Southern Pearls Traditional Ensuite Cruise 2022

Departure from Dubrovnik’s Gruž Port at 1300HRS (late arrivals can join in Slano), lunch is served as we cruise along the Dalmatian coast either to one of the Elaphiti Islands - Šipan, or to the small village of Slano on the mainland. Both are peaceful fishermen's villages where there is often a fabulous sunset. Overnight in the port. (L)

After breakfast, we continue our journey towards the island and National Park of Mljet. Lunch onboard. Free time to enjoy the saltwater lakes in the National Park and enjoy the sun and sea on this tranquil island. The large lake is inside the National Park, and in the middle, one can visit an old abbey and church, or just use a canoe to roam around the lakes. Bicycles can also be hired to cycle around the paths surrounding the lakes. We continue to the Island of Korčula where we arrive in the late afternoon. You can join an optional guided tour of Korčula. Surrounded by ancient walls and fortified bastions Korčula Old Town is very well preserved with its layout and structure dating back to the 13th century. Overnight in port. (B, L)

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 EUR14 per person). We continue towards the Island of Vis, which has a unique geographical position and was once a strategic harbour for the navy - it was closed to tourists 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. Overnight in the town of Vis, situated on the northern side of the island, developed near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal place, town museum or simply take a walk enjoying the views of the beautiful “Villae Rusticae” situated along the waterfront. For those wandering to see more, you can rent a car or scooter and explore this wonderful island on your own. (B, L)

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. After lunch, departure for the longest island in the Adriatic - Hvar, followed by an optional guided tour of Hvar Town. Among many other monuments, located here are the magnificent Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe which was founded here in 1612. Hvar Town offers plenty of restaurants, bars cafes and clubs, open long into the night. Hvar is often referred to as the sunshine and jet set island. (B, L)

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 in Croatia. Directional winds and waves cause the shape of the beach to often change. After the swimming break at the horn, we continue towards Makarska with its Mediterranean feel. During a stroll, you will discover numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sites. Overnight in port. (B, L)

Early morning departure as we continue towards Pučišća, a typical Mediterranean place, 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. There is a possibility of visiting one of the few stone masonry workshops left in Europe. Overnight on the port. (B, L)

Departure for our last destination, the city of Split. The Old Town of Split is the maze of streets and cobblestoned lanes that surround the 1,700-years-old Diocletian Palace, the Emperor chose this spot for his retirement villa. Both the Old Town and Diocletian Palace are under UNESCO protection. People's Square (Narodni Trg) is the heart of the Old Town. Cafes and restaurants spill out into the square and one of the highlights of a visit here is gazing up at the Old Town Clock. On arrival, you can join an optional guided tour of Split. Overnight in Split. (B, L)

An early breakfast before the final goodbyes with the new friends and crew. Check out by 0900HRS. (B)