Southern Pearl Cruise Dubrovnik to Split Premium Superior Upper/ Main Deck

Departure from Dubrovnik harbour Gruz at 13:00h (late arrivals can join in Slano), lunch is served while navigating along the Dalmatian coast either to one of the Elaphiti islands - Sipan, or to the small village Slano on the mainland. Both are peaceful fishermen’s villages where there is often a fabulous sunset. Overnight in the port. (L)

After breakfast, cruise towards the island and Mljet National Park (entrance fee to be paid on spot, 25EUR). Lunch on board. Free time to enjoy the salt lakes in the National Park and enjoy the sun and sea on this tranquil island. The large lake is inside the National Park, and in the middle one can visit an old abbey and church or just use a canoe to roam around lakes in the National Park. Bicycles can also be hired to cycle around the paths surrounding the lakes. We continue to the island of Korcula where we arrive in the late afternoon. Join our guided tour of Korcula (included on Premium Superior). Surrounded by ancient walls and fortified bastions Korcula’s old town is very well preserved with its layout and structure dating back to the 13th century. Overnight in port. (B, L)

Early in the morning, cruise towards the little island of Bisevo and visit to the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon. As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the visit depends on prevailing conditions. Entrance to Blue Cave is to be paid on the spot (approx. EUR 18.- per person). The cruise continues towards the island of Vis, which has a unique geographical position and was once a strategic harbour for the Yugoslav navy – it was closed to the public until recently. Because of this very isolation, Vis retained a special charm of ‘the Mediterranean as it once was’ which makes it really interesting to see. Overnight in the town of Vis, situated on the northern side of the island, developed near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal place, City Museum or simply take a walk enjoying the views of the beautiful villae rusticae situated along the waterfront. For those wandering to see more – rent a car or scooter and explore this wonderful island on your own. (B, L)

The next destination is the tiny island of Scedro near the island of Hvar. Upon arrival, time to relax and refresh in the clean, crystal blue sea. Departure towards Hvar after lunch, followed by an optional guided tour (included on Premium Superior). Hvar is the longest island in the Adriatic. Visit the magnificent Renaissance cathedral with its original tower and the oldest community theatre in Europe which was founded here in 1612. Hvar offers plenty of restaurants, bars cafes and clubs, open long into the night. Overnight in the Hvar harbour. (B, L)

Leave Hvar behind and continue cruising towards the island of Brac, heading to the town of Bol, best known for its famous Zlatni rat beach (Golden Horn), a natural phenomenon that with its distinct shape and form dominates other beaches of Croatia. Directional winds and waves cause the shape of the beach to often change. After the swimming break at the horn, cruise towards Makarska with its Mediterranean feel. During a stroll, discover numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sites. Overnight in port. (B, L)

Today’s destination is Pucisca, a typical Mediterranean village, situated on the northern side of Brac island at the bottom of a deep bay. But before reaching it, stop for swimming and relaxing in some secluded bay along the route. After lunch on board, explore Pucisca, home of the world-famous white stone of Brac. There is a possibility of visiting one of the few stone masonry workshops left in Europe. Overnight in the port with the Captain’s dinner onboard (included on Premium Superior & Premium category vessels). (B, L, Captain’s Dinner)

Departure for the last destination, the city of Split. The Old Town of Split is the maze of streets and cobblestoned lanes that surround the 1700 years old Diocletian’s Palace (the Emperor chose this spot for his retirement villa). Both the old town and Diocletian’s Palace are under UNESCO protection. People’s Square (Narodni Trg) is the heart of the Old Town. Cafes and restaurants spill out into the square and one of the highlights of a visit here is gazing up at the old town clock. On arrival join the guided tour of Split with an English-speaking guide (included on Premium & Premium Superior). Overnight in Split. (B, L)

Breakfast and time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends! (B)