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Tastes of Croatia & Slovenia Hosted Small Group Tour & Cruise 2026

Zagreb - Ljubljana - Bled - Ljubljana - Postojna Cave - Predjama - Momjan - Poreč - Pula - Medulin - Poreč - Motovun - Poreč - Rovinj - Opatija - Plitvice Lakes NP - Zadar - Šibenik - Salona - Klis - Split - Trogir - Milna - Bol - Hvar - Pakleni Islands - Vis - Biševo - Korčula - Mljet NP - Slano - Ston - Slano - Elaphiti Islands - Dubrovnik

A Croatia Times Travel Signature Hosted Small Group Tour & Cruise

Discover Croatia and Slovenia on this exclusive 18 day adventure, expertly hosted by Ela Patajac and Aniela Edmond. Explore historic cities, charming villages, and breathtaking coastlines while uncovering hidden gems and savouring local flavours. This seamless blend of guided touring and deluxe small ship cruising offers a deeply personal, enriching experience - more than a holiday, it’s a journey of a lifetime.

History & Culture
Throughout our tour we will be joined by local guides who will intrigue us with their tales of local history and culture. Together we will visit seven of Croatia’s ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Landscapes & Nature
Imagine impressive mountain ranges, breathtaking National Parks, and the crystal clear Adriatic Sea.

Food & Wine
Experience the traditional flavours and cuisines of each region we visit, whether dining in a local restaurant for lunch or dinner, or enjoying a unique tasting.

Deluxe Superior Small Ship MS Ave Maria (2018) - Sat 27 Jun 2026
Capacity 36 passengers, A/C, 11 VIP Upper Deck Cabins with Private Balconies, 8 Lower Deck Cabins with ensuites, length 51.5m, width 8.6m, 220V, restaurant, bar, lounge, SAT TV, covered terrace, sun deck, jacuzzi, mini plunge pool, swimming platform.

Deluxe Superior Small Ship MS Rhapsody (2020) - Sat 22 Aug 2026
Capacity 36 passengers, A/C, 11 VIP Upper Deck Cabins with Private Balconies, 8 Lower Deck Cabins with ensuites, length 50m, width 8.63m, 220V, restaurant, bar, lounge, SAT TV, covered terrace, sun deck, jacuzzi, swimming platform.

View MS Ave Maria        View MS Rhapsody

 

Your Tastes of Croatia & Slovenia Tour & Cruise Hosts

Wednesday 17 June - Saturday 04 July 2026
Wednesday 12 August - Saturday 29 August 2026


Ela Patajac
Born and raised in Osijek, Ela is of Croatian and Slovenian heritage. She has a deep connection to  Croatia’s history and culture. After many years of guiding tours across Europe, Ela made New Zealand her home and today is eager to share the vibrant heritage and stunning landscapes of the region. Her warm and engaging approach ensures guests feel welcomed and enriched, whether exploring ancient cities, natural wonders, or savouring traditional Croatian & Slovenian cuisine.


Aniela Edmond
Born in New Zealand with Croatian and Polish heritage, Aniela feels a deep connection to her roots. Her love for history, culture, and authentic travel shines through on every journey. Whether guiding you through medieval towns, natural and historic sites, uncovering hidden gems, or introducing you to incredible local cuisine, Aniela ensures each moment is immersive, heartfelt, and truly special.

Code: CTT

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Trip Variations

Tastes of Croatia Hosted Cruise - Marina Baotić to Dubrovnik 2026

Trogir - Milna - Bol - Hvar - Pakleni Islands - Vis - Biševo - Korčula - Mljet NP - Slano - Ston - Slano - Elaphiti Islands - Dubrovnik

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

From $5,895 per person

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Day by day Itinerary

Day 1
Zagreb

Welcome to Croatia. Your day is at leisure before meeting your Host and Tour Director. This evening enjoy a Welcome Dinner at one of Zagreb’s most loved restaurants. (D)

Day 2
Zagreb - Ljubljana

Zagreb is home to a mix of 18th and 19th century buildings with many charming parks, squares and city markets. You will discover Ban Jelačić Square and medieval settlements of Gradec and Kaptol. See the Cathedral, Dolac Market, Tkalčićeva Street, Stone Gate and St Mark’s Church. Head to the Slovenian capital city. Ljubljana lies in a basin between the Karst and Alpine region. This city with a soul features the Baroque Old Town nestled at the foot of Castle Hill, the Art Nouveau mansions and masterpieces of the renowned architect Jože Plečnik. Upon arrival we will have free time to visit the local markets and explore the city before taking a walking tour and funicular to Ljubljana Castle. Rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Day 3
Ljubljana - Bled - Ljubljana

Lake Bled, together with its surroundings ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts. Enjoy a Pletna boat ride along the lake to Bled Island. See St Mary’s Church and later continue to the old medieval castle up on the cliff. The enchanting views and fairy-tale beauty are sensational. After sightseeing, enjoy a memorable lunch in Bled. Continue to visit a local producer of honey, to learn about the beekeeping tradition in Slovenia and to sample their products. Return to Ljubljana for an evening at leisure. (B, L, T)

Day 4
Ljubljana - Postojna - Predjama - Momjan - Poreč

Postojna Cave is one of the world’s largest karst monuments. Opened as a show cave in 1819. Then in 1872 the first documented underground railway opened to visitors, showcasing the spectacular subterranean world. Photo stop in front of the Predjama Castle before arriving to the small village of Momjan to visit an award-winning winery. This evening, dinner is at the hotel in Poreč. (B, T, D)

Day 5
Poreč - Pula - Medulin - Poreč

This morning take a tour of Pula and visit the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of Sergii. Later we visit a local olive grove in nearby Medulin, where we will partake in a cooking class and enjoy lunch. Return to Poreč for an afternoon at leisure. (B, L)

Day 6
Poreč - Motovun - Poreč

The seaside town of Poreč is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Euphrasius Basilica from the 6th century AD. The apse of the Basilica is ornately decorated with figural mosaics noted as one of the most remarkable examples of mosaic art in Europe. Proceed to the gorgeous hilltop town of Motovun, possibly the most picturesque medieval hilltop town of inner Istria. Lunch will be served in locally, where you will experience a tasting of Istria’s most famous delicacy, their truffles. Upon arrival back to Poreč, evening is at leisure. (B, T/L)

Day 7
Poreč - Rovinj - Opatija - Plitvice Lakes

This morning take a  tour of Rovinj, one of the most romantic and much photographed towns on the Mediterranean. There is free time to explore the town and its market before lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch we depart for the Plitvice Lakes. Enroute stop in Opatija, one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Adriatic. It is often referred to as Croatia’s Monte Carlo and was once the playground of the Austro-Hungarian nobility. Arrival to Plitvice for supper at the hotel and evening at leisure. (B, L)

Day 8
Plitvice Lakes - Zadar - Šibenik

Croatia’s most popular natural attraction is the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Its beauty lies in the sixteen lakes, connected by a series of waterfalls. Set in deep woodland and home to rare bird species and wildlife such as the brown deer. We explore the park and have a picnic lunch. Later we continue to the Dalmatian coast and the charming town of Zadar, dating back to Roman times. Steeped in history, visit the Roman Forum, St Donatus Church, the Romanesque St Grisigono’s Church, St Mary’s Bell Tower and St Anastasia Cathedral. We walk along the promenade, to the Sea Organ & Greetings to the Sun, awarded for its use of architectural space. Continue to the coastal town of Šibenik with rest of the day at leisure. (B, L)

Day 9
Šibenik - Plastovo - Šibenik

Discover the oldest Croatian town on the Adriatic and see Croatia’s most beautiful monument, St James Cathedral. We continue to the village of Plastovo to visit one of Croatia’s most famous wineries, for an unforgettable lunch and wine tasting. Afternoon arrival back to Šibenik, the rest of your day is at leisure. (B, T/L)

Day 10
Šibenik - Salona - Klis - Split

This morning we are transferred to the ancient ruins of Salona, which was once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. We continue to a unique family owned estate where we will enjoy tasting of Dalmatian olive oil, visit their ethno-village and learn about traditional Dalmatian life, and the production of local delicacies. This evening enjoy a walk on the Split Riva following a Dalmatian dinner treat at a local restaurant. (B, T, D)

Day 11
Split - Marina Baotić (Trogir)

Morning at leisure, before enjoying a guided tour of Split, a historic town under UNESCO protection and part of the world heritage with an abundance of Roman architecture, including Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace and his cellars. Today our small ship cruise begins. After settling in, have free time to relax onboard the vessel. This evening enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner to meet your Captain, crew and fellow cruise passengers. (B, D)

Day 12
Marina Baotić (Trogir) - Trogir - Milna

Our first day of cruising the Dalmatian coast begins with a short sail to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage protected historic stone town, often described as an open-air museum. We explore the charming town with its narrow alleyways and view the Cathedral of St Lawrence and the magnificent Kamerlengo Tower. Afterwards we visit a gorgeous bay to enjoy a dip in the Adriatic Sea before our lunch is served. We continue to Milna on the Island of Brač. Enjoy your evening at leisure. (B, L)

Day 13
Milna - Bol - Hvar

This morning we take a refreshing swim stop and visit the most famous beach in Croatia, Zlatni Rat near Bol on the Island of Brač. Following lunch, we continue to Hvar, the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic. We explore its old town, then take an excursion to a renowned family owned winery, where we learn about its history of wine making and sample the local Dalmatian wine. One last stop takes us to the must-see Spanish Fortress which offers incredibly scenic views of the town and Pakleni Islands. This evening experience the electric atmosphere of Hvar’s famous night life. Dine at a local restaurant or visit the bars and cafes which are open long into the night. (B, L, T)

Day 14
Hvar - Pakleni Islands - Vis

As we leave Hvar this morning, we stop at nearby Pakleni Islands for a swim before we continue towards Vis, once a naval base and closed to tourists. Due to this isolation, it has a unique charm. On arrival to Vis Town, your time is at leisure. Visit the remains of the Roman thermal place, town museum, or simply enjoy the surrounds. This evening make sure to dine at a local fish restaurant to sample fish and seafood prepared in traditional Dalmatian style. (B, L)

Day 15
Vis - Biševo - Korčula

Cruise towards Biševo to visit the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (visit is weather dependent). We then continue to Korčula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. Lunch is in a secluded bay enroute. A fishbone street pattern design was used in Korčula Old Town to reduce effects of wind and sun and provide citizens with sheltered and comfortable accommodation. Discover the town and later there are many wonderful restaurants to dine at, or an optional excursion to a small village near Korčula where you will enjoy dinner and hear about history and true local life. (B, L)

Day 16
Korčula - Mljet - Slano - Ston - Slano

Continue to Mljet. Join the Cruise Director for a stroll to the saltwater lakes in the National Park and enjoy a boat ride to St Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery. Depart to Slano a peaceful fishing village and the starting point to Ston, a once fortified small town, famous for its medieval ramparts, saltworks and oysters. After exploring the town our excursion takes us to a family owned oyster farm for a special tasting and experience. Return to the ship for Captain’s farewell dinner with live entertainment. (B, L, T, D)

Day 17
Slano - Elaphiti - Dubrovnik

Discover the charm and fascination of Dubrovnik. Enroute to the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, we visit one of the Elaphiti Islands for a swim stop. We cruise along the city walls for lunch, before docking in Gruž Port. Transfer to the Old Town for a walking tour to see Onofrio’s Fountain, the Franciscan & Dominican monasteries and Rector’s Palace. Take the cable car from the Old Town to Mount Srđ for incredible scenic views of the city and Elaphiti Islands. A walk along the city walls is a must do. Enjoy your evening at leisure. (B, L)

Day 18
Dubrovnik

Check out is by 0900HRS. Say farewell to your crew and fellow travellers. For those of you returning home or travelling onwards you will be transferred to Dubrovnik Airport. We are sure you will have made many friends and have a wealth of memories to treasure and take home with you. Sretan Put. (B)

Inclusions

Tour & Cruise Includes

  • Croatia Times Travel Host
  • 10 Nights in 4-5* hotels
  • All transfers as per itinerary
  • 17 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 5 Dinners (B, L, D)
  • Tour & Cruise Director
  • Modern A/C motor coach
  • Service charges, hotel taxes & Porterage
  • Authentic Food & Wine Experiences (T)
  • 7 nights on luxury Small Ship
  • Ship Welcome Reception & Cocktail
  • Daily cabin service
  • Free WiFi on ship (restrictions may apply)
  • Visitor taxes & port fees
  • Tipping

Highlights

  • Authentic dining experiences at local restaurants
  • Unique stays in centrally located hotels
  • Traditional Pletna boat ride along Lake Bled
  • Visit a traditional Slovenian apiary & learn about their beekeeping traditions
  • Wine Tasting in Istria region
  • Cooking Class in Istria region
  • Truffle Tasting lunch in the heart of the Istria region
  • Walk the scenic paths of Plitvice Lakes NP
  • Wine Tasting & lunch at one of Croatia’s most renowned Dalmatian wineries
  • Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Salona
  • Olive Oil Tasting at a family owned estate in Dalmatia region
  • Wine Tasting on the Island of Hvar
  • Visit & Tasting at Ston Oyster Farm
  • Captain’s Dinner with live entertainment
  • Cable car ride in Dubrovnik with sensational views of the Old Town

Sightseeing with Local Guides

  • Zagreb
  • Ljubljana
  • Bled
  • Pula
  • Poreč
  • Motovun
  • Rovinj
  • Plitvice NP
  • Zadar
  • Šibenik
  • Split
  • Trogir
  • Hvar
  • Korčula
  • Dubrovnik

Entrance Fees

  • Zagreb - Funicular
  • Ljubljana - Funicular, Castle
  • Bled - Castle, Pletna Boat, Church
  • Postojna - Cave
  • Pula - Amphitheatre Arena
  • Poreč - Euphrasius Basilica
  • Motovun - Shuttle Bus, Town Walls
  • Plitvice Lakes - National Park
  • Šibenik - St James Cathedral
  • Salona - Roman Ruins
  • Split - Diocletian Palace Cellars
  • Mljet - National Park
  • Hvar - Fortress
  • Dubrovnik - Cable Car

Exclusions

Optional Excursions (booked & paid direct, price subject to change)

  • Biševo Blue Cave Entrance €24 per person
  • Korčula Village Dinner €42 per person / Peka option €57 per person

Pricing and Accommodation

Start DateEnd Date
Balcony Upper DeckTwinSingle Lower DeckTwinSingle
Wed 17 Jun 26Sat 04 Jul 26
$20,220$28,340$18,495$24,895
Wed 12 Aug 26Sat 29 Aug 26
$20,390$28,685$18,460$24,745
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Included Accommodation (or similar)

Ljubljana - Eurostars uHotel

Poreč - BO Hotel Palazzo

Plitvice Lakes NP - Hotel Mirjana & Rastoke

Split - Cornaro Hotel

Would you like to extend your stay?

Zagreb - The Westin Zagreb

From $POA

Split - Cornaro Hotel

From $POA

Important Notes

Cruise Information
VIP Cabins are on the Upper Deck. Upper Deck Cabins are above the Main Deck. Lower Deck Cabins with portholes are in the hull of the ship, below the Main Deck. All cabins are allocated according to availability. Most port arrivals are in the late afternoon. Cruising time is approximately 4-5 hours a day. Guests are obliged to follow ship rules. Due to specific mooring conditions and requirements in some Croatian Ports, ships are moored side by side. This makes it necessary to cross from one ship to the other where there are gaps in between each ship. Special care must be taken at all times when crossing between the vessels and guests do this at their own risk. Crew assistance will be given to those needing and requesting it. View from cabin windows and balconies may be obstructed when moored in port and alongside other ships. Cruises are not recommended for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

Booking Terms & Conditions
Deposits: Upon confirmation a non-refundable deposit of NZ$2,000 per person is payable. Final Payment: Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure from New Zealand. Prices: All prices are in NZ$ based on twin share per person. Airfares and any costs not stated are not included. Solo Travellers: To guarantee a private room/cabin, solo travellers must book the ‘single use’ price. If you agree to share with another passenger of the same gender you will pay the ‘twin share’ price if available. Group Size: Hosted Tour up to 25. Hosted Cruise up to 36. Guaranteed departure based on minimum 10 guests. Additional cost will apply if group size is below minimum numbers. Tour Arrangements: We reserve the right to alter the routing, change accommodation and services. The cruise operator reserves the right to alter the route due to weather or other conditions and cancel or change the ship if necessary. Travel Insurance: It is a requirement of this travel arrangement that all travellers must take out a fully comprehensive travel insurance for the full duration of this trip. Contact us or your Travel Agent for more information. For full booking terms & conditions click here.

Extras and Add Ons

Add Sightseeing & Excursions

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