Venice to Dubrovnik: Eight Million and One Dalmatians

Welcome to Italy’s most unique city. On arrival at Venice airport, make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet ourrepresentative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meetour team, who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your timethe Veneto region. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name andyour cabin number on the ship.Today offers a chance to relax in preparation for our time in Venice tomorrow. Our group hotel has a popularrestaurant and there are nearby trattorias should you wish to try some local cuisine.Accommodation: Venice Hotel

The true magic of Venice is that no matter how many times you visit, it remains a surreal experience. It’s almostimpossible to believe that people live and go about their daily lives in this ‘movie-set’ city. Founded in the 5thcentury as a refuge from barbarian invasions, Venice rose to become a powerful maritime republic and a majorcentre of trade and culture during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. At the height of its wealth and influence,Venice expanded its empire, leaving an indelible mark across the Mediterranean, evident in the architecture, art, andculture from the Dalmatian coast to the Ionian Islands.Unlike many great cities, Venice lacks grand boulevards, world-class entertainment facilities, and bright neonsignage. It is true allure lies in the city’s ability to transport visitors to another world. It is the Venetians who revealVenice’s true character. In winter, they wear real fur and don sunglasses day and night as they emerge from hiddentrattorias, skilfully avoiding the tourist menus. They navigate the city using vaporetto’s, not gondolas, purchaseMurano glass directly from the island of Murano, and shrug off remarks regarding the canals' odours with disdain.Today, our Venetian guides lead us through their city as honoured guests. We spend time in Saint Mark's Square,marvel at the eclectic Saint Mark’s Basilica, sigh at the Bridge of Sighs, and navigate the maze of alleys leading to theRialto Bridge. No visit to Venice is complete without an exploration of the city’s canals by gondola. Our gondolier willnavigate us through a series of waterways, offering us a unique insight into the ‘other side’ of Venice—a view fromthe city's many canals. Choose to return to the hotel with your guide or make your way to our coach transfer pointlater in the day. Venice is yours to explore.This evening you meet your host and fellow travellers when we celebrate our journey with a Welcome Event.Accommodation: Venice HotelMeals: Breakfast, Welcome Event canapés

A mere 24 kilometres west of Venice sits the Venetian city of Padova, where we enjoy a short, locally guided tourand time to explore independently. Famous as Shakespeare’s Padua, this university city is a hub of history, cultureand academic prestige. Home to one of the oldest universities globally, founded in 1222, Padova buzzes withintellectual energy from its students and scholars. Explore Padova’s medieval and Renaissance heritage, centredaround the Basilica of Saint Anthony, a pilgrimage site housing relic of the saint. The city’s historical centre featureselegant palaces, lively piazzas, and charming cafes lining narrow alleys. Beyond its cultural landmarks, Padova offersculinary delights such as traditional risotto and Venetian-style cicchetti, served in local osterias, promising a blend ofhistory, art and Italian charm that is distinct from its famous neighbour.Mid-afternoon, we leave Padova and drive to the port of Fusina on the Veneto lagoon, where we board the DouglasMawson and sail east towards Slovenia. This evening, we enjoy a ‘Welcome Aboard’ dinner, where we meet ourcrew and Aurora Expeditions team.

Delightfully medieval at its core, the coastal town of Koper acts as our gateway to Slovenia today. Nestled at thecrossroads of Central and Southeastern Europe, Slovenia’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its history. Influencedby the Roman Empire, a millennium under the Holy Roman Empire, and over five centuries of Habsburg domination,Slovenia’s people are historically Slavic, yet their heritage is heavily influenced by Austria and their previous rulers,especially where food, beverages and styles are concerned. After World War I, Slovenia joined the Kingdom of Serbs,Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia), gaining independence in 1991 following a brief conflict with Yugoslav forces.Slovenia swiftly integrated with its Western neighbours, becoming an EU member in 2004.Head inland to the scenic gem of Lake Bled, tour the haunting cliffside Predjama Castle, or remain on the coast for amorning in the picturesque seaside village of Piran, as you experience the delights of our first slice of Slavic life.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Piran with Wine TastingDiscover Slovenia’s oldest town, Piran, on this engaging walking tour that highlights its rich heritage and VenetianGothic architecture. As you wander through Piran’s narrow streets, you will encounter medieval houses that reflectthe town’s fascinating history. Often referred to as liquid gold, it was salt, produced in nearby salt fields, which madePiran a wealthy town and very important member of the Venetian Republic’s lines of towns, which spread southalong the coastline towards Greece. Arriving at the main square, admire the impressive bronze statue of GiuseppeTartini – the renowned composer, who significantly influenced Piran’s cultural legacy – before having time to enjoyour own exploration among the town’s colourful shops. Our 45-minute drive, through undulating hills, brings us to alocal winery. Here, we receive a guided tour of the cellars and enjoy a tasting of carefully selected wines paired withlight cheese snacks, complementing our visit to one of the Adriatic Coast’s most picturesque destinations.Option 2 – Morning experience: Postojna Cave and Predjama CastleExplore two of Slovenia’s most popular sites, starting with the fascinating subterranean world of Postojna Caves,where labyrinthine passages, natural sculptures, and vast chambers entice us underground. Your adventure beginswith a train ride into the caves, followed by a guided walking tour that showcases the cave’s intricate network oftunnels, galleries, halls and impressive karst features.After your cave exploration, visit the nearby Predjama Castle, a dramatic fortress built into a 123-metre-high cliff.Dating back to the 12th century, this unique castle is renowned for its Renaissance architecture and tragic history,including the legend of the knight Erazem, who used the castle as a refuge. Discover the castle’s intriguing interior,complete with medieval artefacts and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.Option 3 – Full-day experience: Lake BledSlovenia’s sole island hosts us today as we set off for a two-hour drive from Koper to Lake Bled. Located in the JulianAlps, Lake Bled has enchanted visitors since the 19th century. Upon arrival, we board one of the lake’s traditionalwooden boats called Pletna for a 30-minute cruise to the lake’s fabled island, taking in views of Bled Castle perchedon a cliff above. On the island, ancient Slavs worshipped the goddess of love and fertility, Ziva. Catholic pilgrims latercame to the island to visit the Church of St Mary. It is said there is a wishing bell, which when rung twice, makes yourwishes come true. Back on dry land, we enjoy a traditional meal, with time to explore the vibrant atmosphere ofLake Bled’s lakeshore resort before returning to the ship at Koper in the late afternoon.Sailing south we farewell Slovenia and enter Croatia at the famed Istrian Peninsula.

We meet the people living in the ‘borderlands’ today. The Istrian Peninsula, situated at Croatia's entrance, is steepedin a profound Roman heritage. Ancient ruins like well-preserved amphitheatres and temples dot its terrain, bearingwitness to centuries of Roman influence. Istria's prized olive oil tradition underscores its Mediterranean charm, withgroves dating back through the ages. The wealth brought by this 'liquid gold' to the former Roman colony stillresonates today, making Istria a favoured holiday destination for Italians, Slovenians, and Croatians alike. Among itsgems, romantic Rovinj shines as Istria's star attraction—a picturesque Mediterranean fishing port with morningmarkets, scenic cliffside views, renowned restaurants, beautiful beaches, and a year-round calendar of culturalevents. Climbing the bell tower offers vistas of Rovinj's historic centre and the Adriatic Sea beyond.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Roaming Rovinj and PulaRovinj, known as the city of romance and art, is one of the Mediterranean's most picturesque towns. Once part ofthe Venetian Republic for over 500 years, its Old Town is perched on a peninsula, adorned with terracotta-roofedhouses and crowned by the 18th-century Church of St. Euphemia, whose bell tower dominates the skyline. Yourwalking tour begins in the town square, leading to St. Euphemia Church, modeled after St. Mark’s campanile inVenice.After exploring Rovinj, board your coach for a half hour drive to Ancient Pula, founded by the mythical Jason andMedea. The port city of Pula is renowned for its well-preserved Roman heritage, most notably the Pula Arena, thesixth largest and one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Built in the 1st century AD, itcontinues to host concerts and events today. The city's Roman Forum, Temple of Augustus, and Arch of the Sergiistand amongst the modern-day city as testament to its ancient past. Pula's strategic location on the Adriatic coasthas made it a bustling port city since antiquity. Its current work-a-day atmosphere contributes to its charm as aworking city, which has been its role since ancient times.Option 2 – Morning experience: The Medieval Enclave of MotovunIndulge your senses with the flavours of the Istrian Peninsula during a memorable half-day sightseeing excursion tothe medieval enclave of Motovun. A one-hour drive takes us to this walled town. Perched on a hilltop, Motovunretains its medieval charm with narrow streets and well-preserved town walls, making it one of Croatia's hiddengems. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour past Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance-style buildings en routeto the main square, dominated by the 13th-century belfry of St. Stephen's Church. Admire the lions guarding thetown gates and take in splendid views of the Mirna River Valley below. Motovun forest, a special forest vegetationreserve since 1963, spreads along the Mirna River Valley and is one of the last preserved lowland Mediterraneanforests. Although nearly destroyed by the Austro-Hungarian navy, which used its trees to build ships, the forest hasbecome a modern-day rewilding success story.Enjoy free time to explore the village and browse the shops at your leisure. Today, local families produce top-qualityhomemade products, including dishes made from regional ingredients, often foraged from the forest, and the world-renowned truffles from Motovun forest. A morning in Motovun offers an insight into the lifestyle of locals inCroatia's medieval towns.Option 3 – Morning experience: Istria’s Liquid GoldEnjoy a locally guided walking tour of Rovinj, beginning with a stroll to the Town Square and continuing to the hilltopSt. Euphemia Church. Following the tour, board your coach and head to the Istrian countryside. Olive oil productionin Istria dates to Roman times when it was a significant contributor to the local economy. The region’s fertile soil andfavourable climate made it an ideal location for cultivating olives, which were highly valued by the Romans forculinary and medicinal purposes. The trade of olive oil from Istria was a crucial part of the Roman economy,contributing to the prosperity of the region. Today, olive groves still dot the landscape, continuing this rich tradition.We arrive at an award-winning olive grove specialising in growing olives and producing top-quality, extra virgin oliveoils. Istrian olive oil is listed among the top 15 olive oils in the world and has been declared the 'most promising inthe world' by the renowned guide 'L`Extravergine'. We learn about the fascinating production process during aguided tour of the property before enjoying an olive oil tasting accompanied by smoked ham, cheese, bread, andwine. A scenic 30-minute drive returns us to Rovinj.

Located in the Kvarner region of the northern Croatian Adriatic Sea, Rab is among the “greenest” Croatian islands,thanks to its mild climate. The island’s historical heart is the town of the same name, where medieval charmpervades its narrow streets. Many buildings date back to the 13th century, reflecting Rab’s years spent underVenetian rule. Climbing the Rab Bell Tower rewards visitors with views of the town and sea, offering a glimpse intothe island’s storied past. Unique among Croatian islands, Rab is famous for its sandy beaches, particularly around theLopar Peninsula. These golden shores, combined with the island’s historical allure, make Rab a captivatingdestination.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Walking Rab and a Visit to the CrossbowmenExplore the enchanting island of Rab, known as the ‘island of happiness’. Begin your journey in the town of Rab,where medieval architecture meets Mediterranean life. Stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the town’sbell towers, including the iconic Cathedral of St Mary. Visit the impressive Prince’s Palace, a symbol of Rab’shistorical significance, where you hear stories of the island’s past. As you wander through the main square, don’tmiss the statues of Draga and Kalifourni, which tell tales of these local legends.A highlight of your tour is meeting a member of the town’s legendary crossbowmen association. The originalcrossbowmen played a crucial role in Rab’s defence during the Middle Ages. Learn about their fascinating history,traditions, and the importance of their craft as you see their traditional weapons and hear stories of their ancestorialvalour.Option 2 – Morning experience: Rab Peninsula Scenic Cruise and Beach StopExplore the Rab Peninsula during this half-day water-based excursion. A 30-minute boat ride takes us to the RabPeninsula. Here, almost hidden in a little bay, lies the St Bernardin Monastery, still known by locals as the ‘StEuphemia Monastery’. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of this renowned historical landmark and its interiorchurch, which were painted by Venetian painters throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. During your visit, view theethnographic collection of old crafts, sculptures, paintings and books. After visiting the monastery, reboard our boatfor a half-hour cruise to one of Rab’s popular beaches, where we enjoy a refreshment and free time for swimmingprior to returning to our boat and journeying back to Rab town.This afternoon we immerse ourselves in a Croatian tradition, with a concert by a klapa group. Inscribed in 2012 onthe Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, klapa is uniquely Croatian.This multipart a cappella tradition from southern Croatia’s Dalmatia region features groups of singers, including firsttenors, tenori, baritoni, and basi. Performers stand in a semicircle, with the first tenor initiating the song, to create aharmonious blend of voices. Often dealing with themes of love and local life, klapa songs are performed using openguttural, nasal and falsetto techniques without notation. The tradition, passed down orally, includes ‘traditionalklapa’ for its adherence to custom, ‘festival klapa’ for formal performances, and ‘modern klapa’, where youngersingers learn through experiences and recordings. Klapa singing remains a vital marker of musical identity in localcommunities in Croatia, with several groups calling Rab home.

Situated adjacent to the mainland on the Croatian Adriatic Coast, Zadar derives its name from its ancient roots asIadera, evolving through Roman, Byzantine and Venetian influences. Its strategic coastal position made it a pivotalhub for trade and cultural exchange. Zadar is celebrated for blending ancient history with modern innovation. Thecity’s Sea Organ, a creation by architect Nikola Bašić, is particularly unique. It features a system of pipes and whistlesintegrated into perforated stone steps descending into the sea, producing haunting sounds as waves move airthrough them. Nearby, Bašić also designed a pavement with 300 glass plates, which illuminate in an enchanting lightshow after dusk. We sail after sunset this evening, so that you may enjoy this technological marvel, which is only ashort stroll from our berth at Zadar’s port.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Walking Zadar’s Old TownWe start our walking tour of Zadar at the stunning Cathedral of St Anastasia, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Asyou stroll through the historical streets, you will encounter the iconic Church of St Donatus, believed to have beenconstructed by Bishop Donatus on Roman foundations in the early 9th century. This monumental circular church,with its three naves, stands as a symbol of Zadar’s unique architecture.Our local guide introduces us to the Benedictine convent of St Mary, home to the museum of gold and silver, whichhas been safeguarded by nuns since the end of World War II. This museum is part of the Permanent Exhibition ofReligious Art, showcasing one of Croatia’s most significant cultural collections. Our tour continues to the BastionHotel, where we indulge in a delightful cake and maraschino liqueur tasting. Zadar has a long history of liqueurproduction, dating back nearly 400 years. The renowned maraschino, a bittersweet liqueur made from local marascacherries, is a true Croatian treasure. Celebrated by historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte, who enjoyed it aftermeals, maraschino was officially recognised as an authentic Croatian icon by the Croatian National Tourist Office in1999.Option 2 – Morning experience: The Unique Story of Maskovica Han and Karaba WineryOur morning starts at the unique property of Maškovića Han. This monumental building was commissioned in 1644by Jusuf Mašković, a high dignitary at the Turkish court and a supreme admiral of the Turkish fleet, during theregions reign of the Ottoman Turks. The construction of Maškovića Han, designed to be a grand summer residencefor Mašković. It was conceived as a lavish structure, complete with all necessary comforts, including a Turkish bath(hamam, however, Maskovic’s career took a dramatic turn when he led a 60,000 strong attack on Crete in 1645.Sadly, despite his military successes his actions angered the Sultan, leading to Mašković’s execution. Following thefinal liberation of Vrana in 1699, the inn was assigned to the Borelli family. Today, their descendants reside in theinn, preserving this historical monument.After a mid-morning snack, we continue to one of the region’s famed wineries. At Karaba Wines, the passion forwinemaking runs deep. The winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern technology, whileprioritising a sustainable future. Vines are cultivated using natural methods, and each grape is handpicked. KarabaWines offers a warm and inviting tasting room where we sample their award-winning wines, including Maraština,Debit, Crljenak, Pošip and Merlot, while overlooking their vineyard and the Adriatic Sea. The knowledgeable staffeagerly share the stories behind each wine, providing an engaging experience.Option 3 – Full-day experience: Nin, the Story of Salt and Škaulj Winery VisitAround 48 kilometres north of Zadar, the historical town of Nin lies on a small island in a shallow lagoon, connectedto the mainland by two stone bridges. Founded in the 9th century BCE, Nin became a major centre of the RomanEmpire in this region and was later the seat of the first Croatian kings and a significant ecclesiastical hub.After a brief walking tour through its ancient streets, we continue to the Nin Salt Works, where our guide explainsthat this unique salt is produced naturally by the sun, sea and wind. Historically crucial for food preservation andexploration, sailors were able to venture across the globe, with salt preserving their provisions.Next, embark on a scenic drive to the picturesque Ravni Kotari region. Enjoy a traditional lunch before visiting ŠkauljWinery. Renowned for its quality, Šime Škaulj’s wines are produced under strict organic standards. The wineryboasts accolades such as a silver medal at the 2012 Decanter London Wine Fair, and the honour of hosting Swedishroyals King Gustav XVI and Queen Silvia. Conclude your visit with a tasting of their award-winning wines beforereturning to Zadar mid-afternoon.

Our port city of Šibenik boasts a rich culture waiting to be discovered. Founded in the 11th century, it is one of theoldest Croatian towns. Šibenik’s most iconic landmark is the UNESCO-listed St James Cathedral, an architecturalmarvel constructed entirely of stone in the 15th and 16th centuries. The city’s fortresses, like St Michael’s and StNicholas, offer stunning views and a glimpse into its strategic importance through the ages. During the Croatian Warof Independence in the 1990s, Šibenik faced significant conflict but emerged resilient, rebuilding and preserving itshistorical heritage. The people of Šibenik are known for their warm hospitality, celebrated through traditionalfestivals, music and culinary delights. This blend of history and lively local culture makes Šibenik a captivatingdestination for travellers.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Scenic Cruise and UNESCO Sights of ŠibenikThe charming old town of Šibenik is set against a backdrop of island archipelagos and sandy beaches. Like manyCroatian towns, it is fortified with impressive medieval stone structures, with the most striking being the 16th-century St Nicholas Fortress, built by the Venetians, with its formidable battlements that overlook the sea. Your daybegins at the Šibenik waterfront, where we will embark on a half-hour cruise through St Anthony’s Channel, leadingus to St Nicholas Fortress, where we enjoy a locally guided tour. This monument, inscribed on the UNESCO WorldHeritage List in 2017 as part of the ‘Defence System of the Republic of Venice’ holds centuries of stories.Returning to Šibenik we enjoy a locally guided walking tour visiting the monumental Cathedral of St James, andnarrow streets known as kalas. Other highlights include the City Hall and the vibrant heart of the town, completewith its stone streets and bustling crafts centre.Option 2 – Morning experience: Croatia’s Liquid GoldJoin us on a delightful tour to explore the significance of olive oil and wine to the early economy of Šibenik andexperience their exquisite flavours firsthand. Our itinerary for the day immerses you in the rich heritage anddelectable tastes of the Šibenik hinterland. A scenic drive takes you to the award-winning centre of olive oilproduction: St John. Here, you will discover the art and science behind olive oil production and tour where this‘liquid gold’ is crafted. Olive oil has been a cornerstone of Šibenik’s economy for centuries, playing a crucial role intrade and daily life. Your visit culminates in a delicious olive oil tasting, sampling some of the finest oils produced inthe region.No visit to Šibenik is complete without experiencing its renowned wines. Our next stop is the Baraka Winery in theŠibenik hinterland. Baraka Winery is celebrated for its dedication to producing high-quality wines that reflect theunique terroir of the region. During your visit, you’ll tour the winery and its cellar, learning about the traditionalprocess of winemaking. Baraka Winery produces a variety of wines, each showcasing the best of Dalmatianviticulture. You will enjoy a hosted wine tasting, savouring rich, full-bodied reds and crisp, refreshing whites, whereyou can taste the craftsmanship and passion in every glass.Option 3 – Full-day experience: A Taste of Croatia – Lunch with Wine TastingJourney to the picturesque village of Plastovo, where we explore the vineyards and winery of the Sladić Family,renowned for their winemaking tradition. Guided by their patron, Ante, the family crafts exceptional wines fromindigenous grape varieties, prioritising sustainability while honouring their cultural heritage. Nestled on the hillsoverlooking the historical town of Skradin, near the Krka River and Krka National Park, the Sladić vineyards benefitfrom a unique microclimate shaped by the river and the Adriatic Sea, offering cool nights and warm, sunny days idealfor viticulture.This experience immerses you in local culture through food and wine. Enjoy a guided vineyard walk with a memberof the family who will share insights about the wines you will taste. Indulge in a tasting of six wines and one liqueur,accompanied by a seven-course lunch featuring traditional dishes made from local ingredients. Each course isexpertly paired with the wines that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage.

Split's blend of ancient sites and modern delights promises a rich experience at every turn. This 1,700-year-old livingmuseum is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ports on the Adriatic Coast. Split'sheart beats within Diocletian's Palace, commissioned in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor himself,seamlessly blending ancient grandeur with modern-day markets, cafés, and shops. The city's Roman legacy echoesthrough its street layout and the remnants of ancient walls and columns are scattered everywhere. Don't missexploring historical sites like the Cathedral and Bell Tower of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, orbrowsing the souvenir stalls in Diocletian’s Cellars, once used as the palace’s storage rooms. While you are here, besure to rub the big toe of the Grgur Ninski statue. Sculpted by Ivan Meštrović, this massive statue is one of thedefining images of Split. The 10th-century Croatian bishop, Gregory of Nin fought for the right to use old Croatian inliturgical services instead of Latin. His left big toe has been polished to a shine – it’s said that rubbing the toe bringsgood luck and guarantees that you will return to Split.Our experiences today offer a selection of morning and full day options. For those wishing to return to Split thisafternoon, the town is around one kilometre from the ship dependent on our final berth allocation.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Split and SalonaJoin us on a fascinating journey through time as we explore the ancient gems of Split’s surrounds. Your locally guidedtour begins with a scenic drive to the ruins of Salona, once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. At itspeak, Salona was a thriving city with 40,000 residents. Home to ruins of temples, amphitheaters, churches, burialgrounds, and baths, the remnants are considered Croatia’s most important archeological site. Our guides tell us talesof this ancient city as we walk amongst its ruins.Returning to Split’s Old Town, we visit the 4th-century Roman palace erected by Emperor Diocletian. Begin yourwalking tour with a stroll through the well-preserved basement halls of the palace, viewing the Cathedral of St. Duje,one of the oldest in the world, and the remarkably intact Temple of Jupiter. Enjoy free time to explore or browse forsouvenirs in the colourful open-air market, before returning to the ship for lunch.Option 2 – Morning experience: The Fortress of Klis and Stella Croatica Ethno VillageYour adventure begins with a visit to Klis Fortress, located just a short drive from Split. This medieval stronghold,perched above the village of Klis, has a rich history dating back over two thousand years. Originally built by theancient Illyrian tribe Dalmatae, Klis evolved into a royal castle that served as the seat of many Croatian kings. Duringthe Ottoman wars in Europe, it developed into a formidable fortress, guarding the frontier and serving as a keycrossroad between the Mediterranean belt and the Balkan rear. Its strategic location, nestled between themountains of Mosor and Kozjak, made it a crucial defense point against Ottoman advances. In modern times, KlisFortress has gained fame as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones.Next, continue your journey to Stella Croatica Ethno Village. Begin your visit with a leisurely walk through theorchard and olive grove. The Aroma Park is a highlight, brimming with aromatic herbs and spices unique to Dalmatia.The village itself is a living museum, featuring a collection that reflects traditional Dalmatian life, with housesauthentically furnished to transport you back in time. The visit to Stella Croatica offers a captivating glimpse into theregion’s rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.Option 3 – Morning experience: The Pirate Town of Omis and a Cruise on the Cetina RiverThe 2,000-year-old village of Omis is famous for its pirate history. In the 12th and 13th centuries, the feared Omispirates dominated the waters as far south as Dubrovnik, attacking ships from Split, Kotor, and even Venice. The townfiercely defended itself until 1444 when it finally fell to the Venetian Empire. Under Venetian rule, Omis prospered,and much of its current appearance dates to that period. In 1918, Omis became part of Yugoslavia and later Croatiain 1991.A scenic drive offers grand views of Omis and the mouth of the Cetina River, with many of its medieval defences stillvisible on the hill above the town. Here, you will board river boats for a scenic cruise along the Cetina River, whichruns parallel to the coast. The boat cruise will take you up the river to an old mill where you can enjoy snacks andrefreshments. After our river cruise and time to explore Omis we return to Split where you can join us for lunch onthe ship or choose to explore Split independently.Option 4 - Full day tour: A UNESCO Feast – Split and TrogirA 45-minute drive takes us to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Squeezed between the mainland andthe larger island of Čiovo, Trogir is a veritable open-air museum. Our locally guided tour takes us along narrow,cobblestone passageways lined with Medieval buildings, Renaissance-era palaces, stone houses, churches,monasteries, towers, and city walls. We view the Town Loggia, Town Hall, and Cipiko Palace before visiting theCathedral of St. Lawrence, a 13th-century masterpiece and one of Croatia's finest examples of sacral architecture.There is time to explore independently before we board our coach for the return drive to Split, having filled ourmorning with UNESCO World Heritage Sites.Returning to Split, enjoy lunch onboard before meeting our guides for a tour of Split’s UNESCO treasures. Today'sSplit is a mesmerising blend of 17 centuries of history. Our exploration starts in Split's Old Town, centered aroundthe spectacular Roman Palace built by Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century. Begin your walking tour with a visit tothe well-preserved cellars of the palace, then admire the stunning bell tower at the Cathedral of St. Duje, consideredpossibly the oldest cathedral in the world.

This morning, we disembark the Douglas Mawson for our overnight stay in the coastal gem of Dubrovnik. There is aselection of experiences to enjoy prior to arriving at our hotel. This evening, we look back on our journey when wegather for a “very Dalmatian” Farewell event.This stunning walled city boasts a history spanning over a millennium. Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik thrivedas the Republic of Ragusa, a prominent maritime power. Its strategic location encouraged trade across theMediterranean, with the associated wealth shaping its unique blend of architecture and culture. Throughout itshistory, Dubrovnik faced periods of prosperity and challenges, including conflicts with rival states and invasions. Thecity’s formidable defensive walls, begun in the 9th century and expanded in the 14th and 15th centuries, symboliseits strategic significance. In modern times, Dubrovnik gained global recognition as a filming location for motionpictures such as “Game of Thrones,” where its ancient walls and historic streets provided the backdrop for King’sLanding. Today, Dubrovnik’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including churches, monasteries, and palaces,continues to attract visitors seeking to explore its rich heritage and cinematic allure along the scenic Adriatic coast.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Locally Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik and its City WallsExperience the essence of Dubrovnik with a locally guided walking tour that includes a stroll along its iconic citywalls. Beginning at Pile Gate, built in 1537 and adorned with a statue of St Blaise, patron saint of Dubrovnik, the tourtakes you through the bustling Stradun, past historical buildings, shops and cafes. Discover landmarks like Onofrio’sFountain, the Franciscan Monastery, boasting Europe’s oldest pharmacy, and the majestic Rector’s Palace. Thehighlight awaits as you ascend the ancient city walls, started in the 9th century and fortified through the 15thcentury against Turkish attacks. Stretching over one kilometre in length and rising 24 metres high, these walls offerpanoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below. Explore forts and towers, each steeped inhistory, while glimpsing into hidden gardens and courtyards along the residential fringes. From the northern MinčetaTower to Fort Bokar at the southwestern corner, and ending at Fort St John by the Old Harbour, the walls provideinsights into Dubrovnik’s resilience, contrasting with remnants of shelling damage from the 1990s conflict. A walkingtour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and city walls promises an unforgettable journey through time.Option 2 – Morning experience: Walking Dubrovnik and St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery Herbal GardensEmbark on a guided walking tour through Dubrovnik’s Old Town, starting at the historical Pile Gate, built in 1537 andfeaturing a statue of St Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint. Wander down the bustling Stradun, passing by historicalbuildings, shops and cafes. Explore landmarks such as Onofrio’s Fountain, the Franciscan Monastery boastingEurope’s oldest pharmacy, and the grand Rector’s Palace.After delving into Dubrovnik’s vibrant history, journey to the lush valley of Zupa Dubrovacka, to discover the StVicenzo Dominican Monastery. Here, among olive trees and aromatic herbs, experience centuries-old traditions ofessential oil and honey production dating back to the 17th century. Learn about the meticulous olive oil productionprocess and the art of beekeeping through informative presentations displaying Croatian traditions. Indulge intastings of homemade cheeses, pancetta and cured meats, accompanied by smashed olives and savoury delights.Option 3 – Morning experience: Cultural Visit to Konavle valley and Gruda villageDriving along the Dubrovnik Riviera takes you into the rural hinterland of Konavle, where farming communities havethrived for generations. The Konavle County Museum, housed in a building dating back to 1909, originally served asthe headquarters for the rural savings society and cultural club. Established in 1974, the museum now proudlydisplays Konavle’s rich ethnographic heritage, featuring national costumes, textile crafts, jewellery, musicalinstruments, and more, providing a window into local life, both past and present.Continue your journey to Gruda Village, where Antonia Ruskovic and her fellow residents uphold the ancient art ofsilk production. Silk, prized since the Roman Empire, is still meticulously crafted here, primarily for embroideringKonavle’s traditional costumes. Gain an insight into every step of silk-making, from cocoon boiling to weaving andembroidery, while engaging with local artisans. Wrap up your countryside experience with a delightful performanceof local dances by villagers adorned in traditional Konavle attire. Immerse yourself in Croatia’s rural culture, awayfrom the coastal crowds, and feel free to engage deeply with this authentic glimpse into Konavle’s heritage.Accommodation: Dubrovnik HotelMeals: Breakfast on board, Farewell Event canapés

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Dubrovnik and the enchanting stories of “Dalmatia”.An airport transfer with your fellow travellers is included for your onward journey.Meals: Breakfast