Discover the Best of the Croatian Coast

Fly from the UK to Dubrovnik. Your Mediterranean cruise begins in the historic city of Dubrovnik, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on a tour of intriguing cities and extraordinary coastlines.

Flight to arrive into Dubrovnik prior to 07:00 PM.

Dubrovnik, known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, is a compelling city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. With its medieval city walls and breathtaking views of terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea, it offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and a beach holiday. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Dubrovnik
Embark on a captivating walking tour of Dubrovnik, starting with a scenic coach journey from the pier to Pile Gate. Explore the Franciscan Monastery, where the mesmerizing cloister and Europe's oldest operating pharmacy, dating back to 1317, await your discovery. Admire the exterior of other notable sites, soaking in the rich history and architectural beauty of Dubrovnik. After the guided tour, take advantage of some free time to further explore the town at your own pace, perhaps wandering through charming alleyways or pausing to indulge in local cuisine.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

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Dalmatian family experience (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Travel by motorcoach to Cilipi, a quaint village near Dubrovnik. Our experience will begin with a brief stroll through the village alongside our hosts, allowing us to meet the residents and gain insight into their everyday lives. You'll also savor authentic, home-cooked Croatian dishes as we partake in a meal that reflects the daily culinary traditions of our host family. 
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3.5 hours

Docked: 08:00 - 18:00

Croatia’s second-largest city, Split, is visually stunning and rich with culture, history and architecture.  Take a stroll along the Riva past beautiful terraces, palm trees and busy eateries with harbour views. Diocletian's Palace, built in the 4th century AD, dominates the city centre and houses a myriad of buzzing bars and cafes.  

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Marjan hill
Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Split with a leisurely walking and hiking excursion through Marjan Park Forest. Pass by the quaint fishing port and venture through the oldest neighbourhood, immersing yourself in the city's centuries-old charm. Ascend Marjan's winding trails, shaded by majestic pine trees. Learn about the hill's rich heritage and the efforts of the Marjan Association to preserve its pristine beauty since the 19th century.  
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 2.5 hours

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Guided tour of Trogir (extra expense)
Embark on a picturesque drive to the town of Trogir, situated on a small island between the mainland and Ciovo. Experience the charm of narrow streets, offering a glimpse into life in days gone by. Join a guided walking tour to explore Town Loggia, the Town Hall, and the Cipiko Palace, culminating in a visit to the highlight—the Cathedral of St. Lawrence.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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A walking tour of Split (extra expense)
A panoramic drive through the town of Split brings you to the Mestrovic Gallery. Continue to the Old Town of Split that is built on and around the spectacular 4th-century Roman Palace of the Emperor Diocletian. Your walking tour starts with a visit to the Palace’s cellars and the Cathedral of St Duje , the charming Temple of Jupiter and view other landmarks such as the Golden Gate, the Silver Gate and Peristyle Square from the outside.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Klapa performance on board
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Dalmatia region with an enchanting Klapa Performance on board. Delight in the harmonious melodies of traditional Dalmatian songs as the Klapa ensemble serenades you with their captivating vocals. Typically performed by male singers, klapa music is celebrated for its rich sound and cultural significance, captivating audiences with its timeless beauty. 
Duration: 1 hour

Docked: 08:00 - 05:00 (next day)

Get ready to set sail in the morning from Split to Zadar. A historic city set on a peninsula; Zadar boasts relics from various eras. Explore the churches, Roman ruins, and unique modern attractions: the Sun Salutation and Sea Organ, which are inventive sound, surf and sun-activated art pieces.

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A walking tour of Zadar (extra expense)
Embark on a journey through time as you stroll along the ancient streets of Zadar. Commence from the Seafront Promenade, where you'll encounter two of the city's most renowned modern attractions: the mesmerizing Sea Organ and the captivating Greeting to the Sun. Visit The Gold & Silver Exhibition and the Museum of Ancient Glass, where you'll discover fascinating artifacts that further illuminate Zadar's storied past. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Docked: 14:00 - 22:00

Dalmatia's capital for more than 1,000 years, Zadar is all too often passed over by travelers on their way to Split or Dubrovnik. What they miss out on is a city of more than 73,000 that is remarkably lovely and lively despite—and, in some measure, because of—its tumultuous history. The Old Town, separated from the rest of the city on a peninsula some 4 km (2½ miles) long and just 1,640 feet wide, is bustling and beautiful: the marble pedestrian streets are replete with Roman ruins, medieval churches, palaces, museums, archives, and libraries. Parts of the new town are comparatively dreary, a testament to what a world war followed by decades of communism, not to mention a civil war, can do to the architecture of a city that is 3,000 years old. A settlement had already existed on the site of the present-day city for some 2,000 years when Rome finally conquered Zadar in the 1st century BC; the foundations of the forum can be seen today. Before the Romans came the Liburnians had made it a key center for trade with the Greeks and Romans for 800 years. In the 3rd century BC the Romans began to seriously pester the Liburnians, but required two centuries to bring the area under their control. During the Byzantine era, Zadar became the capital of Dalmatia, and this period saw the construction of its most famous church, the 9th-century St. Donat's Basilica. It remained the region's foremost city through the ensuing centuries. The city then experienced successive onslaughts and occupations—both long and short—by the Osogoths, the Croatian-Hungarian kings, the Venetians, the Turks, the Habsburgs, the French, the Habsburgs again, and finally the Italians before becoming part of Yugoslavia and, in 1991, the independent republic of Croatia. Zadar was for centuries an Italian-speaking city, and Italian is still spoken widely, especially by older people. Indeed, it was ceded to Italy in 1921 under the Treaty of Rapallo (and reverted to its Italian name of Zara). Its occupation by the Germans from 1943 led to intense bombing by the Allies during World War II, which left most of the city in ruins. Zadar became part of Tito's Yugoslavia in 1947, prompting many Italian residents to leave. Zadar's most recent ravages occurred during a three-month siege by Serb forces and months more of bombardment during the Croatian-Serbian war between 1991 and 1995. But you'd be hard-pressed to find outward signs of this today in what is a city to behold. There are helpful interpretive signs in English all around the Old Town, so you certainly won't feel lost when trying to make sense of the wide variety of architectural sites you might otherwise pass by with only a cursory look.

On the western peninsula of Croatia, southwest of the city of Rijeka, is Opatija, with alluring views across the Adriatic towards the Kvarner Islands and the distant Istrian mountains. Known as the Nice of Croatia, Opatija has lovely seaside promenades and fairy-tale villas. 

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Hilltowns of Istria (extra expense)
Depart from the pier and take in the stunning scenery as you journey to the charming hilltop village of Motovun. Immerse yourself in the rich local history, with landmarks dating back to the 12th century, including the Romanesque Municipal Palace. Stop in Oprtalj, once fortified by city walls before proceeding to the third hilltop town of the day, Groznjan, a vibrant cultural hub, particularly in the summer when it comes alive with music academies, workshops, and artistic performances.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 7.5 hours

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Hiking to Kamacnik Spink (extra expense)
Board your motor coach for a scenic one-hour journey to Gorski Kotar, specifically the Vrbovsko area, where your hiking adventure begins in the breathtaking Kamacnik Canyon. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you, walking alongside the creek and crossing sturdy wooden bridges that elegantly arch over the small rapids or stretch over the water’s edge. The trail leads you through a lush valley, creating a truly enchanting scene. 
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 19:00

Piran is a pretty town of red-tiled, white-washed buildings clustered on the tip of the Piran peninsula. Part of the Venetian empire from the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century, its esteemed for its gothic-style Venetian architecture.

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Postoina cave and Predjana Castle (extra expense)
Set off on an awe-inspiring journey through the natural beauty of Postojna Cave, a stunning geological gem that has fascinated visitors for centuries. Then, make your way to the iconic Predjama Castle, an impressive fortress built into a cliffside cave, where captivating stories of medieval intrigue await. Conclude your delightful adventure with a scenic drive back to Piran, where you can reflect on the day's wonders amidst the coastal charm of this delightful seaside town. 
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

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Slovenia’s alluring Lipica Stud (extra expense)
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the prestigious Lipica Stud Farm, renowned for its rich equestrian heritage and majestic Lipizzaner horses. Immerse yourself in the splendour of the stud farm with a guided walking tour, where you'll discover the elegant stables and lush pastures that have bred these noble creatures for centuries. Enjoy the added charm of a horse carriage ride through the picturesque surroundings.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 23:00

Venice is an enchanting city that exudes an atmosphere not found anywhere else in the world. Established in the 5th century, the city stretches across 118 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic. Admire the grandeur of the canals and see St Marks Basilica.

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Walking tour of Venice with Doge's Palace (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Depart from the pier and take a scenic 20-minute ride in a private motorboat to the Saint Mark’s district, navigating along the stunning Canale della Giudecca. Marvel at the impressive Marciana Library, the towering belltower and the clocktower. Adjacent to the cathedral stands the magnificent Doges' Palace with its exquisite façade and intricate loggias. Next, you'll see the iconic Ponte dei Sospiri, or Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the former ducal prison, steeped in legend and history.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.5 hours

Docked: 09:00 - overnight

Venice is an enchanting city that exudes an atmosphere not found anywhere else in the world. Established in the 5th century, the city stretches across 118 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic. Admire the grandeur of the canals and see St Mark’s Basilica.

Docked: overnight - 21:00

The town of Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsula is threaded with Italian influence. Guests love the winding city streets, picturesque harbour and colourful building facades. It’s a lovely, walkable town and there are plenty of art galleries, small squares and a harbour dotted with fishing boats.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rovinj
Discover one of the most picturesque Istrian towns on a guided walking tour—the ideal way to intimately experience local life. Rovinj, believed to be one of the most photogenic towns in the Mediterranean, evolved from a fishing village into a captivating tourist destination. The main Church of St. Euphemia showcases exquisite Baroque architecture, making it a highlight in Istria. Your guide will lead you through well-preserved medieval streets, offering insights into local life across different eras. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

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Pula and Roman Amphitheatre (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Enjoy a walking tour of the historic town of Pula to witness one of the world's largest Roman amphitheatres. Pula stands as one of Europe's oldest towns, shaped by Roman settlers who left behind a legacy of remarkable public buildings. Experience a taste of modern life in Pula with a visit to the open-air city market, where fresh produce, souvenirs, and handicrafts await. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours

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Istria with truffle tasting (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Embark on a picturesque journey from the pier to the charming hilltop hamlet of Motovun. Explore the village's rich history, featuring landmarks from the 12th century. Rejoining your bus for a scenic journey along narrow roads to the small town of Groznjan. Conclude your guided walk at an atmospheric tavern, indulging in Istrian delicacies.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 6 hours

Docked: 08:00 - 21:00

Today we visit Šibenik, nestled in a sea inlet on Croatia’s Adriatic coast. The origins of Šibenik date back to 1066 and there is a plethora of architectural styles to admire. Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage-listed St James’ Cathedral, crafted from white stone – just take the stairs from the Riva, the seaside promenade. 

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Visit to Krka National Park (extra expense)
Immerse yourself in the splendour of Croatia with a visit to Krka National Park, enhanced by a tranquil boat ride. Witness the river's journey through a canyon, explore the highlight of the park, Skradinski Buk, featuring the largest waterfall at 147 feet. Conclude your adventure with a scenic half-hour boat ride along the Krka River to the charming town of Skradin. Enjoy some free time in Skradin before returning to the ship. 
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours

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Eco Tuk Tuk tour of Sibenik (extra expense)
Experience the captivating highlights of Šibenik through a scenic tuk-tuk ride that winds its way through the city's historic streets. Your journey commences with a visit to the Barone Fortress, where you can relish breathtaking views and capture unforgettable photographs. Proceed to the St. John and the iconic St. Michael Fortress, providing a distinctive vantage point of both the city and its stunning coastline. As you arrive at the promenades of Šibenik, you will enjoy a brief guided walk through the charming city center, immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage.  Your tour will conclude with a leisurely drive back to the port, leaving you with lasting memories of Šibenik's beauty and history. 
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours, Note: 2 guests per tuk tuk

Docked: 13:00 - 22:00

The tiny town of Trogir is a hidden gem, located on a small island between the mainland and Ciovo Island. For some of the most spectacular views of this photogenic town, climb the tower of the Cathedral of St Lawrence — it's the highest building in Trogir.

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A walking tour of Split (extra expense)
A panoramic drive through the town of Split brings you to the Mestrovic Gallery. Continue to the Old Town of Split that is built on and around the spectacular 4th-century Roman Palace of the Emperor Diocletian. Your walking tour starts with a visit to the Palace’s cellars and the Cathedral of St Duje , the charming Temple of Jupiter and view other landmarks such as the Golden Gate, the Silver Gate and Peristyle Square from the outside.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Dalmatia untouched (extra expense)
Our tour kicks off with a picturesque drive to the quaint town of Primosten. This delightful locale is an island linked to the mainland by a causeway and is renowned for its charming stone houses and narrow cobblestone streets. Next, head to the village of Burni, where many homes date back several centuries. Immerse yourself in the essence of this traditional Dalmatian village with a visit to the Jurlinovi Dvori family farmhouse where you will enjoy local treats. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 23:00

The island of Vis, off the Croatian mainland, was closed to visitors until 1989. This has given Vis a rare sense of peace and authenticity. Its rocky coastline, azure waters and Venetian architecture made it the ideal backdrop of the film ‘Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.’ (2018). As the afternoon rolls in, it’s time to set sail to Hvar. 

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Komiza tour (extra expense)
Your island adventure kicks off with a scenic coach ride to a breathtaking viewpoint, where you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views. Next, visit the base of the hill that hosts Tito’s Cave, a significant hideout and headquarters for Josip Broz Tito, the resistance leader and Yugoslavian President. Reunite with your coach for a drive to Komiza, one of Croatia's most charming island villages, renowned for its rich fishing traditions. Explore a small fishermen's museum nestled within a 16th-century Venetian tower and enjoy some leisure time to soak in the delightful atmosphere of this quaint town. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Blue cave on Bisevo Island (extra expense)
Enjoy a scenic 45-minute boat ride to the picturesque island of Bisevo. This island boasts a collection of caves that can only be reached by sea. Each day around noon, the waters become tranquil, allowing sunlight to stream into one of the caves through an underwater entrance. This phenomenon illuminates the cave’s interior with a stunning blue glow, earning it the name Blue Cave. Hop aboard a local boat to access through a small natural opening and immerse yourself in its extraordinary beauty. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

EmeraldPLUS
On board performance
Growing up in Hvar, a group of friends was inspired by the soothing melodies of traditional Dalmatian songs and founded Klapa Galešnik in 2002, with the intention of dedicating themselves more seriously to a cappella singing. Their debut performance took place at the Dalmatian Klapa Festival in Omiš in 2003. Since that time, their performances have consistently enriched the cultural landscape of Hvar and its surrounding regions. The group is led by Professor Tomi Domancic. 
Duration: 1 hour

Offshore: 08:00 - 17:00

The heart of island paradise Hvar is the Old Town — while it’s become a modern-day hotspot, it’s layered in history and architectural wonder. The town of Hvar is a photogenic jumble of whitewashed buildings with sun-kissed red roofs, and beyond the town are rolling hills peppered with lavender fields, olive groves, and grapevines. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Uphill hike to the Spanish fortress
Begin your hiking tour with a stroll through the charming old town. Pass through the main city gate, known as the Porta di Datallo, and ascend the stairs into the historical heart of the city. Continue your journey towards Hvar's fortress, known locally as Fortica or Španjola. Once you cross the town walls, enjoy a gentle ascent along a tree-lined hillside leading to the fortress.  
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 2 hours

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Hvar island tour (extra expense)
Explore the cultural and historical treasures of Hvar on a scenic drive that takes you from the vibrant town to the picturesque Stari Grad. Continue your journey to the charming village of Dol, where you'll indulge in local products and wine at a traditional farm. The excursion concludes at the main town square, where a knowledgeable guide leads you on a walking tour through Hvar's narrow, characteristic streets.  
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Offshore: 20:00 (day prior) - 23:00

The sixth-largest island in the Adriatic, Korcula, is among the most beloved in Croatia. Its Old Town, referred to by the locals as ‘Little Dubrovnik’, is a delightful collection of medieval churches, palaces, and squares, while the villages of Cara and Smokvica produce the country’s signature dry white wine. You will sail to Dubrovnik later in the day. 

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A walking tour of Korcula (extra expense)
Discover the rich historical tapestry of Korcula, traverse cobblestone streets through centuries of art and history, visiting 14th- to 16th-century fortifications, the Rector's palace, and the City Museum housed in a 16th-century mansion. Uncover Korcula‘s vibrant history in the small cathedral, Museum of Icons, and glimpse Marco Polo's believed birthplace. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

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Buggy tour (extra expense)
Start your excursion with scenic journey by minibus to explore the captivating Peljesac and Korcula archipelago, reaching the buggy pick-up point. Set off on your two-seater convertible buggy, winding through gravel roads above Lumbarda village, surrounded by picturesque olive groves and vineyards. Discover hidden bays and coves, with the first stops at Lumbarda's renowned Pržina Beach and LaBannya Beach. 
Note: Participants must have their driver's license with them as they will be driving the buggies during the excursion. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Dalmatian family experience (extra expense, available on select departures)
Travel by motorcoach to Cilipi, a quaint village near Dubrovnik. Our experience will begin with a brief stroll through the village alongside our hosts, allowing us to meet the residents and gain insight into their everyday lives. You'll also savor authentic, home-cooked Croatian dishes as we partake in a meal that reflects the daily culinary traditions of our host family. 
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3.5 hours

Docked: 08:00 - 14:00

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost

Your Emerald Cruises voyage concludes in the grand, historic city of Dubrovnik. From the yacht, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday.

Please book your flight to depart out of Dubrovnik after 11:00 AM.

Docked: 20:00 (day prior)

*Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a DiscoverMORE tour is available on disembarkation day.    

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons, including changes to port timings and berth status. Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee that the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.