Croatia & The Dalmatian Coast

Your journey begins with an overnight flight to Europe, connecting to Zagreb, Croatia.

Upon arrival in Zagreb, Croatia, guests will be warmly welcomed at the airport by our team and transferred to the iconic Hotel Esplanade, known for its elegance and historical charm. Our on-site representative will be available at the hotel to assist with check-ins and provide support, while our Hospitality Desk in the lobby ensures guests have easy access to information and guidance throughout their stay. In the evening, gather for a welcome briefing, where our Program Manager will provide an overview of the journey ahead. The day concludes with a memorable welcome dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, featuring a specially curated menu of Croatian culinary delights—a perfect introduction to the flavors and culture of this beautiful region. (D)

After breakfast, embark on a guided morning tour of Zagreb. Begin with a private tram ride from the train station near the hotel to the city center, accompanied by informative commentary. Enjoy a walking tour that highlights Zagreb’s National Theatre, Opera House, Mimara Museum, and the beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. Explore the upper town with stops at St. Mark’s Square, National Government Buildings, and the Zagreb City Museum, concluding with a visit to the bustling Dolac Market, where you’ll enjoy a local food tasting experience. After lunch at a local restaurant (menu to be announced), guests can choose to return to the hotel by tram or take a scenic walk, with the afternoon free to relax or explore at their leisure. The Hospitality Desk in the lobby will be available for additional support. Conclude the day with a special dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, featuring a menu that showcases the best of Croatian cuisine. (B, L, D)

Begin the day with a breakfast buffet at the hotel, with the morning free to explore Zagreb at leisure or relax. After checking out, depart for Ivanic Grad to visit the charming Kezele Family Village Estate. Here, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive farm tour, featuring a guided visit of the estate's stables and animal habitats, along with the family’s collection of historical agricultural tools. Savor a brandy tasting during a welcome speech from the owner, followed by a visit to the wine cellar for a tasting session. This immersive experience provides insight into traditional Moslavina region food and wine production, with a lunch of regional dishes known as the “Moslavina Plate” served alongside local wines and homemade juices. In the afternoon, travel to Opatija, a picturesque coastal town known for its scenic views and historic charm. During the drive, enjoy a talk on Croatian History: From Barbarians to Democratic Society, offering a fascinating overview of the country’s rich past. Upon arrival, a guided walking tour of Opatija awaits, where you’ll explore its beautiful architecture and seaside promenade. Luggage will be transferred to rooms, and check-in will be completed during the tour. Conclude the day with dinner in Opatija (location and menu to be announced), offering another chance to savor the region's culinary specialties. (B, L, D)

Enjoy a breakfast buffet at the hotel before departing on an exciting tour of Istria. Arrive in Pula for a guided sightseeing tour, featuring the impressive Pula Amphitheatre (Arena), one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. After exploring Pula, enjoy some free time to wander and capture the sights at your own pace before heading to Rovinj. Upon arrival in Rovinj, savor lunch at a local restaurant and then enjoy a guided sightseeing tour, followed by additional free time to explore this charming coastal town known for its Venetian architecture and beautiful waterfront. Return to Opatija in the evening, where a special dinner awaits, accompanied by a performance of "Klapa" singers, a UNESCO-recognized Croatian musical tradition. Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal with drinks before retiring for the night at your hotel in Opatija. (B, L, D)

Start the day with a breakfast buffet at the hotel before departing for Šibenik. Enjoy a scenic drive through Rijeka and northern Dalmatia, accompanied by a fascinating talk on the history and dissolution of Yugoslavia. Stop for lunch at a local prosciutto-making farm, where you’ll learn about the traditional process of prosciutto production, followed by a delicious meal featuring regional specialties. Upon arrival in Šibenik, embark on a guided walking tour, including a visit to the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James, a stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. After some free time to explore, continue to Split for embarkation. Following a security drill and crew introduction, enjoy a special welcome dinner onboard as you settle in for an overnight stay in port, ready for the journey ahead. (B, L, D)

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast onboard before setting out on a guided exploration of Split, Croatia’s second-largest city and home to one of the most extraordinary remnants of Roman architecture. Your tour focuses on the UNESCO-listed Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian, a vast 4th-century palace that served as a retirement residence for the Roman Emperor Diocletian. As you wander through the palace complex, marvel at its ancient walls, grand courtyards, and impressive gates, each offering a fascinating blend of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance architecture. You’ll explore key sites within the palace, including Peristyle Square, where Roman columns and arches surround an open courtyard, and the Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian’s mausoleum. Strolling through this living historical monument, you'll also encounter vibrant markets, quaint cafes, and local artisan shops nestled within the palace walls, creating a unique juxtaposition of ancient and modern life. After the tour, enjoy lunch at your leisure, with a cash allowance provided to choose a local restaurant or café that piques your interest. The afternoon is yours to explore Split at your own pace. You may wish to revisit parts of Diocletian’s Palace, relax on the picturesque Riva Promenade by the waterfront, or explore nearby shops and galleries. In the evening, return to the ship for a delightful dinner onboard, featuring a selection of dishes inspired by local flavors. Following dinner, the night is free to enjoy as you please—perhaps take a leisurely evening walk through Split’s illuminated old town, or simply relax on deck and soak in the coastal atmosphere. Spend the night onboard, anchored in Split’s port, as you prepare for the next chapter of your journey. (B, L, D)

Enjoy breakfast on board as the ship departs Split and arrives in the historic town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin with a guided walking tour through Trogir, renowned for its preserved medieval architecture, narrow streets, and lively markets. Explore the local market where you'll have the chance to sample regional products, immersing yourself in the flavors of Dalmatia. Depart from Trogir to visit Jurlinovi Dvori, an authentic Dalmatian estate that offers a glimpse into traditional Croatian life. Here, explore the ethnographic gallery, which showcases artifacts of local heritage. Enjoy a hearty local meal featuring a brandy aperitif, Socivo (a thick vegetable soup), homemade prosciutto, cheese, and Babić wine from the Primosten vineyards, renowned for its robust flavor that reflects the character of the local landscape. After this cultural immersion, continue to the breathtaking Krka Waterfalls National Park. Take a scenic walking tour through the park, marveling at its series of cascading waterfalls and lush surroundings, followed by a tranquil boat trip to Skradin. Following this natural excursion, return to Trogir and reboard the ship. The evening features dinner onboard, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Enjoy the evening at leisure in Trogir’s port, where you can soak up the town's serene nighttime ambiance before settling in for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)

Have breakfast on board as you sail from Trogir to the beautiful island of Hvar. Begin the day with an insightful talk on Everyday Life in Croatia Today, offering a modern perspective on Croatian culture and society. Upon arrival in Hvar, journey to Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient agricultural landscape, established by Greek colonists over 2,400 years ago, showcases traditional farming techniques still in use today. Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, such as Restaurant Hora, known for its authentic regional dishes. Following lunch, embark on a Hvar walking tour to explore the island’s rich history and picturesque scenery. Wander through the charming streets, surrounded by Venetian architecture, and visit lavender farms that reflect the island’s agricultural heritage. As a special gesture, each guest will receive a lavender gift from a local producer. The afternoon is free for leisure, allowing you to enjoy Hvar’s beaches, shops, or cafes. In the evening, return to the ship for dinner onboard and spend a relaxing night in the port of Hvar, with time to soak in the island’s serene ambiance. (B, L, D)

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast on board as the ship departs Hvar and sails towards Korčula, known as the birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo. Enjoy lunch onboard as you approach this picturesque island, celebrated for its medieval architecture and charming old town. Upon arrival, embark on a Korčula walking tour, where you’ll explore the narrow streets and discover historical sites, including impressive fortifications, Venetian-style buildings, and the iconic St. Mark’s Cathedral. Following the guided tour, spend the afternoon at your leisure to explore more of Korčula’s delightful cafes, shops, or beaches at your own pace. In the evening, gather back on the ship for a delicious dinner onboard, followed by a relaxing evening with time to unwind or take in the views of the port. Enjoy an overnight stay at anchor in Korčula’s scenic harbor, surrounded by the island’s enchanting ambiance. (B, L, D)

Have breakfast on board as the ship heads toward Trstenik on the stunning Pelješac Peninsula, renowned for its vineyards and coastal beauty. Upon arrival, visit the Bartulović Winery for an immersive wine experience, beginning with a vineyard lunch that includes chickpea soup, Dalmatian smoked ham, a selection of cheeses, and marinated anchovies, accompanied by tastings of three local wines. This picturesque setting offers an authentic taste of Croatian viticulture, with a possibility of participating in grape picking during the harvest season. Continue to the historic town of Ston, known for its medieval walls and salt flats. After a brief orientation walk and free time, travel to Hodilje, where you’ll embark on a boat for a unique oyster and wine tasting experience with a local producer, sampling fresh oysters directly from the bay. Return to the ship for a memorable Captain’s Dinner, featuring live entertainment by a local trio, celebrating the day’s discoveries. Enjoy an overnight stay in port, with the serene Pelješac landscape as your backdrop. (B, L, D)

Breakfast on board as you sail from Trstenik to Dubrovnik. En route, enjoy a fascinating talk on the Dubrovnik Republic, providing historical context for the day's exploration. Upon arrival, depart for Pile Gates and embark on a morning sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik's iconic landmarks, including the Stradun main street, City walls, fortresses, Dubrovnik Cathedral, Duke’s Palace, and the Sponza Palace. As you stroll through this UNESCO-listed Old City of Dubrovnik, take in the stunning medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. A special highlight includes a private classical concert by the Sorkocevic Quartet, adding an elegant touch to your Dubrovnik experience. The afternoon offers flexibility: return to the ship for a leisurely lunch on board or stay in Dubrovnik's city center, exploring at your own pace and dining at a local restaurant. In the evening, depart for Gromača for a unique home-hosted dinner experience. Split into small groups, you'll be welcomed by local families and enjoy a meal prepared with homegrown ingredients, served in family kitchens, dining rooms, or terraces. This intimate setting allows for authentic interaction and insight into Croatian home life. After dinner, return to the ship for an overnight stay in port. (B, L, D)

Depart Dubrovnik for your flight back to the United States.