Sail & Swim: Croatia - Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik

Land ahoy! Time to set a course for the Makarska Riviera, one of the best unsung holiday spots in Europe. Score a spot at the bow (front) of the boat for the ride in – the scenery is going to blow. your. mind. 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 Topdeck rep for some dinner recommendations – the seafood here is ridiculously good. Tonight, gather the gang for a party pirate-style at Deep (think: cave club).

Shake off last night’s antics at another deliciously refreshing swim stop before we pull into Split later. Ready to get your Roman emperor on and explore a couple thousand years’ history? Opt in for a walking tour and tick off the likes of Diocletian’s Palace, Saint Domnius Cathedral and the Riva. Or head up to Prva Vidilica Na Marjanu for beaut sunset views over the city. This is what you came for. Tonight, here be treasure... go on a group hunt for some black risotto and fritule (mini doughnuts filled with rum and raisins). YES please.

What’s your plan of action this morning? Swim? Sunbathe? Stuff (your face)? It’s up to you. Crack open that new pack of UNO and watch as one person gets all the Wild Cards. Then make them walk the plank. Later, we’ll go for a stroll up to the fortress for some I-N-C-R-E-D-I-B-L-E views. Then: the afternoon is all yours. Our suggestion? Round up the fam, track down some brudet fish stew, then head to a cocktail bar for sunset. This is livin'.

Rise and shine sailors! Or sleep in – you do you. This morning is all about showing off your mad diving skills (read: belly flopping) in front of your shipmates and digging into some 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. Or tuck into a mouth-watering serving of peka. This baby is slow-cooked in hot coals for 6 hours so make sure you pre-order!

Another morning spent horizontal on a sun-soaked deck, diving head-first into translucent aquamarine water and swapping sea-faring tales with your trip mates. There’s no better way to forget the daily routine than this. This afternoon, we’ll hit the sleepy town of Šipan. Wander the quaint cobblestone streets, visit the 11th-century church, and soak up all those relaxed Croatian vibes. Before you head back to the boat for an optional Captain’s dinner, we recommend sampling a glass of the town’s famous Dingac wine. Make room in your rucksack for a bottle – you’re going to want to relive this moment back home. Trust us.

Ok, nobody panic – this is our last full day together. So, when we pull into the most famous walled city in Europe, get ready to hit the ground running. Don’t be fooled, Dubrovnik is so much more than snapping a selfie on some steps. Though you can totally get your fill of GOT with an optional Cersei-themed tour today. Rather take to the water? Sign up to a sea kayaking excursion – swim stops at the island of Lokrum included. Get your fix of awesome views with a stroll along the ancient city walls, or head to Buža Bar for some cliffside bevvies. This evening: gather the gang for one last night out together and give this epic trip the send-off it deserves.

Shake the salt from your hair and wipe the tears from your eyes – after breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to this bunch of loveable scallywags. Who said the adventure has to end here? Get on Skyscanner and book the cheapest flight to Budapest. Race you!