Croatia: Sail & Swim (Plus)

Kick things off in sunny Split where you’ll meet your fellow travellers and dive straight into the good stuff – a leisurely group lunch to get acquainted (and excited). Then we’ll set sail for sparkling Hvar, with a swim stop along the way because, well, it’d be rude not to. 

On arrival, we’ll stretch our legs with a short scenic hike (just 30 minutes, promise) up to the fortress for some postcard-perfect views – cameras at the ready. Entry’s optional, but the view alone is worth the climb. 

Then it’s time to stroll back down into town for a quick walk with your Trip Leader, followed by a scoop (or two) of the island’s famous lavender ice cream. Trust us, it’s as dreamy as it sounds. 

Rise and shine, or sleep in if you’d rather – you do you. This morning is all about refreshing swim stops and seriously good food served up by our very own on-board chef.  

Later, we’ll sail on to the (supposed) home of Marco Polo. Known for its dry Croatian wine and dense pine forests, we’ll hit the cobblestone alleys for an orientation tour.  

Then? The afternoon is yours for the taking. You could climb to the top of Massimo’s old-school tower for a colourful cocktail. Tour the island in a – wait for it – two-seater buggy. Or gather the crew and go in search of some legendary black risotto – delicious, mysterious, and slightly tooth-staining. Save some space, though – tonight there’s an optional onboard BBQ. Good food and happy tastebuds guaranteed. 

How to start the day? Maybe a refreshing dip before breakfast, or a slow morning soaking up the sun on deck. Then we’re off, cruising towards Trstenik. Once there, the choice is yours: indulge in a locally-run wine tasting (totally optional, but a definite highlight), or skip straight to beach bliss with a swim in the sparkling sea. 

Later, we make our way to Dubrovnik – the crown jewel of the Adriatic. A guided walk through the historic Old Town sets the scene, with stories from centuries past echoing through the cobblestone streets. After that, the night’s all yours. Will it be sunset drinks with a view, a peaceful wander under the city’s ancient arches, or simply losing yourself in the charm of those iconic red rooftops? 

Don’t let the selfies fool you – there’s far more to Dubrovnik than meets the eye. Though you can get your fill of GOT with a Cersei-themed tour today, if that’s your thing. Rather get your fix of the city’s most scenic spots? Wander along the ancient city walls, take the cable car up Mt Srđ for unbeatable views – no filter needed – or join an optional tour of Lokrum Island. Just a short ferry ride away, this lush escape is packed with peacocks, pines, and a touch of TV trivia (yep, the Iron Throne lives here too). 

Tonight, you can hit the dance floor for round two or settle into a local wine bar to sample some of Croatia’s finest grape juice. Delicious either way. 

Shake off last night’s antics with another all-you-can-eat breakfast and scenic swim stop. Today: it’s on to Mljet.  

Once we dock, we’ve got an appointment to explore the National Park. How you do it is on your terms. Hire a bike and whiz around on two wheels. Take a boat over the Islet Melita and check out the monastery. Or find a spot to simply breathe it all in. Tonight, there’s an optional Captain’s dinner aboard the boat to get stuck into.  

All aboard for the Makarska Riviera – a hidden European treasure waiting to be explored. Score a spot at the front of the boat for the ride in – think towering cliffs, pine-covered slopes, and tiny seaside towns that look like they’ve been plucked from a postcard.  

Then, this afternoon is totally up to you. Take a stroll along the pretty promenade. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with a side of adrenaline-pumping water sports. Lounge about on the pebbly beach. Or sip on a cold beer at one of the beachfront bars.  

Don’t forget to ask your Trip Leader for some dinner recommendations –  the seafood here is ridiculously good. Set sail for Deep tonight, where a pirate-style party awaits in this cavernous club hideaway. 

Ease into the day with a peaceful morning yoga session on deck – the perfect way to stretch out and soak up those panoramic sea views. For those up for a thrill, an optional zipline adventure awaits in Cetina Canyon: guests booked on the zipline will be picked up before the boat leaves Makarska for an adrenaline-pumping ride through stunning scenery. 

Meanwhile, the boat will cruise toward Omiš, where everyone will enjoy some free time to explore this magical town. After collecting the zipline crew, we’ll continue cruising to Split, arriving early in the afternoon. 

You’ll have plenty of time to explore Split at your own pace. Opt in for a guided walking tour through Split’s historic Old Town – complete with ancient Roman architecture, cobbled streets, and the iconic Diocletian’s Palace – or simply wander, relax, and toast your final night in Croatia with your fellow travellers. Aperol spritz, anyone? 

Enjoy one final breakfast before bidding farewell to your travel crew. Don’t forget to swap contact details—you might just be planning a reunion before long. Who says the adventure has to end here? Rome’s only a short flight away!