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.
Croatian Coastal Cruising
Sail between Split and Dubrovnik on this exciting and varied cruise adventure aboard a 36-guest yacht. Highlights include exploring Krka National Park, taking small watercraft up the River Neretva and a special detour to Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with plenty of swim stops.
Jul
Aug
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FROM
$3,160
USD
PER PERSON
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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, CroatiaDubrovnik, 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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Your adventure along the Dalmatian Coast ends after breakfast this morning. With no activities planned, you are free to leave at any time.
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 our Booking 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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Built in 2015, the M/S Aurora is ideally suited to exploring the Dalmatian Coast and has all you need for a memorable small ship cruise. A large top deck features sun loungers, a jacuzzi and plenty of room to spread out. The ship can accommodate 36 passengers and has an indoor dining room, an onboard bar and a focus on locally sourced produce. A smaller group size means you get a more personal level of service and the ship can anchor in smaller ports, avoiding the other larger tour boats and crowds of tourists.
Why Sail Aboard Aurora
Choose the Aurora yacht for an adventure-based platform for exploring the Adriatic Sea. Her onboard guides set her apart from others in the region, which offer more of a cruise director versus the adventure leaders you'll find on this ship. Plus, her purpose-built swimming platform, snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards allow you to make the most of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Her itineraries are unique, including multiple countries and time on land. And she spends many nights in port allowing you the freedom to explore local ports and their many restaurants. With 18 cabins, M/S Aurora is an excellent choice for all types of travelers: individuals, small groups and families.
AdventureSmith Explorations' Mediterranean experts have sailed aboard the Aurora firsthand, as well as other first-class small ships in the Adriatic Sea. Read all about the Aurora yacht on this page, then contact our Croatia cruise experts to compare this yacht with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Croatia small ship cruises, Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean yacht charters.
Common Areas & Activities
The M/S Aurora is spacious and comfortable, but it focuses more on the destination than onboard activities. Instead of a pool, you have the sea itself. Instead of a casino, find board games and a good book. There’s also no formal dress code to worry about, and free WiFi is available on the ship for those who need the connection.
While there's an indoor lounge and dining room, guests are most often found out on deck. Enjoy a swimming platform for dips in the Adriatic Sea and a Sun Deck with Jacuzzi (towels provided). Guests can also make use of onboard snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddleboards. Note that there are no lifts (elevators) on board M/S Aurora, so you’ll have to navigate a few steep flights of stairs. Handrails are always available.
Dining Aboard & Ashore
A minimum of two meals are prepared by the chef daily, with some meals at port on your own to explore local cuisine. Breakfast is served everyday, as a buffet, with lunch and dinner both plated meals of traditional Croatian fare when offered. Unlike other ships that cruise through the night, the Aurora Croatia yacht often spends her evenings docked at port. This will give you more time to dine ashore and enjoy those balmy Croatian evenings. A fully stocked bar with a professional bartender offers drinks for purchase including cocktails, local wine by the bottle or glass, and cappuccinos/iced coffee.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard M/S Aurora
M/S Aurora features modern cabins that offer exceptional comfort and daily cabin service. Bathrooms are private ensuite, equipped with toilet, shower, wash basin, hair dryer and bathroom products. Choose from double or twin bed configurations in select cabins (request upon booking). Main Deck cabins have an external door out to the Main Deck, while Lower Deck cabins open to the interior of the ship. All Aurora yacht cabins have air conditioning, TV and a safe deposit box. Electrical outlets are 220 volts, with 2-pin European-type plugs. There may be light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when the captain drops anchor), so it’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Built in 2015, the M/S Aurora is ideally suited to exploring the Dalmatian Coast and has all you need for a memorable small ship cruise. A large top deck features sun loungers, a jacuzzi and plenty of room to spread out. The ship can accommodate 36 passengers and has an indoor dining room, an onboard bar and a focus on locally sourced produce. A smaller group size means you get a more personal level of service and the ship can anchor in smaller ports, avoiding the other larger tour boats and crowds of tourists.
Why Sail Aboard Aurora
Choose the Aurora yacht for an adventure-based platform for exploring the Adriatic Sea. Her onboard guides set her apart from others in the region, which offer more of a cruise director versus the adventure leaders you'll find on this ship. Plus, her purpose-built swimming platform, snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards allow you to make the most of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Her itineraries are unique, including multiple countries and time on land. And she spends many nights in port allowing you the freedom to explore local ports and their many restaurants. With 18 cabins, M/S Aurora is an excellent choice for all types of travelers: individuals, small groups and families.
AdventureSmith Explorations' Mediterranean experts have sailed aboard the Aurora firsthand, as well as other first-class small ships in the Adriatic Sea. Read all about the Aurora yacht on this page, then contact our Croatia cruise experts to compare this yacht with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Croatia small ship cruises, Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean yacht charters.
Common Areas & Activities
The M/S Aurora is spacious and comfortable, but it focuses more on the destination than onboard activities. Instead of a pool, you have the sea itself. Instead of a casino, find board games and a good book. There’s also no formal dress code to worry about, and free WiFi is available on the ship for those who need the connection.
While there's an indoor lounge and dining room, guests are most often found out on deck. Enjoy a swimming platform for dips in the Adriatic Sea and a Sun Deck with Jacuzzi (towels provided). Guests can also make use of onboard snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddleboards. Note that there are no lifts (elevators) on board M/S Aurora, so you’ll have to navigate a few steep flights of stairs. Handrails are always available.
Dining Aboard & Ashore
A minimum of two meals are prepared by the chef daily, with some meals at port on your own to explore local cuisine. Breakfast is served everyday, as a buffet, with lunch and dinner both plated meals of traditional Croatian fare when offered. Unlike other ships that cruise through the night, the Aurora Croatia yacht often spends her evenings docked at port. This will give you more time to dine ashore and enjoy those balmy Croatian evenings. A fully stocked bar with a professional bartender offers drinks for purchase including cocktails, local wine by the bottle or glass, and cappuccinos/iced coffee.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard M/S Aurora
M/S Aurora features modern cabins that offer exceptional comfort and daily cabin service. Bathrooms are private ensuite, equipped with toilet, shower, wash basin, hair dryer and bathroom products. Choose from double or twin bed configurations in select cabins (request upon booking). Main Deck cabins have an external door out to the Main Deck, while Lower Deck cabins open to the interior of the ship. All Aurora yacht cabins have air conditioning, TV and a safe deposit box. Electrical outlets are 220 volts, with 2-pin European-type plugs. There may be light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when the captain drops anchor), so it’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Built in 2015, the M/S Aurora is ideally suited to exploring the Dalmatian Coast and has all you need for a memorable small ship cruise. A large top deck features sun loungers, a jacuzzi and plenty of room to spread out. The ship can accommodate 36 passengers and has an indoor dining room, an onboard bar and a focus on locally sourced produce. A smaller group size means you get a more personal level of service and the ship can anchor in smaller ports, avoiding the other larger tour boats and crowds of tourists.
Why Sail Aboard Aurora
Choose the Aurora yacht for an adventure-based platform for exploring the Adriatic Sea. Her onboard guides set her apart from others in the region, which offer more of a cruise director versus the adventure leaders you'll find on this ship. Plus, her purpose-built swimming platform, snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards allow you to make the most of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Her itineraries are unique, including multiple countries and time on land. And she spends many nights in port allowing you the freedom to explore local ports and their many restaurants. With 18 cabins, M/S Aurora is an excellent choice for all types of travelers: individuals, small groups and families.
AdventureSmith Explorations' Mediterranean experts have sailed aboard the Aurora firsthand, as well as other first-class small ships in the Adriatic Sea. Read all about the Aurora yacht on this page, then contact our Croatia cruise experts to compare this yacht with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Croatia small ship cruises, Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean yacht charters.
Common Areas & Activities
The M/S Aurora is spacious and comfortable, but it focuses more on the destination than onboard activities. Instead of a pool, you have the sea itself. Instead of a casino, find board games and a good book. There’s also no formal dress code to worry about, and free WiFi is available on the ship for those who need the connection.
While there's an indoor lounge and dining room, guests are most often found out on deck. Enjoy a swimming platform for dips in the Adriatic Sea and a Sun Deck with Jacuzzi (towels provided). Guests can also make use of onboard snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddleboards. Note that there are no lifts (elevators) on board M/S Aurora, so you’ll have to navigate a few steep flights of stairs. Handrails are always available.
Dining Aboard & Ashore
A minimum of two meals are prepared by the chef daily, with some meals at port on your own to explore local cuisine. Breakfast is served everyday, as a buffet, with lunch and dinner both plated meals of traditional Croatian fare when offered. Unlike other ships that cruise through the night, the Aurora Croatia yacht often spends her evenings docked at port. This will give you more time to dine ashore and enjoy those balmy Croatian evenings. A fully stocked bar with a professional bartender offers drinks for purchase including cocktails, local wine by the bottle or glass, and cappuccinos/iced coffee.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard M/S Aurora
M/S Aurora features modern cabins that offer exceptional comfort and daily cabin service. Bathrooms are private ensuite, equipped with toilet, shower, wash basin, hair dryer and bathroom products. Choose from double or twin bed configurations in select cabins (request upon booking). Main Deck cabins have an external door out to the Main Deck, while Lower Deck cabins open to the interior of the ship. All Aurora yacht cabins have air conditioning, TV and a safe deposit box. Electrical outlets are 220 volts, with 2-pin European-type plugs. There may be light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when the captain drops anchor), so it’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
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Expert Review: Croatian Coastal Cruise
An AdventureSmith expert details her Dubrovnik to Split cruise aboard a 36-guest yacht. Learn all about the journey and tips for booking your cabin that can also apply to our other Croatia small ship cruises.
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