recommend policies that also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. 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 captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Northbound Dubrovnik to Split Cruise Itinerary

Dubrovnik, CroatiaOmis, Transfer to Split, Croatia & Depart

Enjoy 8 days of coastline and island hopping on this northbound Dubrovnik to Split cruise itinerary. The northbound variation includes a unique excursion to Krka National Park, as well as a guided tour of Spit with a local guide.

A red line showing the northbound route of Croatian Coastal Cruising from Dubrovnik to Split (via Omis).

Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure begins in Dubrovnik. If you arrive early, and it’s recommended that you do, explore the terracotta rooves, ancient cliff-forged walls and crystal coasts that many people associate with Dalmatia. Your luggage can be dropped off at the ship from noon, so feel free to explore Dubrovnik at your leisure before boarding commences at 5 pm, when you’ll meet your fellow travelers for a welcome meeting and safety briefing. Enjoy a drink and get to know each other before your first dinner on the ship this evening. Later, perhaps relax with a glass of wine on the deck and take in the incredible sight of waves lapping at rugged cliffs.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Dinner

After breakfast, set sail for Korcula – the birthplace of Marco Polo – with lunch on board. If time permits, you’ll stop for a quick swim stop on the way – the perfect way to start any day on board! In the afternoon, head out on land for an orientation walk through the town, before enjoying an evening to explore at your own pace. If you need dinner recommendations, your leader is always on hand!

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Depart for Opuzen, stopping for a mid-morning swim in clear, turquoise waters near the small island of Badija. Enjoy lunch onboard, then in the afternoon, jump into small wooden boats for a leisurely cruise through the surrounding wetlands (with local snacks and music on board). Arrive at a local restaurant overlooking the river for Peka veal and other local dishes for dinner. Board the boats to return back to Opuzen. You may want to venture out to one of the bars around the town square to meet the locals over a beer or two.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Embrace an early start this morning as you make your way to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina by minibus. Take a guided walk through the town, visiting a local coffee shop where you’ll see how the Bosnian coffee is made, then try some for yourself. After, enjoy some free time to explore the town and have lunch at your own pace. Return to Opuzen in the early afternoon and sail to Trpanj. When you arrive, transfer to Matusko Winery for a tasting and enjoy the beautiful grounds of the vineyard before returning to the boat. Tonight, you’ll sit down for a four-course dinner with the captain.

Note that Mostar’s position in a river gorge can make it extremely hot. The streets of the old quarter are paved with river rock which can be a bit slippery and tricky to walk on. On this day, please ensure you have good walking shoes, a hat and drink plenty of water.

Optional, added-cost activities this day may include visits to the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque, War Photo Exhibition, Old Bridge Museum and Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque & Minaret.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

This morning after breakfast aboard, you’ll sail into Jelsa on the island of Hvar. When you arrive, take a private transfer to a local farm for some local produce tasting, then drive to the town. Explore the town on a walk with your leader before continuing on to Starigrad this evening.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Spend the morning sailing, arriving in Omis in the early afternoon. Along the way, enjoy a swim stop and lunch on board. When you arrive in Omis, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore at your own pace. Omis is a small village, but it’s packed with limestone-lined streets and old churches to wander through. Perhaps explore the town’s historic center–Omis is overlooked by Mirabela Fortress which was built in the 13th century. Or take a more relaxing route and stroll along the town’s promenade. Tonight, seek out a new dinner spot to try–maybe with a view of the sun setting over the water. Ask your local leader for their recommendations!

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

After a leisurely breakfast on board, you’ll take a private bus to Krka National Park. Here, you’ll board a smaller boat for some cruising and exploring within the park, which spans two thirds of the Krka River and some 55 square miles (142 sq km). Visit some of the waterfalls that this park is known for, then travel to Split by bus. When you arrive, maybe have some lunch and settle in. This afternoon, discover the charming alleyways and local history of Split’s Old Town during a tour with a local guide. After, you’re free to pick up a souvenir or two, or simply continue exploring Split before boarding a bus back to Omis. Tonight, you’ll have a final dinner with your group aboard the ship, toasting to your sailing adventure with the new travel friends you’ve made along the way.

ACCOMMODATIONS M/S Aurora
MEALS Breakfast

Your adventure along the Dalmatian Coast ends after breakfast this morning. You’ll take a short bus ride from Omis to Split, arriving in Split at midday. With no further activities planned, you’re free to leave at any time. If you would like to extend your stay in Split, and it’s recommended that you do, just reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to book additional accommodation.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Accommodation as listed in itinerary; complimentary airport arrival transfer; 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 4 dinners; excursions & transportation as listed in itinerary; complimentary WiFi onboard (coverage intermittent); use of beach towels and snorkeling equipment; services of a group leader.

Exclusions

Airfare; visa and passport fees if needed; meals other than those specified; optional activities; all personal expenses including alcoholic beverages and gratuities; travel insurance (required). Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your international trip concludes.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a non-refundable deposit of $400 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 30% of total trip cost
59 to 30 days – 60% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

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 northbound Dubrovnik to Split cruise begins in Dubrovnik (DBV) and ends in Split (SPU). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. A complimentary arrival transfer is included from Dubrovnik Airport to the Dubrovnik Port on Day 1 of this trip, or from the airport to the hotel if you have booked pre-tour accommodation with the ship’s operator. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 8. Once in Split, transfers to the airport are not included, but can be arranged upon request. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit ourBooking Flights resource page.

Activities

Activities may include guided city tours, swimming, snorkeling, wine tasting and cultural visits.

Room Configuration

Single travelers will share a twin a room with another traveler of the same gender. If you’d prefer not to share, a single cabin supplement is available at an additional charge. A single passenger cannot be booked or confirmed in a double cabin unless a single supplement is paid. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

The minimum age for this cruise is 15 at the time of travel. All travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian, or in lieu of a legal guardian, by an escort over the age of 18, appointed by their legal guardian. The legal guardian or their designee will be responsible for the traveler under the age of 18’s day to day care. If a legal guardian elects to designate an escort in their lieu, they will be required to complete and sign a relevant document, to delegate their authority.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for this cruise, with the exception of travelers whose home country is within the European Union, Switzerland or the U.S.A. (see below). At a minimum the policy should cover personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24-hour emergency contact number on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without these details. If you are traveling within your home country or reside within the European Union, United States of America or Switzerland, then travel insurance is highly recommended, otherwise a waiver must be signed.

We strongly recommend policies that also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. 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 captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

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Explore Croatia and soak up the sun aboard this motor yacht with a purpose-built swimming platform that makes the most of the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

Yacht 36 GUESTS 147.5 FEET

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