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Adventure Cruises in Croatia
Croatia's coastline is scattered with idyllic islands to explore from a luxury cruise. Historical sites and towns along with Mediterranean weather, make for a perfect trip.
For travelers in the know, the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia has become a popular alternative to the pricier and more crowded Mediterranean Coast, and a Croatian cruise aboard a small luxury yacht is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful and exciting region. To sail Croatia is to cruise from one UNESCO World Heritage site to another, stopping along the way to swim at secluded beaches, explore uninhabited islands and wander streets lined with charming cafés and Venetian architecture.
Deluxe cruises of the Croatian coastline will make clear why the region has become the newest European tourism hot spot. Croatia sailing cruises include city tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites, visits to tiny island fishing villages, and plenty of time spent relaxing on the beach and swimming in crystalline waters. Most Adriatic cruises will feature some or all of the highlights listed below.
On January 1, 2023, Croatia became part of the Schengen visa-free travel area. This means that border and customs checks were abolished at the borders between Croatia and other Schengen member states for people crossing the borders by road, rail, or water. From March 26, 2023, there will be no airport border checks when flying into Croatia from other Schengen member states - this includes most European Union countries. Also, Croatia has officially adopted the Euro as its currency, replacing the Croatian Kuna.
Best Croatia cruises and areas to visit
Split, a common departure point for island-hopping cruises of the Dalmatian Coast, hides a wealth of artistic and historical treasures within its walls. A UNESCO World Heritage site and working port city, Split blends the ancient and the modern, making it one of the most fascinating and atmospheric cities in Europe. Dripping with Roman relics, Split’s claim to fame is Diocletian’s Palace. Though dating back to the year 305, this is no musty museum. The Palace is a living part of the city, with laundry hanging from balconies and music drifting out from bustling restaurants.
The Makarska Coast, also known as the “Makarska Riviera” is Croatia’s most popular mainland resort. Featuring excellent beaches and a spectacular mountain backdrop, Makarska also offers some of the region’s best wines. Wandering the town of Makarska offers the opportunity to visit numerous churches and cathedrals, as well as two ancient monasteries. Visitors seeking adventure activities can head for nearby Cetina for white water rafting and ziplining.
Korčula Island, covered in thick forest and stippled with mountains, is the location of Korčula Town, known as both the birthplace of Marco Polo and as one of the prettiest towns in the region. The walled town has terracotta roofs that seem to burn in the sun, contrasted with the blue of the surrounding Adriatic. Sun worshipers will find a series of small beaches east of town, while culture buffs can remain within the town walls to visit its many churches, art shops and the Marco Polo House.
Mljet Island is a nature lover's paradise. Covered in dense woods and punctuated with limestone mountains, a third of Mljet’s surface consists of the Mljet National Park. Visitors can hike or cycle through the park or take a boat ride on one of its two salt-water lakes. The island is also rich with wildlife, including wild boar, hare, and deer, while underwater is grouper and the protected monk seal. Mljet’s coast is dotted with beautiful beaches, including Saplunara, at its southeastern tip, considered one of the best beaches in the region.
Hvar Island is a favourite holiday getaway for Croatians, and it’s not difficult to see why. In addition to sparkling coves and sweet-smelling lavender fields, Hvar Island features Hvar Town, the perfect spot to wander the Old Town, admire Venetian architecture, and hike to the hilltop Fortica to enjoy the views. After a gourmet meal at one of the town’s restaurants, set out to explore the pristine beaches of the nearby Pakleni Islands, before heading back at sundown to enjoy dancing and cocktails at an after hours beach bar.
Stari Grad, on Hvar Island, lies at the end of a long bay and serves as a quieter, more leisurely alternative to Hvar Town. Founded by the Greeks in 384 BC, Stari Grad is the oldest town in the region and, in fact, its name means “Old Town”. Outside this stately and charming town lay fields still divided the ancient Greek method of parcelling.
Vis was off limits to tourism until 1989, due to its status as a military installation. Now, visitors can enjoy this largely untouched island, with its superb beaches and an impressive inland mountain chain. The town of Vis features Venetian-Gothic architecture and the white-walled Our Lady of Spilica. The island is also home to the remains of Issa, an ancient Greek settlement and the oldest urban centre in Croatia.
Bol is a small town on the island of Brač and, though a simple fishing village, it has become a popular tourist stop due to its proximity to Zlatni Rat, one of the most iconic beaches in the Adriatic. Like a blade plunging into the sea, this golden sand beach changes shape with the tide. In addition to swimming, the waters and conditions here are perfect for windsurfing.
Dubrovnik typically serves as the starting or end point of Dalmatian Coast cruises, but it is worth spending an extra day or two to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dubrovnik is known both for its massive Old City Walls and as a stand in for King’s Landing, the fictional city on the Game of Thrones television series. City tours will take visitors along the walls or to Game of Thrones-related sites. Visitors seeking a spot to enjoy a coffee or glass of local wine can head to the pedestrianized Stradun or ride the city cable car for majestic views of the city and surrounding sea.
Best time to sail Croatia
Croatia’s Dalmatian coast has a well-defined peak season and off season. Croatia in June to August is the peak season when the sun is bright but crowds are bigger and prices are generally higher. Croatia in October to April is the off season, when many shops, restaurants and hotels are closed and options for island hopping are limited.
The best time to visit Croatia’s coast and islands is May and September, the shoulder months when prices are sometimes lower, crowds are thinner and facilities are still open.
How to get to Croatia
Croatia’s coast is serviced by three international airports, in Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik. All three airports can be reached by direct flight from any one of over a dozen European countries. Flights arriving from outside Europe will need to connect in Zagreb or another European airport before continuing on to the coast.
Where do Croatia cruises depart from?
Sailing cruises of the Dalmatian coast typically depart from Split or Dubrovnik. If your cruise leaves from Split, you will fly into the Split International Airport, while Dubrovnik is serviced by its own international airport.
Croatia Cruise Tips
- Plan ahead as Croatia has a definite peak season and off season, which may affect the availability of deluxe cruises of the Adriatic. Luxury cruises during the peak season should be booked far in advance. During the off season certain cruise options may not be available.
- Choose the right trip for you. If you’re looking for adventure activities, make sure Mljet Island and a trip to Cetina, near Makarska, are included on your itinerary. Art lovers will want to spend a little extra time in Split, while those hoping to party until the sun comes need to ensure a stop on Hvar Island.
- It is recommended to arrive a day or two before your small ship cruise of Croatia to avoid unforeseen delays.
- The Dalmatian Coast in the summer can be hot and bright, so sunscreen, sunglasses and a good hat are musts.
- The local currency in Croatia is the Kuna. ATMs are easy to find and larger hotels, restaurants and shops will accept credit cards, while small shops and accommodations will accept only cash.
- Citizens of the European Union can enter Croatia using their ID cards, while all other visitors will need a passport valid for three months past the date of departure. Visas are generally not required for most visitors staying for ninety days or less, though travellers from China, India, South Africa, Russia and Turkey will need a visa.
Take a look at the itineraries on offer in Croatia on board a small ship cruise and contact our reservations team to discuss your next trip.
Croatia Reviews
- 9.3 Superb
- 99 Verified Reviews
Wonderful! Cannot wait to go back.
Cruising Croatia in May on the Black Swan
We did not dive, but the swim stops were enjoyable. Without snorkels we saw many fish, clams, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. Be sure to bring water shoes with a substantial sole!
Cruising Croatia in June on the San Antonio
Great option cruising between the islands.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aquamarin
We did not dive but enjoyed the sea from both the ship and the various beaches.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Rhapsody
Fun time!
Cruising Croatia in August on the Antaris
Just swimming. Clear water but nothing to see underneath.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Antaris
Excellent. Would highly recommend.
Cruising Croatia in September on the New Star
We loved Croatia! This weather was fabulous, the water unbelievably clear and clean, the seafood wonderful and the history impressive. Highly recommend visiting this beautiful country
Cruising Croatia in September on the Infinity
The total experience of cruising in a small ship in Croatia was superb!
Cruising Croatia in May on the Princess Aloha
Beautiful coast, spectacular scenery, warm people and great wine and food. We loved it!
Cruising Croatia in May on the Antaris
We didn't dive, but the swim stops were nice.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Symphony
A sightseeing tour. Lots of swimming, no diving.
Cruising Croatia in June on the My Way
Did not dive, but got to snorkel a lot. Not to many variety of fish, but it was very pretty and relaxing to be in the water.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Aquamarin
Fabulous family vacation appealing to all ages
Cruising Croatia in July on the Aquamarin
Loved the people, the beauty of it, the history. It was a great way to see the islands as well as the port towns. We’ve grown quite fond of Croatia
Cruising Croatia in July on the My Way
Great and Informative
Cruising Croatia in July on the Aquamarin
Loved it. Water is beautiful.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Symphony
Did not dive, just snorkeled. Not a lot to see though so just swimming was perfect.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aurelia
A fabulous experience and one I would highly recommend.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aurelia
We did not dive but the swimming was delightful.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Rhapsody
Can not say enough about the cruise and beauty of Croatia. Would highly recommend. We’re hoping to do more islands and cruise on our next visit. Wonderful way to see the beautiful islands of Croatia 🇭🇷
Cruising Croatia in September on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Beautiful stops for swimming
Cruising Croatia in September on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Wonderful! Very impressed with the history, the nature, the people, the food and drink!
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aquamarin
We didn’t dive, swim stops were great
Cruising Croatia in October on the My Wish
We will come back for sure!!! The see, the sun, the islands and city’s lands, the food! Everything was SUPER!
Cruising Croatia in July on the Black Swan
We loved Croatia and would recommend the cruise.
Cruising Croatia in April on the Dream
I will defently recomment the island cruise to everyone Who visit Croatia.
Cruising Croatia in May on the New Star
Zipline experience was amazing. Disappointed that optional excursions were not available. Experience was good, would recommend it to friends.
Cruising Croatia in May on the Dream
We have a geat experience, nice crew and nice group of passengers we met.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Aquamarin
First class, beyond our expectations.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Markan
I don't think Croatia is a place to do more than a little bit of snorkeling. But the waters are fantastic for swimming and just enjoying the islands
Cruising Croatia in June on the Diamond
The most crystal clear water I've ever experienced. I live in Australia and we have beautiful beaches and oceans.
Cruising Croatia in June on the San Antonio
Water was clear and crew were helpful.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Ave Maria
A truly wonderful experience. The beauty, history and culture are apparent everywhere.
Cruising Croatia in July on the My Way
Most amazing experience. Highly recommended
Cruising Croatia in July on the New Star
We loved it and would explore by this method in the future
Cruising Croatia in July on the New Star
Unforgettable and makes me want to come back again
Cruising Croatia in July on the Markan
Loved the islands and country , the people we met very friendly. Weather warm, little humid in July, able to swim. English widely spoken , made travelling easy, will come back
Cruising Croatia in July on the Agape Rose
Cant wait to do it again!! 2020 here I come xx
Cruising Croatia in July on the Maritimo
Myself, my husband and our son were all VERY impressed with everything. We fell in love with Croatia and will certainly return. The Islands and cities that we visited were fantastic and the Aquamarin and it's crew were the best ever. Our on board guide Diana was also very, very good. The captain Duje and his 2 sailors Roko and Luka were fantastic and the Captain's Dinner was a night I will always remember. The 2 barmen/waiters Neno and Kristijan were very polite, friendly and excellent at their job. Slobo and Dejan the 2 chef's cooked and presented the most amazing food from such a small kitchen. Thank goodness we were only on board for one week. I don't think my waist line could have taken another week!!!! There was not one bad meal. Jelena, the house keeper, kept the cabins so clean and tidy, you could not fault any aspect of her work. Overall, the cruise was amazing, I cannot think of anything I would want to change and the only one thing that I would suggest is that along with the daily route information, the daily menu was also displayed.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Aquamarin
Excelent. Would recomend to go 💯
Cruising Croatia in July on the Maritimo
Exceptional- beyond expectations!
Cruising Croatia in July on the Aquamarin
The cruise was the best way to see these islands without moving luggage from place to place. With the boat staying at the port, you were always close to everything with easy access to and from the boat.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Diamond
Fantastic. We have not cruised before and the whole family really enjoyed it. The islands are beautiful and the history of the country is very rich and varied.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Diamond
It was my best experience cruising so far. Last two years I cruised in the large ships (4,000+ passengers) and found this to be 100 times better.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Diamond
Fantastic
Cruising Croatia in August on the Aurora
Absolutely loved our daily swim stops.
Cruising Croatia in August on the My Way
We loved it. Beautiful clear waters, great clean modern ship, excellent staff, lovely room, delicious food and plenty of it, fabulous places to visit, swimming and great people. Loved the small group of people from all over the world. Excellent night at Captains dinner with fabulous entertainment. Thank you for a lovely holiday.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Avangard
Loved it and will definitely do something like this again. Surpassed expectations greatly.
Cruising Croatia in August on the President
We had an amazing trip and we loved cruising in Croatia. Beautiful country that exceeded our expectations. We would highly recommend to anyone!
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aquamarin
A superb experience. What a beautiful country.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aquamarin
We did not dive, but did a lot of snorkeling. It was OK, but regretfully we did not see many fish or other animals.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Perfect! The best way to see Croatia!
Cruising Croatia in August on the Katarina Line Premium Class
It's been an amazing trip, the crew took such good care of everything! We're excited to be back next year!
Cruising Croatia in August on the Rhapsody
Maybe the clearest waters I've ever seen. You could stay in the water for hours
Cruising Croatia in August on the Zara Maris
Fantastiskt
Cruising Croatia in August on the Desire
Excellent and would recommend!
Cruising Croatia in September on the Infinity
We had 2 swims and they were magical. Weather prevented further swims
Cruising Croatia in October on the Aurelia
I did not get the opportunity to Dive but I loved the snorkelling. The sea was so blue and so clear
Cruising Croatia in October on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Really enjoyable experience.
Cruising Croatia in April on the Avangard
Cruising in Croatia was lovely and I would highly recommend it!
Cruising Croatia in May on the Aquamarin
I would strongly recommend a cruise around Croatian islands the size of the boat was perfect and offered sufficient privacy and inclusion.
Cruising Croatia in May on the Infinity
Beautiful and unforgettable
Cruising Croatia in May on the My Way
Our swim stops were all beautiful. Not much to look at while snorkeling. Nice to have the towels, SUP and goggles etc provided.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Antaris
Highly recommend this for a relaxing holiday. Loved how the ship was new and was luxurious. I felt like I was treated extremely well and had a wonderful time.
Cruising Croatia in June on the Aquamarin
Very much enjoyed my time overall in Croatia and it lived up to my expectations
Cruising Croatia in June on the Fantazija
It was absolutely amazing! It was an unforgettable experience and made me want to come back. The water is unbelievably blue and there were gorgeous sunsets each night. All the people were incredibly friendly.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Princess Aloha
Water was cool and good visibility, but virtually no fish.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Very nice. It offers a possibility to visit and see the islands and swim in clear waters.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Aurelia
Didn't know that Croatia was this beautifull, it was wonderfull!
Cruising Croatia in July on the Dream
Had a wonderful time and would recommend to family and friends.
Cruising Croatia in July on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Loved Croatia, and cruising it is the best way to see its beautiful coastlines and experience the land at the same time. Highly recommend!
Cruising Croatia in August on the Avangard
A fantastic country with friendly people. The boat was comfortable and the crew excellent!
Cruising Croatia in August on the My Way
Its a great way to discover croatia, and see the islands, I think the Itineray needs to be altered a little bit as to the nights in port there should be more restaurants & night life available
Cruising Croatia in August on the Antaris
Water is incredibly clear
Cruising Croatia in August on the Markan
It was good. I feel the town we stopped in where very big and less pretty compared to Split to Dubrovnik.
Cruising Croatia in August on the Moonlight
There was no diving on this cruise. We had swimming stops on most days, and the opportunity to snorkel. There were some beautiful small fish.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Aquamarin
It was a great trip and a brilliant way to experience many of the main islands between Dubrovnik and Split and has given us ideas for going back to our favourite spots and spending maybe more time on Vis and also we would suggest that Bol on Brac is worth a visit and is close to a stunning beach
Cruising Croatia in September on the My Way
a little bit of paradise each way you looked
Cruising Croatia in September on the Katarina Line Premium Class
Absolutley stunning!
Cruising Croatia in September on the Stella Maris
We only swam once because of the weather.
Cruising Croatia in September on the Katarina Line Premium Class
We really enjoyed the cruise. It would have been great to have included a land tour including Trogir and KrKa National Park.
Cruising Croatia in October on the Antaris
The road condition is very good. Before the cruise, we rented a car for ten days and covered a good portion of Croatia between Zagreb and Dubrovnik. All went very well.
Cruising Croatia in October on the My Way